BYU–Hawaii Devotionals & Speeches

Daniel Sharp Professor of Faculty of Culture, Language & Perfoming Arts Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (March 24, 2026)  Daniel Sharp teaches that the Atonement of Jesus Christ serves as the central turning point of eternity by overcoming the effects of the Fall, ensuring resurrection, and offering all mankind a return to God’s presence. He explains that through the Atonement, Jesus Christ gains perfect empathy and authority to justly judge and succor humanity, having experienced all pain, temptation, and sin. He concludes that understanding the Atonement brings hope, inspires repentance, and enables lasting change through faith in Jesus Christ.  “We study the Atonement not merely as an intellectual exercise, but because understanding the Atonement, the progress and hope that an empathetic Savior provides, can give us hope to change. It can comfort us. It will heal us. Of that, I testify.” — Daniel Sharp  Daniel Sharp grew up in Canada, Thailand, and California. He joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at eighteen and served a mission in Campinas, Brazil. He is married to Carrie Rentz, and they have five sons and five grandchildren. Daniel earned a PhD in Religious Studies from Claremont Graduate University and has taught at BYU–Hawaii since 2011. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

President Billy Casey President of the Laie Hawaii Temple Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (March 17, 2026)  President Billy Casey teaches that the rising generation is reserved to help prepare the world for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that individuals are called to be a light to the world by choosing to be peacemakers, sharing the Aloha Spirit, and growing through adversity. Students are invited to spend more time worshiping and serving in the temple to receive greater spiritual light, strength, and guidance. “The temple is a place of peace and power, and spending time there will literally change a person’s life.” — President Billy Casey President Billy George Casey Jr. was born in Lubbock, Texas, and raised in Hawaii. He graduated from Brigham Young University–Hawaii and served a mission in Veracruz, Mexico. He later worked for many years as a roofing and waterproofing contractor and served as Assistant Director and Construction & Design Manager for BYU–Hawaii Facilities Management. He and his wife, Kanani Casey, were married in the Los Angeles California Temple and are the parents of eight children and many grandchildren. They currently serve as President and Matron of the Laie Hawaii Temple. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Elder Ronald M. Barcellos General Authority Seventy Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (February 24, 2026)  Elder Ronald M. Barcellos teaches that a testimony of Jesus Christ is the most powerful weapon against evil. Referring to the war in heaven, he explains that we overcame Satan through the Savior’s Atonement and “the word of [our] testimony,” and that we must gain and strengthen that testimony again in this life. He invites listeners to ask, seek, and knock through prayer, scripture study, and faithful obedience, promising that a growing testimony will protect them from doubt, deception, and the adversary’s attacks.  “Brothers and Sisters, you were chosen by God to come to earth in these latter days because you were valiant in your testimony in the pre-mortal life.” — Elder Ronald M. Barcellos  Elder Ronald M. Barcellos was sustained as a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in April 2025. He has served in numerous Church callings, including full-time missionary in Brazil, bishop, stake presidency counselor, and mission president in Portugal. He studied business administration at São Marcos University in São Paulo, Brazil, and previously co-founded and led GreenMile, LLC. Elder Barcellos was born in São Paulo, Brazil, in 1975, is married to Karin Spat Albino Barcellos, and is the father of three children.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Dr. Matthew Bowen  Professor and Director of Religious Education at BYU–Hawaii Brigham Young University–Hawaii David O. Mckay Lecture (March 10, 2026)  Dr. Matthew L. Bowen teaches that through His suffering and feeling of abandonment on the cross, Jesus Christ experiences the depths of human pain so that no one is truly forsaken. He emphasizes that through covenants, the sacrament, and temple worship, disciples remain connected to the Savior’s presence and are called to build Zion by seeking justice, serving others, and turning suffering into compassion. “Your Yes to God demands your No to all injustice, to all evil, to all lies to all oppression and violation of the weak and the poor.” — Dr. Matthew Bowen Dr. Matthew L. Bowen is a professor and Director of Religious Education at Brigham Young University–Hawaii. He earned his PhD in Biblical Studies from The Catholic University of America and is the author of several books and scholarly articles on ancient scripture. He and his wife, Suzanne, have three children and live in Lāʻie. