Podcasts about general authority seventy

1. HEART OF THE MATTER 1A. Record-Breaking Missionary Numbers — Pres. Oaks at New Mission Leader Seminar At the 2026 Seminar for New Mission Leaders (June 18–21, Provo MTC), President Dallin H. Oaks announced that the Church will soon have the largest number of full-time missionaries in its history, surpassing the current 87,000+ serving worldwide. The surge is driven by the first wave of 18-year-old sister missionaries (following the November policy change lowering the minimum age from 19) and the addition of 55 new missions in July, bringing the global total to 506. President Oaks outlined three characteristics defining the restored Church: (1) the fulness of doctrine (including eternal marriage between a man and a woman); (2) priesthood authority and keys; and (3) a unique testimony of Christ grounded in modern revelation and the First Vision. Sister Kristin Oaks also spoke, sharing six core truths missionaries teach. Source: Church Newsroom, June 20, 2026 Note: Strong potential for discussion on what ‘only true and living church’ means in a pluralistic world — Richie angle? 1B. New Hymn ‘Welcome Home’ — The Story Behind It Composer Andrea Brett explains how a 2017 encounter with Demetrius O’Neal — a recent convert serving as a greeter at a Spokane ward on a snowy Sunday morning — inspired her hymn ‘Welcome Home,’ now published in the new Hymns for Home and Church. Brett submitted 10 pieces when the global hymnbook was announced in 2018; this was the only one she’d written before the call. She received confirmation of its selection in February 2025, then had a full-circle moment when she and O’Neal sat near each other at the April 2025 General Conference as the Tabernacle Choir performed it. O’Neal’s name appears in the hymn’s tune name as a tribute. The hymn is now translated and sung globally. Source: Church Newsroom / Richie’s document 1C. Family History Records Are a ‘Sacred Thread’ — Elder Bragg at International Archivists Congress Elder Mark A. Bragg, General Authority Seventy and executive director of the Church’s Family History Department and FamilySearch International, was a keynote speaker at the III Congress of Archivists: Digital Archive Expo (DA-EXPO), held June 8–12 in Astana, Kazakhstan. He called family history records ‘the thin but sacred thread’ tying people together across generations, and argued that records are ‘in a very real sense, witnesses.’ Elder Bragg framed the digital revolution in genealogy in moral terms: for most of history, access to records was shaped by ‘proximity, resources and specialized knowledge,’ but today a record created in one place can be preserved in another, indexed in a third, and discovered by someone on the other side of the world. ‘The reach is astonishing. The speed is breathtaking. The possibilities are almost beyond measure.’ He also said that ‘access is an act of kindness’ — records only fulfill their divine purpose when they are found, understood, and used. His core message: preserving memory is an act of hope. ‘It says that the past is not dead to us and that the future deserves more than fragments.’ Source: Church News, June 17, 2026 Angle: Great ‘quiet but meaningful’ story — LDS family history going global and leveling the playing field for genealogy worldwide. 1D. America Gives — All 50 States Receive Food Donations The Church completed a milestone in its ‘America Gives’ initiative by delivering a shipping container of food to Hilo, Hawaii — marking all 50 states reached. The initiative aims to deliver 250 truckloads of food nationwide in 2026 to celebrate the U.S. 250th anniversary. In Hawaii, the food went to The Food Basket, distributed to 10 local nonprofits. Notably, 42% of residents on the island of Hawaii face food insecurity — the state’s highest rate. Rosie Rios, chair of America 250 and former U.S. Treasurer, praised the milestone. Local Methodist pastor Ted Lesnett said recipients will know ‘when they were hungry, someone cared.’ Source: Church Newsroom / Richie’s document 1E. Church Donates $250,000 NZD to Christchurch Anglican Cathedral Rebuild The Church announced a NZ$250,000 donation (June 19, 2026) toward the restoration of Christchurch’s iconic Anglican Cathedral — damaged in the February 2011 earthquake. Elder Peter F. Meurs (Pacific Area President) and Anglican Bishop Peter Carrell presided at the announcement. The donation comes as the project faces a $45M funding shortfall and an overall $219M budget. The Christchurch City Council has offered $15M contingent on government and Anglican Church matches. Notably, a New Zealand Buddhist community made a similar gift in 2023 — the LDS donation continues a cross-faith pattern of support for the heritage project. Source: Richie’s document Angle: Rare and heartwarming — LDS funds an Anglican cathedral. Good interfaith story. 1F. Central America Humanitarian Blitz — 5 Projects, 500,000+ People In late May and early June 2026, the Church announced five humanitarian projects across Central America (with Sister J. Anette Dennis, First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency, representing the Church). Projects include: the ‘Windows of Light’ eyecare program in El Salvador (350,000+ screenings to date); safe water access for 250,000+ in Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua (with UNICEF); nearly 750 computers/tablets donated to 66 educational institutions in Guatemala; and medical equipment for the ‘La Mascota’ children’s hospital in Nicaragua. Source: Church Newsroom, June 2026 2. FAITH & DOCTRINE 2A. President Christofferson in Philadelphia & Toronto A busy week of ministry for President D. Todd Christofferson: He offered the invocation at Becket’s Canterbury Medal Gala in Philadelphia (multifaith event celebrating religious liberty), alongside Elder Gary E. Stevenson and others. The group also visited the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall — fitting, ahead of America’s 250th. Christofferson reflected on D&C 101 and the Constitution’s purpose to protect ‘all flesh.’ From Philadelphia, he and Sister Christofferson traveled to Toronto, meeting 250+ missionaries in the Canada Toronto Mission weeks before it divides into three missions (Toronto West, Toronto East, and Montreal). He also spoke to hundreds of LDS youth, with one — Amelia Fischer — saying ‘no amount of words can describe how I felt tonight.’ Source: Richie’s document / Church Newsroom 2B. BYU Scholar Study: Religion Adds 7.6 Years to Life The BYU Wheatley Institute is releasing three reports analyzing 3,000 of the most scientifically rigorous studies (culled from 60,000+ papers by Duke University) on religion and health. Key findings: 33/34 studies show improved social health; 10/11 show improved mental health; 7/8 show improved physical health. Regular worshippers live an average of 7.6 years longer (up to 13.7 years longer for African Americans). A ‘landmark finding’: 256 studies show religion prevents/aids recovery from substance abuse (vs. 6 showing negative impact). Author Loren Marks recommends public health frameworks treat religious involvement like exercise recommendations. Source: Richie’s document 2C. Elder Soares Testifies in the Philippines Elder Ulisses Soares completed a two-week ministry in the Philippines (mid-May 2026), meeting with 600+ young single adults in Cebu, 450+ in Quezon City, and 340+ missionaries at the Philippines MTC. His recurring message: ‘His arms are extended to all of us.’ The Philippines has more than 905,000 Latter-day Saints — the Church’s fourth-largest national membership. Two new temples were also dedicated in the Philippines this month: the Davao Philippines Temple (Elder Renlund, May 3) and the Bacolod Philippines Temple (Elder Andersen, May 31). Source: Church Newsroom, June 17, 2026 3. CULTURE & CURIOSITIES 3A. LDS Author in Everyman’s Library — A First BYU biology and bioethics professor Steven L. Peck has reportedly become the first Latter-day Saint author included in the prestigious Everyman’s Library series (publishing canonical English fiction since 1906). His 2012 novella A Short Stay in Hell — a philosophical horror story about a Mormon man condemned to an afterlife library containing every possible book — went viral on BookTok and found a new audience. A literature historian noted: ‘No Mormon or Mormon-adjacent writer that I know of has ever been featured in this prestigious series.’ The Salt Lake Tribune covered the story, noting the irony that a theological horror story marks one of the most significant moments in LDS literary history. Source: Salt Lake Tribune / Richie’s document 3B. The Sasine Family — 40 Countries Before Age 1 Keith and Chelsea Sasine, an LDS couple stationed in Germany (Keith is an Army oral surgeon), made history in November 2025 by taking their youngest daughter Mia to 40 countries before her first birthday (March–November 2025), using a Honda Odyssey for European road trips. The family of six (including Izzy, 10; Abby, 9; and John, 4) attends local wards wherever they travel — a faith anchor the couple says strengthened their testimony and taught their kids the importance of the Sabbath globally. They’re planning a move to Colorado Springs in 2026. Source: Richie’s document 3C. Jen Affleck (Secret Lives of Mormon Wives) Expecting Baby #4 Jen Affleck, 27-year-old star of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives and Dancing with the Stars alum, announced June 18 that she and husband Zac Affleck are expecting their fourth child. She shared the news on Instagram captioned ‘Chapter Four.

