“Gathering weekly in every class helps deepen gospel learning by connecting it more closely to personal and family study,” stated President Paul V. Johnson, highlighting a pivotal shift in the LDS Church’s approach to Sunday worship. This announcement comes as the First Presidency revealed adjustments to the Sunday class meeting schedule, effective September 6, 2026.
Under the new schedule, Sunday School and quorum meetings will be held weekly, each lasting 25 minutes. This change aims to enhance the overall worship experience and foster a stronger sense of community among members. The sacrament meeting will remain at 60 minutes, while Primary classes will continue to meet every Sunday for 55 minutes. The adjustments are designed to support members in their journey to become lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ.
The church’s decision to implement a two-hour Sunday schedule in January 2019 was a significant move towards increasing opportunities for home-centered gospel study. The upcoming changes build upon this foundation, aiming to strengthen gospel learning both in homes and congregations. President Camille N. Johnson emphasized the importance of these gatherings, stating, “There is additive strength that comes when we meet each week to counsel, learn, and support one another.”
Another notable change is the introduction of the “For the Strength of Youth” guide as the curriculum for Young Women classes and Aaronic Priesthood quorums starting in September 2026. This guide, consisting of 12 chapters, is expected to empower youth, with President Timothy L. Farnes asserting, “This guide will help youth walk in confidence, rely on His power, and move forward with hope in a challenging world.”
Additionally, weekly Relief Society and elders quorum meetings will now focus on messages from the most recent general conference, encouraging members to seek meaningful ways to enrich their worship experience during sacrament meeting. The fifth Sunday in August 2026 will be dedicated to preparation and discussion among youth, their parents, and leaders, further emphasizing the church’s commitment to youth engagement.
As the LDS Church prepares to roll out these changes, it is clear that the intention is to create a more connected and supportive environment for its members. The adjustments reflect a broader trend within the church to adapt its practices to better meet the needs of its congregation. “Members across the world have embraced these changes with faith and enthusiasm,” a church spokesperson noted, indicating a positive reception to the new schedule.
While the specifics of how these changes will be implemented in various congregations remain to be seen, the overarching goal is clear: to deepen the spiritual experience of members and to foster a culture of learning and support within the church community. Details remain unconfirmed, but the anticipation surrounding the new Sunday School schedule is palpable as the church moves forward into this new chapter.