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Nasanbold Sukhbaatar Stake President of the Ulaanbaatar East Stake Public Affairs and Communication Manager for the Church in Mongolia  Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (February 17, 2026)  Nasanbold Sukhbaatar shares how he grew up on the vast, empty grasslands of Mongolia, riding his horse for hours through snow to get to school. When changes in government left him unable to read, he taught himself, practicing by candlelight in the fields with his herd. Through faith, hard work, and prayer, he continued his education and came to BYU–Hawaii He encourages students to "be one," follow Prophetic counsel, and receive blessings through obedience, becoming the noble men and women President McKay prophesied about.  “Obedience combined with humility opens the door to blessings far greater than we could produce on our own.” — Nasanbold Sukhbaatar  Nasanbold Sukhbaatar married Otgonchimeg in 2010, and they are the parents of four children. He earned a degree from BYU–Hawaii and is pursuing a master’s degree.  He serves as Communication Manager for the Church in Mongolia, Stake President of  the Ulaanbaatar East Stake, and as a volunteer in the local government. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Sister Michelle D. Amos Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (February 3, 2026) Sister Michelle Amos shares her family’s conversion story and testifies of the truthfulness and power of the Book of Mormon, emphasizing how sincere prayer and study lead individuals to Jesus Christ and lasting faith.  “When we read the Book of Mormon, we draw nearer to God and receive power to overcome the trials of this world.” — Sister Michelle D. Amos BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcastsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Elder John D. Amos General Authority Seventy The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (February 3, 2026) Elder Amos teaches that discipleship requires both knowing and living Christ’s teachings, framing conversion as a lifelong, incremental process essential to attaining eternal life.   “A disciple is not only a follower of Jesus Christ, but a doer of His teachings.” — Elder John D. Amos  Elder John D. Amos was sustained as a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in April 2025. He has served in numerous Church callings, including bishop, stake presidency counselor, mission president, and Area Seventy. He earned engineering degrees from Southern University–Baton Rouge and the University of Central Florida and is retired from the United States Navy Reserve and Siemens Energy. He and his wife, Michelle, are the parents of three children. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Kate McLellan Associate Professor of the Faculty of Sciences Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (January 27, 2026)  Kate McLellan, Associate Professor of Health & Human Sciences, testifies that opposition in all things is part of God’s plan and that opposing forces work together for growth and balance. Using scripture and examples from education, family life, and eternal roles, she emphasizes that men and women are equal partners with complementary responsibilities. The message concludes by recognizing that balancing these forces strengthens faith and shows that all things point to God. “All things denote there is a God, including the opposing forces that shape who we become.” – Kate McLellan Kate McLellan is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Sciences at Brigham Young University–Hawaii, where she teaches health and human science and mentors students in research. A 2001 BYUH graduate with a BS in Exercise & Sports Science, she ran on the university’s cross-country team and held a music scholarship for bass clarinet while a student.  Dr. McLellan earned her PhD in Physical Rehabilitation from Loma Linda University and brings extensive clinical research experience to her work. At BYUH she focuses on topics like physical and mental health, especially among Polynesian and Asian students, and is actively involved in studies aimed at improving health outcomes. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Ammon Kau Puna Hawaii Stake President Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (January 20, 2025) Ammon Kau, Stake President of the Puna Hawaii Stake, teaches that enduring joy comes through the Holy Ghost, who enlightens the mind, brings peace, and directs life-shaping decisions. He shares real experiences from education, marriage, missionary service, and temple worship to show how acting on spiritual promptings prepares individuals for blessings and leads to divine guidance. Students are encouraged to trust the Spirit consistently to live a joyful, Christ-centered life. “I have learned that it is better to do what I have been impressed to do, even if the outcome is unclear than letting the moment pass and regret my lack of action. When I do as I am prompted, I feel peace no matter the outcome. Peace that I acted upon inspiration.”  –Ammon Kau Ammon Kau is the Stake President of the Puna Hawaii Stake on Hawaii Island, where he lives and practices as a pediatric dentist in Hilo. He served a mission in the California San Francisco Mission, earned a bachelor's degree in business entrepreneurship from BYU, and completed dental school and pediatric residency training through the University of Missouri–Kansas City and Lutheran Medical Center on Oahu. He and his wife, Ruth, were childhood friends, married in the Laie Hawaii Temple, and are the parents of five children. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

R. Kelly Haws Acting President of Brigham Young University–Hawaii Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (January 13, 2025) Acting President R. Kelly Haws encourages students to allow the Lord to nudge their lives, reminding them that miracles follow when spiritual promptings are recognized and acted upon. By living with purpose, consecration, and excellence, and responding quickly to inspiration, students can experience the Savior’s power and direction at BYU–Hawaii. “If we quickly respond to the promptings of the Holy Ghost, the day of miracles has not ceased on this campus or in our lives.” –President R. Kelly Haws  R. Kelly Haws is the acting president of Brigham Young University–Hawaii, bringing decades of leadership experience in the Church Educational System and a lifelong commitment to faith-based education. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with students, educators and Church leaders worldwide, focusing on strengthening testimony, learning and service.   Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Connie Haws Acting First Lady Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (January 13, 2025)  Sister Connie Haws, Acting First Lady of BYU–Hawaii, invites students to pray every day, teaching that consistent, sincere prayer invites guidance, peace, and the influence of the Holy Ghost in academics, relationships, and personal decisions. Lives are expanded when God is allowed to lead daily, and blessings become clearer through faithful communication with Heavenly Father.  “If we pray daily and openly to our Heavenly Father, we begin to see more clearly the blessings He is sending in our lives.” –Sister Connie Haws  R. Kelly and Connie Haws serve at BYU–Hawaii as Acting President and Acting First Lady during President John S. K. Kauwe’s medical leave. They bring extensive experience in the Church Educational System and encourage students to seek the Savior’s guidance through daily prayer and responsiveness to the Holy Ghost. BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Elder Clark G. Gilbert General Authority Seventy and Commissioner of the Church Educational System Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (January 13, 2025)  Elder Clark G. Gilbert shares the love and confidence of the First Presidency and Church Board of Education, formally announcing a temporary leadership transition to support President John S.K. Kauwe III’s healing. The university was reminded of its shared mission, the strength of working together, and faith that the Lord continues to guide BYU–Hawaii during this season.  “When we involve the Lord as we work together, miracles will happen.” –Elder Clark G. Gilbert  Elder Clark G. Gilbert is a General Authority Seventy and serves as Commissioner of the Church Educational System of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He has previously served as president of BYU–Idaho and as CEO of Deseret News and Deseret Digital Media. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Brad SmithDean of the Faculty of Sciences, BYU–HawaiiBrad L. Smith teaches that God’s creations testify of His love and invite His children to seek truth with both faith and intellect. Drawing on experiences in marine biology, research, and mentoring students, he outlines four principles for recognizing God’s hand in the natural world: observe with intention, remain teachable, seek truth through both spiritual and scientific means, and use knowledge to bless others.He testifies that as individuals explore creation with humility, curiosity, and faith, Heavenly Father deepens understanding, strengthens discipleship, and guides His children to discover their divine purpose. “Just like the o‘io seeks the right environment to grow, your transformation is sustained by settling in places of light, learning, and spiritual nourishment” –Brad SmithDr. Smith currently serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Sciences at Brigham Young University–Hawaii, where he teaches biology and mentors undergraduate research in areas such as marine biology, physiology, genetics, and molecular ecology. His work includes leading research projects in aquatic conservation, population genetics, and environmental monitoring, with contributions to peer-reviewed publications and international conferences.He earned both his Ph.D. in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences and his B.S. in Zoology from Texas A&M University, and previously served as a Postdoctoral Associate and Graduate Research Fellow at Texas A&M University Galveston.Outside the classroom, Smith serves as a Primary teacher in his ward and supports student life through club advising and committee leadership. Originally from Texas, he now resides in Lāʻie, where he enjoys diving, outdoor adventuring, marine research, and mentoring students in scientific exploration.