Latter-day Saints Emphasize Children’s Faith in General Conference

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — On April 5, 2025, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gathered for the first session of their 195th Annual General Conference. The event, led by Jeffrey R. Holland, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, featured messages centered on the virtues of children and the importance of faith.

In his opening remarks, President Holland referenced Jesus’ invitation to His apostles: “Except ye be converted and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” He urged listeners to reflect on the qualities of humility, innocence, and faith found in children, which can enrich adult lives as well.

“Is there anything sweeter, more pure, or more humble than a child at prayer? It is as if heaven is in the room,” President Holland stated, emphasizing the profound connection children have with God. He challenged the audience to consider what virtues children embody and how adults can incorporate these into their lives.

Fellow Apostle Neil L. Andersen echoed Holland’s sentiments, emphasizing the sanctity of life. “Life is a most precious part of our Father’s perfect plan,” he proclaimed, affirming the church’s moral stance against elective abortions. “Nurturing and protecting life is not a political position; it is a moral law confirmed by the Lord through His prophets.”

During the conference, several leaders addressed the impact of nurturing faith within younger generations. Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary General Presidency, highlighted the necessity of teaching children to believe in Jesus Christ and strive to be like Him. She remarked, “If we are not testifying of the Savior’s premortal Godhood and divine mission, our messages can become mere pep talks.”

Wright encouraged parents to actively engage children in discussions about Christ’s teachings, suggesting that early exposure to spiritual concepts could shape their faith journey significantly. Her comments sparked further discussions on the importance of testimonies and reverence in homes.

As part of the conference, President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the First Presidency, conducted the morning session and encouraged members to “draw near [to Christ] by always remembering Him.” The conference utilized the Conference Center’s facility in its 25th year of hosting the event, broadcasting the messages worldwide in 80 languages.

The agenda included five general sessions across the weekend, welcoming both members and non-members to participate. Each session was intended to last two hours, featuring a mix of speeches from top church leaders and musical performances by The Tabernacle Choir.

During another session, the Young Men General President Steven J. Lund detailed the significance of the Aaronic Priesthood, underscoring how it facilitates opportunities for young men to engage in meaningful service. “These ordinations launch young men into lifetimes of service,” he said, highlighting the importance of leadership and guidance from their faith.

The conference also included inspiring messages on community faith and outreach, emphasizing how Latter-day Saints can serve others during challenging times. Elder Ronald A. Rasband remarked on the growing global presence of the church, noting that the construction of temples has accelerated to meet increasing worship opportunities.

As the conference wrapped up, President Holland reiterated the need for humility and the deep connection children have to spirituality. “Their love can carry over into their other relationships in the playground of life,” he explained, a theme reiterated throughout various talks during the sessions.

The April 2025 General Conference aims to inspire members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to embrace faith with childlike humility and a commitment to nurturing the next generation’s spiritual well-being.