On May 31, 2026, congregations of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints across the United States engaged in discussions centered on the U.S. Constitution and its principles, reflecting on the historical significance of freedom and moral agency.
On May 31, 2026, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints participated in a nationwide effort to discuss the significance of the U.S. Constitution and related foundational documents during their Sunday services. Over 14,600 congregations across the United States were involved in this initiative, reflecting the Church’s commitment to educating its members about the principles of freedom and moral agency outlined in these historic texts.
The Church provided a video and a discussion guide titled “Celebrating the Founding of the United States and the U.S. Constitution.” This guide emphasized that the discussions were not intended as a political debate but as an opportunity for members to reflect on their freedoms and express gratitude for their religious liberties, as articulated in the scriptures.
In a small branch of the Church located in Tampa, Florida, members from various South American countries shared their experiences regarding the freedoms they have lost in their homelands. Dade City Branch President Steven Hatch noted that many congregants had immigrated to the United States specifically to escape oppressive conditions. He remarked, “A lot of those things are what caused these members to want to come here to the United States of America,” highlighting the shared values that unite the congregation despite their diverse backgrounds.
Hatch underscored the sense of community generated during the discussions, stating, “There’s so much more that brings us together than there is that divides us,” and emphasized the unifying power of faith in Jesus Christ amidst differing political views.
A Conversation With Apostles
The video shown during the Sunday services featured a discussion between President D. Todd Christofferson, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, and Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Both leaders, who have extensive legal backgrounds and are advocates for religious freedom, articulated the integral role of the Constitution in the Church’s history and mission.
Elder Cook stated, “I think that the First Amendment was essential to the Restoration of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,” emphasizing that the principles enshrined in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were divinely inspired. He elaborated, stating, “Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” are fundamental rights that allow individuals to pursue virtue and not merely short-term pleasures.
President Christofferson echoed this sentiment, asserting that the Constitution was divinely guided for the protection of all individuals. He quoted a revelation to the Prophet Joseph Smith that highlighted the Constitution’s purpose: “He had ‘suffered the Constitution to be established for the rights and protection of all flesh, according to just and holy principles.’”
Promoting Civic Engagement
The Church maintains a position of institutional neutrality concerning political parties and candidates, encouraging its members to engage in civic affairs while demonstrating Christlike love and civility. President Oaks has previously emphasized the importance of finding common ground in political discourse, stating, “Where we can, we unify. It’s not always possible, but we look for that. I think that’s key to upholding the rule of law and upholding the Constitution.”
During the discussions, members were encouraged to be informed citizens, actively participating in political processes while remaining respectful of differing opinions. Elder Cook reinforced the idea that the principles of freedom are paramount and transcend party politics, urging members to celebrate and support the freedoms they enjoy.
Experiences from Congregations
Various congregations shared their experiences during these discussions. Margie Boswell from the Jonesboro Ward in Arkansas reflected on the importance of discussing constitutional values with her children. She stated, “These are the values we hold dear. This is the politics and the foundation of our freedoms that we hold dear and that we must preserve.” Her family engaged with the Church-provided materials as part of their ongoing study of faith and civic responsibility.
Steve Brown, a political science professor at Auburn University, facilitated discussions at the Auburn Plains Young Single Adult Branch. He pointed out that the timing of these discussions coincided with the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, underscoring the relevance of the founding values in contemporary society. Brown stated, “If you don’t know what they are and don’t defend them, then they can be lost,” emphasizing the critical nature of preserving religious freedom as a foundation for all other rights.
Brown concluded by asserting that “religious freedom is the precondition for political freedom” and that the protection of one is essential for securing the others. This sentiment resonated throughout congregations as members engaged in thoughtful dialogue about the values that underpin their faith and freedoms.