This Devotional address with Elder Gérald Caussé and Sister Valérie Caussé was delivered on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. MST in the BYU-Idaho Center. Elder Gérald Caussé was called to serve as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve on November 6, 2025. At the time of his call, he had been serving as the Presiding Bishop of the Church since October 2015. Prior to this calling, he had served as the First Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric since March 2012. He previously served as a General Authority Seventy and as a counselor in the Europe Area Presidency. He has served in numerous Church callings, including elders quorum president, counselor in a bishopric, counselor in a stake presidency, stake president, and Area Seventy. Elder Caussé received a master's degree in business from ESSEC in 1987. His career has been in strategy consulting and the food industry, where he has worked with several retail and food distribution companies. At the time of his call as a General Authority Seventy, he was the managing director of Pomona, a food distribution company in France. Elder Caussé is also an accomplished pianist and has participated in the recording of several piano albums. Gérald Caussé was born in Bordeaux, France, on May 20, 1963. Sister Valérie Caussé was born in Nancy, France, and grew up in the Paris area. She studied to become an elementary school teacher and met Elder Caussé while they were attending the same young single adult ward in Paris. She married Gérald Caussé in the Bern Switzerland Temple in August 1986. They are the parents of four daughters and one son. Sister Caussé considers it a great privilege and joy to have been a stay-at-home mother. In addition to raising her family, she served for seven years on the city council in her community in France, where she oversaw school affairs.

