2025 Youth Theme
Look unto Christ
The 2025 Youth Theme will help you choose trust over doubt and faith over fear.
Seventeen-year-old Kailey had been on a cheerleading team until an accident resulted in a traumatic brain injury. Her recovery kept her from attending school, and she began to feel isolated and alone. She struggled emotionally and did not know where to look for help. A friend suggested that she listen to the missionaries. They taught her about the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Learning more about Christ gave her hope, and she felt as if God Himself were reaching out to her.
Kailey told her mom, “I have never felt that God loved me. But now I know He loves me.”
Her mom, Michelle, was a little surprised. She and her husband, Brock, had left The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when Kailey was seven because of various questions, doubts, and concerns. They assumed their daughter would be happier without all the meetings and commandments. They never thought their choice would keep Kailey from a close connection with God. As Michelle and Brock watched how Kailey changed, they realized that it had been a long time since they felt close to God, and they wanted to feel that way again.
They met with their bishop, and soon the family, including Kailey’s brother Braeden, returned to church. Feeling close to God and reconnecting with Him—especially through prayer—restored their faith. Returning to church did not resolve all their questions or concerns, but they realized that having a stronger personal connection with God was more important than their disbelief.
All of this started when a friend—a teenager like you—invited Kailey to look unto Christ. And she did!
Jesus Christ has said, “Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not” (Doctrine and Covenants 6:36). This is the inspiration behind the 2025 Youth Theme. Allow us to share how you can choose trust over doubt and faith over fear as you look unto Christ:
Left to right: Sister Runia, President Freeman, Sister Spannaus
Tamara W. Runia
When I’m struggling, it always helps me to imagine Jesus Christ with his arms outstretched. When I look to Him, I remember the words of the song, “I Will Walk with Jesus”: “He will never leave me, even when I fall.”
Emily Belle Freeman
When I read this theme scripture, I am reminded of Peter on the Sea of Galilee. Focusing on the storm increased his fear and doubt, causing him to sink into the stormy waves. But focusing on the Savior enabled Him to accomplish something he never had before: he walked on water! It’s remarkable, really. What might you accomplish as you look to Him?
Andrea Muñoz Spannaus
When I start to feel afraid, regardless of where I am or what situation I’m in, I intentionally think of my relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. I repeat in my mind several times: I AM A DAUGHTER OF GOD. I continue to do this until I start to feel better. It always works!
Left to right: Brother Wilcox, President Lund, Brother Nelson
Bradley R. Wilcox
Ask yourself who cares about and loves you most. Is it your parents and Church leaders? Is it people on social media for whom you may just be a number? Look unto Heavenly Father and Christ. They really care!
Steven J. Lund
Remember what you’re reminded of when you recite the Aaronic Priesthood Quorum and Young Women themes: You are a beloved son or daughter of God. Have faith that our Father has a plan for you. Looking unto Christ means seeing that His Atonement is right at the center of that plan.
Michael T. Nelson
Reading the scriptures is looking unto Christ! Doubts and fears naturally fade away as we are reminded of the miracles and teachings of Jesus. We are so fortunate to have access to His words. They apply in every situation we experience in our lives.