2024 BYU Women's Conference program

O Lord, I have trusted in thee, and I will trust in thee forever.

2 Nephi 4:34

May 1–3, 2024

womensconference.byu.edu

WELCOME TO BYU WOMEN’S CONFERENCE!

Hello Sisters!

We are so happy to welcome you once again to campus for the 2024 BYU Women’s Conference. We are looking forward with happy anticipation to gathering together this May.

This year’s conference theme comes from 2 Nephi 4:34, “O, Lord, I have trusted in thee, and I will trust in thee forever.” Trusting in Him strengthens us through diverse seasons, reminding us of past blessings and guiding us forward with confidence. Through our individual covenant relationship with our Savior and Heavenly Father, we learn to recognize Their trust in us and deepen our faith in Their guiding hands.

We invite you to join us for enriching and thoughtful sessions with our wonderful presenters. We also encourage you to be part of our Evening of Service and the wonderful Deseret Book/Shadow Mountain concert on Thursday, May 2. We want to express our gratitude to our volunteers, LDS Charities, and our friends at Deseret Book. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our remarkable General Presidencies for their participation, our wonderful presenters, and the dedicated individuals within our campus community whose efforts have made this conference possible. Above all, we are overjoyed to gather with you. We hope your time at the conference will be filled with enriching experiences alongside both familiar faces and new friends.

With love,

BYU Women’s Conference committee

Jennefer Johnson, Program Director

Michelle Moore, Program Administrator

Lorelie Sander, Program Administrator

Wendy Bird

Martha Darger Carrington

Brooke Casanovas

Carol Costley

Jennifer Kerns Davis

Ana De Agostini

Rabboni by Michael Malm

Artwork used with permission.

Olivia Flitton Blatter

Elise Gubler

Shelby Killpack

Tema Laussen

Sunny Mahe

Emily Kay Marcheschi

Janeen Martin

Rebecca Mehr

Kristyn Morgan

Shauna Ogden

Leslie Lords Robbins

Gaye Strathearn

ABOUT BYU WOMEN’S CONFERENCE

The conference, which is sponsored by Brigham Young University and BYU Continuing Education is the largest three-day gathering of Latter-day Saint women anywhere in the world. Over 150+ presenters share their perspectives and insights on a variety of topics, including womanhood and sisterhood, gospel principles, marriage, family, and practical and timely topics of interest and concern to women of all ages. Conference content is planned for women who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; however, women of all faiths are welcome to attend. Gathering with women of faith, developing friendships, learning from uplifting messages, gaining new insights, participating in service, strengthening your testimony, and enjoying time with family and friends—this is what BYU Women’s Conference is all about.

If you’re attending BYU Women’s Conference independently, rest assured, you’re not on your own. Many come alone, while others arrive with friends and family. However, no matter your group size, we hope you come away feeling spiritually strengthened, uplifted, and with a sense of connection to other women of faith. Despite our diverse backgrounds and individual faith journeys, every woman contributes to our sisterhood with her own unique story and gifts. We hope you embrace the sense of togetherness with warmth, knowing you are part of our family now. Let’s eagerly welcome and celebrate each other.

HOW MAY WE HELP YOU?

Do you have a question? Do you need more information? Please call 801-422-0877 (M–F) 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., email: womens_conference@ byu.edu or message us through our Facebook or Instagram social media pages. We are ready to help you have a wonderful experience.

AGE AND ATTENDANCE GUIDELINES

For the safety of all guests, we are not able to accommodate infants or children, including babes in arms, in any conference rooms, including in the Marriott Center. More information is available on our website under Attendees and Frequently Asked Questions. This policy applies to all participants, volunteers, presenters, and guests of presenters.

BYU Women’s Conference invites women ages 16 and older to participate in the conference. Notably, the Wednesday evening (only) sessions are also open to Young Women groups (ages 11–18) with their called Young Women leaders to register and attend. The Thursday and Friday sessions, service and musical programs at BYU Women’s Conference are limited to those ages 16 and older.

INSTANT CHOIR

Continuing a favorite tradition, the BYU Women’s Conference Instant Choir is an opportunity for you to join friends and share your testimony through music. All information, including music, is available on our website, womensconference.byu.edu. Come and sing with 500 of your newest friends on May 2 at the Thursday morning keynote session. Rehearsal starts promptly at 6:30 a.m. in the Marriott Center!

New and Returning Again this Year!

Wednesday Evening Option – Young Women Groups are Invited to Register! 6:00–9:00 p.m., May 1, Marriott Center

Join us a day early for BYU Women’s Conference and be a part of our second annual Wednesday evening option. We also extend an invitation to young women ages 11 to 18 and their called leaders to join us for this truly extraordinary event! Come be part of an evening full of faith-filled messages, uplifting music, friendship, laughter, and the joy of gathering together. We hope to see you there!

Thursday Afternoon Keynote Session Returns!

This year we are bringing back the Thursday afternoon keynote session at 3:15 p.m., giving us the perfect opportunity to come together once again! Afterward, let’s unite in service opportunities on lower campus before making our way to the spectacular Deseret Book concert at 8:00 p.m. in the Marriott Center. This promises to be a wonderful and exciting Thursday afternoon and evening filled with inspiration, camaraderie, and incredible music. Let’s make memories that will last a lifetime!

Immersive Learning Sessions

Experience our Immersive Learning Sessions with learner-focused, scripture-based classes, expertly guided by skilled teachers. Delve into class descriptions paired with scriptures you are encouraged to read and reflect on before attending the class. These 13 sessions span two days across campus. Sisters should plan to participate in a classroom type setting.

Sister to Sister Sessions

Exciting news! Our cherished Sister-to-Sister tradition is back for another year of inspiration and connection. Join us for five special sessions held across campus during the conference. Originating in 2019 with the Relief Society, Young Women, and Primary general presidents, these sessions have become a beloved staple of BYU Women’s Conference. Our aim with the Sister-to-Sister gatherings is to foster open, Christ-centered dialogue on various topics, enriched by questions from our participants.

Additional Session Hour on Friday

An additional concurrent session hour is part of Friday’s schedule and gives you an opportunity to hear more inspirational messages from our wonderful presenters.

Being part of something extraordinary, in your words…

“I felt especially strengthened this year. It felt more like a refuge and haven than ever for me to spend a couple of days filling my spiritual canteen. I came home with renewed clarity and resolve to stay on the Savior’s covenant path.”

“All the talks from conference strengthened my faith in the gospel and in myself and helped me realize how much control I really have over my life… BYU Women’s Conference is a tradition in my life!”

“My favorite thing at BYU Women’s Conference consistently is talking to the ladies in line or sitting next to me and discovering our connections, about how we are not so different. I connected with a sister I did not know and made a lasting friendship. I’m very grateful for every precious experience.”

“WC is something I look forward to each year. No matter what is going on in my life I make a huge effort to go. Reconnecting with family and friends, being spiritually fed, and feeling the love that abounds makes this event two of my favorite days of the year.”

First time here, returning after a hiatus or a seasoned WC pro?

We welcome you (or welcome you back!) to the excitement of BYU Women’s Conference! Dive into the conference with these must-do on-campus activities!

• Be part of an extraordinary sisterhood as we all gather together for the Marriott Center keynote sessions!

• Experience the Thursday evening performance and enjoy some spectacular musical talents!

• Gear up in style with your favorite BYU Cougar hoodie from the BYU Store.

• If you’re here with family and friends, split up for the concurrent sessions and share your newfound insights each evening over BYU Creamery ice cream.

• Join us at the Marriott Center bright and early on Thursday morning and come sing in the Instant Choir with 500 new friends.

• Take inspiration from our Instant Choir and start an uplifting hymn “sing-along” on the shuttle bus on your way to the Smith Fieldhouse or Wilkinson Student Center. Send us the video! E-mail: womens_conference@byu.edu

• Start up a conversation and make a new friend. Say hi to the sister sitting next to you. To the sister sitting next to you: Please say hi back!

• Stop in the BYU Store first and then share a bag of chocolate-covered cinnamon bears with your new “in line” friends as you wait for a concurrent session to begin.

• Take a delightful and quiet cultural detour at the BYU Museum of Art.

• Treat yourself to Thursday dinner at the Marriott Center or Cannon Center, then spread some love by serving at our service event.

• Do you have a sweet tooth? BYU has you covered. Visit the BYU Creamery for some delectable ice cream (it’s so good we’ve mentioned it twice), or the BYU Cougareat for their famous mint brownies, or swing by the BYU Store for their delicious fudge, amazing candy counter…you get the idea. Or opt for some fresh fruit at Cosmo’s Mini Mart in the Wilk!

Marriott Center Keynote Sessions and Presenters

Wednesday, May 1 Evening Session

6:00–7:00 p.m.

Come Take Your Place

Camille N. Johnson

J. Anette Dennis

Kristin M. Yee Relief Society General Presidency

Thursday, May 2 Morning Session

9:00–10:15 a.m.

“Lord, I Have Trusted in Thee, and I Will Trust in Thee Forever” (2 Nephi 4:34)

Jennifer Kerns Davis

Thursday, May 2 Afternoon Session

3:15–4:15 p.m.

I Trust that God Will Magnify Me: Leading as Covenant Women of God

Liz Darger

Friday, May 3 Morning Session

9:00–10:15 a.m.

Camille N. Johnson Relief Society General President

Friday, May 3 Afternoon Session

4:45–5:45 p.m.

Elder Brent H. Nielson Presidency of the Seventy

General Presidency Concurrent Sessions

Thursday, May 2

12:15–1:15 p.m.

“Love One Another; as I Have Loved You” (John 13:34)

Kristin M. Yee, Second Counselor, Relief Society General Presidency

Tamara W. Runia, First Counselor, Young Women General Presidency

Thursday, May 2 1:45–2:45 p.m.

Why I Choose to Stay: “His Word was in My Heart as a Burning Fire” (Jeremiah 20:9)

Tracy Y. Browning, Second Counselor, Primary General Presidency

J. Anette Dennis, First Counselor, Relief Society General Presidency

Friday, May 3 10:45–11:45 a.m.

Principles for Parents: For the Strength of Youth Guide

Steven J. Lund

Bradley R. Wilcox

Michael T. Nelson

Young Men General Presidency

Friday, May 3 12:15–1:15 p.m.

For the Power is in Us: The Lord Loves Effort

Andrea Muñoz Spannaus, Second Counselor, Young Women General Presidency

Susan H. Porter, Primary General President

Friday, May 3 3:15–4:15 p.m.

Finding Your Worth Through Jesus Christ

Amy A. Wright, First Counselor, Primary General Presidency

Emily Belle Freeman, Young Women General President

Concurrent Session Presenters

Note: Numbers reference SESSION NUMBERS, not the page.

Reyna Aburto (56, 63)

Natalie W. Adams (44)

Suzanne Russo Adams (51)

Gina Ashby (27)

Jenny Oaks Baker (73)

Angie Ballard (25)

Lauren A. Barnes (30)

Kathy Barny (83)

Shima Baughman (70)

Julia Campbell Bernards (9)

Anne R. Berryhill (50)

Lindsay Bingham (57)

Mindy Bingham (20)

Mandy Bird (79)

Sean Bird (79)

Wendy Bird (42)

Olivia Flitton Blatter (62)

Amy Booth (66)

Derek Booth (66)

Frank Bright (34)

Karin Brown (37)

Tracy Browning (28)

Cami Buckley (16)

Erin Wilson Burns (55)

John Bytheway (75)

Al Carraway (4)

Martha Darger Carrington (21)

Brooke Casanovas (20, 42)

Haylie Chase (16)

Carrian Cheney (68)

Emma Cherry (36)

Emmalee Christensen (12)

Lisa Valentine Clark (7)

Patti Baldwin Clements (26)

Ganel-Lyn Condie (18, 56)

Jerry Costley (15)

Michelle Craig (8)

Rebecca L. Craven (63)

Liz Darger (39)

Jennifer Kerns Davis (5)

Laurel Christensen Day (6)

Allison Dayton (9, 56)

Emily Darger Deans (14)

Lori L. Denning (31)

J. Anette Dennis (1, 28)

Justin Dyer (53)

Mauri Earl (49)

Ryan Eggett (38)

Jenet Jacob Erickson (77)

Adam R. Fisher (35)

Becky Flitton (32)

Joy E. Flitton (47)

Si Foster (22)

Emily Belle Freeman (74)

Barbara Morgan Gardner (63)

Rachel Sterzer Gibson (58)

Myesha Gilliland (26)

Isabelle Giraud-Carrier (10)

Kathryn W. Godderidge (46)

Tyler Griffin (43)

Deborah Jenson Grizzell (9)

Julianne H. Grose (78)

Elise Gubler (80)

Tamara Uzelac Hall (77)

Ann Harrison (51)

Mary Alice Hatch (84)

Claire M. Haynie (61)

Keri Herrmann (36)

John Hilton III (64)

Laura Paulsen Howe (50)

Ronell Hugh (56)

Sarah Ingerson (11)

April Jacob (30)

Kirsi Jarvis (23)

Camille N. Johnson (1, 40)

Jane Clayson Johnson (63)

Whitney Johnson (84)

Marilee Glazier Killpack (80)

Shelby Killpack (47)

Suzanne Kimball (23)

Paulette Kirkham (25)

Natalie Kirtley (82)

Rachel Rose Larsen (16)

Portia Louder (15)

Steven J. Lund (41)

Cindy Madsen (18)

Susan Madsen (42)

Monette Magleby (62)

Elizabeth Kuehn Mahas (50)

Evie Mahe (22)

Sunny Mahe (7)

Emily Kay Marcheschi (42)

Emeobong “Eme” Martin (44)

Janeen Martin (35)

Michelle McCullough (32)

Angela Jones Meyers (33)

David T. Morgan (10)

Kristyn Morgan (22)

Elizabeth Mower (14)

Jordan Murray (16)

Michael T. Nelson (41)

Lori Newbold (76)

Elder Brent H. Nielson (85)

Mario Pereyra (24)

Krystal V. L. Pierce (13)

Rebecca Pike (82)

Rebecca M. Pinegar (62)

Jennifer Brinkerhoff Platt (54)

Susan H. Porter (52)

Julie Benard Randle (71)

Shawna Rasmussen (60)

Jenny Reeder (67)

Mary Richards (58)

Tami Richards (38)

Leslie Lords Robbins (65)

Willa Robbins (45)

Barbara Rogers (22)

Gaylamarie G. Rosenberg (27)

Andrea Rowley (11)

Tamara W. Runia (17)

Alexis Schmitt (71)

Colleen Terry Scoresby (48)

Chelsey Seibold (68)

Mitzi Semo (33)

Heidi S. Shipp (72)

Ruth Sine (49)

Hank Smith (75)

Carrie Snow (61)

LuAnn Snow (33)

Emily Snyder (2)

Stephanie Sorensen (37)

Stephanie Dibb Sorensen (73)

Andrea Muñoz Spannaus (52)

Kersti Spjut (69)

Katie Edna Steed (12)

Corrine Stokoe (69)

Madeleine Strasburg (60)

Gaye Strathearn (19)

Cristin C. Strong (62)

Sarah Sun (3)

Heidi S. Swinton (45)

Lisa Olsen Tait (61)

Jill F. Taylor (53)

Marian Bennion Taylor (55)

Kathryn Phillips Thomas (59)

Jeff Thompson (24, 78)

Elaine Thornton (46)

Jessamyn Thurston (67)

Ruth Jones Todd (16)

Tiffany H. Tolman (81)

Rachel Rhien Tucker (70)

Lia Baez Vidal (16)

Carola Villar (21)

Heidi A. Vogeler (34)

Sarah Jane Weaver (58)

Mary Glauser White (83)

Bradley R. Wilcox (41)

S. Michael Wilcox (29)

Linda Wilson (72)

Rosemary M. Wixom (57)

Amy A. Wright (74)

Kristin M. Yee (1, 17)

Steve Young (6)

Build Your Schedule

Thursday, May 2

Keynote Session—Jennifer Kerns Davis, Marriott Center, 9:00–10:15 a.m.

a.m.

1 2 3

Keynote Session—Liz Darger, Marriott Center, 3:15–4:15 p.m.

Evening of Service—Richards Building and Smith Fieldhouse, 4:30–7:30 p.m.

Evening Performance—Marriott Center, 8:00–9:30 p.m.

Friday, May 3

Photo Booths

Be sure to capture your Women’s Conference experience at one of our photo booths!

Locations will be posted in the program update.

Keynote Session—President Camille N. Johnson, Marriott Center, 9:00–10:15 a.m.

Keynote Session—Elder Brent H. Nielson, Marriott Center, 4:45–5:45 p.m.

Schedule at a Glance

Wednesday, May 1

Marriott Center Keynote

Wednesday, May 1

Evening Session

6:00–7:00 p.m.

Come Take Your Place

Camille N. Johnson

J. Anette Dennis

Kristin M. Yee

Relief Society General Presidency

I Am Perfection in Progress

7:30–8:00 p.m.

8:00–8:30 p.m.

8:30–9:00 p.m.

Emily Snyder

As a Beloved Daughter of Heavenly Parents, I Walk with Jesus Christ

Sarah Sun

“Kindness is the Essence of Greatness”

Al Carraway

We extend a warm invitation to young women ages 11 to 18 and their called leaders to register and join us for this truly extraordinary event on Wednesday evening!

Thursday, May 2 {10:45–11:45 a.m.

Marriott Center

19,000 CAP

Smith Fieldhouse

3,375 CAP

Ballroom, WSC

1576 CAP

Auditorium, JSB

859 CAP

Assembly Hall, Hinckley Center

600 CAP

3220–3224 WSC

581 CAP

Human Dignity: To See Another’s Soul

Steve Young, Laurel Christensen Day

In This Life, I Will Choose Joy

Sunny Mahe, Lisa Valentine Clark

“Abide in My Love”: The Power of a Covenant Relationship with Heaven (Immersive Learning Session)

Michelle Craig

Showing

Compassion, Charity and Love for Our LGBTQ Loved Ones

Allison Dayton (moderator), Julia Campbell Bernards, Deborah Jenson Grizzell

Supporting and Loving Our Adult Children

Isabelle Giraud-Carrier, David T. Morgan

Having Self-Compassion and Finding Peace when Facing Mental Illness

Andrea Rowley, Sarah Ingerson

Varsity, WSC

389 CAP

2258–2260 CONF

390 CAP

3108 JKB

306 CAP

250 KMBL

284 CAP

Harman Ballroom

280 CAP

Children with Disabilities: From Inclusion to Belonging in a Ward Family

Emmalee Christensen, Katie Edna Steed

“She Arose, and Ministered Unto Them” (Matthew 8:15) (Immersive Learning Session)

Krystal V. L. Pierce

“O Be Wise”: Learning to Simplify Your Life (Jacob 6:12)

Elizabeth Mower, Emily Darger Deans

The Power of Faith in Jesus Christ in Overcoming Addiction

Portia Louder, Jerry Costley

Handing Over the Baton and Letting the Youth Lead

Ruth Jones Todd (moderator), Cami Buckley, Haylie Chase, Rachel Rose Larsen, Jordan Murray, Lia Baez Vidal

12:15–1:15 p.m.

“Love One Another; As I Have Loved You” (John 13:34)

Kristin M. Yee, Tamara W. Runia

Honoring Others’ Agency with Love

Cindy Madsen, Ganel-Lyn Condie

Seeking a Deeper Eternal Perspective for Life’s Challenges (Immersive Learning Session)

Gaye Strathearn

Your Personal Influence Matters!

Mindy Bingham, Brooke Casanovas

The Source of Your Greatest Joy: Your Personal Knowledge of God

Carola Villar, Martha Darger Carrington

Building Genuine Friendships in Real and Authentic Ways (Sister to Sister Session)

Kristyn Morgan (moderator), Si Foster, Evie Mahe, Barbara Rogers

“Develop a Deep Desire to Learn”: Pursuing Lifelong Learning

Kirsi Jarvis, Suzanne Kimball

“Leading God’s Children as Christ Does” (Immersive Learning Session)

Mario Pereyra, Jeff Thompson

Emotional Resilience: Moving from Survival Mode to Growth Mode

Angie Ballard, Paulette Kirkham

Honoring That Which is Sacred

Myesha Gilliland, Patti Baldwin Clements

“Seek This Jesus” (Ether 12:41): Developing Christlike Attributes

Gina Ashby, Gaylamarie G. Rosenberg

Marriott Center

19,000 CAP Why I Choose to Stay: “His Word was in My Heart as a Burning Fire” (Jeremiah 20:9)

Tracy Browning, J. Anette Dennis

Smith Fieldhouse 3,375 CAP The Power of Temple Worship

S. Michael Wilcox

Ballroom, WSC

1576 CAP Communication and Harmony: Building a Celestial Marriage

April Jacob, Lauren A. Barnes

Auditorium, JSB

859 CAP Deepening Your Conversion to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ (Immersive Learning Session)

Lori L. Denning

Assembly Hall, Hinckley Center

600 CAP Finding Relief through Jesus Christ

Becky Flitton, Michelle McCullough

3220–3224 WSC

581 CAP Purposeful Parenting: Navigating Challenges While Nurturing Souls (Sister to Sister Session)

Angela Jones Meyers (moderator), Mitzi Semo, LuAnn Snow

Varsity, WSC

389 CAP Suicide Prevention and Supporting Others in Crisis

Frank Bright, Heidi A. Vogeler

2258–2260 CONF

390 CAP Tools for Having Difficult Conversations and Setting Healthy Boundaries

Adam R. Fisher, Janeen Martin

3108 JKB

306 CAP Caring for a Child with Mental or Emotional Difficulties

Emma Cherry, Keri Herrmann

250 KMBL

284 CAP Support and Relief for Caregivers of Elderly Parents

Karin Brown, Stephanie Sorensen

Harman Ballroom

280 CAP

“Oh, What Songs of the Heart!”: How Music Can Connect Us to Our Savior

Tami Richards, Ryan Eggett

Video overflow available for all sessions except the MC and SFH.

Friday, May 3

10:45–11:45 a.m.

Marriott Center

19,000 CAP

Smith Fieldhouse

3,375 CAP

Ballroom, WSC

1576 CAP

Auditorium, JSB

859 CAP

Assembly Hall, Hinckley Center

600 CAP

3220–3224 WSC

581 CAP

Varsity, WSC

389 CAP

2258–2260 CONF

390 CAP

Principles for Parents: For the Strength of Youth Guide

Michael T. Nelson, Bradley R. Wilcox, Steven J. Lund

Strengthening and Maintaining Relationships When a Loved One Experiences a Change in Belief (Sister to Sister Session)

Brooke Casanovas (moderator), Wendy Bird, Susan Madsen, Emily Kay Marcheschi

Repentance: “He Will Give Us a New Heart” (Immersive Learning Session)

Tyler Griffin

Embracing My Divine Identity

Natalie W. Adams, Emeobong “Eme” Martin

The Power in a Testimony of the Book of Mormon

Willa Robbins, Heidi S. Swinton

Navigating Our Individual Faith Journey along the Covenant Path

Kathryn W. Godderidge, Elaine Thornton

When a Missionary Returns Early: Moving Forward with Faith

Joy E. Flitton, Shelby Killpack

Understanding Grace: “Jesus Makes All the Difference” (Immersive Learning Session)

Colleen Terry Scoresby

3108 JKB

306 CAP Finding Connection and Unity with Friends of Other Faiths

250 KMBL

12:15–1:15 p.m.