This Devotional address with Elder Mark A. Bragg was delivered on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 11:30 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Elder Mark A. Bragg was sustained as a General Authority Seventy on April 2, 2016. At the time of his call, he was serving as an Area Seventy in the North America West Area. He has served in the South America South Area Presidency and as President of the North America West Area. He currently serves as Executive Director of the Family History Department and Chairman of FamilySearch International. Elder Bragg additionally has served as a full-time missionary in the México Monterrey Mission, ward mission leader, high councilor, bishop, stake president, and Area Seventy. Elder Bragg majored in marketing and Spanish at the University of Utah and began his career as vice president of Great Western Bank in Los Angeles. Most recently, he worked as a senior vice president at Bank of America. Mark Allyn Bragg was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. He married Yvonne King in 1984 in the Los Angeles Temple. They are the parents of four children and five grandchildren. Elder Bragg enjoys all sports, particularly basketball and pickleball.

In his devotional address, Elder Mark A. Bragg, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, invited all to build Christlike resilience by developing a close relationship with God.

In a BYU-Idaho radio interview Elder Mark A. Bragg, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, talks with intern Abrielle Millet about his devotional talk, "Christlike Resilience."

Starting in September, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will again participate in three meetings on Sundays. After sacrament meeting, the second-hour will include two 25-minute blocks to ensure both Sunday School and then Relief Society, elders quorum and youth classes. These updates are meant to support members as they learn, worship and serve — both at home and at church, as they try to become more devout and lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ.  Elder David P. Homer, a General Authority Seventy and executive director of the Church’s Priesthood and Family Department, joins Church News reporter Mary Richards to explain what to know about the changes and how to prepare.

Gifford Nielsen played quarterback for Brigham Young University and six years for the NFL's Houston Oilers. He worked as the sports director for KHOU-TV in Houston for 25 years. In 1994, Giff was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. He was sustained as a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 2013 and served as an Assistant Executive Director in the Missionary Department and in the Pacific, North America Northeast, North America Central and Africa West Area Presidencies. He was granted Emeritus status in 2024. Giff was born in Provo, Utah, and married Wendy Olson. They are the parents of six children. Links Find out more information about the cruise at SeaSaints.com. Use code LEADINGSAINTS to be part of our onboard experience. Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Zion Lab community Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights Elder Nielsen explores how leadership principles from sports, professional media, and church service converge to build unified communities and lift individuals. He emphasizes how alignment with modern prophets and an openness to revelation elevate local leadership. 00:02:41 – Gifford Nielsen’s Background and Career 00:04:00 – Call to Serve as a General Authority 00:08:02 – Initial Experiences as a General Authority 00:10:07 – Preparing for General Conference Talks 00:12:43 – The Process of Receiving Inspiration 00:16:37 – Speaking at General Conference: Experiences 00:19:02 – Leadership Lessons from State Conferences 00:22:40 – Teaching Principles from Apostles and Prophets 00:25:14 – Importance of Gratitude in Leadership 00:29:00 – Reflections on Leadership and Service 00:32:05 – Learning from Lavell Edwards 00:38:04 – Transitioning Out of General Authority Role 00:40:21 – Experiences in West Africa 00:41:25 – Leadership Lessons from Lavell Edwards 00:44:44 – Lavell Edwards’ Genuine Leadership Style Key Insights The Power of Shared Gatherings: Larger church events, devotionals, and conferences foster a strong sense of togetherness that naturally pushes away negative outside influences and spiritually revitalizes participants. Dynamic, Spirit-Led Instruction: Effective leadership teaching involves adjusting prepared messages in real time based on the immediate spiritual needs, hearts, and faces of the congregation. Continuous Personal Preparation: Rather than relying solely on structured notes, a leader’s preparation must be a daily habit of scripture study, deep pondering, and intentional spiritual readiness. Prophetic Alignment: Local teaching gains transformative power when leaders deliberately anchor their messages in the specific doctrines and priorities emphasized by the living prophet. Authentic Preparation and People Management: Successful leadership requires a balance of understanding structural logistics (“the X’s and O’s”) while remaining fundamentally focused on breaking down barriers to unite and care for people. Leadership Applications Adapting Teaching Formats: Rather than adhering rigidly to pre-written notes during a stake or ward conference, a leader can observe the congregation, look into their hearts, and allow impressions to dictate the ultimate focus of the instruction. Implementing Daily Spiritual Habits: Leaders can shift from last-minute meeting preparation to a model of daily scripture immersion, ensuring they are always spiritually prepared to receive revelation whenever an unexpected counseling or teaching opportunity arises. Unifying Specialized Councils: When working with various ward or stake organizations, a leader can focus on breaking down institutional silos to build a culture of authentic collaboration focused entirely on the individuals they serve. The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

This Devotional address with Elder B. Corey Cuvelier was delivered on May 19, 2026, at 11:30 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Elder B. Corey Cuvelier was sustained as a General Authority Seventy in the April 2025 General Conference. At the time of his call, he was serving as a member of the Eleventh Quorum of the Seventy in the North America Southwest Area. Elder Cuvelier has served in several Church callings, including full-time missionary in the Brazil São Paulo South Mission, bishop, high councilor, stake president, mission president, and Area Seventy. Elder Cuvelier received a bachelor of arts degree in public relations from BYU in 1994. He joined Shell Oil Company in 1996 and spent his career leading various businesses in North America. He has also served as a director and officer on several national and regional boards. Brian Corey Cuvelier was born in Los Angeles, California, on January 12, 1969. He married Wendi Sue Manwaring in 1992. They are the parents of four children.

