In a significant event for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, President Dallin H. Oaks delivered his inaugural devotional address as the church's president on Tuesday, October 10, 2023. The event took place at Brigham Young University (BYU), a private university located in Provo, Utah, that is owned and operated by the church. This marked a pivotal moment for both Oaks and the university, as he sought to connect with the thousands of students in attendance and set the tone for his presidency. President Oaks, who became the church's leader in July 2023 following the passing of President Russell M. Nelson, emphasized the importance of faith, resilience, and community in his address. As students filled the Marriott Center, a venue that seats over 20,000, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Oaks, who has served in various church leadership roles for decades, spoke about the challenges faced by young adults today, including mental health issues, societal pressures, and the need for personal integrity. "In a world filled with distractions and uncertainties, it is vital to hold fast to the principles of faith and service," Oaks stated during his speech. He urged students to prioritize their spiritual growth and to seek guidance from their faith as they navigate the complexities of modern life. He referenced the teachings of Jesus Christ, encouraging students to emulate His example of love, compassion, and service to others. The address not only marked a personal milestone for Oaks but also represented a continuation of the church's tradition of holding devotionals that inspire and uplift students. BYU, known for its strong commitment to fostering spiritual development alongside academic excellence, has hosted numerous church leaders over the years. This event was particularly significant, as it was Oaks' first opportunity to directly engage with a large audience since assuming the presidency. Oaks addressed the importance of mental health, acknowledging that many students struggle with anxiety and depression. He emphasized the role of community in promoting well-being, stating, "It is essential to create an environment where we uplift and support one another. In times of distress, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness." He encouraged students to utilize campus resources, such as counseling services and peer support groups, to maintain their mental health and to foster a sense of belonging within the university community. The event also included musical performances from BYU students, which added to the uplifting atmosphere. The choir performed several hymns that resonated with Oaks' messages of hope and resilience, reinforcing the spiritual themes of his address. The combination of music and powerful words served to create a memorable experience for those in attendance. Reactions from students varied, with many expressing gratitude for Oaks' perspective. Sarah Johnson, a junior studying psychology, remarked, "I really appreciated his focus on mental health. It’s refreshing to hear a leader talk about it so openly, especially in a faith-based setting. It makes me feel like I'm not alone in my struggles." As part of his address, Oaks also shared personal stories from his life that illustrated the importance of service and community engagement. He recalled his experiences working with diverse groups and how those interactions shaped his understanding of empathy and compassion. This personal touch resonated with students, many of whom are eager to make a difference in their own communities. The devotional concluded with a call to action, urging students to not only strengthen their own faith but to become active participants in their communities. Oaks reminded attendees that service to others is not just a church teaching but a fundamental aspect of being a responsible and engaged citizen. His closing remarks were met with enthusiastic applause, highlighting the positive reception of his message. As President Oaks continues his presidency, his connection to youth and emphasis on mental health and community support will likely shape the church's outreach efforts. This first devotional at BYU set a hopeful tone for his leadership, signaling a commitment to addressing contemporary issues while upholding the core values of the faith. The event not only reaffirmed Oaks' vision for the church but also strengthened the bonds between its leadership and the younger generation of church members. In summary, President Dallin H. Oaks' first devotional address at BYU was a compelling and impactful event that addressed the pressing issues faced by students today. His focus on faith, mental health, and community support resonated deeply, marking a significant start to his presidency. With students eager for guidance and inspiration, Oaks' leadership appears poised to engage and uplift the church's youth in meaningful ways.