“Baptism Is a Joyful Gift,” Friend, January 2026, 2–3.
From the Primary Presidency
Baptism Is a Joyful Gift
I once spoke with a boy who was nervous about being baptized. He was worried that he would be responsible for all his sins.
I told him that baptism is a joyful gift, and he didn’t need to be afraid. Once you are baptized, Heavenly Father can help you more! President Nelson taught that when you are baptized and make a covenant with God, He will never give up on helping you. Heavenly Father invites you to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost to guide you when you are confirmed. And when you make a wrong choice, you can repent and be forgiven because Heavenly Father’s Son, Jesus Christ, already paid the price for your sins.
What a blessing that Heavenly Father invites you at age eight to make a covenant with Him so He can bless you even more! So much joy awaits you as you take this step to follow Jesus Christ.
When I Am Baptized, I Can …
Remember my baptism promises as I take the sacrament.
Have the Holy Ghost with me always.
Belong to the Church of Jesus Christ.
Take Jesus Christ’s name upon me and follow Him each day.
Illustrations by Bryan Beach