Topic

Brotherhood and Sisterhood

Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe that all people are connected by their shared identity as children of God. The terms brotherhood and sisterhood refer to this fellowship we share as spiritual brothers and sisters. In the spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood, we seek to serve, minister to, and love each other. We must learn to celebrate and respect our individual differences while recognizing our shared divine heritage.

God loves each of us, and He asks us to love one another (John 15:12). We can strengthen our bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood by sharing gospel truths with each other and by helping those who are weary and struggling. As the Book of Mormon prophet Alma teaches, we must “bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light” (Mosiah 18:8). We can do this by participating in the Church’s ministering program, attending church and magnifying our callings, and following the promptings of the Spirit. As we serve our brothers and sisters, we become God’s hands on earth.

The speeches in this collection invite us to look out for those who feel marginalized, recognize others’ divinity, create meaningful ministering relationships, and cultivate stronger communities. As you read, listen to, or watch these speeches, we hope you are inspired with ways that you can reach out to those around you in the spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood.

Inspiring Shorts

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By Study & By Faith

Janis B. Nuckolls August 2, 2022

Arthur C. Brooks April 25, 2019

Jodi Maxfield November 29, 2016

David M. Whitchurch October 4, 2016

Tom Lantos | April 26, 2001

It is critical that we preserve our own faith and values but also that we care for a bigger community. We are all brothers and sisters.

commencement 2024

Stacey Shaw, assistant professor in the college of Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Stacey A. Shaw | July 12, 2022

Your path to discipleship must include knowing and valuing who you are, seeing and loving others, and choosing to serve throughout your life.

devotional 2022

Vern P. Stanfill | March 1, 2022

We can become peacemakers to those around us by emulating the Savior and becoming representatives of the Prince of Peace.

devotional 2022

Kevin J Worthen | January 12, 2021

Kevin J Worthen emphasizes the importance of embracing unity, diversity, and love in the face COVID-19 and other current-day challenges.

devotional 2021

Phillip D. Rash | June 4, 2019

Phillip Rash discusses how working together and creating a sense of belonging will help include those who feel left in the margins.

devotional 2019

Jonathan O. Hafen | April 25, 2019

Jonathan O. Hafen, BYU Alumni Association president, tells Spring 2019 graduates that we are happier with strong personal connections and friendship.

commencement 2019

Lori L. Wadsworth | July 31, 2018

Knowing that everyone is a child of God influences our behavior. By seeing the divinity in others, we behave as disciples of Christ.

devotional 2018

Neil L. Andersen | April 10, 2018

Elder Neil L. Andersen explains how the shift from home and visiting teaching to ministering helps us rethink the way we love and serve.

devotional 2018

President M. Russell Ballard, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

M. Russell Ballard | November 14, 2017

Elder Ballard offers timely and loving answers to tough questions about topics such as perfectionism, education, pornography, and the needs of LGBTQ saints.

devotional 2017

Thomas J. Stone, student representative of the April 2017 graduating class

Thomas J. Stone | April 27, 2017

One of the most important lessons we can take from BYU is to sacrifice for one another. Don't leave Jonny behind. Some races are better finished together.

commencement 2017

Neal LaVaun Cox | October 1, 2013

There may be lonely individuals around us. To feel true happiness, fellowship or befriend others and serve them.

devotional 2013

M. Russell Ballard | August 20, 2013

We are in a day and a time when we must stand in unity to defend Christ. Women possess unique abilities to defend our Savior with power.

devotional 2013

Julie B. Beck | January 17, 2012

Quorums and Relief Societies provide refuges from the world and engage members in the work of salvation. They are a means for God to accomplish His work.

devotional 2012

Thomas A. Holmoe | November 28, 2006

We must truly understand what it means to love our brothers and our sisters, not just our earthly family, but our family of Christ.

devotional 2006

James D. Stice | October 2, 2001

Everyone faces challenges, and Stice shows how we can help those who, for a time, are carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders.

devotional 2001

President Gordon B. Hinckley, prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Gordon B. Hinckley | November 4, 1997

What do you have here that is different? I hope the BYU experience will cause you to take on those qualities that will make of you a true disciple of Jesus.

devotional 1997

Merrill J. Bateman | September 9, 1997

The Savior performed the Atonement for each of us, one by one. We can develop an individual relationship with Him through prayer, study, and loving others.

devotional 1997

James D. MacArthur | May 10, 1994

We should strive to be filled with more love and charity toward one another in our homes, our classes, and our communities.

devotional 1994

Kate L. Kirkham | April 12, 1994

We can learn to embrace our diversity and use it to enhance our unity as members of Christ's church so that, as Paul says, "we, being many, are one body."

devotional 1994

Yoshihiko Kikuchi | January 26, 1993

The text for this speech is unavailable. Please see our FAQ page for more information.

devotional 1993

Elaine L. Jack | June 2, 1991

When we think of people in terms of "them and us," we fail to love individuals. The Savior shows us how to love His children rather than judge a label.

devotional 1991

L. Tom Perry | August 1, 1986

In this BYU community of students and Saints, let us foster an environment of fellowship as we learn, work, and serve together.

devotional 1986

Ann N. Madsen | July 20, 1982

Differences in religion, personality, and nationality can lead us to criticize others, but we should be tolerant and love everyone.

devotional 1982

Vaughn J. Featherstone | August 11, 1981

Brigham Young's admonition to the Saints to bring in the pioneers suffering on the plains was a reminder to us all: we are our Brother’s Keeper.

devotional 1981

Howard W. Hunter - Mormon Apostle and Prophet

Howard W. Hunter | February 4, 1979

When it comes to race and color, we are all Heavenly Father's children and He loves us equally. There is nor room for prejudice among God's children.

devotional 1979

Bruce R. McConkie | August 18, 1978

Elder McConkie testifies that the revelation extending priesthood blessings to those of all nations and races is divine and that "all are alike unto God."

devotional 1978