For the Power is in Us: The Lord Loves Effort

Andrea Muñoz Spannaus, Susan H. Porter

Crucial Conversations with Your Teens

Jill F. Taylor, Justin Dyer

The Plan of Salvation: “Lift Up Your Heart, and Be Glad; and Look” (Moses 7:44) (Immersive Learning Session)

Jennifer Brinkerhoff Platt

Love and Compassion: Supporting Those with Mental and Emotional Difficulties

Erin Wilson Burns, Marian Bennion Taylor

Showing Love and Respect for All of God’s Children

Ronell Hugh (mod.), Reyna Aburto, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Allison Dayton

The Warm Embrace of Home

Lindsay Bingham, Rosemary M. Wixom

Trust in the Lord and in His Prophets

Rachel Sterzer Gibson, Mary Richards, Sarah Jane Weaver

Receiving the Sacred Gift of the Holy Ghost (Immersive Learning Session)

Kathryn Phillips Thomas

Ruth Sine, Mauri Earl Power Tools for Family Finances

Shawna Rasmussen, Madeleine Strasburg

284 CAP With Confidence in God: Women and the Restoration

Laura Paulsen Howe, Elizabeth Kuehn Mahas, Anne R. Berryhill

Harman Ballroom

280 CAP

Family History: Do You Know Your Story?

Suzanne Russo Adams, Ann Harrison

Conversations about Church History

Claire M. Haynie, Carrie Snow, Lisa Olsen Tait

Unexpected Blessings from Serving in the Temple (Sister to Sister Session)

Rebecca M. Pinegar (moderator), Olivia Flitton Blatter, Monette Magleby, Cristin C. Strong

Marriott Center

19,000 CAP

Smith Fieldhouse 3,375 CAP

Ballroom, WSC

1576 CAP

Auditorium, JSB

859 CAP

Assembly Hall, Hinckley Center

600 CAP

3220–3224 WSC

581 CAP

Varsity, WSC

389 CAP

2258–2260 CONF

390 CAP

3108 JKB

306 CAP

250 KMBL

284 CAP

Women of Christ: Lessons in Leadership (Sister to Sister Session)

Barbara Morgan Gardner (moderator), Reyna Aburto, Rebecca L. Craven, Jane Clayson Johnson

The Doctrine of Christ: A Lifelong Pattern for Living (Immersive Learning Session)

John Hilton III

The Promise of Personal Revelation: “This is Your Gift” (D&C 8:5) (Immersive Learning Session)

Leslie Lords Robbins

“Grow Old Along with Me, the Best is Yet to Be”

Amy Booth, Derek Booth

“Whosoever Shall Put Their Trust in God Shall be Supported in Their Trials” (Alma 36:3)

Jessamyn Thurston, Jenny Reeder

The Divine Role of Motherhood

Chelsey Seibold, Carrian Cheney

Addressing Pornography: Protection, Hope, and Healing

Corinne Stokoe, Kersti Spjut

Sharing Goodness: Using the Power of Social Media to Lift and Build Others

Rachel Rhien Tucker, Shima Baughman

We Are All in This Great Endeavor Together: Finding Joy and Strength While Serving in the Lord’s Church

Julie Benard Randle, Alexis Schmitt

Preparing Children for Missionary Service

Heidi S. Shipp, Linda Wilson

Harman Ballroom

280 CAP Start Where You Are: Gospel Teaching in the Home

Stephanie Dibb Sorensen, Jenny Oaks Baker

Video overflow available for all sessions except the MC and SFH.

Finding Your Worth Through Jesus Christ

Amy A. Wright, Emily Belle Freeman

Embracing Gospel Learning: The Promises and Blessings from Come, Follow Me

John Bytheway, Hank Smith

I Believe in Jesus Christ, and I’m Patiently Waiting on Him for Answers (Immersive Learning Session)

Lori Newbold

To Love as He Loves Us: Upholding Truth with Love

Jenet Jacob Erickson, Tamara Uzelac Hall

“I Will Encircle Thee in the Arms of My Love” (D&C 6:20): Christ-Centered Parenting of LGBTQ Children

Julianne H. Grose, Jeff Thompson

Live Together in Love: Creating and Maintaining a Happy Marriage

Mandy Bird, Sean Bird

“[She] Who Receiveth all Things with Thankfulness Shall Be Made Glorious” (D&C 76:19)

Marilee Glazier Killpack, Elise Gubler

Discover and Develop Your Spiritual Gifts from Heavenly Father (Immersive Learning Session)

Tiffany H. Tolman

Single But Not Solo–Navigating the Unexpected Path with God

Rebecca Pike, Natalie Kirtley

Serving Others: “I Pray [I’ll] be the Answer to Other People’s Prayers”

Kathy Barny, Mary Glauser White

“What Comes Next for Willing Hands to Do?”

Whitney Johnson, Mary Alice Hatch

Women’s Conference by Topic

We hope this topic guide will help you navigate the sessions offered. Please read the abstract in its entirety to help with your class selection. Note: Numbers reference SESSION NUMBERS, not the page

Conference Insights and Information

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Online: womensconference.byu.edu

On the days of the conference, May 1–May 3: Marriott Center, northeast and northwest concourse entrances.

April 1–30, 2024

Conference (Th/Fri)

May 1–3, 2024 (at the door)

Information: 801-422-0877

Registration Information: 801-422-8925/1-877-221-6716

Email: womens_conference@byu.edu

Facebook: BYUWomensConference

CONFERENCE INFORMATION DESKS

For assistance with directions, lost name badges, shuttles, and other needs, contact an information desk assistant at one of the following locations between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m:

• Marriott Center northeast concourse (MC)*

• Lobby, Joseph Smith Building (JSB)

• North entrance, Smith Fieldhouse (SFH)

• Memorial Lounge, Wilkinson Student Center (WSC)

*Open until 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday, 8:00 p.m. on Thursday and 6:30 p.m. on Friday

OVERFLOW ROOMS

Check the Program Update for information on overflow rooms.

Session Room

BYU Conference Center 2258–2260 (CONF)

Harman Building Ballroom (HCEB)

Video Overflow

2254 CONF

various rooms CONF; speak with Hospitality team

Hinckley Assembly Hall (HC) East Room HC; 1104 JKB

Kimball Tower 250 (KMBL)

Jesse Knight Building 3108 (JKB)

Joseph Smith Building Auditorium (JSB)

various rooms second floor, KMBL, speak with Hospitality team

2107 JKB, 3106 JKB

various rooms JSB, speak with Hospitality team

Smith Fieldhouse Not available

Wilkinson Student Center Ballroom (WSC) Garden Court, WSC

Wilkinson Student Center (WSC) 3220–3224

Wilkinson Student Center (WSC) Varsity

ASL INTERPRETERS

3280-3290 WSC, 3228 WSC, 3223 WSC, 3211 WSC

3380 WSC

American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters will be provided for all Marriott Center conference sessions. Participants needing ASL interpretation should sit in section 8, row 3, in designated seats (enter through Portal H). Interpreters for sessions other than the Marriott Center can be provided if requested by April 15, 2024. Further details can be found on our website at womensconference.byu.edu.

PARKING

Each year we strive to make your parking, shuttles, and walking as easy as possible. We have easily accessible parking lots and extensive courtesy shuttle service to get you to and from parking areas. Parking areas closer to the Marriott Center fill up early, so please refer to the map in the center of this booklet for all parking areas and shuttle stops/routes.

Please cooperate by parking in designated areas and within stalls. Please note that program participants should not park in the neighborhoods north of the Marriott Center or east of 900 East. Parking in areas other than those noted will lead to towing of your vehicle. Self-contained recreational vehicles can park in lot 37Y, north of the Indoor Practice Facility. No facilities are available. More information is available on the center map in this program.

UVX FREE BUS SYSTEM IN OREM/PROVO

Catch the free UVX bus and be dropped off within a three- to five-minute walk to the Marriott Center, and avoid parking on campus. Utah Valley Express (UVX) is a bus rapid transit line featuring high-capacity buses running between the Orem Central Station (Frontrunner station), BYU, and the Provo Central Station (Frontrunner station) and other stops inbetween, and it’s free! It features convenient stops at the BYU Baseball Stadium (about a three minute walk to the Marriott Center), the BYU Harman Building, BYU North Campus, and BYU South Campus. Note: Regular fares are required for bus lines other than UVX. Visit our website under Attend and then Parking for more information.

PARKING FOR PARTICIPANTS WITH DISABILITIES

If you have a state-issued disability placard or permit, you may park in the designated area northeast of the Marriott Center. Participants who have disability placards MAY ALSO park in any of the state disability parking spaces on campus. If disability spaces are filled in a particular lot, you may hang your placard and park in any campus parking spaces

EXCEPT for service or 30-minute spaces, and designated space for deans, directors, or specific license plates.

COURTESY SHUTTLES

Days, times, and routes of the Courtesy shuttles are indicated on the parking map in the center of this booklet. While the shuttles are available to all conference participants, preference will be given to seniors or those with disabilities. Shuttles pick up and drop off at designated shuttle stops only. Please note that from 8:30 to 10:00 p.m. on Thursday, and from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, shuttles will only run from the Marriott Center to the parking lots and campus housing. Please continue to exhibit kindness, consideration, and patience when parking and using the shuttle service. Your actions and attitude affect the experiences of other attendees and university employees assisting with the conference.

One wheelchair-accessible shuttle is available (one friend may accompany). To contact the driver on May 1–3, please call 801-674-5405.

Please note: You will need to call for each ride you require, separately. We appreciate your understanding as we try to accommodate all guests.

All conference shuttles and buses are for campus only and do not go to hotels and/or restaurants.

HOW FAR IS IT TO WALK?

Wait times for the shuttles can sometimes be long, so if you are physically able, we encourage you to enjoy campus and take a walk to your next session.

Marriott Center to:

Cannon Commons 5–7 minutes

Conference Center 5–7 minutes

Harman Building 5–7 minutes

Hinckley Center 5–7 minutes

Jesse Knight Building 5–7 minutes

Joseph Smith Building 12–15 minutes

Kimball Tower 12–15 minutes

Smith Fieldhouse 12–15 minutes

Wilkinson Student Center 10–12 minutes

Wilkinson Student Center to:

Cannon Commons 8–10 minutes

Conference Center 8–10 minutes

Harman Building 8–10 minutes

Hinckley Center 5–7 minutes

Jesse Knight Building 3–5 minutes

Joseph Smith Building 8–10 minutes

Kimball Tower 8–10 minutes

Smith Fieldhouse 12–15 minutes

Marriott Center 10-12 minutes

Please enjoy your walk and stay aware of your surroundings and remember to glance up from your phone. Always follow traffic regulations and use designated crosswalks for your safety. Keep in mind that your walking pace might vary depending on crowd levels and the comfort of your shoes.

WHEELCHAIR SEATING

Due to limited wheelchair seating in all conference locations, wheelchair access areas are reserved only for participants who use wheelchairs. One to three companions may accompany those who use wheelchairs, and they will be seated in close proximity. In the Marriott Center, wheelchair seating is available at all portals except G, H, J, K, L, M, U, and V on the concourse level. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are located on the concourse level only. Limited wheelchair seating is available on the floor level. Speak to the Hospitality Team Member at the elevator (Portal W) for availability.

RECORDING OF TALKS

Personal audio and video recording of conference sessions is not allowed. Select transcripts from the 1997 to 2023 conferences are posted on our website at womensconference.byu.edu under Library/ Transcripts. Selected talks from BYU Continuing Education programs are available in the new InspirED site (inspired.byu.edu) and on the BYU Women’s Conference YouTube channel. Details may be found in your program.

SPECIAL BYU STORE HOURS AND LOCATIONS

For your convenience, the BYU Store and the Marriott Center satellite store will be open at the following times:

Marriott Center satellite store (located south of the Marriott Center)

• 4:00–10:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 1

• 7:30 a.m.–10:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 2

• 7:30 a.m.–7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 3

Main BYU Store

• 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 1 thru Friday, May 3

• 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 4

Beehive Clothing outlet (located on the lower level of the BYU Store)

• 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 1 thru Friday, May 3

• 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 4

Visiting authors will be at the Marriott Center tent 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Visiting artists will be on the store’s main floor 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

BYU DINING

Here is what to expect when it comes to ordering and paying for your food here on campus (BYU Dining options are located in the centerfold).

Cash registers will be open at all Dining Services locations. These registers are cashless, but we do accept credit/debit cards. All cash registers at locations besides BYU Concessions also accept Cougar Cash and dining gift cards.

Other ways you can purchase food on campus:

• Online: Guests can visit dining.byu.edu/mobile-ordering to place an order at campus restaurants using credit/debit card.

• Kiosks: Guests dining in the Cougareat can order and pay at one of the kiosks using credit/debit card, dining gift card, or Cougar Cash card.

• Gift Cards: Guests can visit the Creamery on Ninth, Cougar Express, or Helaman Creamery to purchase a dining gift card. Gift cards can be purchased using cash or credit/debit card.

• Reverse ATM: Guests can put cash into our reverse ATM, located in the Wilkinson Student Center, and receive a Cougar Cash card.

Please note that vendors located in the BYU Marriott Center are contracted suppliers for the year for conferences, athletic events, and other programs and prices are not equivalent to those in the BYU Cougareat or BYU Store.

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

Wednesday Evening Opening Keynote

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC)

6:00–7:00 p.m.

Camille N. Johnson—Relief Society General President; former Primary General President; served with husband as companion and mission president in the Peru Arequipa Mission; bachelor’s degree in English and a law degree from the University of Utah; practiced law for nearly 30 years; wife, mother of three; grandmother of seven.

J. Anette Dennis—First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency; former member of the Primary General Advisory Council; served with husband as mission leaders in the Ecuador Guayaquil West Mission, and in the Guayaquil Ecuador Temple as counselor in the temple presidency and assistant to the matron; studied elementary education and Spanish at BYU; wife, mother of four

Kristin M. Yee—Second Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency; former member of the Primary General Advisory Council; holds undergraduate degrees in fine arts from BYUIdaho and BYU; MPA from BYU; worked as an artist and producer at Disney Interactive Studios; currently works for the Church as a manager of special projects for the Publishing Services Department; her gospel-themed paintings include portraits of the Savior’s mortal ministry

1 • Come Take Your Place

Every covenant daughter of God has been foreordained as a member of His church with responsibilities to build God’s kingdom, in her many different roles and seasons. Each one of us contributes with our unique gifts, and all are needed. President Camille N. Johnson shared, “As covenant women of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we share an objective — to return to our heavenly home. Relief Society sisters draw upon their diversity in age, talent, culture and experience to help one another return to God’s presence. What unites us is our common objective and divine purpose as covenant daughters of God and disciples of Jesus Christ.” She continued, “I have enjoyed sisterhood with women, young and old, and those with life experiences far different from my own…I love the vitality and wisdom of the women in Relief Society.”

Questions to Consider: Why is it important to understand that Relief Society is not a class, it is the Lord’s organization for women, and all His daughters belong? Why did the Lord organize the Relief Society for His daughters? How can I be proactive in creating inclusive relationships that unite us in His purpose? How do I identify the work God has for me in His Relief Society and Church throughout the seasons of my life? How can I feel more comfortable offering my own unique talents and gifts to accomplish God’s work? How can I include others who may be feeling left out? How can I be sensitive to and recognize their needs? What can I do if I’m the one who feels like I don’t fit in?

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC)

7:30–8:00 p.m.

2 • I Am Perfection in Progress

Elder Gerrit W. Gong reminds us that “Christ’s atoning love changes our concept of perfection.” As we change our beliefs and expectations about ourselves and others, we give room for ourselves to progress from “grace to grace” (D&C 93:13) as we move towards eventual perfection, which, Elder Gong explained, “…results from our journey through physical life, death, and resurrection, when all things are restored ‘to their proper and perfect frame’ (Alma 40:23).” He testified, “Fully accepting our Savior’s Atonement can increase our faith and give us courage to let go of constraining expectations that we are somehow required to be or to make things perfect. Blackand-white thinking says everything is either absolutely perfect or hopelessly flawed. But we can gratefully accept, as God’s sons and daughters, that we are His greatest handiwork, even though we are still a work in progress.”

Questions to Consider: How does the assurance that “By His grace ye may be perfect in Christ?” (Moroni 10:32) provide comfort in my journey of becoming? What are God’s expectations for me in this life and how do they differ from my own or the world’s expectations? Why is understanding being “perfected in him” (Moroni 10:32) and not ourselves essential in our quest for perfection? How does Heavenly Father’s loving guidance help me change the narrative of how I speak to myself when I make mistakes?

Emily Snyder—Lover of experiences, jumping jacks, tears, journals, deep thoughts, and lots of laughter; teacher turned business masterand hoping to fall in love with hiking again

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC)

8:00–8:30 p.m.

3 • As a Beloved Daughter of Heavenly Parents, I Walk with Jesus Christ

The Young Women’s theme begins with this powerful message, “I am a beloved daughter of heavenly parents, with a divine nature and eternal destiny.” President Bonnie D. Cordon explained, “These truths apply to you individually. You are a beloved daughter of Heavenly Parents. You are a covenant disciple of our Savior …Peace and guidance will be yours as you follow Jesus Christ.” President Emily Belle Freeman taught, “No matter the heaviness of our story or the current course of our path, He will invite us to walk with Him…if we choose to tether our life with His. He has promised to walk with us in the way…Begin where you are…Remember, pace or placement on the path are not as important as progress. Learn more of Him. Invest in the relationship by entering into covenant with Him. It doesn’t matter your age or your condition. You can walk with Him.”

Questions to Consider: How can I continually strengthen my resolve to walk with Jesus Christ and invite others to come unto Him? When I sense my devotion and commitment to Him faltering, how can I feel His love and increase my faith? When faced with feelings of inadequacy or fear, how does the Lord extend His love and help to me? In what ways can I incorporate thoughts of Him and Heavenly Father into my daily life, regardless of where I am on my faith journey? What role does the gift of daily repentance have in strengthening my faith and connection with Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father? Sarah Sun is a student at BYU, where she was recently elected Student Body President. She is Miss Utah 2023-2024.

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC)

8:30–9:00 p.m.

4 • “Kindness is the Essence of Greatness”

President Thomas S. Monson reminded us that “Every day of our lives we are given opportunities to show love and kindness to those around us.” It’s difficult to know the far-reaching effect our words may have. The instant spread of words via social media can create an even greater impact. Sensitivity, sincerity, and good judgment are always wise to use in conversation. President Russell M. Nelson taught, “Anger never persuades. Hostility builds no one. Contention never leads to inspired solutions. Regrettably, we sometimes see contentious behavior even within our own…my dear brothers and sisters, this should not be. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are to be examples of how to interact with others—especially when we have differences of opinion. One of the easiest ways to identify a true follower of Jesus Christ is how compassionately that person treats other people. The Savior’s message is clear: His true disciples build, lift, encourage, persuade, and inspire—no matter how difficult the situation. True disciples of Jesus Christ are peacemakers.”

Questions to Consider: How can we express love instead of anger, use kinder words instead of sharp tongues, especially in stressful situations? How do we find a better way to offer sincere forgiveness or a heartfelt apology? How can we actively lift others through our language? How do we speak with kindness to our families, spouse, friends, strangers, and all we may influence? What can we learn from the Savior in managing differences with people in a tolerant and calm manner, while not taking offense? How do we have meaningful conversations with others who have differing views? In what ways can we be kinder, gentler, more forgiving and less judgmental?

Al Carraway—is a convert to the Church of Jesus Christ, multi-awardwinning international speaker inspiring others through her conversion and faith through difficult times; award-winning author; loves guiding church history tours. She lives with her husband, Benjamin, and her three kids in Charleston, South Carolina.

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

Thursday Morning Opening Keynote

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC)

9:00–10:15 a.m.

Jennifer Kerns Davis—Jennifer grew up in the mountains of Arizona, Idaho, New Mexico and Utah, is mother to three children, and can identify by name most mountain wildflowers. The young women in her ward keep her from aging (or so she thinks), and she has a growing collection of friends who also have angel children living on the other side of the veil. She is a member of the BYU Women’s Conference committee.

5 • “Lord, I Have Trusted in Thee, and I Will Trust in Thee Forever” (2 Nephi 4:34)

In the beautiful chapter of 2 Nephi 4, we read of the deep heartache Nephi felt amidst the afflictions and challenges he faced. However, a significant moment occurs in the last phrase of verse 19, where Nephi’s expression of sorrow transforms into an unwavering expression of faith, “Nevertheless, I know in whom I have trusted.” He goes on to recount the abundant support and blessings he has received from the Lord. As sisters, each season and situation in our lives brings new lessons of what it means to trust in the Lord. Drawing inspiration from Nephi’s example, we too can find comfort and strength no matter our circumstances. As we recognize and follow the Savior’s voice, the path will look different for each of us, but looking back we can remember that “we have trusted in [Him]” and as we move forward we can know that “we [can] trust in [Him] forever” (2 Nephi 4:34).

Questions to Consider: How does remembering and recognizing the times when I have trusted in the Lord in the past help me trust in Him as new challenges emerge in my life? In what ways can I trust in the Lord so I don’t feel so overwhelmed or discouraged? How does building a covenant relationship and connection with the Savior help me learn to trust Him? How do I learn to recognize the trust He has in me? What is the connection between faith and trust? How can I learn from those in the scriptures about trusting in the Lord?

Concurrent Sessions

10:45–11:45 a.m.

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

6 • Human Dignity: To See Another’s Soul

Mother Teresa once shared, “Human life is a gift of immeasurable worth, and it deserves, always and everywhere, to be treated with the utmost dignity and respect.” Elder Ulisses Soares taught, “My dear friends, I can assure you that the light of a new day shines brighter in our lives when we see and treat our fellow beings with respect and dignity [as]…brothers and sisters in Christ.” In another address he declared, “People question the dignity of ‘them’ while acknowledging the superiority of ‘us.’ The deepest and truest parts of us are our faith and our relationships. But in the midst of this anxiety, we tend to see only groups and not souls….Dignity has a divine origin….We need to see a reflection of ourselves in each other—our dreams, hopes, hurts, and despairs. Otherwise, we become strangers and foreigners. We discover our dignity in relating with others. Everyone wants to be known, seen, and recognized. We want our efforts to make a difference and our struggles to be acknowledged. The demand for respect is as ancient as society itself. Peace begins with respect for the uniqueness of each person.”

Questions to Consider: What limits my view and obstructs my ability to see others as children of God? What changes occur when I look at the apparent differences that exist between us with the Savior’s eyes? When disagreements arise, how can I treat others with love, respect, and consideration? How do I remove contemptuous thoughts from my heart or the inclination to mock and replace it with the pure love of Christ? How do I “stand as [a person] of goodwill towards all, rejecting persecutions of any kind” (President Dallin H. Oaks)?

