In a significant update to the general conference schedule, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced the discontinuation of the Saturday evening session starting from April 2026. This change, effective from the next biannual event, reflects the church's decision to intensify the focus on the remaining four general conference sessions. The First Presidency, in a statement on November 19, 2025, highlighted the evolution of the conference from its modest beginnings in 1830, with 27 attendees, to its current global reach, broadcasted in 98 languages.
The decision to discontinue the Saturday evening session is part of a broader effort by the First Presidency to enhance the spiritual impact of the general conference. The evening session, traditionally known for its spiritual messages, has been a staple for decades, but the church now aims to concentrate its resources and focus on the other sessions. This shift will allow for a more streamlined and impactful general conference experience.
Historically, the Saturday evening session has been a time for specific messages, often targeted towards the priesthood. According to a news release, the Saturday evening session has been changed several times over the years, with adjustments made in 2021, which showcases the adaptability of the church. For example, in 2021, there was a change to discontinue the sessions, but it was later reinstated due to the evolving needs of the church membership.
The upcoming changes will see the general conference structured around four daytime sessions, which will be held on both Saturday and Sunday. This format is expected to provide a more cohesive and enriching experience for members worldwide. The decision to discontinue the Saturday evening session underscores the church's commitment to refining its approach to general conference and ensuring that the messages delivered are both meaningful and impactful.
Members of the church have reacted with a mix of curiosity and understanding, recognizing the need for such adjustments to keep the general conference relevant and engaging. The church's leadership continues to emphasize the importance of the general conference in providing spiritual guidance and direction to its global community. Through this restructuring, the church aims to deliver more focused and impactful messages to its members.
The Saturday evening session of the 195th Semiannual General Conference, held on October 4–5, 2025, will be among the last to feature the Saturday evening session before the change takes effect in April 2026. The First Presidency's decision to discontinue the Saturday evening session is part of a broader effort to refine and enhance the general conference experience for members worldwide. By focusing on four daytime sessions, the church aims to create a more cohesive and impactful event that better serves the spiritual needs of its global community.