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Brooke PetersonDirector of Marketing and Communication,BYU–Hawaii Brigham Young University–Hawaii DevotionalBrooke Peterson shares that God is always listening and delights in hearing from His children. Drawing from personal experiences of answered prayers, loss, and trials, she teaches four principles of prayer: pray with specificity, pray with vulnerability, pray with the expectation that He will answer, and pray in faith.She testifies that by praying intentionally and acting in faith, Heavenly Father guides, strengthens, and helps His children grow through every experience.“You are His child. That gives you every right to ask for the righteous desires of your heart, and every reason to expect that He will answer.” –Brooke PetersonBrooke Peterson currently serves as the Director of Marketing and Communication at BYU–Hawaii and as the Primary president in her ward. Previously, she was the Director of Marketing at BYU-Pathway Worldwide, where she led campaigns that significantly boosted brand visibility and enrollment while also contributing to digital marketing, enrollment, and communications strategy across global teams. She also led global communication strategies at American Airlines, focusing on recognition, community relations, leadership, and high-profile events, earning hundreds of media placements.Peterson holds a Bachelor of Science in Communication from BYU–Idaho and an MBA from BYU’s Marriott School of Business.She and her husband, Marc, enjoy traveling. She has visited all 50 U.S. states and five continents, spending time outdoors, and running with their Airedale Terrier, Archie. Deeply committed to her faith, Peterson encourages all to pray intentionally, act in faith, and trust that our Heavenly Father is always listening. #HeIsListening #FaithInChrist #Prayer #BYUHDevoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

David BearssChief Executive Officer of Halia TherapeuticsBrigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional David Bearss explores the relationship between science and faith, illustrating how the principles of quantum physics reflect eternal truths about divine light and connection with God. His message emphasizes that every soul is eternally linked to the Creator through the light of Christ, which transcends time and distance. He concludes with his testimony that God’s awareness and love remain constant and unbroken for all His children.“I testify that you are never alone. No matter how distant heaven might feel, no matter how complex your struggles, no matter how imperfect your faith, you are entangled with the Divine.”David Bearss is the Chief Executive Officer of Halia Therapeutics, a biotechnology company developing novel treatments for chronic inflammation and age-related diseases. He received his Ph.D. in Cell and Structural Biology from the University of Texas Health Science Center and completed postdoctoral training at the Institute for Drug Development in San Antonio, Texas.Prior to leading Halia, Bearss served as a faculty member at several institutions including Brigham Young University, the University of Utah, and the University of Arizona, where he mentored students and advanced translational research. Bearss has founded 8 biotechnology companies and has discovered 18 drugs that have advanced into clinical trials for cancer and many other diseases. A committed disciple of Jesus Christ, Bearss served in many callings in the church and served as a full-time missionary in the England London South Mission, an experience that continues to shape his personal and professional life. BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts. #LightOfChrist #DivineConnection #FaithInChrist #BYUHDevoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Brett OklandPresident, Okland ConstructionBYU–Hawaii Devotional October 28, 2025Brett Okland shares how "He shall direct our paths" and four spiritual rules to guide your life:     1: The journey is meant to be enjoyed.     2: Know that you are on your own unique path.     3: Keep pressing forward.     