In his devotional address, Elder B. Corey Cuvelier, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, invited students to have “great checks” in their lives. He taught the students to become true disciples of Jesus Christ. Come listen to a BYU-Idaho Radio Interview with intern Abrielle Millet on the devotional.

In his devotional address, Elder B. Corey Cuvelier, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, invited students to have “great checks” in their lives. He taught the students to become true disciples of Jesus Christ.

My friend Greg Prince (writer, scientist, businessman, philanthropist—see bio at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gregory_Prince) joins us to talk about his book “Gay Rights and the Mormon Church: Intended Actions, Unintended Consequences” released in 2019. In this episode, Greg talks the legal efforts of the Church to stop same-sex marriage starting in Hawaii (1990), Proposition 22 (2000) and Proposition 8 (2008) in California, and other efforts—and the “Unintended Consequences” along the way. Greg takes us behind the screens to understand the Church role in and arguments against same-sex marriage—arguments that end up not being empirically defendable. Stung and surprised by the backlash against the Church for its role in Proposition 8, Greg shares the stories of reconciliation between both groups—and how that led to the Church's support for LGBTQ+ non-discrimination protections in Utah regarding housing and employment (SB296 in 2015). Greg talks about the Church support in 2023 for the Respect for Marriage Act—sending a General Authority Seventy for the signing of the bill at the White House. I believe it is important to understand the church's efforts against same sex marriage—and its ultimate support 32 years later for the Respect for Marriage Act. It helps me understand the needless pain for LGBTQ Latter-day Saints and their families largely driven by the culture and fearmongering of the day—and to also open our hearts and minds to future efforts to better support them. It also causes me to consider targeted groups today—like our LDS transgender friends—and not wanting to fall in the same pattern. Thank you Greg for being on the podcast and all your efforts to bring more understanding and support for LGBTQ Latter-day Saints and their families. Links: Greg's Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08P7Q8QZB Church's support for Respect for Marriage Act: https://www.thechurchnews.com/leaders/2022/12/13/23508214/church-releases-statement-amended-u-s-respect-for-marriage-act-signing/

For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, temple and family history go hand in hand with the Church’s mission of uniting families for eternity. As new temples are announced, built and dedicated around the world, more members than ever have access to do this sacred work for themselves and their ancestors. On this episode of the Church News podcast, Elder Mark A. Bragg, a General Authority Seventy and executive director of the Family History Department and FamilySearch International, joins Church News reporter Mary Richards to discuss how tools, resources and growing interest are helping connect families on both sides of the veil. Elder Bragg reminds listeners that Latter-day Saints are promised greater blessings, understanding and a bolstered testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ and His Atonement as they gather family names to bring to the house of the Lord.  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 Rex Warner. 

This Devotional address with Elder Robert C. Gay was delivered on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 11:30 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Elder Robert C. Gay is an emeritus General Authority Seventy. As a General Authority, he served in the Presidency of the Seventy, as an Area President, and as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Church Educational System. He also directed the development of the Church's self-reliance program. He and his wife, Lynette, have co-founded, served in, and currently work with multiple global humanitarian organizations. They are the founders of Ensign Global University, the only U.S. accredited university for public health in Africa, where they also served as mission leaders. Prior to full-time Church service, Elder Gay worked in private equity investment management. He earned a PhD in Business Economics from Harvard University, where he also taught economics. He and his wife are the parents of seven children and grandparents to 23 grandchildren.

This Devotional address with President Alvin F. Meredith III was delivered on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at 11:30 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Alvin F. Meredith III became the 18th president of Brigham Young University-Idaho on August 1, 2023. He was sustained as a General Authority Seventy on April 3, 2021, and continues to serve in that role today. Prior to his call as a General Authority, President Meredith served as president of the Utah Salt Lake City South Mission. He also served as an Area Seventy in the North America Southeast and Asia Areas, and in a number of other Church callings including as a full-time missionary in the Utah Salt Lake City Mission. In his professional career, President Meredith worked as a senior executive of Asurion in Tennessee, Hong Kong, and Singapore. He also worked for The Boston Consulting Group and GE Capital. President Meredith earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Brigham Young University and a Master of Business Administration in finance from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

Elder José A. Teixeira, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints told graduating students and their friends and family that when hard times come, if they hold on, the light will come.

This Devotional address with Elder Clement M. Matswagothata was delivered on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 11:30 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Elder Clement M. Matswagothata was sustained as a General Authority Seventy at the April 2025 general conference. At the time of his call, he had been serving as a temple ordinance worker in the Johannesburg South Africa Temple and as an area self-reliance specialist. Elder Matswagothata has served in a number of Church callings, including full-time missionary in the South Africa Capetown Mission, high councilor, bishop, stake president, and Area Seventy. Elder Matswagothata received a bachelor of philosophy degree. He has worked in the automotive industry since 2004 with various car brands. He has held several leadership positions including sales manager, general manager, and country manager for Barloworld Motor. Clement Mosiame Matswagothata was born in Middlepits, Botswana, on January 8, 1980. He married Novelty Busisiwe Buthelezi in 2004. They are the parents of three children.

Elder Clement M. Matswagothata is a General Authority Seventy for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He spoke to BYU-Idaho Radio about his devotional address. In his devotional address to students at BYU-Idaho, Elder Matswagothata taught students about the importance of staying anchored to the Savior in their testimonies and in their lives. Although gospel questions will always arise, he said, when someone remembers what the Holy Spirit has taught them, they can approach questions with His guidance.