Steve Young—Husband, father, coach of his daughters’ flag football team; two-time NFL MVP, a Super Bowl MVP, and sports commentator; author; founder of Forever Young Foundation, a global charity for children, which he co-chairs with his wife, Barb

Laurel Day—Wife, stepmom, grandma, aunt; currently serves in her favorite calling of her life: Primary Music Leader; passionate about the work of inclusion; President, Deseret Book Company; Masters of Communications Management

SMITH FIELDHOUSE (SFH)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

7 • In This Life, I Will Choose Joy

We can choose to find joy in a world full of fear and confusion through Jesus Christ. As we strive toward inviting the Spirit into our lives, Jesus Christ becomes the source of our happiness and joy. In D&C 11:13 we read, “I will impart unto you of my Spirit, which shall enlighten your mind, which shall fill your soul with joy.” President Russell M. Nelson taught, “When the focus of our lives is on…Jesus Christ and His gospel,

we can feel joy regardless of what is happening—or not happening—in our lives. Joy comes from and because of Him. He is the source of all joy.”

Questions to Consider: How does the gospel bring ultimate joy when the world around me is so chaotic? How do I claim the joy that Jesus Christ offers us? How can I know that I am not alone when I don’t always feel joy? How can I choose to feel joy when I don’t feel joyful? What questions can I ask my Heavenly Father in my prayers when I am struggling to feel joy? What is the relationship between joy and gratitude? How can I find joy in my circumstances and avoid comparing my life to others?

Sunny Mahe—Former BYU volleyball All-American, answers to the alias “Reno Mahe’s wife”, mother of ten (including one three-year-old angel), taxi driver of aspiring young athletes, crafter, Disney pin trader, singer of mediocre karaoke, BYU Women’s Conference committee member

Lisa Valentine Clark—Lisa is an actress, writer, producer, and host of The Lisa Show podcast on BYU radio. She is a widow, the mother of five mostly grown teenagers and adults, and a nacho enthusiast.

BALLROOM, WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

Immersive Learning Session

8 • “Abide in My Love”: The Power of a Covenant Relationship with Heaven

“For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth…shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39). One of the most powerful expressions of God’s love is his desire to be in a covenant relationship with us. President Russell M. Nelson taught, “Once we make a covenant with God, we leave neutral ground forever. God will not abandon His relationship with those who have forged such a bond with Him. In fact, all those who have made a covenant with God have access to a special kind of love and mercy. In the Hebrew language, that covenantal love is called hesed (דסֶֶֶחֶ )...Hesed is a unique term describing a covenant relationship in which both parties are bound to be loyal and faithful to each other.”

Questions to Consider: Why does God ask me to make, keep and understand covenants with Him? How can I instill in my own heart a desire to make and keep covenants with God? Why is it important to understand that the most powerful expression of God’s love is His offer to be in covenant relationship with me? How does that affect my personal relationship with my Heavenly Father? What does Paul mean when he says nothing “shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord”? How does understanding that nothing can separate us from God’s love impact my belief about my personal worth?

For optional preparation for this session, participants are encouraged to read the following: Isaiah 41:10; Isaiah 54:10–11; John 3:16; John 14:21; John 15:10; Romans 8:38–39; 1 Nephi 22:8–9, 11; 2 Nephi 5; Mosiah 5:7; Mosiah 18:11; D&C 84:38; D&C 109:1

Michelle Craig—Wife, mother, nana; former counselor in the Young Women General Presidency; loves a good book, popcorn, sunshine, and Jesus Christ

AUDITORIUM, JOSEPH SMITH BUILDING (JSB) 10:45–11:45 a.m.

9 • Showing Compassion, Charity and Love for our LGBTQ Loved Ones

Elder Ian S. Ardern taught that, “Compassion is an attribute of Christ. It is born of love for others and knows no boundaries.” Charity, in the Bible Dictionary is defined as “The highest, noblest, strongest kind of love, not merely affection; the pure love of Christ.” The great apostle Paul defined charity as something that “edifieth,” which means to build up, strengthen, and repair. When a child tells you that they identify as LGBTQ or are experiencing transgender feelings, your first step is to always confirm your love and demonstrate compassion and charity. Elder Ronald A. Rasband shared, “People who experience [these] feelings need to be encircled in the arms of their Savior and know they are loved…He expects us to be His welcoming, loving, arms,” for He says, “I have loved [them] with an everlasting love” (Jeremiah 31:3).

Questions to Consider: How do I listen to my loved one, with the Spirit, such that my immediate reaction is one of faith, assurance and love? How do I create a safe place for my loved one to ask sensitive questions or share concerns without being criticized or judged? How can I show love and support for my LGBTQ loved one while remaining faithful to the teachings of the Gospel? How can I effectively balance responding with Christlike kindness while also standing up for them in the face of unkindness from others? How can I effectively communicate with others about my loved one’s experiences and identity? How can my experience serve as an example for demonstrating love, compassion, and charity despite differing beliefs? “The most helpful question you can ask is “how?” How can I help? How can I be the support my loved one needs?” (churchofjesuschrist.org)

Allison Dayton—Founder of Lift and Love, jewelry designer, skier, mom to three, grandma to G, married a real Kenn, LGBTQ cheerleader, holder of hope, faithful believer

Julia Campbell Bernards—Ph.D., LMFT, Julia is the mother of three queer kids whom she passionately loves, accepts and supports. She works with the queer community and their families as a therapist, and presents her research on LDS parents’ acceptance of their queer kids nationally.

Deborah Jenson Grizzell—Mother of six children, three of whom are LGBTQ+ persons; B.S. USU, Family and Human Development, MSSW UT-Austin; clinical social worker in private psychotherapy practice; currently serving as a stake Relief Society president in suburban Chicago, IL

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

ASSEMBLY HALL, HINCKLEY CENTER (HC)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

10 • Supporting and Loving Our Adult Children

As our children become adults and leave our homes, they still need our love, support and example. As the stages of our lives change, we can continue to build our relationships, and we can remember the example of Mormon, speaking to his son Moroni, “I am mindful of you always in my prayers” (Moroni 8:3). Sister Tamara W. Runia gave some great insight in how to talk to our adult children: “Before we interact with a loved one, can we ask ourselves the question ‘Is what I’m about to do or say helpful or hurtful?’ Our words are one of our superpowers, and family members are like human blackboards, standing in front of us saying, ‘Write what you think of me!’ These messages, whether intentional or unintentional, should be hopeful and encouraging.”

Questions to Consider: What do healthy relationships with adult children look like? How do I show my adult children that I support them? How do I not take it personally when my adult children make decisions that I may not agree with? How can I be patient and strengthen a struggling relationship with my adult child? How do I develop and foster eternal relationships with my adult children?

Isabelle Giraud-Carrier—Mother of eight and grandmother of many; French native; former mission leader, Relief Society president and Young Women president; accomplished cook and avid quilter

David T. Morgan—husband, father, grandfather, licensed psychologist, BYU Ph.D. in counseling psychology, temple worker, author, selfproclaimed Disney expert

3220-24 WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

11 • Having Self-Compassion and Finding Peace when Facing Mental Illness

Sister Reyna I. Aburto taught, “Black clouds may also form in our lives, which can blind us to God’s light and even cause us to question if that light exists for us anymore. Some of those clouds are of depression, anxiety, and other forms of mental and emotional affliction. They can distort the way we perceive ourselves, others, and even God.” It is during these times, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland taught, “When life becomes overwhelming, we may think that God has abandoned us. We can find peace and comfort in the truth that God the Father and our Savior, Jesus Christ, are aware of us and know how to help us through our trials. Believing in Jesus Christ does not mean that mortal challenges will cease to exist, but we do believe that the Lord can give us strength to meet our challenges.”

Questions to Consider: How do I know when I need to reach out for professional help? How can I gain the confidence to seek help and overcome my concerns over mental health stigmas? How does the Lord succor me when healing—whether physical, emotional, or mental— comes in stages and may not happen quickly? What church and other

resources are available to offer me additional help? How can faith, together with appropriate professional resources, help me find hope when dealing with mental illness?

Andrea Rowley—Mother of six; Certified Mental Health Coach; developmental therapist; director of coaching at Noble.Health specializing in betrayal trauma recovery, pornography addiction recovery, grief and loss, parental support and teen coaching

Sarah Ingerson—Doctor of Nursing Practice, FNP-BC; returned missionary; Gospel Doctrine instructor; wife, mother; left-handed, creative; dog person

VARSITY THEATER, WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

12 • Children with Disabilities: From Inclusion to Belonging in a Ward Family

Helping others to understand a loved one’s disability can help them feel accepted, included and understood. “When possible, share with others relevant information about your loved one’s disability. Be open about what challenges he or she faces and how to best help him or her.

If you share information in a welcoming manner and show that you are comfortable doing so, others will be willing to listen and help in any way they can” (disabilities.lds.org). You may want to take time to write what you would want others to know about your loved one, including strengths, talents, challenges, what you have found to be helpful, and ways for them to more fully participate in the ward.

Questions to Consider: What can I do to better support those with disabilities in my ward family? How can I work with local church leaders to help them understand my child’s needs and work together to open doors of opportunity for them to grow spiritually? What Church resources are available for parents, ward members and leaders to help support those with disabilities? What are Church resources and options for Service Missionaries? How can I learn to love more deeply, understand and serve those with disabilities?

Emmalee Christensen—Devoted wife and mother; passionate deaf/ HH accessibility bridge builder; ASL Seminary and Institute teacher, serves on the Church’s ASL Board; various leadership opportunities with Primary, youth, and adults; served in the Arizona Phoenix Mission (ASL)

Katie Edna Steed—BYU professor of Special Education, Latter-day Saint Charities specialist, published author, and disability specialist at Church headquarters; committed to facilitating access for all of God’s children to learn of Him; cherishes role of wife and mom

2258-60 BYU CONFERENCE CENTER (CONF)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

Immersive Learning Session

13 • “She Arose, and Ministered Unto Them” (Matthew 8:15)

The Savior spent his mortal ministry ministering to those around him. In each case, he attended to their needs, whatever they were. Sometimes that ministry meant that he provided food for the 5,000; he ministered to Mary and Martha by comforting them when their brother Lazarus passed away; he ministered to the Samaritan woman at the well, the woman caught in adultery, and to His mother as he hung on the cross, as well as many others. The Gospels also describe women who, having been ministered to by the Savior, turned around and ministered to Him! Luke teaches that a group of women “ministered unto him of their substance” while he taught in Galilee. After Jesus ministered to Peter’s mother-in-law who was sick with a fever, “she arose and ministered” unto Jesus and his followers. Likewise, it was the women who ministered to Jesus after his death by coming to prepare his body.

Questions to Consider: How did Jesus find ways to minister to people where they were at and help them to spiritually progress at their own pace? What can Jesus Christ teach me about ministering to those in my circles? How does Christ’s example of allowing others to minister to Him help me change my heart and allow others to minister to me? How can we see ourselves in each of these stories? How do these scriptural examples of Christ’s ministering give me a deeper understanding of His call to succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees.”

For optional preparation for this session, participants are encouraged to read the following: Matthew 8:14–15; Mark 16:1–2; Luke 8:1–3; John 4:3–29; John 8:1–11; John 11: 1–44; John 19:25–27

Krystal V. L. Pierce—professor of Ancient Scripture at BYU; Ph.D. in Ancient Near Eastern Studies; archaeologist; researcher; writer; ancient language lover; identity reconciler; mother of two savants; wife of a professor; nursery leader; family history buff; cat wrangler

3108 JESSE KNIGHT BUILDING (JKB)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

14 • “O

Be Wise”: Learning to Simplify Your Life (Jacob 6:12)

It’s in our nature as women of faith to agree to volunteer to do everything we’re asked in our families, wards, stakes, neighborhoods, and communities. That can often lead to burnout, poor health, and overall unhappiness. Do our increasingly busy lives cast shadows on our ability to feel His love and light? Sister Amy A. Wright taught, “Jesus Christ makes it possible for us to ‘abide the day.’ Abiding the day does not mean adding to an ever-increasing to-do list. Think of a magnifying glass. Its sole purpose is not simply to make things appear bigger. It can also gather and focus light to make it more powerful. We need to simplify, focus our efforts, and be gatherers of the Light of Jesus Christ. We need more holy and revelatory experiences.”

Questions to Consider: How does personal revelation help me to prioritize and determine the good, better and best choices for my life? How do I learn to say no to really good things? How do I slow down and turn to the Lord for peace? What are some ways to block out the noise of technology, social media, news, etc.? What is self-care (including prioritizing my mental, spiritual and emotional health) and why is it so important? Knowing there is a season for all things, how do I recognize and accept the limitations of the season I’m in?

Elizabeth Mower and her husband, Mike, are parents to a combined seven children. She is an Ordinance worker, BYU Pathway missionary, ESL teacher, and works in refugee outreach in Utah. She serves on several boards including Abby Cox’s SHOW UP board.

Emily Darger Deans—22 years of adventure in marriage and mothering with Deanslings ages eight to 18; lover of dance floors, decadent bites, mountains, shorelines, showtunes, tennis courts, community building and connecting with heaven; member, Young Women General Advisory Council

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

250

KIMBALL TOWER (KMBL)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

15 • The Power of Faith in Jesus Christ in Overcoming Addiction

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland has counseled, “Acknowledge that people bound by the chains of true addictions often need more help than selfhelp, and that may include you. Seek that help and welcome it. Talk to your bishop. Follow his counsel. Ask for a priesthood blessing. Use the Church’s Family Services offerings or seek other suitable professional help. Pray without ceasing. Ask for angels to help you.” We know that “the Savior suffered ‘pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind’ so that He can comfort us, heal us, rescue us in times of need” (President Russell M. Nelson) and He will help me for “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13).

Questions to Consider: What have people with addictions found to be most helpful in terms of support from family and friends? What boundaries can I establish to protect others and myself while also providing love and support to my loved one coping with addiction? How can the Atonement of Jesus Christ assist those who are battling addiction in reclaiming their agency? What Church and professional resources are available to aid in overcoming and preventing addictions?

Portia Louder—Portia spent 4.5 years of her life in prison. She is a writer, speaker, photographer and advocate. She works with at-risk youth, and people struggling with addiction. Portia is a volunteer chaplain and speaks in prisons and institutions.

Jerry Costley—Jerry is the husband of Carol Lawrence-Costley, father of five and grandfather of seven. He is a clinical social worker and has worked with individuals with disabilities and addictions in various capacities. He has served in various church callings.

BALLROOM, HARMAN CONTINUING EDUCATION BUILDING (HCEB)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

16 • Handing Over the Baton and Letting the Youth Lead

Elder Quentin L. Cook shared, “Our youth are being asked to take more individual responsibility at younger ages—without parents and leaders taking over what youth can do for themselves.” The youth are the future leaders of the Lord’s kingdom. Speaking to the youth, President Bonnie L. Oscarson said, “Remember that the Lord knows you and that He knows what great leaders you can be today. He knows that you can reach out and touch lives and help rescue those who are lost.”

President Bonnie H. Cordon explained, “Adult leaders…start where they are and help them develop the skills and confidence that will bless them as leaders. Stay close to them, but don’t take over. The Spirit will guide you as you guide them.”

Questions to Consider: What are some of the ways we can lovingly guide the youth when challenges arise? How can we help them learn from their successes and failures? How do we mentor, train, coach and cheer on our youth as leaders on the sidelines without taking over? What significance lies in empowering our youth with leadership roles, and what benefits arise from allowing them to navigate and learn through these experiences? In what ways can we actively create and provide meaningful leadership avenues specifically tailored to teach our youth how to lead as Christ led?

Ruth Jones Todd—Aspiring disciple of Jesus Christ; grateful daughter of Heavenly Parents; inspired daily by the Lord’s “unusually gifted” Youth Battalion; wife, mother, grandmother; member, Young Women General Advisory Council; MBA; EVP/CCO Bonneville International and BYU Cougar forever!

Haylie Chase—Recent BYU graduate with a bachelor’s in Psychology; served in the Brazil Londrina and Florida Orlando Missions; current member of Young Women General Advisory Council; youth leader; assistant instructor of equine assisted therapy; outdoorsy and adventurous

Cami Buckley—Member of the Young Women General Advisory Council; returned missionary; non-profit director; passionate about experience management and looking for light in the little things

Rachel Larsen—Rachel was called as a member of the Young Women General Advisory Council in June 2023. She served her mission in Brazil Sao Paulo South and is currently studying Nursing and works for HXP, a humanitarian organization that helps teenagers all over.

Jordan Murray—Humanitarian Experience (HXP) Chief Operations Officer and President; Young Women’s General Advisory Council member; served in Kansas Wichita Mission; loves finishing DIY house projects 90% and staring at the remaining 10% yet to be finished

Lia Baez Vidal—daughter, sister and friend; member, Young Women General Advisory Council; BA in Political Science, Westminster University; activist; policy nerd; served in the Puerto Rico San Juan Mission; dancer; runner; foodie; ocean lover

Concurrent Sessions

12:15–1:15 p.m.

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

17 • “Love One Another; As I Have Loved You” (John 13:34)

We can answer the Savior’s call to “love one another; as I have loved you” (John 13:34) through simple, consistent and compassionate acts of service to one another. This is ministering. President Camille N. Johnson taught us, “Sisters, we can be agents of the Savior’s relief by aligning ourselves with Him in ‘succoring the weak, lifting the hands that hang down and strengthening those with feeble knees [and backs].’ The Lord asks us to serve, not to create busy work for the sisters of the Church. He knows you have plenty to do. The Lord asks you to serve in fulfillment of your covenant responsibility to ‘take His name upon you,’ to sacrifice and consecrate. He asks you to serve so that you can receive the blessings promised to covenant keepers, including ‘a special kind of love and mercy.’”

Questions to Consider: Each of us is unique and has individual needs. How can communicating with my sisters and seeking the guidance of the Spirit help me to know how to best minister? How can I recognize the joys of ministering rather than getting discouraged? How can participating in a ministering interview encourage me and help me to recognize the good I am doing as I try to love as the Savior does? What are some of the challenges we face in ministering? What are some ways we can overcome them? “Jesus Christ not only asks you to serve, He asks you to be served” (President Johnson). How do we open our hearts to allow others to minister to us?

Kristin M. Yee—Second Counselor, Relief Society General Presidency; former member, Primary General Advisory Council; graduate of BYU–Idaho and BYU; MPA from BYU; worked as an artist and producer at Disney Interactive Studios; manager of special projects for Church Publishing Services Department; paints gospel-themed paintings include portraits of the Savior’s mortal ministry

Tamara W. Runia—First counselor in the Young Women General Presidency. She has called Walnut Creek, Amsterdam, Sydney, and Provo home. She loves her family so much and truly believes we are all family. As an unofficial cheerleader, she wishes she could give each one of you sisters a big hug. And if you see her and can’t remember her name, just say you have chocolate and she’ll turn around.

SMITH FIELDHOUSE (SFH)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

18 • Honoring Others’ Agency with Love

When a loved one chooses a different path, it is sometimes hard to look past our hurt and fear for the future and to remember to honor their agency. Sister Tamara W. Runia taught, “It’s the Savior’s work to bring our loved ones back. It’s His work and His timing. It is our work to provide the hope and a heart they can come home to. ‘We have neither [God’s] authority to condemn nor His power to redeem, but we have been authorized to exercise His love.’ President Nelson has also taught that others need our love more than our judgment. ‘They need to experience the pure love of Jesus Christ reflected in [our] words and actions.’”

Questions to Consider: How do I find peace and hope when loved ones choose a different faith journey from my own? How can I help my family maintain strong and loving relationships with different faiths in our home? How do I help my family members understand and honor agency and individual faith journeys? How can the Spirit help me to communicate love and not judgement when I speak to my loved ones who are walking a different path? How do I keep an eternal perspective, remembering that the Savior and Heavenly Father watch over all of us?

Cindy Madsen—Wife to the most wonderful husband; mother to four amazing children; grandmother to eleven perfect grandchildren; working on a Masters in Theological Studies at Calvin Theological Seminary; loves the restored gospel of Jesus Christ

Ganel-Lyn Condie—Author of 18 books, speaker, mental health educator, media contributor and lupus warrior; stewardships also include mother to two miracle children and wife; ASU West grad (Elementary Ed/Psychology), empty nester, and sourdough minister

BALLROOM, WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

Immersive Learning Session

19 • Seeking a Deeper Eternal Perspective for Life’s Challenges

President Russell M. Nelson’s invitation for us to “Think Celestial” is a call for us “to be spiritually minded” and to develop “an eternal view” that will help us navigate the challenges of mortality and prepare us for “life throughout all eternity.” President Nelson’s teachings reinforce the Savior’s teachings in the Gospel of John. Unique to that Gospel are a series of dialogs where Jesus personally engages with individuals such as his mother, Nicodemus, the Samaritan woman at the well, the man born blind, and others who misunderstand who He is and lack clarity about what His mission entails. Each of these dialogs are tailormade for the individual and his or her circumstances. As the Master teacher, the intent of each dialog is to help the individual to elevate their perspective from one limited to “earthly” things to an eternal perspective that “cometh from above” (John 3:30–31).

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

Questions to Consider: Although Jesus was speaking to specific individuals, each one of them, in one way or another, is a type for modern readers. Studying these dialogs can prompt us to ask questions like: How can I see myself in each of these stories? What can I do to prepare to “hear Him” when He reaches out to me? How can my questions, asked in faith, help me to seek more earnestly for an eternal perspective so that I can better know Christ and better understand His role in the Father’s plan for me? How do I let the Savior teach me of eternity? How will I respond to the Savior’s efforts to engage with me and help me gain an eternal perspective?

For optional preparation for this session, participants are encouraged to read the following: John 2:1–11; John 2:23–3:17; John 4:3–30: John 9:1–38

Gaye Strathearn—teacher, Bible lover, served in the Australia Melbourne mission, Ph.D. in New Testament, associate dean in Religious Education, currently serves as a Sunday School teacher, BYU Women’s Conference committee member

AUDITORIUM, JOSEPH SMITH BUILDING (JSB)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

20 • Your Personal Influence Matters!

In the scriptures we are taught, “[We] were prepared to come forth in the due time of the Lord to labor in his vineyard for the salvation of the souls of [all]” (D&C 138:56). As you embrace your identity and role as a daughter of God it will influence how you lead, who you follow, and the influence you have on others. President Elaine S. Dalton shared, “Your example, even the light in your eyes, will influence others who see your ‘shine,’ and they will want to be like you. Where do you get this light? The Lord is the light, ‘and the Spirit enlighteneth every [woman] through the world, that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit.’ A divine light comes into your eyes and countenances when you draw close to your Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.”

Questions to Consider: How does my example and influence direct others towards Christ? What does God want my personal influence to look like as His daughter? What role is the Savior asking me to take in building up his kingdom? How does relying on the Spirit help me to be an example and influence for good? How has the Holy Ghost confirmed my identity as a daughter of God and what difference has that made?

Mindy Bingham—Mindy is a wife and a mother of five! She is a convert to the Church and serves in the Young Women’s presidency in her ward. She shares ups and downs of family life on her YouTube channel This Is How We Bingham. Her life motto is “Your best is enough.”

Brooke Casanovas—is married to Josh Casanovas and feels really pleased about her last name receiving such an upgrade. She is the President of her niece and nephews fan club. Brooke also loves creating gatherings both professionally and with friends and is a BYU Women’s Conference committee member.

