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.

Professional photo of Brother M. Joseph Brough

M. Joseph Brough | April 9, 2019

With the battle raging between good and evil, I have seen many a modern, mighty woman stick her banner in the ground in her own way as she takes a stand and defends the doctrine of Jesus Christ.

devotional 2019

Eva Witesman | June 27, 2017

Women’s stories are powerful, and they haven’t always been told. So I am going to tell you a little bit of mine.

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

Surely we will be able to think straight if we stay focused on God’s eternal plan and doctrine and use our strength in reaching out and helping others to do the same as we share our testimonies and our knowledge of the basic and simple message of the Restoration of the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

devotional 2013

Glenn L. Pace | March 6, 2010

You live in a time when you have more opportunities and options available to you than any other women have had throughout the history of mankind. Some of these options will complement your God-given natures. Others will chip away at it.

devotional 2010

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

Donna Smith Packer | April 29, 2004

Having a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ gives us confidence and courage in life. We can yield our agency to the Lord and let him manage our lives. I know it requires faith to do this, but our divine nature gives us that strength, and we find joy in our commitment and our duty.

devotional 2004

Cecil O. Samuelson | April 29, 2004

Joyful living in the here and now is an important antecedent to the complete joy that we know can be ours in the eternities, which is made possible by the presence with us of our families in the company of the Father and the Son.

devotional 2004

M. Russell Ballard | March 13, 2001

We cannot fulfill our mission as a Church without the inspired insight and support of women. They matter to the Lord, and their value is infinite.

devotional 2001

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

Bruce C. Hafen | March 29, 1985

In an age of feminism, know that men and women have unique natures and roles, but neither are superior. Both sexes must develop their minds and hearts.

devotional 1985

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 the 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