Newly Released Hymns Include One Written by President Nelson

The newest update to Hymns—For Home and Church carries a particularly personal offering: “Our Prayer to Thee,” with lyrics written by President Russell M. Nelson. First shared with members in the Ensign (now Liahona) in 2003 and sung in general conference sessions in 2018 and 2022, the hymn now takes its place among the sacred music of the Church of Jesus Christ, destined to be sung in homes and chapels across the world.

Strengthening Worship Across Generations

This latest release adds 12 hymns in English, with translations in Spanish, Portuguese, and French, bringing the total number of hymns in these languages to 60. An additional 15 hymns are now available in German, Korean, and Tagalog, increasing the total in those languages to 37.

All selections are available digitally through the Church’s online Music Library, Gospel Library, and Sacred Music app.

The new hymns are:

• “Thou Gracious God, Whose Mercy Lends”
• “Help Us Remember”
• “How Did the Savior Minister”
• “Jesus Is the Way”
• “Can You Count the Stars in Heaven?”
• “He Cares for Me”
• “Our Prayer to Thee”
• “Joseph Prayed in Faith”
• “Stand by Me”
• “This Day Is a Good Day, Lord”
• “Go Tell It on the Mountain”
• “Little Baby in a Manger”

President Nelson’s Words in Song

“Our Prayer to Thee” holds a sacred place for many Latter-day Saints. Its heartfelt text speaks to the petitions of disciples who turn to God in faith. Emily Winters, 18, who recorded the hymn for this release, called it “very sacred, talking about us and God. It’s a beautiful representation of our relationship.”

Music as a Witness of Christ

Elder Matthew L. Carpenter of the Seventy, an adviser to the hymnbook committee, emphasized the role these hymns play in discipleship. “Our hope is that people will feel the Spirit when they sing these songs, that they will become part of their testimonies,” he said.

Youth involved in the recordings echoed that sentiment. Katie Giles, 14, encouraged listeners to “just let the Spirit come to you when you listen.” Jake Despain, 15, added, “I would encourage people to really take in the meaning of these hymns. The lyrics are beautiful.” Naomi Perkin, 19, shared how sacred music helps her feel God’s love: “Having spiritual music to guide you is so helpful. It helps me — and I know it helps others — feel God’s love throughout our lives.”

Teaching Children, Strengthening Youth

Primary General President Susan H. Porter, who serves on the hymnbook committee, testified of the power of sacred music in the lives of children. “We want every child to feel the joy of singing songs that teach of Jesus Christ and His gospel,” she said. “The beautiful melodies and lyrics will stay in their hearts and minds throughout their lives, helping children desire to be disciples of Jesus Christ.”

President Timothy Farnes, Young Men General President, echoed her words. “I am grateful for the hymns of the Church. Hymns invite the Spirit into our meetings and into our lives,” he said. “They can be a form of protection and praise or a source of comfort and healing. Jesus Christ prepared for His greatest sacrifice and suffering using the influence of music.”

A Worldwide Collection of Praise

This update also highlights the global reach of sacred music. “Jesus Is the Way” is drawn from the Tongan hymnbook, “Can You Count the Stars in Heaven?” is a beloved German children’s song, and “Stand by Me” and “Go Tell It on the Mountain” are African American spirituals treasured across Christianity. These additions reflect the truth that faith in Christ transcends borders and cultures, uniting disciples in a single voice of praise.

Looking Ahead

The Church is also preparing for new ways to experience music. Beginning in October 2025, members will be able to create playlists of hymns in the Gospel Library app. The Sacred Music app will retire in January 2026, with its features integrated into Gospel Library. Members signed into both apps with their Church Account will see their playlists synced.

An Offering of Praise

For Latter-day Saints everywhere, this release offers both continuity and freshness. President Nelson’s hymn joins new selections that will shape the worship of a rising generation. As Elder Carpenter reflected, these hymns are “designed to help us overcome temptation, worship God, and feel peace, hope, and joy.”

Sacred music bears testimony of Jesus Christ in ways words alone cannot. This release reminds disciples that when voices are lifted together — in any language, in any land — the Lord receives their song as an offering of love and devotion.

Which of the new hymns are you most excited to learn and sing? Share with us in the comments!

Holly Wallace

Holly Wallace is a writer and storyteller drawn to meaningful questions and overlooked details. Her work explores Latter-day Saint life and culture through faithful inquiry, inviting readers to pause, consider, and engage more deeply with what matters most.