4: There is safety in your covenants.Brett Okland has served as President of Okland Construction, a fourth-generation family-owned company, since 2010. Under his leadership, the company continues to grow while remaining true to its purpose of “creating remarkable experiences. Brett and his wife, Kristen, are the parents of four children and one daughter-in-law. They love spending time together traveling, recreating, and playing tennis. Together, Brett and Kristen currently serve in a University of Utah Young Single Adult Ward.BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Sister Patricia S. HickenThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Mission Leader of the Hawaii Laie MissionBrigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (October 21, 2025) Sister Hicken compares a camel’s daily act of kneeling before its master to the way individuals can turn to Jesus Christ for relief from life’s burdens. She emphasizes that Christ, the Master, understands every person’s struggles and makes burdens lighter through His Atonement.“It is the Atonement of Jesus Christ that enables us to bear the burdens we carry and keep walking...” - Patricia S. Hicken Patricia Sumsion Hicken and President James Ray Hicken currently serve as Mission Leaders of the Hawaii Laie Mission. Before their mission, Patricia served as a Relief Society instructor. Together, they are the proud parents of three exceptional children and the delighted grandparents of five marvelous grandchildren who are the joy of their lives.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

President J. Ray HickenMission President of the Hawaii Laie MissionThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Brigham Young University–Hawaii President Hicken highlights the importance of personal epiphanies that strengthen conviction and commitment to Jesus Christ. He shows how moments of realization deepen discipleship and inspire greater devotion.Patricia S. Hicken and President J. Ray Hicken currently serve as Mission Leaders of the Hawaii Laie Mission. Together, they are the proud parents of three exceptional children and the delighted grandparents of five marvelous grandchildren who are the joy of their lives. President Hicken brings more than 25 years of experience in higher education and has held numerous leadership roles within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

David Fonoimoana teaches that weekly campus devotionals represent a sacred investment, inviting the campus community to pause and make space for spiritual growth. He emphasizes that attending these gatherings enables individuals to recognize God’s influence in daily life and professional choices. He encourages all to seek and follow spiritual promptings to help build the Lord’s Kingdom.“When we stop everything, classes, meetings, emails, projects, we create space for something eternal. It’s a moment for all of us – students, faculty, and staff – to refocus on the spiritual aspect of our campus.”David holds an MBA from the University of Hawaiʻi and a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Brigham Young University. Outside of work, he has served on the Laie Community Association board for the past five years, helping address local concerns and support the community he calls home. He currently serves as a Young Men’s leader in his ward and finds joy in mentoring youth both spiritually and professionally. He enjoys strengthening families, supporting students, and finding ways to turn everyday challenges into opportunities for growth.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Elder Jared V. OrmsbyArea Seventy, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day SaintsBrigham Young University–Hawaii DevotionalElder Jared V. Ormsby teaches that to know God and Jesus Christ is to act in faith, hear His voice, and live with covenant confidence. He outlines five principles: offering our hearts and receiving His grace, acting in faith and receiving His miracles, hearing His voice and receiving His plan, covenanting confidently and receiving His love, and remembering Him and receiving Him. As we do, we come to know Christ and discover our true identity as children of God."As we receive Christ, we not only come to know Him, but we also come to know our true identity as children of God, children of the covenant, and disciples of Jesus Christ." –Elder Jared V. OrmsbyElder Jared V. Ormsby was named an Area Seventy and a member of the Eighth Quorum of the Seventy at the April 2023 general conference. He has served as a full-time missionary in the Japan Nagoya Mission, high councilor, counselor in the New Zealand Wellington Mission presidency, and stake president. Professionally, he is a self-employed barrister with degrees in accounting and law from the University of Canterbury.Born in Auckland, New Zealand, on October 19, 1978, Elder Ormsby married Stephanie Farrington in 2005. They are the parents of three children and currently reside in Gold Coast, Australia. BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts. #ChooseChristDaily #ComeUntoChrist #StrengthInChrist #BYUHDevoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.