Elder Clement M. Matswagothata is a General Authority Seventy for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In his devotional address to students at BYU-Idaho, Elder Matswagothata taught students about the importance of staying anchored to the Savior in their testimonies and in their lives. Although gospel questions will always arise, he said, when someone remembers what the Holy Spirit has taught them, they can approach questions with His guidance.

Are the good endeavors of your life connected to Christ so you can experience the simplicity and abundance found only in Him? Steven D. Shumway, General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered this devotional address on February 3, 2026. You can access the talk here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In our personal wilderness, we can turn to Jesus Christ to find our purpose. The Book of Mormon is the most powerful testament of this path. Matthew S. Holland, General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered this devotional address on January 20, 2026. You can access the full talk here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Devotional address with President Alvin F. Meredith III was delivered on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 11:30 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Alvin F. Meredith III became the 18th president of Brigham Young University-Idaho on August 1, 2023. He was sustained as a General Authority Seventy on April 3, 2021, and continues to serve in that role today. Prior to his call as a General Authority, President Meredith served as president of the Utah Salt Lake City South Mission. He also served as an Area Seventy in the North America Southeast and Asia Areas, and in a number of other Church callings including as a full-time missionary in the Utah Salt Lake City Mission. In his professional career, President Meredith worked as a senior executive of Asurion in Tennessee, Hong Kong, and Singapore. He also worked for The Boston Consulting Group and GE Capital. President Meredith earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Brigham Young University and a Master of Business Administration in finance from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

Send us a textTravis of The Holy Rebellion joins us in remembering Jeffrey R. Holland and the impact he had in so many lives.  Elder Jeffrey R. Holland was a beloved apostle and senior leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, known for his powerful testimony of Jesus Christ, his teaching ability, and his lifelong commitment to strengthening the faith of Latter-day Saints. He was born December 3, 1940, in St. George, Utah, and early in life served a full-time mission in Great Britain, an experience that shaped his devotion to missionary work and discipleship. Before full-time Church service, Elder Holland was deeply involved in Church education. He earned degrees in English and religious education from Brigham Young University and a master's and Ph.D. from Yale University. He served as Dean of Religious Education, Church Commissioner of Education, and as the ninth president of BYU, where he emphasized gospel learning and helped expand educational opportunities. In April 1989, he was called as a General Authority Seventy. A few years later, on June 23, 1994, he was ordained a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, one of the highest governing bodies of the Church, charged with being a special witness of Jesus Christ to the world. As an apostle, Elder Holland's ministry touched many globally. He frequently spoke at General Conference, sharing heartfelt sermons on Christ's love, the power of the Atonement, and the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. In 2025, he spoke about the evidence of God's works and testified of the Book of Mormon's impact as a spiritual guide. newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.orgElder Holland was set apart as President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on October 14, 2025, a role in LDS Church governance that places him next in line to lead the Church under its established order of succession when the Church president passes. Throughout his service, members remembered him for his steadfast testimony of the Savior, his ability to lift the weary with compassionate words, and his unwavering devotion to gospel principles. His life and teachings have been a source of encouragement and dedication for countless Latter-day Saints around the world. Support the Show!www.patreon.com/SaintsintheSouth(The thoughts, ideas, and beliefs we express on this channel do not officially represent The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  For additional information or official statements, please visit the website below.  The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/?lang=eng)#biblestudy #oldtestament #religion #churchofJesusChrist #ldspodcast #christianpodcast #missionary #lds #biblestories #christ #faith #faithinchrist #scriptures #bookofmormon #doctrineandcovenants #pearlofgreatprice #temples #houseofthelord #mormon #mormonbeliefs #christiansandmormons #god #endure #ironrod #faithineveryfootstep #generalconference #prophets #followtheprophet #commandments #love #service #charity #keepstriving #keeponstriving #gospelgrowthandgoodtimes #become #newtestamentSupport the showThanks for listening! Keep on Strivin'! Support the Show & become a "Patron Saint"!

Revelation from God is uniquely and individually prepared for us. We must learn how to hear the Spirit and discern promptings from the Lord. John A. McCune, General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered this devotional address on December 9, 2025. You can access the full talk here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Devotional address with Elder Karl D. Hirst was delivered on November 18, 2025 at 11:30 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Elder Karl D. Hirst was sustained as a General Authority Seventy at the April 2024 general conference. At the time of his call, he and his wife, Claire, had been serving as FSY session directors. Elder Hirst was a full-time missionary in the England London South Mission. He was born in Bury, Lancashire, in the United Kingdom, and married Claire Elizabeth Wright in 1993. They are the parents of six children and have four grandchildren, with another soon to arrive.

Elder Karl D Hirst, a General Authority Seventy for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, talks about viewing repentance as a way to both be cleansed and do more good with a variety of analogies.

Elder Karl D Hirst, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, teaches students to reshape their view on repentance, remembering that it isn't just to be cleansed, but to also improve and to do more good.