ASSEMBLY HALL, HINCKLEY CENTER (HC)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

21 • The Source of Your Greatest Joy: Your Personal Knowledge of God

“And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent” (John 17:3). Elder Robert D. Hales testified, “Your personal knowledge of God…will bring you the greatest joy you will ever have.” President Jeffrey R. Holland explained, “Jesus did not come to improve God’s view of man nearly so much as He came to improve man’s view of God and to plead with them to love their Heavenly Father as He has always and will always love them.”

Elder Alan T. Phillips shared, “Jesus Christ wants you to know and have a relationship with your Father in Heaven….You are His child. If you are feeling lost, if you have questions or lack wisdom, if you are struggling with your circumstances or wrestling with spiritual dissonance, turn to Him. Pray to Him for comfort, love, answers, and direction. Whatever the need and wherever you are, pour out your heart to your Heavenly Father.”

Questions to Consider: Why is belief in Heavenly Father so important? How can understanding God’s characteristics and attributes help me to know and have faith in Him? How can building my relationship with my Father in Heaven through prayer help me when I face decisions, difficulties, or trials? How do daily prayer and scripture study increase our knowledge of God and His plan for me? Why should I strive to know His will for me? What are some passages of scripture that can help me learn more about God and understand His love?

Carola Villar—Born and raised in Santiago, Chile; wife of Elder Juan P. Villar, General Authority Seventy; mother of three, grandmother of one; attended BYU; served in various positions in all of the auxiliaries, including as mission leader with husband in the Spain Barcelona Mission

Martha Darger Carrington—BYU Women’s Conference committee member; native of Boise Idaho; BYU Social Work grad and folk dance team alum; currently busy nurturing four children; devoted advocate of children and youth; disciple and covenant keeper; happiest on the Sundance chairlift or the shores of Bear Lake with her beloveds

3220-24 WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

Sister to Sister Session

22 • Building Genuine Friendships in Real and Authentic Ways

Learning how to be a real and authentic friend, while striving to be a better disciple of Jesus Christ, allows us to build friendships and decrease loneliness in our wards, neighborhoods and communities. Being willing to open up about not only our successes but also our challenges gives others permission to share their struggles and in turn, receive strength, support and connection. “The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that ‘friendship is one of the grand fundamental principles of

“Mormonism.”’ That thought ought to inspire and motivate all of us because I feel that friendship is a fundamental need of our world.

I think in all of us there is a profound longing for friendship, a deep yearning for the satisfaction and security that close and lasting relationships can give” (Elder Marlin K. Jensen).

Questions to Consider: How can I build genuine friendships in a world where we can feel so isolated? How can I better connect as a real and authentic friend in a Christlike way? What are some ways I can better connect in my ward, neighborhood and community? How can I help others feel that they are not alone in their struggles? How can I become more comfortable reaching out to others when I feel anxious?

Kristyn Morgan—Social media cheerleader for “keeping it real, while striving to be better”; BYU graduate; influencer; former seminary teacher; ward Primary president; lover of Oreos and true crime; wife, mother and grandma; BYU Women’s Conference committee member Si Foster is the mother of four and grandmother to ten. She is the creator behind A Bountiful Kitchen. Si loves the Gospel of Jesus Christ and can’t wait to serve with her husband Grant, in June in the Philippines Urdaneta Mission for the next three years!

Evie Mahe—Oldest daughter of 10, stress baker, aspiring webcomic designer, watcher of Gilmore Girls and The Office, professional Instagram reels sender, occasionally above-average Fortnite player, lover of the Gospel, her eternal family, and her Savior

Barbara Rogers—Mother of five daughters and expert in female emotions; wilderness explorer and former survival instructor; displaced seminary teacher; temple coordinator; stake Relief Society counselor; scripture-lover and believer in miracles

VARSITY THEATER, WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

23 • “Develop a Deep Desire to Learn”: Pursuing Lifelong Learning

“God wants us to educate our minds, improve our skills, and perfect our abilities so we can be a better influence for good in the world, provide for ourselves, our family and those in need and build God’s Kingdom” (Gospel Topics, Education). This is an invitation to engage in lifelong learning. President Russell M. Nelson taught, “Education is yours to obtain. No one else can gain it for you. Wherever you are, develop a deep desire to learn. For us as Latter-day Saints, gaining an education is not just a privilege; it is a religious responsibility. ‘The glory of God is intelligence.’ Indeed, our education is for the eternities.”

Questions to Consider: How can I find the right way to pursue the best education or training for me? What resources are available to help me? How would my life be blessed if I received more education, whether formal or informal? Why is education a religious responsibility? Why is it important to learn “by study and also by faith” (D&C 88:118)?

Kirsi Jarvis—Sister, daughter, and friend; recent BYU MBA and MPA graduate; current Relief Society new member secretary; advocate for women and education; divine identity enthusiast; refugee connector; dancer; Taiwan missionary

Suzanne Kimball—Suzanne is the associate superintendent of curriculum in Nebo School District. She currently lives with her husband in Mapleton where they raised their three children. She loves reading, organizing, and teaching her Primary class.

2258-60 BYU CONFERENCE CENTER (CONF)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

Immersive Learning Session

24 • “Leading God’s Children as Christ Does”

President Stephen W. Owen questioned “If I were to ask you, ‘who is the greatest leader who ever lived?’—what would you say? The answer, of course, is Jesus Christ.” Leading others as Christ does requires balancing key relationships in our lives—our relationship with God, with God’s children, with our stewardships, and with ourselves. Elder Richard J. Maynes taught “If our lives are centered in Jesus Christ, He can successfully mold us into who we need to be.” The Savior provides the perfect example of how to cultivate these relationships as we lead through applying core principles, including expressing love, honoring agency, and inviting accountability. Focusing on the BYU Sorensen Center’s Christ-Centered Leader Model, we will learn these principles and how we can positively influence others in the way the Savior does.

Questions to Consider: How can I answer the call to become a leader in my home, congregation, and community? How can I use examples from the Savior’s life as practical models for how I influence others? How can I ensure that I am centering myself on the Savior as I try to lead and influence others? How can I become a Christ-centered leader without an official title?

For optional preparation for this session, participants are encouraged to read the following: Luke 15:11–32; John 8:1–12; Jesus, the Perfect Leader by Spencer W. Kimball (available online through churchofjesuschrist.org / August 1979 Ensign)

Jeff Thompson—Director of BYU’s Sorensen Center for Moral and Ethical Leadership; Ph.D.; scholar on meaningful work; author of The Zookeeper’s Secret; husband, father and grandfather; avid racquetball player and theatre performer

Mario Pereyra—Leadership education administrator of BYU’s Sorensen Center for Moral and Ethical Leadership; MPA; leadership coach; Gospel Doctrine teacher; husband and father; from Houston, TX; Mexican & Argentine background; board game enthusiast; nature lover

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

3108 JESSE KNIGHT BUILDING (JKB)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

25 • Emotional Resilience: Moving from Survival Mode to Growth Mode

“To become like the Savior, everyone will need to face challenges and hardships during this life. Dealing with life’s challenges successfully requires faith in Jesus Christ and emotional resilience” (Emotional Self-Reliance Manual). Understanding the principles of emotional resilience can help you change from survival mode to growth mode, and when coupled with gospel principles you will be able to move forward and become stronger because of your trials, not in spite of them. President Camille N. Johnson explained, “The beautiful struggles written in our stories are what draw us closer to the Savior and refine us, making us more like Him.” When we turn to Jesus Christ, “[He] will… make weak things become strong unto them” (Ether 12:27).

Questions to Consider: What does it mean to be emotionally resilient? Why is it important to be emotionally resilient? How can the Church’s “Emotional Resilience” course bless myself and my family? What are some ways to reframe challenges in order to see the potential for growth? What tools and strategies could be helpful in teaching my family emotional resilience?

Angie Ballard—LMFT; a careful listener as a therapist in the Bay Area; adoring mom to two adult sons; tired yet grateful seminary teacher; holder of hope for those struggling with grief, anxiety, trauma, anger, doubt, or hopelessness; a sea glass collector

Paulette Kirkham—High school dropout, now a professor at BYU-I teaching Life Skills, English, and working as director of the Reading Center; loves literature and all things related to people-building; served in the London South mission back in the Dark Ages

250 KIMBALL TOWER (KMBL)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

26 • Honoring That Which is Sacred

We learn from the Book of Mormon about honoring sacred things. Elder D. Todd Christofferson shared, “When Alma turned the plates of Nephi and other records over to Helaman, he cautioned: ‘Remember, my son, that God has entrusted you with these things, which are sacred, which he has kept sacred. . . .See that ye take care of these sacred things, yea, see that ye look to God and live’ (Alma 37:14, 47).”

Elder Christofferson continued: “With a deepening reverence for sacred things, your understanding grows. The scriptures speak of it as a light that grows ‘brighter and brighter until the perfect day’ (D&C 50:24). That process is also described as progressing from grace to grace. The Savior Himself progressed in that way until He received a fulness, and you may follow in His footsteps (see D&C 93:12–20). That is where a sense of the sacred will lead you.”

Questions to Consider: In what ways do I show reverence and respect for sacred things, sacred places, sacred occasions? How do sacred, daily conversations with my Father in Heaven bless my life? Do I

see the calling of the prophets and apostles as sacred and do I treat their counsel seriously? How is the garment a physical reminder of sacred promises I have made with my Heavenly Father? How does it remind me of the blessings I can receive if I honor my commitments? (churchofjesuschrist.org). As the world turns from sacred things, how do we increase our sacredness?

Myesha Gilliland—BYU undergraduate in bioinformatics; served mission in Oregon and São Paulo Brazil; Portuguese MTC teacher; ward temple and family history leader; oldest of eight girls; lover of music, all things artsy, hosting events, good questions and quiet moments with God

Patti Baldwin Clements—Raised in the military; BA ’80 BYU in Professional Dance/Drill; married 46 years with four beloved children and four beloved “in-laws” with 15 grandchildren that I adore! Lover of books, biking, hiking, skiing, travel and all things in nature; faces “the SON!”

BALLROOM, HARMAN CONTINUING EDUCATION BUILDING (HCEB)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

27 • “Seek This Jesus” (Ether 12:41): Developing Christlike Attributes

“The prophet Moroni exhorted, ‘I would commend you to seek this Jesus of whom the prophets and apostles have written’ (Ether 12:41). One important way to seek Jesus is to make a diligent effort to learn about Him and become more like Him” (Preach My Gospel, Chapter 6). One way we learn of Him is to develop Christlike attributes, which are qualities or traits of His nature and character. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland taught, “The Lord blesses those who want to improve, who accept the need for commandments and try to keep them, who cherish Christlike virtues and strive to the best of their ability to acquire them. If you stumble in that pursuit, so does everyone; the Savior is there to help you keep going.…Soon enough you will have the success you seek.”

Questions to Consider: What are Christlike attributes and how do I deepen my understanding of them? How can an understanding of Christlike attributes bless my family and other relationships? How do steady, daily improvements in Christlike attributes help me to develop deep roots of conversion? How can relying on the Savior’s power and grace help me as I “stumble in [my] pursuit” of becoming more like Him?

Gina Ashby—International childhood; loves people, hand-of-God stories and soaking up nature; masters in nutrition; mission in Finland; found love in humanitarian service; wife of entrepreneur/rancher; mother of four teens; serving in YSA ward; sculpting assistant

Gaylamarie G. Rosenberg—Wife, mother; adjunct professor in the Department of Church History and Doctrine, BYU; M.S. degree in family life education and human development; ward Relief Society president; loves people, flowers, mountains, hiking, travel and writing; author

COURTESY SHUTTLES run the routes shown below to the stops indicated with bus icons. Please give preference to seniors and those with mobility issues. See page 15 for information on conference parking, wheelchair van, and disability parking.

BUILDINGS:

CONF/HCEB— Conference Center and Harman Building

HC— Hinckley Vistors Center

JSB— Joseph Smith Building

MB— Music Building

MC— Marriott Center

MOA— Museum of Art

RB— Richards Building

SFH— Smith Fieldhouse WSC— Wilkinson Student Center

LEGENDS: Parking Conference Buildings

Disability Parking Shuttle Stops

UVX Bus Rapid Transit Dining (see next page) No Shuttle Available

ROUTES: RED route: MC  SFH  MC BROWN route: MC  Helaman Halls  MC BLUE route: MC  Stadium Parking  MC ORANGE route: MC  MOA  MC GREEN route: MC  near JSB  MC PINK route: MC  WSC  MC

TIMES: MORNING SHUTTLES: 7:30–9:30 a.m.:

RED , BROWN , BLUE

DAYTIME SHUTTLES: 9:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.:

RED , ORANGE , GREEN , PINK

Limited shuttles will also run the BLUE , BROWN routes during both days.

EVENING SHUTTLES

PLEASE continue to exhibit kindness, consideration, and patience when parking and using the shuttle service. Your actions can and do affect the experiences of other attendees. When using the shuttles, plan for an extra 20–30 minutes to get from the parking lots to the Marriott Center.

To request Disability Van ride call 801-674-5405. (Please call for each ride you require seperately. We appreciate your understanding as we try to accommodate all passengers.)

Thursday, 4:00–10:00 p.m.: BLUE , BROWN , RED , *PINK , (*ends at 8:00 p.m.)

Friday, 4:00–7:00 p.m.: RED , BLUE , BROWN

Come enjoy a great dining experience at The Commons. We offer all-you-care-to-eat from six different food platforms, which include the following: a salad and fruit bar, pasta, entrée choices, burgers, soups, waffles, desserts, and more. For more information, visit: dining.byu.edu/cannon-commons

LOCATION:

Helaman Halls, Cannon Commons

WOMEN’S CONFERENCE HOURS:

Thu.–Sat. (Breakfast) 6:30–9:00 a.m.

Thu.–Fri. (Lunch) 11:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

Wed.–Fri. (Dinner) 4:30–7:30 p.m.

Don’t lose your parking spot to drive around looking for food. Stay at the Marriott Center and enjoy great food without the hassle. Choose from a variety of BYU favorites and outside vendors. For more information, visit: dining.byu.edu/womens-conferenceconcesssions-map

LOCATION:

Marriott Center and Smith Fieldhouse

HOURS: Marriott

Wed. 3:30–8:30 p.m.

Thu. 7:30 a.m.–4:40 p.m. (a few stands will reopen for concert at 5:30 p.m.)

Fri. 7:30 a.m.–TBD Smith Fieldhouse

Thu.–Fri. 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m.

Scan to see your options

Come try out the Blue Line Deli, a Deli located on the first floor in the Tanner Building! We offer a variety of delicious, one-of-a-kind sandwiches that make the journey over well worth it. For more information visit: dining.byu.edu/blue-line-deli

LOCATION:

Tanner Building

HOURS: Wed.–Fri. 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Come elevate your dining experience! Join us for lunch at the Skyroom restaurant and enjoy panoramic views of the beautiful mountains and the surrounding campus. Enjoy your gourmet four course lunch served to your table. By reservation only, please email skyroom-reservations@byu.edu or call 801-422-9020. To see what menu the Chef has created, visit: dining.byu.edu/skyroom

LOCATION:

Wilkinson Student Center, 6th floor

HOURS: Thu.–Fri. 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Dining Services is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Harold B. Lee Library. This restaurant will feature boba, bagel sandwiches, tacos, rice bowls, and convenient grab-and-go snacks and beverages. For more information, visit dining.byu.edu/library-cafe

LOCATION:

HBLL 3410

HOURS: Mon.–Sat. 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Located off University Parkway, Campus Floral is a convenient choice for all of your floral needs. Pick up fresh flowers for any occasion. When you really want to impress, pair flowers with any of our fine jewelry or other assorted gifts. We deliver anywhere in the continental United States. Please visit: campusfloral.byu.edu

LOCATION:

685 E University Pkwy

HOURS: Mon.–Fri. 9:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Sat. 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

Social gatherings and great food fill the Cougareat. You’ll find Aloha Plate, Subway, Chick-fil-A, Choices, Cougar Café, Cougar Express, Milk & Cookies, Papa John’s, Taco Bell and Wendy’s. For more information, visit: dining.byu.edu/cougareat

LOCATION:

Wilkinson Student Center

HOURS: Mon.–Wed. 7 a.m.–8 p.m. Thur.–Fri. 7:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. (hours vary by operation)

Scan here to place your orders ahead of time

Fill up on an all-American meal of hamburgers, fries, and milkshakes in a ’50s-style atmosphere. When you’re finished, stock up on groceries with a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, bakery items, and household products. For more information, visit: dining.byu.edu/creameries

LOCATION:

1200 North 900 East

MON–SAT HOURS:

Store 7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Grill 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Ice Cream 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m

Enjoy lunch and appeal to your finer tastes with fruit, sandwiches, salads, soups, breads, and entrees at this bistro cuisine café located in the Museum of Art. For more information, visit: dining.byu.edu/moacafe

LOCATION:

Museum of Art

HOURS: Wed.–Fri. 10:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

Enjoy a refreshing smoothie any time of day. Choose from a variety of delicious fruit combinations. For menu information, visit: dining.byu.edu/retail-locations/jamba

LOCATIONS:

Wilkinson Student Center, 2nd floor

HOURS:

Wilkinson Student Center (WSC) Thu. 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. Fri. 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Low-priced milk, fresh bread, and famous Creamery ice cream are just a quick walk away at the creameries at Wyview, Helaman Halls, and the Creamery Outlet. Enjoy friendly service and other delicious dairy and snack items. For more information, visit: dining.byu.edu/creamery

Creamery Outlet: Located in the Culinary Support Center

Thurs.–Fri. 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Helaman Halls: Located next to Cannon Commons

Thurs.–Fri. 7:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Wyview Housing Area: 1700 North 950 East

Thurs.–Fri. 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Concurrent Sessions

1:45–2:45 p.m.

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

28 • Why I Choose to Stay: “His Word was in My Heart as a Burning Fire” (Jeremiah 20:9)

There are many women in the church who want to hold true to what they know and stay faithful to the gospel, but are weighed down by questions and concerns around church teachings or policies. Sister Rebecca L. Craven taught, “Each day we strive to push forward, trying our best to live our covenants….Other times we may feel as though we are just inching along, maybe even relying on someone with a gentle tether to lovingly tug us along. There may be times; however, when difficulties, doubts, questions, fears, or other challenges cause us to stall, back up, or even back out, leaving us to flounder in a sea of confusion and unfamiliar paths. My dear…friends, you are enough, you know enough, you are strong enough to hold firm and move forward, closer to Christ and His glorious promises.”

Questions to Consider: How do I faithfully stay true to what I know, while still acknowledging honestly my questions and concerns? How do I rebuild my testimony after I feel it has been weakened, lost, or broken through my personal experiences? How can relying on the Spirit help guide me to the divinely inspired resources and people that can help strengthen and restore my faith? When I hit walls of uncertainty, how do I hold fast to experiences that are “in my heart as a burning fire,” and trust in the Lord’s promises? What do I do with questions or concerns that may not get fully answered or resolved in this life?

Tracy Y. Browning—born in New York and grew up in Jamaica; currently serving as Second Counselor in the Primary General Presidency; worked in financial services prior to current Church employment; married to Brady and they are the parents to two children

J. Anette Dennis—First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency; former member of the Primary General Advisory Council; served with husband as mission leaders in the Ecuador Guayaquil West Mission, and in the Guayaquil Ecuador Temple as counselor in the temple presidency and assistant to the matron; studied elementary education and Spanish at BYU; wife, mother of four

SMITH FIELDHOUSE (SFH)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

29 • The Power of Temple Worship

We talk much about preparing to go into the temple and preparing for covenants, but should we consider speaking more about what we will do after going out of the house of the Lord, having just been “armed with righteousness and with the power of God in great glory” (1 Nephi

14:14)? President Russell M. Nelson taught, “Every woman and every man who makes covenants with God and keeps those covenants, and who participates worthily in priesthood ordinances, has direct access to the power of God. Those who are endowed in the house of the Lord receive a gift of God’s priesthood power by virtue of their covenant, along with a gift of knowledge to know how to draw upon that power. I pray that truth will register upon each of your hearts because I believe it will change your life.”

Questions to Consider: What does it mean to leave the house of the Lord ‘armed with God’s power’ and with His angels having ‘charge over’ me? How does covenant power empower me, and how can I act using covenant power? How can a covenant relationship with the Savior bring us peace? What role does the temple garment play in receiving covenant power? How can I learn for myself what effect covenant power can have in my life?

S. Michael Wilcox—Father of five; grandfather of fifteen; author of many articles and books; has served in a variety of callings including bishop; but his most prized acclaim is that he is the man that Laurie Chipman loves!

BALLROOM, WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC) 1:45–2:45 p.m.

30 • Communication and Harmony: Building a Celestial Marriage

There can be harmony in marriage as we strive to be “one flesh” (Genesis 2:24) and communicate with our spouses. Harmony will come, President Russell M. Nelson says, “when one esteems the welfare of his or her spouse among the highest of priorities.” In another address, President Nelson taught, “Good communication includes taking time to plan together. Couples need private time to observe, to talk, and really listen to each other. They need to cooperate—helping each other as equal partners. They need to nurture their spiritual as well as physical intimacy. They should strive to elevate and motivate each other. Marital unity is sustained when goals are mutually understood. Good communication is also enhanced by prayer. To pray with specific mention of a spouse’s good deed (or need) nurtures a marriage.”

Questions to Consider: How does the Lord expect us to communicate with each other in our marriage? How does studying how Christ communicates help us learn to better listen to and understand each other? How does praying together and for each other help us build a celestial marriage? How does seeking the pure love of Christ endow us with power to listen, forgive, respect and elevate each other and our marriage?

April Jacob—Lover of sunrises, sunsets, sunshine, scriptures, smiling, and stillness (which she doesn’t get enough of!); fueled by faith in Jesus Christ; wife; mother to four; soon-to-be counselor; co-author of two books on marriage; embracer of fresh starts.

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

Lauren A. Barnes—Wife, mother of two; Marriage and Family therapist, Associate Clinical Professor, BYU School of Family Life; Cuban American redhead; recovering people-pleasing perfectionist; Zumba lover; cake and cookie baker

AUDITORIUM, JOSEPH SMITH BUILDING (JSB)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

Immersive Learning Session

31 • Deepening Your Conversion to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ

“True conversion is more than merely having a knowledge of gospel principles and implies even more than just having a testimony of those principles. It is possible to have a testimony of the gospel without living it. Being truly converted means we are acting upon what we believe and allowing it to create ‘a mighty change in us, or in our hearts” (President Bonnie L. Oscarson) Conversion isn’t an event, but a quiet and constant process of ongoing change and growth. Recognizing how the Father and His Son work in our lives requires consistent daily efforts to live the gospel. “The road to eternal life begins with a deep and settled conversion to our Savior, with a reverence for His divine life and mission” (Elder Neil L. Andersen).

Questions to Consider: How do I sustain a deep and firm conversion of the Father and His son Jesus Christ? What truths of the gospel have helped me become more converted to Jesus Christ and have greater faith in Him? What am I doing right now to learn more about Jesus Christ in my ongoing conversion? How can trusting, remembering, and reflecting on personal moments where I felt a mighty change of heart help me to safeguard my testimony? How can I teach and guide others as I assist them in their individual journey to become more deeply converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ?

