Gospel Living

The symbolism of cairns can remind us of Jesus Christ.

4 Jan 2023 | 1 min read
Cairns and Trails
Here are four things to think about.

What does this year’s theme, “I Can Do All Things through Christ,” have to do with a pile of rocks? Well, we’re not talking about just any pile of rocks. We’re talking about cairns, which are often placed as landmarks to guide hikers on unmarked trails.

Here are a few things to know about cairns—and about the Savior:

Cairns and Trails

1. Cairns mark paths that are used less often.
Jesus Christ asks you to follow Him instead of the popular and well-worn paths of the world.

2. Cairns keep you on course when the trail is hard to see.
The way to eternal life is narrow, “and few there be that find it.”1 But Jesus Christ can help you find the path and stay on it.

3. Cairns mark the safest route.
The commandments help you stay out of danger on this earthly journey. Christ can help you return to the safe path when you take a wrong turn.

4. Cairns lead the way to your destination.
Jesus Christ is the way back to God, and “there is no other way or means whereby man can be saved, only in and through Christ.”2

Build a cairn of your own or put a picture of one in a place where you’ll see it every day. It can remind you that Christ is always there to help you on your journey!

Cairns and Trails

Share your Cairn

Send us a picture of your cairn and your testimony of this year’s theme by emailing youth@ChurchofJesusChrist.org. Put “Gospel Living” in the subject line.

4 Jan 2023 | 1 min read