As we desire to follow Jesus Christ and align our will with Heavenly Father, our spirits are strengthened and we receive eternal blessings. B. Corey Cuvelier, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered this devotional address on November 11, 2025. You can access the talk here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Choose Jesus Christ to be your Rock whom you will anchor yourself to by covenant—then climb and ascend by Him, with Him, and through Him. Edward B. Rowe, a General Authority Seventy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered this devotional address on November 4, 2025. You can access the talk here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Devotional address with Elder Kim B. Clark was delivered on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 11:30 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Elder Clark was sustained as a General Authority Seventy on April 4, 2015. He was released on October 5, 2019. At the time of his call, he had been serving as the president of BYU–Idaho since 2005. He served as a member of the Fifth Quorum of the Seventy, Idaho Area, from 2007 to 2014. He also served as the Commissioner of the Church Educational System. Elder Clark received a bachelor of arts, a master of arts, and a PhD, all in economics, from Harvard University. He became a faculty member at the Harvard Business School in 1978 and was named dean of that school in 1995. He served in that capacity until the summer of 2005, when he was named the president of BYU–Idaho. Elder Clark has served in a number of Church callings, including full-time missionary in the South German Mission, elders quorum president, ward executive secretary, counselor in a bishopric, bishop, high councilor, and counselor in a stake mission presidency. Kim Bryce Clark was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on March 20, 1949. He married Sue Lorraine Hunt in June 1971. They are the parents of seven children.

This Devotional address with Elder Clark G. and Sister Christine C. Gilbert was delivered on Tuesday, September 23, at 11:30 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Elder Clark G. Gilbert was sustained as a General Authority Seventy on April 3, 2021. He currently serves as the Commissioner of the Church Educational System. At the time of his call, he had been serving as an Area Seventy in the Utah Area. Elder Gilbert has served in a number of Church callings, including full-time missionary in the Japan Kobe Mission, elders quorum president, counselor in a stake presidency, and bishop. Elder Gilbert received a bachelor's degree in international relations from Brigham Young University, a master's degree in Asian studies from Stanford University, and a doctorate from Harvard University. He worked as a professor of entrepreneurial management at Harvard University. He was later the chief executive officer of the Deseret News and Deseret Digital Media. In 2015 he became president of BYU–Idaho and was subsequently appointed as the inaugural president of BYU–Pathway Worldwide in 2017. Sister Christine C. Gilbert graduated from BYU in Family Science and taught elementary school before becoming a full-time homemaker. Sister Gilbert has served in multiple ecclesiastical roles, including Stake Young Women President, Primary President, early morning Seminary Teacher, and Sunday School Instructor. Sister Gilbert has a love for learning and a passion for her family, and a commitment to the gospel. Elder and Sister Gilbert were married in 1994. They are the parents of eight children and the proud and delighted grandparents of one.

Elder Clark G. Gilbert, a General Authority Seventy and the Commissioner of the Church Educational System, along with his wife, Sister Christine Gilbert, share their devotional message with BYU-Idaho about finding the Savior, Jesus Christ, in the Family Proclamation, and how staying true to our covenants can bring us enduring joy.

This Devotional address with President Alvin F. and Sister Jennifer E. Meredith was delivered on Tuesday, September 16th at 11:30 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Alvin F. Meredith III became the 18th president of Brigham Young University-Idaho on August 1, 2023. He was sustained as a General Authority Seventy on April 3, 2021, and continues to serve in that role today. Prior to his call as a General Authority, President Meredith served as president of the Utah Salt Lake City South Mission. He also served as an Area Seventy in the North America Southeast and Asia Areas, and in a number of other Church callings including as a full-time missionary in the Utah Salt Lake City Mission. In his professional career, President Meredith worked as a senior executive of Asurion in Tennessee, Hong Kong, and Singapore. He also worked for The Boston Consulting Group and GE Capital. President Meredith earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Brigham Young University and a Master of Business Administration in finance from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Jennifer E. Meredith received a bachelor's degree in communications from Brigham Young University. She worked in Human Resources for Franklin Covey. Sister Meredith served as a mission leader with her husband in the Utah Salt Lake City South Mission. She has served as a presidency member in multiple church organizations and as a full-time missionary in the Argentina Salta Mission. President and Sister Meredith were married on June 6, 1998, in the Salt Lake Temple, and they are the parents of six children.

As part of BYU-Idaho's Summer Session Devotional Recommendations, we're featuring “The Power of the Book of Mormon" by Elder Michael T. Ringwood, which was delivered on March 15, 2016. Elder Michael T. Ringwood was sustained as a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on April 4, 2009. Following his call as a General Authority, he served at Church headquarters as Executive Director of the Priesthood and Family Department and as a member of the Priesthood and Family Executive Council. He was also a member of the Church Board of Education. Elder Ringwood began service as a member of the Presidency of the Seventy on August 1, 2024. He currently assists members of the Twelve Apostles in supervising the North America Northeast, Europe North, Utah, and Africa West Areas. Elder Ringwood has served in a number of Church callings, including a full-time missionary in the Korea Seoul Mission, bishop, high councilor, high priests group leader, Scoutmaster, stake president, and mission president.

