Youth members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will begin a new Sunday curriculum on Sept. 6, 2026, shifting from a rotating weekly schedule to participating in both Sunday School and Young Women or Aaronic Priesthood classes every week. The transition, which follows a worldwide instructional discussion held on Aug. 30, 2026, centers on an updated "For the Strength of Youth" guide designed to foster lifelong discipleship.
New Sunday Lesson Structure
The new Sunday format features two 25-minute discussion-based sessions during the second hour of worship. Following a five-minute transition, the first session focuses on the "Come, Follow Me" curriculum, while the second focuses on doctrines from the updated "For the Strength of Youth" guide, according to prior reporting by The Church News.
Each chapter in the 12-month guide contains eternal truths, invitations, and promised blessings. To support the lessons, supplemental materials will be provided in the monthly "For the Strength of Youth" magazine, available in print or digitally via the Gospel Library app. As reported by The Church News, each household can receive a printed magazine for free.
A Guide for Strength
Young Men General President Timothy L. Farnes and Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman emphasized that the curriculum is a principle-based resource rather than a rule book. President Freeman described the updated guide as a "guide for strength" to help youth face modern challenges.
President Farnes noted that the goal of the curriculum is not merely learning, but living and becoming lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ. He suggested that the 25-minute lessons are designed to prioritize Jesus Christ and help youth develop the spiritual momentum needed for daily discipleship.
Preparing for Discipleship
The curriculum is designed to help youth prepare for future roles, such as missions and temple endowments. President Freeman noted that the curriculum aims to equip the current generation of youth to share the gospel and prepare the world for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
To prepare for the transition, the Church designated Aug. 30, 2026, as a worldwide discussion day for youth, parents, and leaders. This meeting allowed participants to watch instructional videos and discuss how to use the new resources effectively.
Mentorship and Engagement
Adult leaders are encouraged to act as mentors rather than just instructors. President Farnes and President Freeman advised that leaders should model and mentor youth, much like a parent running alongside a child learning to ride a bike.
The new lessons utilize three discussion questions per class to encourage whole-class engagement. Leaders may choose to have a youth, an adult, or even a member of the Relief Society or Elders Quorum lead different questions to ensure the session remains a conversation rather than a lecture.
Background on Changes
The curriculum changes follow an announcement made on March 30, 2026, regarding adjustments to Sunday meetings and youth curriculum. The Church has also renamed its youth-focused social media channels from "Strive to Be" to "For the Strength of Youth" to align with the new curriculum.
Daily Spiritual Habits
To maintain spiritual momentum, President Farnes encouraged youth to continue daily habits such as morning prayer, scripture study, and journaling. These routines are intended to help youth maintain the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost and connect with God daily.