For optional preparation for this session, participants are encouraged to read the following: Matthew 7: 7–9; Matthew 25:1–13; Romans 12:2; Mosiah 5:2, 5–7; Mosiah 27:24–29; Alma 5:14–31; Alma 7:14–15

Lori L. Denning—Disciple of Christ, daughter, twin, and lover of all ancient scripture; MA in Theology and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Religion, with a focus on ancient scripture; an avid reader with a passion for dirt biking and video games; loves to sing in the car

ASSEMBLY HALL, HINCKLEY CENTER (HC)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

32 • Finding Relief through Jesus Christ

President Camille N. Johnson has taught us how Jesus Christ can be our relief from the burdens we carry. She shared, “I joyfully declare that our mortal burdens, these rocks in our figurative backpack, need not feel heavy. Jesus Christ can lighten our load. Jesus Christ can lift our burdens. Jesus Christ provides a way for us to be relieved of the weight of sin. Jesus Christ is our relief.” The Savior’s beautiful invitation in Matthew 11:28–30 affirms, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Questions to Consider: How does taking on the Savior’s yoke provide relief and lift my burdens? Why do I sometimes look to other sources for relief rather than turning my focus towards God? What are some examples in my life where Christ provided relief but did not eliminate the trial? How has the Holy Ghost prompted me to bring relief to those around me?

Becky Flitton—Wife and stay-at-home mother of two; past ward Young Women’s president; avid crafter, fiber artist, and aspiring interior designer; no stranger to grief and pain, and seeking the Savior through life’s challenges

Michelle McCullough—Wife, mom, CEO, author, podcaster at Sunshine in the Middle, professional speaker on leadership and happiness and a committed foodie; loves: Jesus, her family, laughing with friends, Disneyland, bright colors and traveling--P.S. Her middle name is Sunshine.

3220-24 WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

Sister to Sister Session

33 • Purposeful Parenting: Navigating Challenges

While Nurturing Souls

Through our intentional conversations and diligence in championing our children as they make choices for themselves, we can learn alongside our children how to navigate by utilizing personal revelation. Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf taught, “Faith and testimony are best fostered in normal and natural ways, one bite at a time, in small and simple moments, in the constant flow of daily living. Every moment is a teaching moment. Every word and action can be a guide for making choices. You may not see the immediate effects of your efforts. But don’t give up….with God’s help, you can learn to know your children in a pure and heavenly way. I invite you to accept God’s offer to guide your family by personal revelation. Seek His guidance in your prayers.”

Questions to Consider: How can I utilize personal revelation and the spiritual gifts that the Lord has blessed me with to better love, teach, and support my children as unique individuals? As a parent how do I fortify and tune my faith in the Atonement of Jesus Christ such

that my immediate reaction is one of faith and hope in place of fear? How do I focus on building up, praising, and empowering each child as an individual as they learn and grow? How do I help my children recognize their divine identity? How do I empower my children to use their agency, and understand accountability, repentance and the importance of their choices? As parents with different perspectives and life experiences how do we unite in our singular purpose as we approach our children?

Angela Jones Meyers—Mom and grandma; M.S. in Family Life Education, BYU; public speaker; family life educator, curricula developer; founder, Kudos for Families non-profit; education chairman of American Mothers Inc. National Board; served in the Japan Osaka Mission

Mitzi Semo—is a Relief Society General Advisory Council member who originally hails from American Samoa. She currently resides in Provo, Utah, and is married to Mickey Semo, a YSA bishop. They raised four boys and now have nine grandchildren.

LuAnn Snow—favorite pastime is family time; lifelong learner; served in Building Hosting on Temple Square and enjoyed meeting people from around the world; Primary General Advisory Council member who loves seeing a brightness of hope in the rising generation

VARSITY THEATER, WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

34 • Suicide Prevention and Supporting Others in Crisis

In a gospel rooted in the plan of happiness, clinical depression and suicidal thoughts can be extremely difficult to navigate. Desired relief may come through personal religious devotion such as prayer, scripture study, temple attendance, and assistance from qualified mental health and medical professionals. Sister Reyna I. Aburto shared, “I learned talking about suicide in appropriate ways actually helps to prevent it rather than encourage it…Listening with love is one of the greatest gifts we can offer.” Whether we are experiencing thoughts of suicide, know someone who is, have lost someone to suicide, or want to be prepared to minister to someone who may experience these thoughts in the future, hope and help are readily available.

Questions to Consider: Are there potential warning signs that someone may be contemplating suicide? What should I do if someone tells me they are thinking about suicide? How do I start a conversation with someone I’m worried about? When should I seek help from qualified mental health professionals for myself or someone else? What resources are available to become better educated and prepared to assist those in crisis? How can I offer support and compassion after a death by suicide?

Frank Bright—Frank is a software engineer, magician, and veteran from Paragonah, UT. He’s a widowed father of three girls who keep

him busy in all of his free time. A BYU Alumni, he earned his B.S. in Psychology in 2013.

Heidi A. Vogeler—Favorite aunt! Current ward Young Women president, professor, psychologist, and LCSW; former ward and stake Relief Society president and ordinance worker; lifelong learner and collector of degrees (BS, MPH, MSW, Ph.D.); lover of chocolate, sunsets, long walks, and naps

2258-60 BYU CONFERENCE CENTER (CONF)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

35 • Tools for Having Difficult Conversations and Setting Healthy Boundaries

Oftentimes people erroneously believe that to be Christlike in our relationships we cannot set healthy boundaries or engage in any kind of difficult conversations that may create conflict or contention. Elder W. Craig Zwick taught, “The writer of Proverbs counsels, ‘A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger’ (Proverbs 15:1). A ‘soft answer’ consists of a reasoned response—disciplined words from a humble heart. It does not mean we never speak directly or that we compromise doctrinal truth. Words that may be firm in information can be soft in spirit…The willingness to see through each other’s eyes will transform ‘corrupt communication’ into ‘minister[ing] grace.’”

Questions to Consider: How can I build up my emotional resiliency to engage in hard but productive conversations with those close to me? How can I tell the difference between unrighteous contention and healthy conflict in conversations? How can hard conversations build deeper connection and emotional intimacy with those close to me? How can I be Christlike and loving toward others, and set boundaries around my time, energy, and needs? What are some examples of loving and healthy boundary setting in relationships? How can I better receive hard truths and/or respect boundaries so that I can grow and course correct when necessary? What are scriptural examples that illustrate these types of Christlike communication and boundary setting?

Adam R. Fisher—associate clinical professor in student development and counseling psychology; board certified in couple and family psychology; certified sex therapist; conducts group therapy online for compulsive sexual behaviors; enjoys running, piano, and travel

Janeen Martin—Janeen Martin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She currently works as a therapist at her private practice in Utah and specializes in helping clients develop healthy relationships with God and their personal spirituality. She is a member of the BYU Women’s Conference committee.

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

3108

JESSE KNIGHT BUILDING (JKB)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

36 • Caring for a Child with Mental or Emotional Difficulties

As more and more children are experiencing mental and emotional difficulties, parents can be left feeling helpless and scared in knowing how to best support them. Isaiah 41:13 reminds us, “For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.” Elder Erich W. Kopischke shared, “It is important to remember that ‘the Savior loves each of His Father’s children. He fully comprehends the pain and struggle that many experience as they live with a broad range of mental health challenges’….Open and honest discussion with one another will help this important topic to receive the attention it deserves. After all, information precedes inspiration and revelation… Learning will lead to more understanding, more acceptance, more compassion, more love.”

Questions to Consider: How can I help my child learn to turn to the Savior and rely on His power and grace to help them in their struggles? What are things I can do to help my child feel safe to open up about their feelings and be able to express them in healthy ways? How can I really listen to my child and better understand what they are experiencing? What are protective factors I can build into my home to help my child build emotional resilience and healthy mental/emotional practices? What are some things I can do to model healthy emotional expression and coping skills? How do I know if my child needs additional support from outside resources such as mental health counselors? How can I focus on what I can control in helping my child, and trust that the rest is in God’s care?

Emma Cherry—LCSW; wife, mother of three; experience raising children with emotional challenges; non-profit director; member of stake Primary presidency; loves to sing, read, hike, and connect with other people

Keri Herrmann—Child and adolescent psychiatrist, physician treating mental illness for 35 years; mother of five, grandmother of twelve; former ward and stake Young Women president, ward Relief Society president, Gospel Doctrine teacher; married to BYU YSA bishop; loves to ski, read, garden, and travel

250 KIMBALL TOWER (KMBL)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

37 • Support and Relief for Caregivers of Elderly Parents

We have long been taught to honor our parents, but often as they age, the roles of child and parent switch and the child must become the caretaker. There are unique difficulties that this situation presents while focusing on faithfully enduring, treating elderly parents with dignity, enriching our eternal family relationships, and ultimately learning to be more like our Savior, Jesus Christ. President Henry B. Eyring counseled, “Even though extended and loving service to people is richly rewarded, you have learned that there are physical, emotional, and financial limits to what is possible. The person giving care long enough can become the one who needs care….’And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man [or any caregiver] should run faster than he has strength.’”

Questions to Consider: How do I balance the desire to do all I can while being wise in meeting my own needs so I can continue to serve? What resources are available to caregivers who experience stress, struggles and discouragement and need respite? How do I honor my aging parent while grieving the relationship that once was? How can I help my aging parents find meaningful purpose in this stage of life? How can this experience bring me closer to Jesus Christ?

Karin Brown—Mother of five children; primary care-taker of parents who died within six months of each other; passionate about ‘going about doing good’; personal essayist; gatherer; enjoys the outdoors, truffle chocolates and dancing in the kitchen

Stephanie Sorensen— Striving disciple of Jesus Christ, wife, mother of seven, GrandMom to ten; native of Kent, WA, adopted Californian; avid walker, reader, traveler, scripture lover; dark chocolate only, please! Seeker of balance in caring for loved ones at all stages of life.

BALLROOM, HARMAN CONTINUING EDUCATION BUILDING (HCEB) 1:45–2:45 p.m.

38 • “Oh, What Songs of the Heart!”: How Music Can Connect Us to Our Savior

Sacred and inspirational music can connect us to and deepen our relationship with and love for the Savior. Inspirational or sacred music can be anything that teaches truth and brings greater appreciation and stirs our hearts up in gratitude, for “all things which are good cometh of God” (Moroni 7:12). President Russell M. Nelson taught, “Music has power to provide spiritual nourishment. It has healing power. It has the power to facilitate worship, allowing us to contemplate the [Savior’s] Atonement and the Restoration of the gospel, with its saving principles and exalting ordinances. It provides power for us to express prayerful thoughts and bear testimony of sacred truths.”

Questions to Consider: How have I felt closer to my Savior through the power of sacred and inspirational music? How can I use music more in my calling or to bless my life and the lives of those within my sphere of influence? How has beautiful and inspirational music comforted me in times of heartache or struggle? Am I listening to music that drives out the Spirit in any way? How can I more joyfully participate in worshipping through hymns during my sacrament meetings?

Tami Richards—Lifelong Church member; devoted wife, mother and grandmother; served the past seven years as the ward Primary chorister, currently serving as stake Primary music specialist, Activity Day leader, Service Missionary and Temple Ordinance Worker

Ryan Eggett—Husband, father, grandfather; former Institute and MTC choir director; current music manager working on the new hymnbook, lover of all things music, missionary, and motorcycle

Thursday Afternoon Keynote

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC) 3:15–4:15 p.m.

Liz Darger— BYU senior associate athletic director; BS, MS, and Ed.D. in educational leadership from BYU; joyful aunt to 17; common ground seeker; Broadway musical enthusiast; aspiring pickleball player; chips and queso lover

39 • I Trust that God Will Magnify Me: Leading as Covenant Women of God

The prophet has asked us as women of covenant to step forward in our sacred responsibilities as leaders in our homes, in our communities, and in the kingdom of God. President Russell M. Nelson has said “We… need your strength, your conversion, your conviction, your ability to lead, your wisdom, and your voices. The kingdom of God is not and cannot be complete without women who make sacred covenants and then keep them, women who can speak with the power and authority of God!” At times we may feel overwhelmed or unprepared, but we are promised His help. In the scriptures we are reassured that, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13) and “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding and in all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5–6).

Questions to Consider: How can I trust that God will magnify me in my leadership roles? How do I keep Christ at the center of my leadership? How does leadership as a disciple of Jesus Christ look different than the world’s view of leadership? What can we learn about leadership from accepting President Nelson’s invitation to study priesthood power? How can I recognize and act on promptings of the Spirit that stretch me beyond my comfort zone? How can I show love for God and help others feel His love as I lead?

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

Friday Morning Keynote

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC)

9:00–10:15 a.m.

President Camille N. Johnson Relief Society General President; former Primary General President; served with husband as companion and mission president in the Peru Arequipa Mission; bachelor’s degree in English and a law degree from the University of Utah; practiced law for nearly 30 years; wife, mother of three; grandmother of seven

40 • Keynote by President Camille N. Johnson, Relief Society General President

Concurrent Sessions

10:45–11:45 a.m.

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

41 • Principles for Parents: For the Strength of Youth Guide

“Prophets give us commandments from the Lord. They also teach us principles and guidelines that help us apply eternal truths and commandments—for instance, in the For the Strength of Youth guide” (For the Strength of Youth). Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf explained, “To be very clear, the best guide you can possibly have for making choices is Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the strength of youth. So the purpose of For the Strength of Youth is to point you to Him. It teaches you eternal truths of His restored gospel—truths about who you are, who He is, and what you can accomplish with His strength. It teaches you how to make righteous choices based on those eternal truths….The Lord is not saying, ‘Do whatever you want.’ He is saying, ‘Let God prevail.’ He is saying, ‘Come, follow me.’ He is saying, ‘Live in a holier, higher, more mature way.’ He is saying, ‘Keep my commandments.’”

Questions to Consider: What teaching approaches can parents and leaders use to help children and youth understand the significance of listening to the Spirit when making choices for themselves? In what ways can I move from rule-based conversations about choices to more principle-centered discussions that effectively guide my child in following the example of the Savior? How can teaching my child to pray about their decisions help them learn to rely on the Lord and how to receive personal revelation? How do I teach my children correct principles that help them understand the why and how of their decisions and the consequences of their choices?

Steven J. Lund— General President of the Young Men organization of the Church; he is a happy husband, father, and grandfather; a former Area Seventy; he and his wife Kalleen served as mission leaders of the Georgia Atlanta mission; business executive and attorney

Bradley R. Wilcox—husband, father, grandfather; professor, Ancient Scripture, BYU; author; former mission president of the Chile Santiago East mission; First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency

Michael T. Nelson—husband, father, grandfather; businessman; former mission president of the California San Bernardino mission; Second Counselor in Young Men General Presidency

SMITH FIELDHOUSE (SFH)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

Sister to Sister Session

42 • Strengthening and Maintaining Relationships When a Loved One Experiences a Change in Belief

We all likely have experienced someone we love stepping away from the Gospel. Turning to the Lord with trust and faith, and strengthening our relationship with Him will allow us to have His Spirit with us as we navigate changing relationships with love, while honoring their agency. In King Benjamin’s beautiful address he gives us this guidance: “Believe in God, believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend….if ye do this ye shall always rejoice, and be filled with the love of God….And ye will not have a mind to injure one another, but to live peaceably” (Mosiah 4:9, 12–13).

Questions to Consider: What can I do today to strengthen my relationship with my Savior, so I have His guidance and direction in navigating changing relationships with family and friends? What are my own fears surrounding loved ones stepping away from the church? What can I do to hand those fears over to my Savior and trust that He knows and loves them? How do I set healthy boundaries for myself, so that I can show up in my relationships with others in a true and honest way? Do my loved ones truly feel of my love for them or do they feel my love is conditional upon the choices they make? In what ways can we build common ground and strengthen our relationship together?

Brooke Casanovas—is married to Josh Casanovas and feels really pleased about her last name receiving such an upgrade. She is the President of her niece and nephews fan club. Brooke also loves creating gatherings both professionally, with friends, and is a BYU Women’s Conference committee member.

Wendy Bird—Wife, mother of six, grandmother to seven, Sunbeam teacher, Emotional Resilience facilitator, BYU Women’s Conference committee member. I love reading, spoiling my kids and grandkids, exploring with my husband, and loving all those who need some extra love.

Susan Madsen—Susan Madsen is a mom of four and grandmother of two. She is currently a commercial appraiser but in her former life loved being a stay-at-home mom. She’s a lover of chocolate, temples, family, and her husband Jeff, the best man on the planet.

Emily Kay Marcheschi—A single mom of two wonderful children, Emily is an active member of the LDS church who has found peace and power through her covenant relationship with the Lord as she navigates co-parenting with an LGBTQ+ former spouse. She is a member of the BYU Women’s Conference committee.

BALLROOM, WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

Immersive Learning Session

43 • Repentance: “He Will Give Us a New Heart”

Aligning our hearts with the will of the Lord requires trust, courage, and a willingness to change for the better. “The Lord has told us that if we will come forward with a broken heart and a contrite spirit, He will not just repair our heart and cleanse our spirit: He will give us a new heart” (Elder Neil L. Andersen). Seeing the gift of repentance with new eyes and trusting in the Lord to change our hearts we can progress “line upon line” (2 Nephi 28:30). President Russell M. Nelson teaches “Nothing is more liberating, more ennobling, or more crucial to our individual progression than is a regular daily focus on repentance… Experience the strengthening power of daily repentance—of doing and being a little better each day.”

Questions to Consider: How can I see repentance as a joyful, beautiful gift rather than punishment? What does it mean to continually repent and how can I practice this daily? How can returning to the Sacrament each week motivate personal change in my heart? How can I have the courage to be receptive to the will of the Lord and put my trust in Him to change me into who He knows I have the potential to become? What principles of repentance might help me to guide loved ones as they learn to trust in the Lord through this heart-changing process? For optional preparation for this session, participants are encouraged to read the following: Ezekiel 36:26–27; Alma 5:7–14, 26,33; Helaman 5: 9–11; Bible Dictionary: Repentance

Tyler Griffin—Tyler was born in Cache Valley and served his mission in Brazil. He married an angel, Kiplin Crook, and they have five girls and five boys. Tyler taught seminary and institute before joining BYU’s Department of Ancient Scripture in 2010

AUDITORIUM, JOSEPH SMITH BUILDING (JSB)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

44 • Embracing My Divine Identity

President Bonnie H. Cordon taught, “You are a cherished, beloved child of Heavenly Father. He loves you so perfectly that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to atone for you and for me. The Savior’s love for us is unfailing—even when we fail! Nothing can separate us from the love of God. Remembering this love can help you push back the confusion of the world that tries to weaken your confidence in your divine identity and blind you of your potential.” President Russell M. Nelson proclaimed, “Make no mistake about it: Your potential is divine. With your diligent seeking, God will give you glimpses of who you may become. So, who are you? First and foremost, you are a child of God, a child of the covenant, and a disciple of Jesus Christ. As you embrace these truths, our Heavenly Father will help you reach your ultimate goal of living eternally in His holy presence.”

Questions to Consider: How can embracing the three truths identified by President Nelson as core to our true identity help me avoid adopting worldly labels that are deceptive and limit my divine potential? How can understanding my identity as a child of God, a child of the covenant, and a disciple of Jesus Christ strengthen my spiritual connection to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? When I question my self-worth, how do I focus on God’s love and his revealed truth about my divine identity?

Natalie W. Adams— Natalie loves being a wife and a mother to two teenage boys. She’s an esthetician and business owner, enjoys gathering with family and friends, and has a wicked sweet tooth. She is currently serving on the Primary General Advisory Council

Emeobong “Eme” Martin—MPH, has passion for serving people who are placed on her path; professionally, she leads equity, diversity, and inclusion for a national non-profit; personally she prefers hugs to handshakes, sweet to salty, and in-person to Zoom

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

ASSEMBLY HALL, HINCKLEY CENTER (HC) 10:45–11:45 a.m.

45 • The Power in a Testimony of the Book of Mormon

President Russell M. Nelson declared, “Something powerful happens when a child of God seeks to know more about Him and His Beloved Son [and] nowhere are those truths taught more clearly and powerfully than in the Book of Mormon.” He reinforced the power of the Book of Mormon when he said, “The truths of the Book of Mormon have the power to heal, comfort, restore, succor, strengthen, console, and cheer our souls.” Elder Benjamin MZ Tai testified, “The Savior has given us the Book of Mormon, as a powerful tool to aid in conversion. The Book of Mormon provides spiritual nutrition, prescribes a plan of action, and connects us with the Holy Spirit. Written for us, it contains the word of God in plainness and tells us of our identity, purpose, and destiny. With the Bible, the Book of Mormon testifies of Jesus Christ and teaches how we can know truth and become like Him.”

Questions to Consider: How is the strength and power of an ‘unshaken faith’ (Jacob 4:6) nurtured through a deep study of the teachings found in the Book of Mormon? How do I come closer to Christ by studying the Book of Mormon? What are some simple ways I can improve my personal scripture study? As I study the Book of Mormon, what types of questions can help me identify God’s messages? How can I apply the teachings of the Book of Mormon to have this promised power mentioned by President Nelson in my own life? How can applying Moroni’s teachings and promises outlined in Moroni 10:3-5 help me gain a powerful testimony of the Book of Mormon and the gospel of Jesus Christ?

Willa Robbins—Recently returned missionary from Guatemala City, student at UVU and Ensign College, passionate about living the doctrine of Christ, Primary teacher, friend, sister, daughter, cellist, and mountain biker, trying to be kind to everyone along the way.

Heidi S. Swinton—Wife, mother, grandmother; author of President Thomas S. Monson’s biography; screenwriter of PBS documentaries and books; former member Relief Society General Board, ward Relief Society president, Mission Leader England London South and Laie Hawaii Visitor’s Center

3220-24 WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC) 10:45–11:45 a.m.

46 • Navigating Our Individual Faith Journey along the Covenant Path

The covenant path is not a checklist or burden of impossible expectations, but a loving invitation to a covenant relationship with the Savior in which He shares His power, strength and understanding with us. President Emily Belle Freeman teaches, “We call this walking the covenant path—a path that begins with the covenant of baptism and leads to deeper covenants we make in the temple. Perhaps you hear those words and think of checkboxes. Maybe all you see is a path of requirements. A closer look reveals something more compelling. A covenant is not only about a contract, although that is important. It’s about a relationship…. We must remember: it’s not the course alone that will exalt us; it’s the companion—our Savior. And this is the why of covenant relationship.”

Questions to Consider: What is the covenant path and how is it different from my personal faith journey? How can I recognize and accept that, while the same covenants are available to all, every person’s individual faith journey will be different? How can I recognize that this is an indication of how intimately the Savior knows and loves me? What happens when I have tough questions or experiences that are difficult to reconcile? How can I focus my faith in God and Jesus Christ and trust in our relationship? What can we do in our daily lives to stay on the covenant path and enjoy our faith journey, remembering that pace or place on the path are not as important as progress?

