First Presidency's 2026 Easter Message: "Jesus Christ Is Risen"

LDS Gospel February 23, 2026

"This Easter season we also joyfully testify of this same eternal truth—Jesus Christ is risen. He lives!" the leaders wrote. "The Savior of the world was crucified and, on the third day, rose from the dead, 'the firstfruits of them that slept' (1 Corinthians 15:20)."

SALT LAKE CITY — 22 February 2026 — The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has released its 2026 Easter message, testifying of the literal Resurrection of Jesus Christ and inviting all to find peace through His grace.

The message is signed by President Dallin H. Oaks, President Henry B. Eyring, and President D. Todd Christofferson.

The Clarion Call of Christianity

Reflecting on the biblical account of the Garden Tomb, the First Presidency recalled the words of the angels to Mary Magdalene and her companions: “Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen” (Luke 24:5–6).

"This Easter season we also joyfully testify of this same eternal truth—Jesus Christ is risen. He lives!" the leaders wrote. "The Savior of the world was crucified and, on the third day, rose from the dead, 'the firstfruits of them that slept' (1 Corinthians 15:20)."

A Promise of Peace and Perfection

The First Presidency emphasized that the Resurrection is a universal gift that provides more than just a future hope—it offers immediate strength for life's challenges. They noted that through the Savior’s grace, individuals can:

Find Peace: Experience the peace "which passeth all understanding" (Philippians 4:7).
Seek Perfection: Be "perfected in him" (Moroni 10:32).
Conquer Death: Find assurance that death is not the conclusion of human identity.

An Invitation to "Seek This Jesus"

In their concluding remarks, the leaders issued a personal invitation to people everywhere to study the life and mission of the Savior.

"We invite each of you during this Easter season to ‘seek this Jesus of whom the prophets and apostles have written’ (Ether 12:41)," the message states. "As you do so, we testify that your Easter celebrations can strengthen your own faith and testimony that ‘death is conquered; man is free. Christ has won the victory.’"

Palm Sunday and Easter Services

In addition to the written message, the First Presidency has previously announced that local congregations will hold a one-hour sacrament meeting on Palm Sunday (March 29) and Easter Sunday (April 5). These shortened services are designed to allow members additional time for personal and family worship centered on the Savior’s Atonement and Resurrection.