Friend
An Easter Invitation
April 2025


“An Easter Invitation,” Friend, April 2025, 2–3.

From the First Presidency

An Easter Invitation

Adapted from “Forgiving Others: An Easter Message from President Russell M. Nelson” (video), Gospel Library.

Image of Jesus Christ

This Easter, I have been thinking about one of the last moments of the Savior’s life on earth. As He was crucified on Calvary’s cross, the Redeemer said these words: “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).

There is nothing easy about forgiving. But when we choose to forgive, we let the Lord soothe and soften our hearts. This allows us to see others, especially those who have wronged us, as children of God and our brothers and sisters.

Image of two brothers hugging in a bedroom

My dear friends, I invite you to think and pray about if there is someone you should forgive. I can think of no better way to honor Jesus Christ this Easter. I promise that as you forgive, the Prince of Peace will bring you peace.

Jesus Christ is risen. He loves you. And because of Him, you can experience the joy and miracle of forgiveness.

Counting Down to Easter

Do an activity for each day leading up to Easter to help you think of Jesus Christ. After you do each activity, color in a flower.

Palm Sunday

Sing or read the words to “Jesus Has Risen” (page 18).

Monday

Tell a favorite story about Jesus Christ.

Tuesday

Read John 11:25.

Wednesday

Serve someone, like the Savior did.

Thursday

Sing or listen to “Gethsemane” (Hymns—For Home and Church, no. 1009).

Good Friday

Read the Easter message on page 2.

Saturday

Read 3 Nephi 11:9–17.

Easter Sunday

Do the Easter program on page 24 to tell the Easter story.

Article PDF plus coloring activity

Illustrations by Róisín Hahessy