Brothers and Sisters,

The story of the Stripling Warriors has always been a favorite of mine. It teaches many simple but powerful truths. When we speak of mothers in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we often refer to this story.

In Alma 53, we learn about the people of Ammon—former Lamanites who were taught the gospel of Christ by Ammon and his brethren. As part of their repentance, they made a covenant with their Heavenly Father to never shed blood again, and they buried their weapons of war as a sign of that commitment.

We also learn of their 2,000 stripling sons who had not made that covenant. In a time of great need and struggle, these young men stepped forward and made their own covenant—to defend the liberty of the Nephites, their brethren, and the people of Ammon. They were likely in their teens, yet in verses 18 through 20, we learn they were exceedingly valiant, full of faith, and strict to obey every command.

In Alma 56, through a letter from Helaman to Captain Moroni, we read about the strategic movements of the Nephite armies, including the Stripling Warriors. These young men were to act as bait to lure the Lamanite army out of their stronghold, allowing the main Nephite army to ambush them from behind. The plan nearly succeeds—but the Lamanites don’t pursue far enough, and the rest of the Nephite army, weary from a long march, becomes engaged in a fierce and dangerous battle.

Now comes the true test: Will these young warriors keep their oath? Will they return to fight—even unto death—to protect the liberty of their brethren?

Helaman is concerned, but the young men reassure him of their faith:

Alma 56:44–48
44 Therefore what say ye, my sons, will ye go against them to battle?
45 And now I say unto you, my beloved brother Moroni, that never had I seen so great courage, nay, not among all the Nephites.
46 For as I had ever called them my sons (for they were all of them very young) even so they said unto me: Father, behold our God is with us, and he will not suffer that we should fall; then let us go forth…
47 Now they had never fought, yet they did not fear death… yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them.
48 And they rehearsed unto me the words of their mothers, saying: We do not doubt our mothers knew it.

These young men were blessed with valiant, obedient women of faith who nurtured and shaped their character. I imagine these warriors had witnessed the transforming power of Christ’s gospel in their homes—watching their parents turn from darkness and violence to steadfast discipleship.

Like them, we may also see reflections of the Savior in covenant-keeping parents: Mothers, who like the Savior endure pain and sacrifice to give the gift of life. Fathers, who labor tirelessly so their children can receive greater blessings. Parents who live lives of covenantal service, striving for eternal joy for their families.

As we celebrate Mother’s Day and Father’s Day in the coming months, I invite us all to reflect: Are we living up to our divine potential? Have we covenanted—and do we live in word and deed—to obey God, having heard His voice through the life and ministry of His Only Begotten? Are we striving to be mighty men and women of faith—charging into life’s fiercest battles without fear of death or reprisal, knowing we are sons and daughters of God, destined for eternal joy in His presence?

If not, brothers and sisters—what do you need to change today to start down that path?

Like the people of Ammon, change may not come overnight. But it begins step by step, with the faith to try, and the courage to continue. That path will always lead us back to the Savior.

Of this I testify, in His holy name—even Jesus Christ, Amen.

With love,

The Bishopric