Kathryn W. Godderidge—Mother of four, Gigi to thirteen; Primary General Advisory Council member; BS, Family Science, BYU; served in the Madrid Spain Mission; Temple Ordinance Worker; service mission in a correctional facility; seminary and gospel doctrine teacher; delights in “the things of the Lord”

Elaine Thornton—New grandma, new puppy mom, mom of three; General Relief Society Advisory Council member; “all in” disciple at age 21; owner of design and contracting firm; tennis and hiking are faves; most importantly, a seeker of relief from Him, healer of all that ails

VARSITY THEATER, WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER

(WSC)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

47 • When a Missionary Returns Early: Moving Forward with Faith

Missionaries who return home from the mission field before their anticipated release date, regardless of the reason, may experience unique challenges. They may feel disappointed, embarrassed, or discouraged. These returned missionaries may worry how other people view them or how the Lord views them. These precious missionaries need the united efforts of family, friends, leaders, and ward members to help them through this difficult time. Remember the following guiding principles: Love first, listen to understand, teach truth, nourish faith, and minister. Heavenly Father appreciates the service rendered, no matter how long or short the period. President Thomas S. Monson testified, “Fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith. That promise still holds true for you. So don’t lose your faith, because the Lord has not lost faith in you. Keep your covenants and move forward.”

Questions to Consider: How can loved ones, neighbors, friends, and ward members support early returning missionaries? How can we create a loving atmosphere where they can heal and adjust? What resources are available to support them? What opportunities and possibilities are available to help them continue to contribute and participate in the gathering? In what ways can the lessons they learned on their mission strengthen them during this transition time?

Joy E. Flitton—wife, missionary mom, giddy grandma; friend, disciple of Christ; former BYU Women’s Conference committee and Service subcommittee member; served in Relief Society, Young Women and Primary presidencies; BS in Technical Sales and Marketing; temple worker.

Shelby Killpack—enthusiast about families and connections; wife, mother, grandmother, friend, gatherer; love missionaries and their service; Utah Orem Mission leaders 2015–2018; BS in Family Science, BYU; Young Women General Advisory Council 2015–2023; ward Relief Society president; BYU Women’s Conference committee member

2258-60 BYU CONFERENCE CENTER (CONF)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

Immersive Learning Session

48 • Understanding Grace: “Jesus Makes All the Difference”

As we meet moments of weakness, inadequacy, and discouragement, the enabling power of grace is available to each of us as we trust in the Lord. He will meet us in these moments and make us whole. “The grace of Jesus Christ is sufficient,” taught Brother Bradley R. Wilcox, “sufficient to cover us, sufficient to transform us, and sufficient to help us as long as that transformation process takes….When we understand grace, we understand that God is long-suffering, that change is a process, and that repentance is a pattern in our lives. When we understand grace, we understand that the blessings of Christ’s Atonement are continuous and His strength is perfect in our weakness. When we understand grace, we can, as it says in the Doctrine and Covenants, “continue in patience until [we] are perfected.”

Questions to Consider: What teachings help us to understand that receiving [His] grace “is not achieved somewhere down the road. It is received right here and right now” (Bradley R. Wilcox)? What principles will help me to make His grace a part of my everyday life? How can I learn to trust in and recognize the gift of Christ’s grace, particularly during moments that weigh heavy on my heart? How can I learn to recognize the power of His grace working in my life? What does it mean that “His grace is sufficient”?

For optional preparation for this session, participants are encouraged to read the following: Bible Dictionary-Grace; Hebrews 4:14–16; 2 Nephi 10:24–25; 2 Nephi 25:23–26; Ether 12:26–27;Moroni 10:32–33; D&C 17:8; D&C 67:13; 2 Corinthians 12:9; Judges 4 Colleen Terry Scoresby—Seminary and institute instructor for 30 years; grateful wife and stepmother; speaker and writer for EFY/FSY, Deseret Book “Seek”; missionary; MTC teacher; MA Ed. Technology; enjoys baking, organizing and beautifying, and building faith in Christ

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

3108

JESSE KNIGHT BUILDING (JKB)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

49 • Finding Connection and Unity with Friends of Other Faiths

Sister Tracy Y. Browning taught, “Creating belonging is an essential part of our journey to become like the Savior. Loving others and opening our circles to include those who are different from us is part of becoming perfect.” Early Church apostle Orson F. Whitney shared, “God is using more than one people for the accomplishment of his great and marvelous work. The Latter-day Saints cannot do it all. It is too vast, too arduous, for any one people.” President Thomas S. Monson taught, “I would encourage members of the Church wherever they may be to show kindness and respect for all people everywhere. The world in which we live is filled with diversity. We can and should demonstrate respect toward those whose beliefs differ from ours.”

Questions to Consider: What are some ways I can open my circle and love and include those who have beliefs different from mine? How can learning about others’ faith traditions and different viewpoints and sharing my faith strengthen all of us? How have Church leaders shown examples of the beauty of interfaith friendships? How does the Church partner with other faiths to accomplish the Lord’s work? How can loving and supporting friends of different faiths in their efforts to serve the Lord strengthen our own efforts to serve Him?

Ruth Sine—Married to Jared Sine since 2004, they are the proud parents of five children, ages 17 to 5. They’ve lived in UT, NY, CA, WA, and now reside in Coppell, TX. Ruth currently serves as stake Relief Society president, but her favorite titles are that of Daughter of God, Child of the Covenant, Disciple of Christ, and Mom.

Mauri Earl—Nevada native; BYU graduate with Middle East study abroad; director of International Affairs for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Washington, DC; family focused; sports fan; avid calligrapher; protocol enthusiast

250 KIMBALL TOWER (KMBL)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

50 • With Confidence in God: Women and the Restoration

The real-life stories of women in church history provide inspiring examples of trusting in the Lord. Their stories can inspire, lift, and instill courage in women of today and can be applied to challenges faced by women all over the world. Through their stories, we “can see that our Heavenly Father knows His daughters, that He loves them, that He trusts them with sacred responsibilities, and that He guides them as they fulfill those responsibilities…Sisters can find encouragement in the words of Alma: ‘By small and simple things are great things brought to pass.’ The small and simple things they accomplish will help them see how the Lord is strengthening them and guiding their lives” (Daughters in My Kingdom).

Questions to Consider: What can I learn from the experiences of these faithful women, and how can I liken their experiences to what I am facing in my life? How do their stories and examples strengthen me in my efforts to trust in the Lord? How does following the example of these sisters and cleaving to my covenants build trust in the Lord?

How can their examples help me learn to replace fear, murmuring, and shame with confidence and trust in the Lord?

Laura Paulsen Howe—Art Curator at the Church History Museum and art fan by profession; wife and mother of four (three boys, one girl); second counselor in ward Young Women presidency; returned missionary from Canada Montreal Mission; scholar, researcher, reader, and runner

Elizabeth Kuehn Mahas—Wife and mother to a blended family of three kids; historian with the Joseph Smith Papers and Church History Department; advocate for women’s history; avid reader; nerdy introvert, nature lover

Anne R. Berryhill—Associate historian focused on telling the stories of women throughout church history; wife, sister, daughter, adoring aunt, returned missionary, and ward Primary president

BALLROOM, HARMAN CONTINUING EDUCATION BUILDING (HCEB)

10:45–11:45 a.m.

51 • Family History: Do You Know Your Story?

Understanding the blessings of family history can truly bless us today and even guide some of our decisions as we draw on the strength of our ancestors’ experiences and stories. Elder Gerrit W. Gong taught, “Connecting with our ancestors can change our lives in surprising ways. From their trials and accomplishments, we gain faith and strength. From their love and sacrifices, we learn to forgive and move forward. Our children become resilient. We gain protection and power. Ties with ancestors increase family closeness, gratitude, miracles. Such ties can bring help from the other side of the veil.”

Questions to Consider: How can doing my family history bless me in my everyday life today? What technological tools are available to me to start now? How do I use those? How can knowing the stories of my ancestors help me make tough decisions today? How do I go about telling and sharing my own life story? How can I involve every member of my family in family history, regardless of age and computer skills?

Suzanne Russo Adams—Wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend; accredited genealogist, BYU graduate in family history/genealogy and sociology, content strategist at FamilySearch; lover of hiking, gardening, all things Italy, sun, beaches and tropical scents

Ann Harrison—FamilySearch global engagement director; aspiring artist; loves road trips and the outdoors; 6th cousin seven times removed to Jane Austen; proof that anyone can discover their family story.

Concurrent Sessions

12:15–1:15 p.m.

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

52 •For the Power is in Us: The Lord Loves Effort

President Susan H. Porter taught, “In the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord encourages women…to be ‘anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness; for the power is in them.’ Sisters, the power is in us to bring to pass much righteousness!” Sometimes we focus more on the anxious part of being “anxiously engaged” or slip into a checklist mentality when we think about being “all in” with our participation in the Lord’s gospel and in His Church. When the Lord said to be anxiously engaged, he didn’t mean to be anxious or fearful of not doing or being enough! The Lord wants our hearts. He wants our willing minds. President Joy D. Jones taught, “The Lord loves effort, and effort brings rewards. We keep practicing. We are always progressing as long as we are striving to follow the Lord.”

Questions to Consider: What does it mean to be “all in” the Lord’s gospel? How can I learn from others by recognizing that my “all in” efforts may look different from another person’s efforts to be “all in”? How does remembering President Nelson’s teaching that “the Lord loves effort” help me recognize that my efforts matter and are enough? How can serving others because I love the Lord help to change my perspective and the way that I serve? How can uniting with others and serving together strengthen my desire to be “all in”?

Andrea Muñoz Spannaus—Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus is the second counselor in the Young Women General Presidency and former member of the Relief Society General Advisory Council.

Susan H. Porter—Current Primary General President; former General Primary first counselor and Relief Society General Advisory Council member; mother of four children; grandmother of twelve; served with husband, late Bruce Porter, for 20 years.

SMITH FIELDHOUSE (SFH)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

53 • Crucial Conversations with Your Teens

“It can be tough to connect with your kids—especially if they don’t want to connect with you. As parents, we want to have a close, meaningful relationship with each of our children. But for loving, intimate relationships to work, open and sincere communication is needed” (Children and Youth). President Russell M. Nelson explained, “The time to listen is when someone needs to be heard. Children are naturally eager to share their experiences, which range from triumphs of delight to trials of distress. Are we as eager to listen? If they try to express their anguish, is it possible for us to listen openly to a shocking experience without going into a state of shock ourselves? Can we listen without interrupting and without making snap judgments that slam shut the door of dialogue? It can remain open with the soothing reassurance that we believe in them and understand their feelings.”

Questions to Consider: How do I create a safe place for my children to ask sensitive questions without being criticized or judged? What are some good practices to follow when gearing up for heavy conversations with my children? What are examples of questions that invite my children to open up to me? What are some harmful communication practices and how can I change them? How and when should parents talk to their children about sensitive and difficult topics?

Jill F. Taylor—Lover of all things family--roots and branches! Ministering sister, ordinance worker in the House of the Lord; big fan of running, boating, and studying the scriptures, especially the Book of Mormon; grateful to be home after serving away for four years

Justin Dyer—Justin Dyer is a professor of Religious Education at BYU. He teaches classes on religion, family, as well as graduate statistics. Currently researches religion and mental health, particularly for LGBTQ individuals.

BALLROOM, WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC) 12:15–1:15 p.m.

Immersive Learning Session

54 • The Plan of Salvation: Lift Up Your Heart, and Be Glad; and Look (Moses 7:44)

The knowledge, light, and truth of Heavenly Father’s plan of salvation can offer great comfort when our view of life is limited by earthly eyes. The prophet Joseph Smith taught, “The great Jehovah contemplated the whole of the events connected with the earth, pertaining to the plan of salvation, before it rolled into existence, or ever ‘the morning stars sang together for joy’; the past, the present, and the future were and are, with him, one eternal ‘now.’ . . . He comprehended the fall of man, and their redemption; he knew the plan of salvation and pointed it out. . . . he knows the situation of both the living and the dead, and has made ample provision for their redemption, according to their several circumstances, and the laws of the kingdom of God, whether in

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

this world, or in the world to come” (Joseph Smith Papers). President Dallin H. Oaks stated, “I testify of our Lord Jesus Christ, ‘the author and finisher of our faith,’ whose Atonement, under the plan of our Father in Heaven, makes it all possible.”

Questions to Consider: What are the essential doctrines within the plan of happiness and how do they bring me peace, healing and joy? How can my questions, asked in faith, help me to seek more earnestly for an eternal perspective about the plan of salvation and my place in His plan? What role does the doctrine of agency play in understanding the plan? How can I have joy in the plan of salvation when I have a loved one who might be wandering and wondering if they belong in His plan? How can understanding the Savior’s role in the Father’s plan comfort and strengthen me?

For optional preparation for this session, participants are encouraged to read the following: Hebrews 11; Luke 15: 11–32; 1 Nephi 1:20; 2 Nephi 2; 2 Nephi 9; Mosiah 27; Alma 22:12–15; D&C 138: 58–59 Jennifer Brinkerhoff Platt—a wife and mother; a sister, daughter, friend, and teacher; above all, she is a follower of Jesus Christ; currently, she and her family live in Rexburg, Idaho where she is a religious educator at BYU-Idaho

AUDITORIUM, JOSEPH SMITH BUILDING (JSB)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

55 • Love and Compassion: Supporting Those with Mental and Emotional Difficulties

When those we love are struggling with deep pain associated with mental and emotional difficulties, we can feel at a loss for how to best support them and truly help bear their burdens. Sister Reyna I. Aburto taught, “As disciples of Jesus Christ, we have made a covenant with God that we ‘are willing to bear one another’s burdens’ and ‘to mourn with those that mourn.’ This may include becoming informed about emotional illnesses, finding resources that can help address these struggles, and ultimately bringing ourselves and others to Christ, who is the Master Healer. Even if we do not know how to relate to what others are going through, validating that their pain is real can be an important first step in finding understanding and healing.”

Questions to Consider: How can I truly “mourn with those that mourn” when I myself may never experience the pain they are going through? What are things I can say or do that show empathy and support without trying to fix or problem solve? How do I become a person that others feel safe to turn to for support when they are struggling? How can I become more educated on resources to help my loved ones get additional help? How can I be a support without becoming emotionally burned out myself? How can I lovingly and compassionately point others that are struggling toward Christ who is the master healer?

Erin Wilson Burns—A native Californian, Erin grew up in Indiana, lived in Boston and Michigan for graduate school and now lives in Utah. Her happy places are her family, watching Big Ten basketball, hiking, yoga, reading, cooking, and the beach.

Marian Bennion Taylor—Raised in Palo Alto, CA and Geneva, Switzerland; four daughters, five sons and two granddaughters; Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Utah and California; business owner and therapist at Enlighten Counseling; loves people, nature, sunshine, exercise, books and travel

ASSEMBLY HALL, HINCKLEY CENTER (HC)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

56 • Showing Love and Respect for All of God’s Children

How we see others is important and a part of our covenant-keeping. We cannot hate and be true disciples of Jesus Christ. Only by putting the Savior first and living the two greatest commandments will we live peaceably, “having [our] hearts knit together in unity and in love one towards another (Mosiah 18:21). President Russell M. Nelson taught, “Any abuse or prejudice toward another because of nationality, race, sexual orientation, gender, educational degrees, culture, or other significant identifiers is offensive to our Maker! Such mistreatment causes us to live beneath our stature as His covenant sons and daughters!” In another message, President Nelson pled, “Today I invite you to examine your discipleship within the context of the way you treat others. I bless you to make any adjustments that may be needed so that your behavior is ennobling, respectful, and representative of a true follower of Jesus Christ.”

Questions to Consider: How can I broaden my circle to embrace people from diverse families, cultures, backgrounds, and faiths, allowing me to foster deeper compassion, understanding, and love towards them? We have been invited to ‘love the Lord our God with all our hearts, souls, and minds. And to love our neighbor as ourselves’ (Matthew 22:37–39). It seems simple: how do these commandments help me to abandon prejudice or racism and how can the Spirit help me recognize hidden attitudes of judgement that I may have? How can I reach out to individuals of diverse backgrounds and beliefs, embracing all those who are different from me? How can we unite, celebrate our unique differences, and extend love and respect to every member of His global church and beyond?

Ronell Hugh—is married to Briawna, and they have two boys and two girls. Professionally, he’s currently an executive at Deseret Book Company. He grew up in Germany, England and the United States. The Hugh family currently reside in Highland, Utah.

Allison Dayton—Founder of Lift and Love, jewelry designer, skier, mom to three, grandma to G, married a real Kenn, LGBTQ cheerleader, holder of hope, faithful believer.

Reyna Aburto—Nicaragua-born; former member of General Relief Society Presidency and Primary General Board; loves to study scriptures, listen to general conference messages, spend time with family, make new friends and strive to be a faithful disciple of Christ.

Ganel-Lyn Condie—author of 18 books, speaker, mental health educator, media contributor and lupus warrior; stewardships also

include mother to two miracle children and wife. ASU West grad (Elementary Ed/Psychology), empty nester, and sourdough minister

3220-24 WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

57 • The Warm Embrace of Home

We see our Savior’s warm, compassionate outreach in the words of this inviting hymn, “Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me; see, on the portals He’s waiting and watching, watching for you and for me… come home, come home, ye who are weary, come home.” As we, sometimes weary from the world, return each day to our earthly homes, each of us also hope for soft and tender words from family members with open arms full of love and care. Sister Tamara Runia shared, “While our families aren’t perfect, we can perfect our love for others until it becomes a constant, unchanging, no-matterwhat kind of love—the type of love that supports change and allows for growth and return…It is our work to provide the hope and a heart they can come home to.”

Questions to Consider: How do we work together as a family to create a welcoming Christ-like environment at home? When the stresses of life seem to be all-consuming, how can we focus on connecting, forgiving and loving one another? In what ways can I teach family members to see each other’s needs and act upon those promptings? How can we communicate with each other in ways that positively influence and build confidence and self-worth? What are some practical ways to create a home full of joy, gratitude and humor no matter our circumstances?

Lindsay Bingham—grew up in WI; BYU grad in exercise science; married 18 years to my love; four amazing kids - three boys + one girl; twin mama, special needs mama; loves to hike, travel, boat with my family; trusting in God’s plan and finding joy and beauty in the unexpected;

@ourlifeinholland

Rosemary M. Wixom—Wife, mother, grandmother, served with husband when he presided over the Washington DC South Mission, former Primary General President, Salt Lake Temple Matron and “cheerleader” to the younger and stronger women of today

VARSITY THEATER, WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

58 • Trust in the Lord and in His Prophets

“If the Restoration did anything, it shattered the age-old myth that God had stopped talking to His children. Nothing could be further from the truth. A prophet has stood at the head of God’s Church in all dispensations, from Adam to the present day. Prophets testify of Jesus Christ—of His divinity and of His earthly mission and ministry. We honor the Prophet Joseph Smith as the prophet of this last dispensation. And we honor each man who has succeeded him as President of the Church” (President Russell M. Nelson). In another address President Nelson taught, “You may not always understand every declaration of a living prophet. But when you know a prophet is a prophet, you can approach the Lord in humility and faith and ask for your own witness about whatever His prophet has proclaimed.”

Questions to Consider: Why is it important for me to know that a prophet is called of God to speak for Him? How have I been blessed by sustaining servants of the Lord? Why is it important to sustain the prophets even when their counsel may differ from my own reasoning? Why is it important for us to have a prophet in addition to my own personal revelation? How has my faith in Jesus Christ been strengthened by following the prophet? What are some lessons we can learn from the ministry of the Lord’s prophets, seers and revelators?

Rachel Sterzer Gibson—Reporter for the Church News; member of the ward Primary presidency; wife; mother to three “lovies”; hobby dabbler, garden putterer and wannabe chef; writer; observer; recorder of the Restoration

Mary Richards—Reporter for the Church News; wife and mother of five, including a missionary; Relief Society teacher and temple preparation teacher; Christmas and Hallmark podcaster; reader, crocheter, homework helper and sports watcher

Sarah J. Weaver—Church News executive editor and host of the Church News podcast; wife and mother of three daughters; loves meeting Latter-day Saints, amplifying prophetic messages, creating a living record of the Restoration

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

2258-60 BYU CONFERENCE CENTER (CONF)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

Immersive Learning Session

59

•

Receiving the Sacred Gift of the Holy Ghost

The Holy Ghost is a gift that God seeks to bestow upon all of His children. After a person is baptized and hands are laid on his or her head, they are directed to “receive the Holy Ghost.” Elder David A. Bednar has taught, “These four words—‘Receive the Holy Ghost’—are not a passive pronouncement; rather, they constitute a priesthood injunction—an authoritative admonition to act and not simply be acted upon.” Further, he continues, “The Holy Ghost does not become operative in our lives merely because hands are placed upon our heads and those four important words are spoken. As we receive this ordinance, each of us accepts a sacred and ongoing responsibility to desire, to seek, to work, and to so live that we indeed ‘receive the Holy Ghost’ and its attendant spiritual gifts.”

Questions to Consider: How have I sought to respond to the admonition to receive the Holy Ghost in my life? What do the scriptures teach me about the various roles of the Holy Ghost? When have I been tutored by the Holy Ghost and how did I recognize it? How can I use the sacrament each week to plead with God to endow me with an additional portion of his Spirit to be with me during the upcoming week?

For optional preparation for this session, participants are encouraged to read the following: 1 Nephi 10:17, 19; Alma 5:45–46; John 14:16–18, 26; John 16:13; Romans 15:13–14; 1 Kings 19:11–12; Doctrine and Covenants 6:14, 22–24; Acts 2

Kathryn Phillips Thomas—Wife, daughter, sister, aunt, friend; disciple of Jesus Christ; stake Primary president; Church Correlation employee; former Seminary and Institute teacher. Lover of truth, teaching, family, the ocean, and knowing, loving, and serving God’s children

3108 JESSE KNIGHT BUILDING (JKB)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

60 • Power Tools for Family Finances

“The First Presidency has counseled: ‘Pay off debt as quickly as you can, and free yourselves from this bondage’ But how do you do that when your financial house is shaky and you seem to spend all your time and energy just trying to hold it together” (Ensign, June 2009)?

Bishop W. Christopher Waddell taught, “Being temporally prepared and self-reliant means ‘believing that through the grace, or enabling power of Jesus Christ and our own effort, we are able to obtain all the spiritual and temporal necessities of life we require for ourselves and our families.’ Additional aspects of a spiritual foundation for temporal preparedness include acting ‘in wisdom and order,’ which implies a gradual buildup of food storage and savings over time, as well as embracing ‘small and simple’ means, which is a demonstration of faith that the Lord will magnify our small but consistent efforts.”

Questions to Consider: What resources are available to me to learn best financial practices? How do my spouse and I work as partners in our family finances? How can I teach my family about good financial practices? What is the most effective way to pay off debt quickly? What spiritual blessings come from financial freedom?

