From the First Presidency

Women of Faith

By President Dallin H. Oaks

First Counselor in the First Presidency

Adapted from “Teachings of Women,” Church News, Sept. 15, 2022 (video).

The most important teachers I’ve had in my life have been women. When I was young, my father died, and my mother became very ill when she was studying at a university. My grandmother was like another mother to me, even after my mother got better. Both of them taught me about the gospel, service, and family responsibilities. My faith in the Lord came almost entirely from them.

My wife June was also a wonderful companion and teacher for me. After June died, I married my wife Kristen. She has had a great influence in my life.

I will always be grateful for the faithful examples and teachings of these women.

Chasty O. Harris

Illustrations by Simini Blocker

She was President Oaks’s grandmother. Her grandparents came to Utah as pioneers. She helped care for her children and grandchildren during times of hardship.

Stella H. Oaks

She was President Oaks’s mother. She was a teacher and leader and helped many adults graduate from high school. She was also an assistant mayor in her city.

June D. Oaks

She married President Oaks in 1952. They had six children. She loved art and helped share it in their city. In 1998 she got sick and passed away.

Kristen M. Oaks

She and President Oaks married in 2000. She was a missionary and taught reading. She also wrote several children’s books.

All Are Needed

“In the eyes of God, whether in the Church or in the family, women and men are equal, but with different responsibilities.

President Dallin H. Oaks, “The Keys and Authority of the Priesthood,” Liahona, May 2014, 52.

How can you show respect for girls and women and for boys and men?