BYU must be deliberate in its divine mission, amplifying prophets’ counsel and preparing disciples for the Lord’s return. Clark G. Gilbert, commissioner of education and a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered this BYU university conference address on August 25, 2025.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As part of BYU-Idaho's Summer Session Devotional Recommendations, we're featuring “Abide the Day" by Elder Jack N. Gerard, which was delivered on October 29, 2019. Elder Jack N. Gerard was sustained as a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on March 31, 2018. He previously served in the Sixth Quorum of the Seventy in the North America Northeast Area from 2010 to 2016. He is currently serving in the Europe Central Area Presidency. Elder Gerard has served in a number of Church callings, including full-time missionary in the Australia Sydney Mission, bishop, stake president, and—his favorite—ward nursery leader. Elder Gerard attended George Washington University, where he received a bachelor of arts degree in political science and a juris doctor degree. During his career he worked as president and CEO for several entities. He worked in the United States Senate and House of Representatives and served on multiple civic organization boards. Jack Noel Gerard was born in Idaho Falls, Idaho, on December 15, 1957. He married Claudette Neff in 1984. They are the parents of eight children.

This Devotional address with Elder I. Raymond Egbo was delivered on June 24th at 11:30 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Elder Egbo was sustained as a General Authority Seventy at the April 2024 general conference. At the time of his call, he had been serving as a member of the Third Quorum of the Seventy in the Africa West Area. Elder Egbo has served in a number of Church callings, including full-time missionary in the Nigeria Lagos Mission, counselor in a stake presidency, high councilor, and president of the Nigeria Calabar Mission from 2009 to 2012. Elder Egbo received an associate degree in education from Cross River College of Education in 1998, a bachelor of arts degree in geography and regional planning from the University of Calabar in 2002, and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Cumbria in 2022. He began working for the Church in 2002 as an institute director. Since then, he has worked in various positions for Seminaries and Institutes of Religion, including coordinator, country director, and area director. Idyo Raymond Egbo was born in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, on June 25, 1974. He married Comfort Ikip Ese in 2003. They are the parents of three children.

BYU-Idaho's devotional address was delivered by Elder I. Raymond Egbo, a General Authority Seventy for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He'll share insights to his address and how he decided to speak about Christ ministry for BYUI's students. Article: https://www.byui.edu/radio/campus-news/general-authority-seventy-speaks-about-christs-example

Ministering assignments in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are made so that all members of the Church are remembered and cared for in ways similar to how Jesus Christ blessed those around Him. In this episode of the Church News podcast, Church News reporter Mary Richards is joined by Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson and Elder Robert M. Daines, a General Authority Seventy, to discuss how ministering is a vital way to help accomplish the work of salvation and exaltation — and how Saints can grow in their confidence before the Lord to become more like Him as they fulfill these assignments. 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.

This Devotional address with Elder David P. Homer was delivered on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 11:45 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Elder Homer was sustained as a General Authority Seventy on March 31, 2018. At the time of his call, he had been serving as a member of the Third Quorum of the Seventy in the Europe Area. He previously served as a member of the Sixth Quorum of the Seventy in the North America Northeast Area from 2013 to 2014. Elder Homer currently serves as a member of the Seventy with assignments at Church headquarters in Salt Lake City. He has served in a number of Church callings, including full-time missionary in the China Hong Kong Mission, bishop, stake president, and regional welfare chairman. Elder Homer received a bachelor of science degree in economics from the University of Utah in 1985. In 1987 he received a master's degree in business administration from the University of Pennsylvania. For 31 years he worked at General Mills, Inc., including assignments in the United States, Latin America, Australasia, Canada, and Europe. When he retired, he was CEO of Cereal Partners Worldwide, a global joint venture between General Mills and Nestlé S.A. David Paul Homer was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on April 25, 1961.

This Devotional address with Elder Kevin G. Brown was delivered on May 13, 2025, at 11:30 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Elder Kevin G. Brown was sustained as a General Authority Seventy on April 5, 2025. At the time of his call, he had been serving as an Area Seventy in the Utah Area. Elder Brown received a bachelor's degree from the University of Technology, Jamaica, in 2008. He received a master's degree in governance and public policy from the University of the West Indies in 2012. Since 2001, he has worked for the Church's Seminaries and Institutes of Religion. Elder Brown has been married for 26 years to the love of his life, Nadine. Together, they have been blessed with five wonderful kids. His greatest treasures in life are his faith, his family, his relationship with Jesus Christ and his brothers and sisters in the gospel.

Elder Ulisses Soares was sustained as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on March 31, 2018. Elder Soares was born in São Paulo, Brazil, on October 2, 1958. He married Rosana Fernandes in October 1982. They are the parents of three children and five grandchildren. Elder Soares received a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and economics from the São Paulo Pontifical Catholic University, School of Economic Science in 1985 and later received a Master of Business Administration degree. Elder Soares has served in a number of Church callings, including as a full-time missionary in the Brazil Rio de Janeiro Mission, elders quorum president, counselor in a bishopric, high councilor, stake executive secretary, regional welfare agent, stake president and president of the Portugal Porto Mission. Prior to his call to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Elder Soares had been serving as a General Authority Seventy since April 2, 2005. He was named a member of the Presidency of the Seventy on January 6, 2013. He served previously as a counselor in the Africa Southeast Area, President of the Brazil Area and as a counselor in the Brazil South Area. He was an accountant and auditor for multinational corporations in Brazil and director for temporal affairs in the Church area office in São Paulo, Brazil. At the time of his call as a General Authority, he was serving on a special assignment for the Presiding Bishopric of the Church in Salt Lake City.

