The year 2025 brought significant milestones and challenges for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Despite facing tragedies, such as the memorial service held for victims in Lesotho and Michigan, the Church continued to make strides in humanitarian efforts and leadership transitions.
Leadership Changes
This year witnessed the passing of President Russell M. Nelson at age 101 and President Jeffrey R. Holland at age 85. Following these events, President Dallin H. Oaks was appointed as the 18th Prophet and President of the Church.
Humanitarian Initiatives
Throughout 2025, the Church engaged in various humanitarian efforts, reflecting its commitment to serving communities worldwide. Here are some key initiatives:
- The Church shared 250 truckloads of food with food banks in all 50 states as part of the America250 initiative.
- In Michigan, FISH of Grand Blanc received vital food assistance following a tragic incident at a local meetinghouse.
- The Church responded to natural disasters, including floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes, in various regions including Texas, Myanmar, and the Caribbean.
- In Sri Lanka, the Church contributed funding to UNICEF to support women and children.
- Additionally, the Church donated 3,000 Chromebooks to children in Sainshand, Mongolia.
Global Outreach
Notable visits by Church leaders highlighted the global outreach undertaken in 2025:
- Elder Quentin L. Cook visited The Felix Project in London to partner with Muslim Aid in food distribution.
- Elder Dale G. Renlund visited a medical center in Argentina to support healthcare initiatives.
- Elder Patrick Kearon met survivors of typhoons in the Philippines, providing comfort and assistance.
Mission Expansion
The Church announced plans for the creation of 55 new missions, demonstrating an active approach towards evangelism and outreach. Women aged 18 and older can now serve as missionaries, expanding the workforce of the faith.
Celebrating Spiritual Milestones
In October 2025, the Tabernacle Choir celebrated its 5,000th episode of “Music and the Spoken Word.” This program, the longest-running network broadcast, attracts over 6 million viewers weekly in more than 50 countries.
Temples and Family Unity
A significant achievement was the announcement by President Nelson of 15 new temples, bringing the total to 383 either in operation, under construction, or announced. In 2025, ten new or renovated temples opened, including locations in:
- Toronto, Ontario
- Nairobi, Kenya
- Auckland, New Zealand
- Abidjan, Ivory Coast
- Syracuse, Utah
- Antofagasta, Chile
- Farmington, New Mexico
- Elko, Nevada
- Grand Junction, Colorado
- Bahía Blanca, Argentina
Elder Ulisses Soares remarked during the Bahía Blanca dedication that 2025 marks a century since South America was dedicated for the preaching of the restored gospel, emphasizing the temple’s significance as a beacon of faith.
Looking Ahead
Plans for continued growth and outreach remain in focus for the Church as it seeks to act on Christ’s teachings and maintain momentum in its mission moving forward into 2026.