Shawna Rasmussen—Purpose-driven CPA; passionate about empowering women to become money-wise: to understand, make, and own financial decisions that align with your values and purpose; educate through strategic financial principles and discussing money in healthy ways

Madeleine Strasburg—Brazilian immigrant, married to a retired cop and mother of two; struggled and overcame $300K debt; church leader and former math teacher, she now helps women with finances via her coaching business, podcast and workshops

250 KIMBALL TOWER (KMBL) 12:15–1:15 p.m.

61 • Conversations about Church History

Sincere gospel questions can strengthen faith when they are responded to with accuracy, frankness, and empathy. Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf explained, “It’s natural to have questions—the acorn of honest inquiry has often sprouted and matured into a great oak of understanding. There are few members of the Church who, at one time or another, have not wrestled with serious or sensitive questions. One of the purposes of the Church is to nurture and cultivate the seed of faith—even in the sometimes sandy soil of doubt and uncertainty. ‘Faith is to hope for things which are not seen but which are true.’” Questions to Consider: How can I respond with accuracy, frankness and empathy when people have questions about controversial church history topics? How can I discern between truth and error among so many available sources? What sources are available through Churchapproved channels to study church history? How can I make others aware of some of the available resources for studying church history? How can I be respectful of others’ faith journeys as they are seeking answers to their gospel questions?

Claire M. Haynie—Claire Haynie is an associate historian with the Church History Department. She received her BA in History from BYU and a MSt. in History from Oxford University. She currently sings soprano with the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square.

Carrie Snow—Manager of Collections Care-Church History Museum, devoted Red Sox fan, reformed Roller Derby girl, owner of more books and yarn than she can read/use in a lifetime, and believer in the power of baking with real butter

Lisa Olsen Tait—Lisa Olsen Tait, Ph.D, is a historian manager and specialist in women’s history at the Church History Department. She is a general editor of the Saints series and is co-author of a forthcoming history of the Young Women organization.

BALLROOM, HARMAN CONTINUING EDUCATION

BUILDING (HCEB)

12:15–1:15 p.m.

Sister to Sister Session

62 • Unexpected Blessings from Serving in the Temple

President Russell M. Nelson taught that “the temple is crucial to our salvation and exaltation and to that of our families… Each one of us needs the ongoing spiritual strengthening and tutoring that is possible only in the house of the Lord.” With the increase in temples dotting the earth, there comes a greater need for temple workers. We can contribute to establishing the cause of Zion from wherever we choose to serve. You can self-select as a temple worker—no need to wait for an invitation. By serving in a temple, you have the opportunity to provide a peaceful, kind, loving experience for people as they worship in the house of the Lord. Study and ponder to learn for yourself if serving as an ordinance worker is right for you.

Questions to Consider: How do I become a temple worker? What is the time commitment involved, both in the specific shift I will work and the length of time I serve? What are the various ways in which I can serve in the house of the Lord? How might I overcome some of the anxieties I have with becoming a temple worker? How does serving as a temple worker help me live the law of sacrifice and consecration? How might working in the temple offer spiritual change in my life and bless my family?

Rebecca M. Pinegar—Focus: husband, children, grandkids; loves temple, gospel, and community service; learning new hobbies and trying to mature gracefully; grateful, happy, and profoundly blessed Olivia Flitton Blatter—Olivia is a BYU Women’s Conference committee member and a BYU student studying Experience Design and Management and the project manager for Career Fairs at the Marriott School. She is married to her best friend, Nathan and is so excited to be speaking again.

Monette Magleby—Mom of six (we actively recruit!), grandma of 17; has served in ward and stake Young Women, ward and stake Relief Society, as a Sunday School teacher and Ordinance Worker; gardener, friend, foodie, traveler, walker; lived in CA and MD, currently residing in Alpine, UT.

Cristin Strong—is from Centerville UT; married to Elder Michael B. Strong, they have six children and six grandchildren; BYU graduate; served as missionary in Bolivia and a mission leader with her husband in Lima Peru; currently an ordinance worker in the Bountiful Temple

Concurrent Sessions

1:45–2:45 p.m.

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

Sister to Sister Session

63 • Women of Christ: Lessons in Leadership

Leadership is the power of righteous influence, not just admirable and visible accomplishments; each one of us can and does lead in our various circles, and we can each learn how to intentionally and more effectively wield our influence for good. The most lasting and impactful leadership is in the sharing of truth and testimony and pointing others to Christ; God wants a powerful people who will join Him in His work and He will share His power with all who are willing to take His name upon them through covenant (Mosiah 25:23). As women of covenant, we have actually been foreordained to be leaders (Abraham 3:22-23), and in this dispensation, our prophet has specifically urged women to step forward and lead, in all her spheres.

Questions to Consider: How are the women of this dispensation distinct (President Russell M. Nelson)? We often think that ‘leadership’ is the talent possessed only by those with specific visible, powerful, charismatic and persuasive capacities. Why is this limited thinking erroneous? How can we recognize the numerous ways in which we actually lead? How is ministering to others leadership? How can I lead from ‘any seat at the table’? What is informal leadership and how can I effectively help lead organizations and families even when I am not ‘in charge’? What gifts and power does God share with me when I do my best to lead in my family? In His church?

Barbara Morgan Gardner—Religion professor at BYU; author of The Priesthood Power of Women; loves to empower others through learning and living Christ’s gospel; focuses on women and leadership, living prophets, family, international Church; wife, mother, aunt, sister, daughter

Reyna Aburto—Nicaragua-born; former member of General Relief Society Presidency and Primary General Board; loves to study scriptures, listen to general conference messages, spend time with family, make new friends and strive to be a faithful disciple of Christ

Rebecca L. Craven—Loves the Lord and rejoices in all things related to family and being outdoors; former mission leader, North Carolina Charlotte Mission; new mission leaders starting in July, Salt Lake City Headquarters mission; former counselor in the Young Women General Presidency.

Jane Clayson Johnson—Disciple in training; wife, mother, stepmom; journalist at CBS, ABC, and NPR; author; mental health advocate; loves taking long walks, cooking healthy food, and making connections with women in the Church, especially YSAs

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

SMITH FIELDHOUSE (SFH)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

Immersive Learning Session

64 • The Doctrine of Christ: A Lifelong Pattern for Living

“The best way to become a lifelong convert is to engage with the doctrine of Christ. The doctrine of Christ—faith in the Savior and His Atonement, repentance, baptism, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost—is not intended as a one-time event. We are invited to get on the covenant path, stay on the covenant path, and participate in the doctrine’s specified elements” (Elder Dale G. Renlund). The doctrine of Christ is not a list of transactional things to do. The doctrine of Christ is a lifelong pattern for becoming and living in a way that can transform our hearts and change the way we see ourselves, others, and the way we live the gospel every day.

Questions to Consider: What do I already know about the doctrine of Christ? What do I want to understand better? How can I take President Nelson’s invitation to have a “bedrock understanding of the doctrine of Christ” into my heart and be changed through this knowledge? How can the doctrine of Christ help deepen my relationship with each member of the Godhead? How can understanding and choosing to follow the doctrine of Christ change the way I live the gospel every day?

For optional preparation for this session, participants are encouraged to read the following: 2 Nephi 31:2–15; 2 Nephi 32: 1–6; 3 Nephi 11:31–41; 3 Nephi 27:13–22

John Hilton III—is a professor of Religious Education at BYU. John has published several books, including Considering the Cross and Voices in the Book of Mormon. He is also the author of The Book of Mormon: A Master Class

BALLROOM, WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

Immersive Learning Session

65 • The Promise of Personal Revelation: “This is Your Gift” (D&C 8:5)

“The ability to qualify for, receive, and act on personal revelation is the single most important skill that can be acquired in this life” (President Julie B. Beck). Part of our earthly experience is trusting in the process of revelation as we seek light and understanding from our Father and His Son through the Holy Ghost. They are anxious to bless us, teach us, guide us, and talk to us as we learn how to receive and interpret revelation for our lives. “The Lord will not force you to learn. You must exercise your agency to authorize the Spirit to teach you. As you make this a practice in your life, you will be more perceptive to the feelings that come with spiritual guidance” (Elder Richard G. Scott).

Questions to Consider: How can I seek personal revelation for direction, as I listen and learn to discern and follow the Lord’s will? How can remembering my spiritual DNA help me to recognize my noble birthright to seek revelation? What does it mean to “live in revelation” and reach out to the Lord for divine guidance? What studies and steps can I put into practice daily to learn how to better align my will with the Lord’s will?

For optional preparation for this session, participants are encouraged to read the following: Proverbs 3:5–7; Matthew 7:7–8; 1 Nephi 4:6–7; 1 Nephi 18:1–3; D&C 8: 1–10; D&C 11:11–14; D&C 50: 24; D&C 76:18–19

Leslie Lords Robbins—BYU Women’s Conference committee member; married to kindergarten sweetheart, mother to three daughters, BA/ MA in English from BYU, former ward Relief Society president, works for Seminaries and Institutes, a messy and willing learner, always ready for conversations about getting on a road with Christ

AUDITORIUM, JOSEPH SMITH BUILDING (JSB)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

66 • “Grow Old Along with Me, the Best is Yet to Be”

As our children embark on their own paths, the need to redirect our focus from full-time parenting to nurturing our relationship may seem challenging. Sometimes, amidst the day-to-day busyness of raising children, we may have overlooked our personal relationship with our spouse. When we face this new chapter, with the Lord’s guidance, we can redefine our roles and our interests and together foster a deeper connection in marriage. The poet Robert Browning captured this moment perfectly: “Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be, the last of life, for which the first was made. Our times are in his hand who saith, ‘A whole I planned, youth shows but half; Trust God: See all, nor be afraid!’”

Questions to Consider: When things are changing, how do we work together with Christ to nurture and refine our celestial marriage? How can we build and sustain a strong marriage during its earlier stages in a way that softens the potential disruption when our children eventually depart from home? What are some effective communication skills to better help us navigate these changes? How can new interests and shared experiences strengthen our relationship?

Derek Booth—husband, father to three adult children, U.S. Secret Service special agent, bishop, former Seminary teacher, former Young Men leader, served in the Caracas, Venezuela mission, Nacho Libre aficionado, married to his 12th grade girlfriend, loves Oreos

Amy Booth—wife, mother to three adult children, middle school teacher, former Seminary and Institute teacher, former ward Young Women president, privileged to attend Girl’s Camp 25+ times, tolerates Nacho Libre, married to her 5th grade boyfriend, adores her Yorkie Poo Teddy

ASSEMBLY HALL, HINCKLEY CENTER (HC)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

67 • “Whosoever Shall Put Their Trust in God Shall be Supported in Their Trials” (Alma 36:3)

We know that trials are not an opt-in for this life and no one gets to go through it without experiencing hardship. “Each of us will have our own Fridays—those days when the universe itself seems shattered and the shards of our world lie littered about us in pieces….But I testify to you in the name of the One who conquered death—Sunday will come” (Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin). President Emily Belle Freeman explained, “… we must remember that the One who was bruised and broken for us will allow mortality to do its work in us, but He doesn’t ask us to face those challenges alone. No matter the heaviness of our story or the current course of our path, He will invite us to walk with Him.”

Questions to Consider: How can a knowledge of the Plan of Salvation give me strength and comfort through my trials? What are some ways I can draw closer to the Savior Jesus Christ through my trials to draw upon His strength? What do I need to do today to prepare for trials that may come in the future? What are the blessings that have come from experiencing trials? How can I use my experiences to bless others who may walk this same path?

Jessamyn Thurston—disciple of Jesus Christ; habitual project manager; believer in the power of a good book and dark chocolate; daughter, sister, wife, mother of two; outspoken introvert; BYU admin; dairy enthusiast; sister-in-Christ who is on a spiritual journey

Jenny Reeder—Nineteenth-century Women’s Historian, Church History Department, Ph.D.; Gospel Doctrine teacher, Young Women leader, temple worker; past Relief Society president, returned missionary; favorite aunt of 13 nieces and nephews

3220-24 WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

68 • The Divine Role of Motherhood

The eternally significant and refining role of motherhood is of paramount importance to our Heavenly Father. He knows the individual demands and responsibilities in each of our family situations and will magnify our natural gifts and talents to prepare and bless the lives of our children and ourselves. Elder Neil L. Andersen taught, “With intelligence and wisdom, you bear the burdens of your family. You love. You serve. You sacrifice. You strengthen faith, minister to those in need, and greatly contribute to society. May we always remember that each spirit child of God is coming to earth on his or her own personal journey. May we welcome them, safeguard them, and always love them. As you receive these precious children in the Savior’s name and help them in their eternal journey, I promise you that the Lord will bless you and shower His love and approval upon you.”

Questions to Consider: How do I recognize the gifts and talents that I bring to motherhood? How do I learn to trust that my imperfect efforts as a mother will be what my child needs and that the

Atonement of Jesus Christ will make my efforts enough? From my countenance, interactions and example, do my children perceive motherhood as a privilege? How do I recognize the value and importance of my role as a mother, even when I am in the middle of the mundane that accompanies motherhood? How do I promote motherhood and children as a divine and worthy role? How do I use the gifts and talents that I develop and utilize as a mother to also bless those outside our home and family? How do I balance my time between the needs of my family and the necessary calls for my time outside my home? How do we cheer on the strengths and gifts of the mothers we admire rather than compare ourselves to them?

Chelsey Seibold—is a seminary teacher, nurse, writer, speaker, and life lover. She has five daughters and one husband. She served a mission in Ecuador and loves garage sales, double stuff Oreos, creating fun, the scriptures and sleeping in.

Carrian Cheney—Wife, mother, food blogger @OhSweetBasil, and cookbook author; believer that it’s not as much about the food, but the hands that prepared it and hearts that were sealed up in it

VARSITY THEATER, WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

69 • Addressing Pornography: Protection, Hope, and Healing

Addictions can cause devastation and heartache throughout families; however, healing does come through Jesus Christ who beckons to each of us to “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). The Church offers practical resources, coupled with gospel principles to help individuals address pornography use and addiction, and to help spouses, parents and leaders find hope, help and healing. President Dallin H. Oaks taught, “Regardless of the level of involvement in intentionally viewing pornography, the road to recovery, purity, and repentance follows and requires the same basic principles: humility, discipleship, commitment to a personal plan for change, accountability and support, and enduring in faith.”

Questions to Consider: What church and other resources are available to help with addressing pornography (both for individuals and for family members)? What do I need to understand about overcoming pornography use? How can I best help and support change in my loved ones? How does understanding the Atonement of Jesus Christ help me and my loved one address addiction struggles? How can I help my loved one continue to progress spiritually after ending pornography use?

Corrine Stokoe—Mother of five, ages 11–one, recovering codependent, and wife of recovering pornography addict; blogger, podcaster, speaker, weekly Newport Beach Temple goer, and instagrammer @corrinestokoe; passionate about using social media to share the gospel of Jesus Christ

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

Kersti Spjut—Ph.D, assistant clinical professor, BYU Counseling and Psychological Services; licensed psychologist; specializes in sexual health; returned missionary; wife and (not evil) stepmother; lover of nuance; recovering perfectionist; reality TV fan

2258-60 BYU CONFERENCE CENTER (CONF)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

70 • Sharing Goodness: Using the Power of Social Media to Lift and Build Others

As the world speaks less and less of Jesus Christ, we can speak more of Him. President Russell M. Nelson explained, “Though social media has been flooded with contention, many of you have found ways to encourage others and share our Savior’s light.” Each of us can uplift and benefit others and contribute to online positivity, and we can use the power of social media to share His goodness. Elder Gary E. Stevenson taught, “With so many appropriate and inspired uses of technology, let us use it to teach, inspire, and lift ourselves and to encourage others to become their finest—rather than to portray our idealized virtual selves….Viewing social media through the lens of the gospel can prevent it from becoming a spiritual eclipse in our lives.”

Questions to Consider: What are ways I can appropriately share the love of Jesus Christ to uplift and inspire others? How do I balance uplifting content with being real and authentic? How can I use social media for good while balancing the time that it takes? What are some simple examples of how to share goodness online? How can I engage on social media in a positive way and how do I handle those that disagree with what I’m posting?

Rachel Rhien Tucker—is a wife and mother of four who lives in Southern California. She loves the outdoors, is an insatiable learner, is crazy about praise music, and is most in her element when she’s writing and teaching about Jesus Christ. @seeking_diligently

Shima Baughman—daughter of God and covenant-keeping disciple of Christ, BYU law professor and distinguished fellow at the Wheatley Institute studying religion and human flourishing, mother of five, immigrant from Iran, lover of Tiktok and Instagram for sharing the gospel @shimabaughman

3108 JESSE KNIGHT BUILDING (JKB)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

71 • We Are All in This Great Endeavor Together: Finding Joy and Strength While Serving in the Lord’s Church

Assisting the Lord in His work to build the kingdom offers lessons, learning, joy and growth. At times the lessons learned are humbling, heart-stretching, and life-changing, however the Lord will always strengthen us in our efforts as we serve Him. Elder Carl B. Cook taught, “The opportunity to serve is one of the great blessings of membership in the Church. The Lord has said, ‘If thou lovest me thou shalt serve me,’ and we serve Him by serving others….when we recognize God’s hand in our calling and serve with all our hearts, additional power comes into our service, and we become true servants of Jesus Christ…‘We are all in this great endeavor together.…No calling in this church is small or of little consequence’ (President Gordon B. Hinckley). Every calling is important.”

Questions to Consider: How can my relationship with the Savior be strengthened as I serve in various Church callings and capacities? How can I receive power, strength, and assistance from the Lord as I serve in my calling? How can I experience the joy of serving when I don’t feel qualified? What Church resources are available to help me understand my responsibilities in my calling? How does the Lord bless me when I faithfully serve, no matter my calling?

Julie Benard Randle—Follower of Christ, sports and outdoor enthusiast, humanitarian (local and Africa), Gospel Doctrine teacher and temple worker, former seminary teacher and many other callings, grateful cancer survivor, wife to Russ, mother of four, grandma to eight Alexis Schmitt—I love being a mother, wife, sister, neighbor, doctor, missionary and serving in various callings in the church. I also love people from around the world, exercise, the desert, travel and Christ.

250 KIMBALL TOWER (KMBL) 1:45–2:45 p.m.

72 • Preparing Children for Missionary Service

“Preparing a missionary for service is the collective blessing and responsibility of the prospective missionary, their family, and Church leaders. All are encouraged to engage in candid and meaningful conversations to ensure that the prospective missionary is adequately prepared to meet the rigors and challenges that a mission might present…For worthy candidates not eligible for full-time service, priesthood leaders can help identify other appropriate service opportunities, such as serving as a Church-service missionary, volunteer, temple and family history consultant, temple worker, and more. Parents and leaders can help youth understand that the Lord values all of the ways His children serve Him, share His gospel, and build His kingdom” (August 2018 Ensign).

Questions to Consider: What can I do now to help prepare my child(ren) to serve a mission? What blessings come from serving a mission? How has missionary service blessed my life? What different missionary opportunities are available, including service missions? What are the missionary interview questions and how can I use them to help prepare my child for missionary service?

Heidi S. Shipp—Wife, mother of seven, grandmother of 22; served mission to the Asia Area, creating FSY in 12 countries; mission leaders at first MTC in India; member of BYU President’s Leadership Council, BYU Law and Religion Advisory Council; enjoys hiking, reading and gardening

Linda Wilson—Served as Area Mental Health Advisor for 20 South American missions and counseled 350+ missionaries; therapist; missionary to Venezuela; mother of eight (seven girls, one boy); former ward Young Women, Primary, and Relief Society president; loves family, people and chocolate

BALLROOM, HARMAN CONTINUING EDUCATION BUILDING (HCEB)

1:45–2:45 p.m.

73 • Start Where You Are: Gospel Teaching in the Home

In times of ever-changing parenting challenges and distractions, making gospel learning a focus in the home can be difficult. Elder L. Tom Perry taught, “Parents must bring light and truth into their homes by one family prayer, one scripture study session, one family home evening, one book read aloud, one song, and one family meal at a time. They know that the influence of righteous, conscientious, persistent, daily parenting is among the most powerful and sustaining forces for good in the world.” Sister Tamara L. Runia shared, “Let’s admit, in a fallen world there’s no way to be a perfect…parent…but a million ways to be a good one. Let’s stay at the tree, partake of the love of God, and share it.”

Questions to Consider: What tools and resources are available to help me teach my children the gospel? How do I create a home where talking about Jesus Christ and the gospel is normal and natural? How do I approach my children’s gospel questions and encourage them along the covenant path? How is my own testimony of and relationship with Jesus Christ important in teaching my children about His gospel? How can my example show my children why they would want to follow Jesus Christ? How am I helping my children build confidence in their ability to receive and act on personal revelation in their lives as they make choices?

Stephanie Dibb Sorensen—Is an instructor in Church History and Doctrine at BYU, a Ph.D. student in Instructional Psychology & Technology, and an author, speaker, and podcaster. She and her husband Matt have three children and live in Cedar Hills, UT.

Jenny Oaks Baker—Is a Grammy nominated, Billboard No. 1 concert violinist, recording artist and show producer. Jenny has performed as

a soloist in prestigious concert halls throughout the world, often with her children, musical group Family Four.

Concurrent Sessions

3:15–4:15 p.m.

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC)

3:15–4:15 p.m.

74 • Finding Your Worth Through Jesus Christ

As we grow closer to the Savior, our eyes will be opened to who we are and how the Lord sees us and others. It is okay to love yourself. It is possible to know your worth while still staying humble. Elder S. Gifford Nielsen shared this truth, “Our Heavenly Father wants us to love ourselves—not to become prideful or self-centered, but to see ourselves as He sees us: we are His cherished children. When this truth sinks deep into our hearts, our love for God grows. When we view ourselves with sincere respect, our hearts are open to treat others that way too.” Elder Dale G. Renlund taught, “You are a beloved daughter [of Heavenly Parents]. Nothing you do—or do not do—can change that. God loves you because you are His spirit daughter. Sometimes we may not feel His love, but it is always there. God’s love is perfect.”

Questions to Consider: What can we do starting now to build a healthy relationship with ourselves? How can we let go of the world’s view of perfectionism and focus on our divine worth and the love our Savior and Heavenly Parents have for us? How does knowing our own divine identity help us love and share these truths with others? How can we rely on the Lord to help us overcome negative self-talk? Why does the Lord want us to know our divine identity?

Amy A. Wright—Born into a family of all boys (I even have a twin brother), married into a family of all boys, and the mother of all boys. Beyond thrilled to finally welcome my first daughter-in-love into our family.

Emily Belle Freeman—As Young Women General President, her deepest wish is for everyone to know Jesus. The One who brings the miracles in the ordinary moments. The tender behind the mercy. The unfailing behind the love. The height, breadth, and depth behind the understanding. The strength beyond our own.

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

SMITH FIELDHOUSE (SFH)

3:15–4:15 p.m.

75 • Embracing Gospel Learning: The Promises and Blessings from Come, Follow Me

In 2018 Elder Quentin L. Cook taught that deep and lasting conversion to Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ can be found by immersing ourselves in the Church’s Come, Follow Me program. “World conditions increasingly require deepening individual conversion to and strengthening faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and His Atonement. The Lord has prepared us, line upon line, for the perilous times that we now face.” He continued, “The first page of the…[Come, Follow Me] resource points out: ‘The aim of all gospel learning and teaching is to deepen our conversion and help us become more like Jesus Christ.…This means relying on Christ to change our hearts.’ This is assisted by reaching ‘beyond a classroom into an individual’s heart and home. It requires consistent, daily efforts to understand and live the gospel. True conversion requires the influence of the Holy Ghost.’”