Alvin F. Meredith III became the 18th president of Brigham Young University-Idaho on August 1, 2023. He was sustained as a General Authority Seventy on April 3, 2021, and continues to serve in that role today. Prior to his call as a General Authority, President Meredith served as president of the Utah Salt Lake City South Mission. He also served as an Area Seventy in the North America Southeast and Asia Areas, and in a number of other Church callings, including as a full-time missionary in the Utah Salt Lake City Mission. In his professional career, President Meredith worked as a senior executive of Asurion in Tennessee, Hong Kong, and Singapore. He also worked for The Boston Consulting Group and GE Capital. President Meredith earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Brigham Young University and a Master of Business Administration in finance from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

This Devotional address with Elder Jorge M. Alvarado was delivered on March 18th at 11:30 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Elder Jorge M. Alvarado was sustained as a General Authority Seventy on April 6, 2019, at age 48. At the time of his call, he had been serving as a high councilor. He has served as a counselor in the Caribbean Area Presidency and is currently serving at Church Headquarters in various councils and committees. Elder Alvarado has served in a number of Church callings, including full-time missionary in the Florida Tampa Mission, ward mission leader, branch president, district council member, mission executive secretary, stake president, Area Seventy in the North America Southeast and Caribbean Areas, president of the Puerto Rico San Juan Mission, and counselor in a bishopric. Elder Alvarado studied management at the University of Puerto Rico in 1992. He has worked as a manager for Sam's Club, regional training manager for Walmart Puerto Rico Inc., and Organizational Development manager/Partner and Senior Consultant for Franklin Covey. Most recently, he worked as an international manager for Self-Reliance Services at Church headquarters. Jorge Miguel Alvarado Pazo was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, on November 21, 1970. He married Cari Lu Rios in 1992. They are the parents of three children.

Faith in Christ and miracles may seem foolish, but being “fools for Christ” shows that the impossible becomes possible through His Atonement. Michael A. Dunn, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered this devotional address on March 4, 2025. You can access the talk here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Devotional address with Elder Lance B. Wickman was delivered on March 4, 2025, at 11:30 AM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. Elder Lance B. Wickman is the former General Counsel and an Emeritus General Authority of the Church. Elder Wickman served as a General Authority Seventy from April 1994 until October 2010. He served as General Counsel from January 1996 until November 2023. He attended the University of California at Berkeley, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science in 1964. He attended law school at Stanford University, receiving his Juris Doctor degree in 1972. He practiced law as a trial lawyer and partner in the international law firm of Latham & Watkins in Los Angeles and San Diego until his call as a General Authority. Elder Wickman, a U.S. Army Ranger, served as an officer in the United States Army from 1964 to 1969. He served twice in Vietnam as an infantry platoon leader and as a military advisor to the Army of the Republic of Vietnam, receiving the Bronze Star and Purple Heart medals, the Valorous Unit Citation and the Combat Infantryman's Badge. He has held various ecclesiastical positions within the Church, including missionary in the Central British Mission, bishop, stake president and Regional Representative. He and his wife, Patricia, are parents of five children.

Connecting all we do to our love for the Savior and basing our “why” in that love will help us understand what it means to be His disciple. Ricardo P. Giménez, a General Authority Seventy, delivered this devotional address on February 11, 2025. You can access the talk here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our challenges all look different, but Jesus Christ is always the answer. He will heal and strengthen us and help us overcome the world. Kevin R. Duncan, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered this devotional address on February 4, 2025. You can access the full talk here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, education is a religious responsibility; as such, the Church Educational System (CES) has been built to pursue that responsibility and develop disciples of Jesus Christ. CES accomplishes this at larger institutions like Brigham Young University, electronically accessible programs like BYU–Pathway Worldwide, and gospel-centered curriculum found at seminary and institute classes wherever the Church is established, allowing students to thrive in and through their educational pursuits.  In this special episode of the Church News podcast, guest host Sheri Dew, executive vice president of Deseret Management Corp. and a former member of the Relief Society general presidency, sits down with Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and Elder Clark G. Gilbert, General Authority Seventy and Church commissioner of education. Together, they discuss the Church Educational System and the Church's ongoing commitment to both spiritual and educational growth among the rising generation.  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 Jon Ryan Jensen, editor of The Church News, shares a unique view 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.

We become God's peculiar treasure by obeying His voice and keeping His covenants, including those in the temple endowment and marriage. Anthony D. Perkins, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered this devotional address on December 3, 2024. You can access the talk here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In an April 2022 general conference talk, President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said, “The gospel of Jesus Christ has never been needed more than it is today.” Impelled by that need, the Church’s Missionary Department has developed new resources, tools and invitations to reach God’s children on this earth. This expansion includes integrating service missionaries into teaching missions, a new edition of “Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ” and the most recent announcement of expanded opportunities for senior single missionaries.  On this episode of the Church News podcast, Church News reporter Mary Richards is joined by Elder W. Mark Bassett, a General Authority Seventy and executive director of the Missionary Department, and David N. Weidman, managing director of the Missionary Department, to discuss how “if ye have desires to serve God ye are called to the work.”  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 Jon Ryan Jensen, editor of The Church News, shares a unique view 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.