by Jared Harding Wilson
Every New Year, my wife and I love hosting a big New Year’s Eve party at our home. We invite lots of friends over for crafts, games, laughter, and good food with music and of course fireworks 🎆 at the end. One of our favorite traditions comes from my wife’s mission in Peru 🇵🇪—building and burning a large muñeco (a doll or effigy) that represents the old year. Everyone writes down things they want to let go of—maybe heartache from a lost job, a bad habit, or pain from a breakup—and tucks the paper inside. At midnight, we burn it together, symbolically releasing the past and making room for new beginnings.
After that, we shift to hope and growth: writing goals for the coming year, choosing a family “word” or phrase to focus on (like “Consistency,” “Healthy Habits,” or “Charity”), and creating a beautiful poster to hang up all year. We also make vision boards with magazine cutouts representing our dreams and aspirations. These traditions help us reflect, let go, and invite the Spirit as we step into a fresh start.
I like turning to inspiring quotes from prophets and apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Their words ground our goals in faith and remind us to center everything on Jesus Christ. Whether you’re setting New Year’s resolutions or seeking spiritual motivation, these LDS New Year quotes will uplift you as we welcome 2026.
1. President Russell M. Nelson
“Resolve to strengthen your spiritual foundation this year. You might consider resolving to temple worship more frequently.”
President Nelson invites us to make temple attendance a priority, drawing us closer to the Savior and strengthening our faith for the new year.
2. President Russell M. Nelson
“The joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives.”
Focusing on Jesus Christ brings true joy, no matter what challenges the new year may bring.
3. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland
“The past is to be learned from but not lived in. … Look ahead and remember that faith is always pointed toward the future.”
This reminds us to leave behind regrets and move forward with faith in Christ’s Atonement and plan for us.
4. President Thomas S. Monson
“The past is behind, learn from it. The future is ahead, prepare for it. The present is here, live it.”
A timeless call to live fully in the moment while preparing spiritually for what’s ahead.
5. President Russell M. Nelson
“Resolve to be kind to others. … Eliminate contention in our lives.”
Kindness and peace, as taught by the Savior, can be a powerful New Year’s resolution.
6. Elder Neil L. Andersen
“Faith is not by chance, but by choice.”
Choose faith in Jesus Christ daily as we step into a new year filled with unknowns.
7. President Henry B. Eyring
“Through all of our various [traditions], I hope that we are focused first upon the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Center your New Year goals on the Savior for lasting peace and direction.
8. President Russell M. Nelson
“Now is the time to align our goals with God’s goals.”
Make your resolutions eternal by seeking what Heavenly Father desires for you.
9. Elder Dallin H. Oaks
“As we look to this new year, let us start looking forward to Easter and the Resurrection of Jesus Christ—the most glorious of all messages to mankind.”
Hope in the Resurrection gives us strength and optimism for the future.
10. President Thomas S. Monson
“Choose your love. Love your choice.”
Commit to loving the path of discipleship, choosing daily to follow the Savior.
These inspirational Latter-day Saint quotes for the New Year testify of the hope and renewal found in Jesus Christ. As we set goals for 2026—whether improving habits, serving others, or deepening scripture study—let us remember that true progress comes through Him.
I bear testimony that Jesus Christ is our Savior, the source of all light and hope. Through His Atonement, we can repent, change, and become better each day. May 2026 be a year of spiritual growth and joy as we follow the living prophet and draw nearer to Him.
Happy New Year! May the Savior’s peace fill your heart and home. 🙏
I’d love to hear about your own New Year’s Eve or New Year traditions—what do you and your family do to let go of the old and welcome the new? Drop a comment below and share your favorite ways to celebrate!
Temple photos by Jared Harding Wilson. All rights reserved.
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