SALT LAKE CITY — The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced new age-group names for its Young Women organization. The changes are aimed at reflecting the divine identity and spiritual progression of youth worldwide.
Effective immediately, the groups are designated as Builders of Faith for girls turning 12 or 13; Messengers of Hope for those turning 14 or 15; and Gatherers of Light for young women 16 and older.
According to a recent letter from the First Presidency, the updated titles will “help young women understand their divine place in God’s work, to represent their spiritual dignity as His beloved daughters, and to highlight their progression.”
Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman said the spiritual power behind the names was confirmed to her during a late 2025 youth conference in Tahiti. While listening to the hymn “As Sisters in Zion,” Freeman realized its verses aligned with the distinct mission of each group.
“My eyes teared up as I realized the Spirit had been leading this process all along, inspiring names of faith, hope and light that would help God’s daughters live as disciples of Christ and prepare them to enter a lifelong sisterhood of charity, the Relief Society,” Freeman said.
Local congregations will transition from a class structure to an age-group structure by June 1, 2026. This timeline allows local leaders time to organize presidency changes. While varying age groups may combine for instruction, each retains its distinct name and own youth president.
Church leaders concluded with the hope that these newly revealed names and principles will continually guide youth toward lifelong discipleship, preparing them to participate fully in the great work of the Relief Society organization across the globe.