Questions to Consider: In what ways does increasing my study and continual learning of gospel truths, strengthen my testimony and answer gospel questions? How does faithfully studying Come, Follow Me help me face the increasing challenges of the world? What are some of the promises we have been given from diligent study of the Come, Follow Me resources? Why are consistent daily efforts essential? What are some simple ways I can use the Come, Follow Me resources to bless my life and the life of my family? What are some of the miracles I have seen through studying Come, Follow Me?

John Bytheway—Husband, father, grandfather; author, podcaster, member of Young Men General Advisory Council; religion instructor, BYU Salt Lake Center

Hank Smith—husband, father; podcaster; member stake high council; MBA, Ph.D.; assistant teaching professor, Ancient Scripture, BYU

BALLROOM, WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC) 3:15–4:15 p.m.

Immersive Learning Session

76 • I Believe in Jesus Christ, and I’m Patiently Waiting on Him for Answers

“So, what do we do when we sincerely seek for truth not yet revealed? I have empathy for those who yearn for answers that do not seem to come. I too have sought answers to heartfelt questions. Many answers have come; some have not. As we hold on—trusting in God’s wisdom and love, keeping His commandments, and relying on what we do know—He helps us find peace until He reveals the truth of all things” (Elder John C. Pingree Jr.). We often encounter questions during our earthly sojourn that cause us to wonder or even wander. Although these moments might seem dark at first, we can learn to walk and live with Him in the light. Stepping into these uncertain moments with faith can deepen our relationship with our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ as we learn to trust in Them and in Their love for us.

Questions to Consider: How do I approach questions and problems

I have while relying on the sacred experiences of my conversion to the gospel of Jesus Christ that I have already felt, experienced and witnessed? What skills and habits can I practice as I learn by study and by faith? How can divinely appointed sources sustain me in my earnest search for answers? How can I help lift and strengthen a loved one who has questions of their own?

For optional preparation for this session, participants are encouraged to read the following: Isaiah 28:10; Luke 11:9; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Hebrews 10:35–36; 1 Nephi 11:17; 2 Nephi 2:11; Alma 32: 37–38; D&C 9:8; D&C 78:17–19.

Lori Newbold—Lover of truth and all things Jesus Christ; awesome aunt of eighteen; Institute teacher; sun and beach lover; mediocre pickleball player; connoisseur of chocolate milk; jv all-star; lover of people; disciple of Jesus Christ!!!

AUDITORIUM,

JOSEPH SMITH BUILDING (JSB)

3:15–4:15 p.m.

77 • To Love as He Loves Us: Upholding Truth with Love

As members of the Lord’s Church, we can love God and His gospel and teach and uphold truth without altering our love for those who believe and live differently. In Mark 12:30-31, we read, “And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.” Elder D. Todd Christofferson explained, “Putting the first commandment first does not diminish or limit our ability to keep the second commandment. To the contrary, it amplifies and strengthens it. Our love of God elevates our ability to love others more fully and perfectly because we, in essence, partner with God in the care of his children.”

Questions to Consider: How do I define, recognize and remain rooted in truth? How do I stand for truth without offending or getting defensive? How do I uphold and teach truth without damaging relationships with my children or other loved ones when they make different choices? How do I create a home rooted in faith that always remains a loving space for everyone regardless of varied opinions? How does my love of God and my testimony of His gospel give me strength when I don’t have all the answers? How can it strengthen complicated relationships? What are some examples of how the Savior loved while upholding truth? How can these apply to us?

Jenet Jacob Erickson—Associate professor, BYU Religious Education, Ph.D. in Family Science, wife, mother, sister to ten siblings, teacher, ever grateful for a Redeemer in the beautiful and startling messiness of life

Tamara Uzelac Hall—Tammy is an author and podcast host (Sunday on Monday). She is a mother to four wildly fabulous daughters and her favorite human is her husband, Jim Hall. She also believes that cheese is God’s way of saying “Hey, everything is going to be OK!”

ASSEMBLY HALL, HINCKLEY CENTER (HC) 3:15–4:15 p.m.

78

• “I Will Encircle Thee in the Arms of My Love” (D&C 6:20): Christ-Centered Parenting of LGBTQ Children

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf taught “God has given parents the ‘sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, and to teach them to observe the commandments of God.’” Raising children who identify as LGBTQ is one of the most challenging, tender, and joyous experiences that Latter-day Saint parents can face. By expressing love, honoring agency, and inviting accountability, you can lead your LGBTQ child in a way that is supportive to them and aligned with your discipleship to the Savior. “Our homes are to be more than sanctuaries,” President Thomas S. Monson taught, “they should also be places where God’s Spirit can dwell, where the storm stops at the door, where love reigns and peace dwells.”

Questions to Consider: How can we demonstrate unconditional love to children who identify as LGBTQ, whether or not they act upon their feelings? How did the Savior lead people who were struggling to fit on the path He was teaching? How can I strike the right balance of expressing love, honoring agency, and inviting accountability with my LGBTQ child? How can I develop greater faith that the Savior is aware of, and actively involved in the life of my LGBTQ child?

Julianne H. Grose—Child of God, wife and mother of three; developer of gospel-centered university belonging curriculum, courses and inspirational experiences; professor, Ph.D. biologist; avid adventurer, skier, hiker, and world traveler

Jeff Thompson—Director of BYU’s Sorensen Center for Moral and Ethical Leadership; Ph.D.; scholar on meaningful work; author of “The Zookeeper’s Secret”; husband, father and grandfather; avid racquetball player and theatre performer

3220-24 WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC) 3:15–4:15 p.m.

79 • Live Together in Love: Creating and Maintaining a Happy Marriage

As we begin the journey of marriage together, we can create marital unity and happiness by working as a team, learning to keep problems in front of us rather than between us and continually relying upon each other and the Savior as we progress together. Elder Carl B. Cook shared, “‘Each marriage starts with two built-in handicaps. It involves two imperfect people. Happiness can come to them only through their earnest effort’ (President Russell M. Nelson). The pursuit of an eternal marriage is not casual nor automatic. It is a lifelong journey requiring humility, diligence, and conscious effort from both the husband and the wife. The best news is that our Savior, Jesus Christ, and His Atonement make continuing progress possible….Our hopes and dreams for a happy marriage become a reality as we are strengthened

and enabled through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, both individually and as couples, one day at a time.”

Questions to Consider: How can we create the kind of marriage we would want forever? What are some strategies for creating unity, working as a team, and keeping problems in front of us rather than between us? How can I continue to grow personally and allow my spouse the space to do the same? How does my personal relationship with Jesus Christ allow me to give grace and offer forgiveness to my spouse and give them space to grow and improve?

Mandy Bird—Wife, mother of three little boys, one with a major heart defect; bishop’s wife at age 24; BA in English from BYU

Sean Bird—Husband, father; bishop; software engineering manager and early employee at a tech startup; served in the Málaga, Spain mission

VARSITY THEATER, WILKINSON STUDENT CENTER (WSC)

3:15–4:15 p.m.

80 • “[She] Who Receiveth all Things with Thankfulness Shall Be Made Glorious” (D&C 76:19)

The Spirit can help us to recognize and remember the miracles and blessings in our life. Through gratitude we can not only build our testimonies but find joy and happiness in life regardless of our circumstances. In Psalms 100:4 we read, “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.” President Henry B. Eyring taught, “Find ways to recognize and remember God’s kindness. It will build our testimonies. You may not keep a journal. You may not share whatever record you keep with those you love and serve. But you and they will be blessed as you remember what the Lord has done.”

Questions to Consider: What are some ways that I can document the blessings in my life? How can I learn to recognize the abundant gifts and blessings in my life? What is the relationship between gratitude and happiness? When prayers are not answered how I hoped, how can I recognize and be thankful for the blessings I am receiving? How can I intentionally look for blessings each day?

Marilee Glazier Killpack—Wife; mother to four (one terminal disease survivor); has-been dancer at Juilliard and BYU; co-founder of Gathre; loves white, good food, and dreaming of becoming half the woman my mother is; first time at BYUWC, hey!

Elise Gubler—BYU Women’s Conference committee member; daughter, sister, friend, favorite aunt of nineteen; BYU MBA Grad; Illinois Chicago South Missionary, joy seeker, lover of color, mini things, sunsets, sharing the gospel, meeting strangers, culture, and NYCbound, ready for life’s next adventure with God!

BYU Women’s Conference Sessions

2258-2260 BYU CONFERENCE CENTER (CONF)

3:15–4:15 p.m.

Immersive Learning Session

81 • Discover and Develop your Spiritual Gifts from Heavenly Father

“I urge you, with all the hope of my heart, to pray to understand your spiritual gifts—to cultivate, use, and expand them, even more than you ever have. You will change the world as you do so” (President Russell M. Nelson). “‘To every man [and woman] is given a gift by the Spirit of God … that all may be profited thereby’ (D&C 46:11–12)….He knows our gifts, since He gave them to us. As we discover our gifts, we have a responsibility to develop them. Even Jesus Christ ‘received not of the fulness at first, but [developed] from grace to grace’” (Elder John C. Pingree Jr.). We can petition heaven’s help in unlocking the spiritual gifts needed to become who our Heavenly Father knows we can become.

Questions to Consider: What are some ways the Spirit can help me identify the spiritual gifts I have been given? How can I strengthen and expand the spiritual gifts I’ve been given? What are some ways I can acquire spiritual gifts to help me improve from where I am today and who I want to become? How can I seek a specific spiritual gift to strengthen me during a challenging situation? On the days when I feel empty or not quite enough, how can petitioning heaven’s help for a specific spiritual gift fill in the gaps between me and heaven? For optional preparation for this session, participants are encouraged to read the following: Matthew 7:7; Matthew 25:15; Romans 12:6; 1 Corinthians 12: 1–12; 1 Corinthians 14:1; Moroni 10:17–25; D&C 46:8, 11–12, 27–43.

Tiffany H. Tolman—Wife, mom, new grandma; seminary curriculum writer and teacher; Religious Education Masters candidate, BYU; stake Relief Society president; disciple, covenant keeper, scripture lover, dancer (much to her kids’ dismay), singer, and love-story reader

3108 JESSE KNIGHT BUILDING (JKB)

3:15–4:15 p.m.

82 • Single But Not Solo–Navigating the Unexpected Path with God

Elder Gerrit W. Gong taught, “Our standing before the Lord and in His Church is not a matter of our marital status but of our becoming faithful and valiant disciples of Jesus Christ. Adults want to be seen as adults and to be responsible and contribute as adults. Disciples of Jesus Christ come from everywhere, in every shape, size, hue, and age, each with talents, righteous desires, and immense capacities to bless and serve….During this life, we sometimes wait upon the Lord. We may not yet be where we hope and wish to be in the future. A devout sister says, ‘Waiting faithfully upon the Lord for His blessings is a holy position. It must not be met with pity, patronizing, or judgment but instead with sacred honor.’ In the meantime, we live now, not waiting for life to begin.”

Questions to Consider: How will seeking personal revelation about my spiritual gifts and divine individual purpose help me gain confidence in serving in the Lord’s church as a single member? How can I still feel included and loved in Church situations where there is a strong focus on family, marriage, and children? How do I help other single saints feel like they belong even when I may struggle with similar feelings? How does the Spirit help me find personal application in messages that seem to be directed towards couples and families? As I navigate this unexpected path, how can I strengthen my relationship with Heavenly Father and the Savior? How can I strengthen my trust in Him that I will receive the blessings God has prepared for me? How can recognizing that “waiting faithfully upon the Lord for His blessings is a holy position” help me to see the unique opportunities I have to serve Him in this season of my life?

Rebecca Pike—Becca is a native of Provo, UT, and works for BYU Admissions. She has multiple degrees in education. and loves people, the outdoors, playing piano, reading, and eating ice cream. The gospel of Jesus Christ makes her life joyful and full of purpose.

Natalie Kirtley—Daughter, sister, tia and dog mom; book lover, hobbyist, and avid learner; Ph.D., Associate Clinical Professor & Clinical Director of BYU Counseling and Psychological Services; family history or bust, advocate for compassion, cheerer of underdogs.

250 KIMBALL TOWER (KMBL)

3:15–4:15 p.m.

83 • Serving Others: “I Pray [I’ll] be the Answer to Other People’s Prayers”

Every community has people who are unsheltered or who struggle with food insecurity or other challenges. “In a world full of pain and difficulty,” Sister Sharon Eubank taught, “it is easy to get caught up in the idea that one person cannot really make much of a difference or that other people know more and can help better than we can.” But she continues, “It simply isn’t true. The things that make the most difference in a person’s life are often humble efforts.” The Savior taught, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.” Living the second great commandment to “love thy neighbor as thyself” is one of the ways that we show our discipleship and love of God (John 13:34–35).

Questions to Consider: What are some things I can do to help those in need in my community? How can I determine how best to use my talents and resources to serve those in need? What are some of the community resources available where my family and I could volunteer and make a difference? What scriptural examples can help me understand the importance of Christlike service?

Kathy Barny—Retired school administrator; lover of fudge, grandchildren, gardening and sewing; former Primary and Young Women president and current Relief Society president; pretty good at living the second great commandment and REALLY good at forgetting why I walked into a room

Mary Glauser White—Daughter of God, striving saint; wife of one, mother of five plus my bonus kid and their +ones, daughter, friend; writer and editor; experienced in almost every calling in Primary; gardener, meditator, yogi, Enneagram 1w2

BALLROOM, HARMAN CONTINUING EDUCATION BUILDING (HCEB)

3:15–4:15 p.m.

84 • “What Comes Next for Willing Hands to Do?”

Transitions into the second act of your life can bring growth, learning, sorrow, gratitude, patience, etc. into our lives. It is also a time of sacred opportunity to come to know our Savior and to become more like Him. Sister Janette Hales Beckham taught, “Times of transition can allow you to make changes through positive choices. Some of the transitions we go through are not of our own choosing. These transitions are often characterized by a feeling of loss. Sometimes it is the loss of something we expected. Sometimes the loss is very tangible....One thing we can all learn is that with time and perspective much growth and spirituality can come from transitions, and that is gratifying to know....Every transition, every change, gives us a chance to choose again to have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and in the principles of His gospel.”

Questions to Consider: How does constant prayer and seeking revelation give me confidence during times of transition? How can we overcome fear and self-limiting doubts so that we can make positive change and find joy and fulfillment? How do I identify my passions and interests so that my life is filled with purpose and meaning? When I’m in a season where I don’t know what comes next, how can I recognize opportunities to change, serve, and grow?

Mary Alice Hatch—Host of What Now Podcast; women’s health advocate for endometriosis; philanthropist focused on innovative medical intervention; former Relief Society president and currently working in YSA and a temple worker; enjoys beach walks, interior and floral design

Whitney Johnson—Whitney Johnson is the CEO of Disruption Advisors, host of the Disrupt Yourself podcast, and a former Wall Street equity analyst. She and her family live in Lexington, VA where they grow blackberries and raspberries and enjoy making homemade jam.

Friday Afternoon Keynote Session

MARRIOTT CENTER (MC)

4:45–5:45 p.m.

Elder Brent H. Nielson Presidency of the Seventy

85 • Keynote by Elder Brent H. Nielson, Presidency of the Seventy

Frequently Asked Questions

How many attend BYU Women’s Conference?

The average number of attendees each year is about 12,000.

Conference Etiquette

• Entrance to sessions will not be permitted during the last 10 minutes of each speaker.

• No eating or drinking is allowed in session rooms, with the exception of the Marriott Center and Smith Fieldhouse. Food and drink is not allowed on the Smith Fieldhouse or Marriott Center floors.

• Please move over when seats are needed so empty seats can be accessed easily.

• Please refrain from saving seats; all seating is first come, first seated. To seat sisters as quickly as possible, open seats will be filled with those waiting in line.

• Please turn off or silence all electronic devices before entering session rooms.

• To avoid any copyright violations, recording video or audio with any electronic device is not permitted.

• To maintain a reverent atmosphere in the session rooms, please refrain from clapping until the end of the sessions. Please also show your gratitude to presenters in the evaluations.

• To maintain a spirit of reverence, please be courteous to the presenters and those around you by remaining in your seat until the session has ended.

Why can’t we bring small children or infants into conference sessions?

For the safety of all guests, we are not able to accommodate infants or children, including babes in arms, in any conference rooms, including in the Marriott Center. This helps BYU comply with building safety regulations and fire codes related to maximum room occupancy and minimum widths available for accessible exit routes. These routes must be free from all obstructions, impediments, and blockage, including baby equipment such as baby carriers, strollers, etc. Having a minimum age (16) for attendance is similar to policies for other large, formal gatherings such as general conference for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or paid events such as fine art performances, workshops, and BYU Education Week.

Additionally, staying at BYU residence halls during BYU Women’s Conference is limited to those ages 16 and older. For these reasons, we instruct the hospitality teams to not admit young children or individuals with babies into the classrooms.

Other campus spaces are available for families and friends who take turns watching a child and going to sessions. The BYU dining areas and all campus lounging areas are available for their use as well as a family playroom on the main floor of the library. Mother’s rooms with private areas for pumping and breastfeeding are available across campus.

I misplaced, lost, or forgot my name badge. How can I get another one?

If you find yourself without your name badge due to misplacement, loss, or oversight, please consider it comparable to misplacing a ticket for any other event. Your name badge serves as your pass to both the conference and evening activities, and you will need it for entry. If a need should arise for a replacement, duplicates can be acquired for a nominal fee of $3 on verification of registration at the conference information desk at the Wilkinson Student Center Memorial Lounge (WSC) or at the Marriott Center (MC). Duplicate name badges will not be mailed.

Why aren’t your tickets (name badges) electronic?

The decision not to use electronic tickets (name badges) is primarily due to cost considerations. Implementing electronic ticket scanning at every session room would incur significant expenses and delays. To keep costs down and ensure accessibility for all participants, we have opted for traditional name badges that participants wear to enter session rooms. This approach allows us to maintain affordability while still facilitating smooth entry into sessions.

Why can’t we preregister for sessions?

This option is considered every year, however, for a conference of this magnitude, with over 12,000 attendees, such software, maintenance and logistics would result in a substantial increase in registration fees. The available preregistration methods also create other challenges that we feel would not provide the best experience for all participants. We acknowledge that a first-come, first-served approach isn’t ideal, however it currently stands as the most viable, cost-effective solution. We remain open to evaluating new software options, considering their feasibility in terms of cost and efficiency for future conferences.

May I give my BYU Women’s Conference name badge to someone else?

Unfortunately, no. The name badge proves you are registered in the program. Name badges are nontransferable. BYU Women’s Conference has nearly 12,000 participants, and we need to know who is registered and attending the program. Making our badges nontransferable is the best way for us to account for our participants. Please do not give your name badge to someone else. If you cannot attend, please request a refund by the deadline (processing fees apply). If you would like to purchase a name badge for someone else, please register that person under her own name.

How do I get tickets for the evening performance?

Your name badge will be your ticket for the performance. The doors will open at 7:45 p.m.

Can you mail me a program?

Our full conference program for the conference will be made available for download on our website prior to the event. Additionally, printed copies will be provided to all conference participants upon their arrival. However, please note that we do not mail out physical copies of the program. We believe that this approach allows for convenient access to important information and reduces the number of unused printed programs that find their way into trash and recycling.

What should I wear? Is there a dress code?

Some participants prefer to dress up and wear dresses or skirts. Others prefer to be casual and wear slacks or jeans. The choice is yours, as long as you are within BYU dress standards. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended for walking between session venues.

What will the weather be like?

The weather may still be cool during the conference. Late April to early May typically sees average high temperatures ranging from 65 to 70°F, with lows around 45°F. Given Utah’s fluctuating weather patterns and variable indoor room temperatures, it’s advisable to dress in layers to ensure comfort throughout the day.

Can my friend or ward attend the evening activities (service projects, performances) without being registered for the conference?

Sessions of BYU Women’s Conference and all activities on Thursday evening are for registered participants. Everyone who attends will need a conference name badge.

What if the class I’ve chosen is full?

Many people have had the experience described by this BYU Women’s Conference participant: “Sometimes the session I want is full, so I end up in an overflow room or in another session, but no matter which session I decide to attend, I always feel inspired by the presenters.” That is part of what BYU Women’s Conference is about. While a particular session you want may be full, plenty of seats await you in the overflow rooms or in other worthwhile sessions. The Marriott Center alone can accommodate more than 19,000 participants, and the other venues together have space for over 9,000+ participants. Many participants have found that their favorite session was an alternative choice.

Why are classes spread out all over campus? Why don’t you repeat popular classes?

The largest classrooms are found in various buildings across the university’s campus. Since the schedule is finalized before the conference begins, and we already use all campus space available to us, we cannot set up another session as a repeat.

Why don’t you put popular speakers in larger rooms?

While we already schedule the largest rooms on campus, we honestly do not know beforehand when a presenter will draw a crowd larger than a room and overflow will accommodate. Each year, we pull together a large focus group of women of all ages and gather information about class selections. However, even with focus groups, it is difficult to anticipate who will want to attend a particular class. We also consider as many elements as we can, including past attendance, predictions on the appeal of new presenters and class subjects, and presenter availability during the conference.

Why can’t I record the class?

There are several issues related to copyright law. While the presenter has some latitude to show copyrighted material in a face-to-face classroom situation, participants creating an electronic copy may be breaking the law. Of course, note-taking is allowed and encouraged.

Where is the Lost and Found?

During the conference, Lost and Found locations are at all WC information desks (see page 17 for locations). On Friday afternoon during the closing keynote session, all items will be moved to the WC Marriott Center Information Desk. After the conference is over, please call the BYU Lost and Found office at 801-422-3024.

What is your refund policy?

Please visit our website at: womensconference.byu.edu/registration for information on all refund policies.

Will Call Information

If you register after April 10, 2024, you can pick up your name badge and program at Will Call locations, the week of BYU Women’s Conference as follows:

Evening of Service

Don’t miss the energy and excitement of our annual Evening of Service! It will take place on Thursday, May 2, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Richards Building and the Smith Fieldhouse. Service projects are open to all BYU Women’s Conference participants, including those who register for Wednesday evening only or Friday only.

Whether you’re able to help for 20 minutes or 3 hours, we need you! All materials will be provided and all completed projects will be donated to members of our community in need. Please plan to attend and help us complete the following projects:

• Autism Caterpillars

• Bookmark Kits

• Christmas Stockings

• Infant Fleece Blankets

• Teddy Bears

• Meal Kits

2024 Service Subcommittee

Joyce Andrus

Jolene Duckworth

Lisa Evans

Shauna Warnick

Deseret Book, Shadow Mountain Artists, and BYU Women’s Conference present:

An Evening of Entertainment

Thursday, May 2, 2024

• 8:00–9:30 p.m. • Marriott Center (MC) • Doors open at 7:45 p.m.

Your name badge is your ticket to all conference activities.

Don’t miss our evening of inspirational and uplifting music and messages highlighting some of your favorite LDS artists.

Adassa Emma Nissen

Truman Brothers

Do you flip (we mean really flip) over great children’s literature?

If you are someone who enjoys the best of kidlit plan to land at this year ’s BYU symposium on Books for Young Readers. bfyr.byu.edu

August