Topic

Women

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has stated in “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” that “All human beings—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny. Gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose.”

The role of women in the gospel of Jesus Christ is an area of interest and concern to many. An important part of that role takes place within the family, in particular as wives and mothers. Other elements of the role include Church leadership and service, academic and professional contribution, and sisterhood and friendship.

All men and women are children of God with infinite potential and are loved and valued equally by Him. Women as well as men have special gifts, and both genders are necessary and esteemed highly in the Church. The spiritual gifts and responsibilities of both are best combined in the covenant of eternal marriage. Both also work together in Church leadership councils and boards.

The following speeches offer insightful perspective on the divine and mortal roles of women, especially Latter-day Saint women. Their scope, ranging through the decades, reveals cultural attitudes that have changed over the years, as well as spiritual doctrines that have not. In addition to these speeches, the addresses given on many different topics by female professors, scholars, professionals, Church leaders, wives, and mothers are a testament to the variety of experiences, accomplishments, and insights of women in the Church. They testify of the supernal importance of the family and their unique influence therein, as well as the endless mental, creative, and spiritual potential of women in all other facets of life.

By Study & By Faith

Bruce C. Hafen March 29, 1985

Professional photo of Brother M. Joseph Brough

M. Joseph Brough | April 9, 2019

Modern mighty women in Israel do the Lord's work in different ways. Here, Brother Brough explains how each of those ways is significant to God.

devotional 2019

Eva Witesman | June 27, 2017

Education is not just preparation for the workforce. It is part of reaching our eternal spiritual potential as men and women.

devotional 2017

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 | 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

Glenn L. Pace | March 6, 2010

When the divine nature of women is recognized in society and family, both men and women can begin to lead more celestial lives together.

devotional 2010

Boyd K. Packer - Mormon Apostle- and Donna Smith Packer

Donna Smith Packer | April 29, 2004

Donna Packer teaches about the divine nature of womanhood. Women have an integral role in guiding and supporting God's kingdom here on the earth.

devotional 2004

Cecil O. Samuelson | April 29, 2004

We have sacred roles as women and men. We can achieve a fulness of joy by fulfilling these roles, preparing to return to live with our Father in Heaven.

devotional 2004

M. Russell Ballard | March 13, 2001

We can't fulfill our mission as a Church without the inspired insight and support of women. They matter to the Lord. Their value is infinite.

devotional 2001

Renata Tonks Forste | July 29, 1997

The society we live in is continually changing, so like the early pioneers, we must find our individual paths on our journey to Zion.

devotional 1997

Barbara W. Winder | January 8, 1989

Each year presents an opportunity to set goals to be our best. As we set goals, let's try a little harder to be “more, Savior, like Thee.”

devotional 1989

Patricia T. Holland | March 12, 1987

What does it mean to be a woman of faith? Patricia Holland addresses this topic in her BYU address, encouraging women to recognize their divine identity.

devotional 1987

Patricia T. Holland | January 13, 1987

Sister Holland offers some advice for the modern woman who, exhausted by others' expectations, needs help find her inner self and rejuvenate her soul.

devotional 1987

Marjorie Pay Hinckley | March 27, 1986

Women of the Church come from all walks of life, but each woman, when her foundation is strong in Christ, builds the Kingdom of God in her own unique way.

devotional 1986

James E. Faust | February 12, 1985

With an eternal perspective, God will help you—our granddaughters, and all women—fulfill your divine missions in the family, the Church, and the world.

devotional 1985

Arthur Henry King | February 19, 1983

With the literary imagery of “the frost” and “the thaw,” Arthur Henry King warns against warring between sexes. Men and women need one another.

devotional 1983

Sydney Reynolds | April 3, 1979

Today's world values money and prestige. Seek education and marketability, but never forget to respect the sacred importance of family.

forum 1979

Barbara B. Smith | February 9, 1978

The world is pulling women further away from their divine roles. We must teach our daughters about the gospel of Jesus Christ, but still allow them to fly.

devotional 1978