Every year The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chooses a new youth theme, which is normally accompanied by a music album of songs that support the theme.
For the year 2021, the theme is “A Great Work.” The theme is based on the scripture found in Doctrine and Covenants 64:33-34, “Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great. Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind.”
The 15-track music album, “A Great Work,” is available online and can be streamed on the Sacred Music app, Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube under the artist “Strive to Be.” The complete album can also be downloaded and is available on Gospel Library under Music. “
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, production of the 2021 youth theme music video and some music has been delayed. More music is scheduled for the first quarter of 2021. The video will be released during the 2021 Youth Music Festival on 17 March 2021. Language versions of the album will be added as they become available.
During the first weekend of its release, the album of songs written and composed by Latter-day Saint music artist Nik Day and performed by both Latter-day Saint youth and young adults, reached #8 in the Christian Music chart on iTunes.
Speaking about the song, “A Great Work,” Kimberly Knighton Zundel, who sings the acoustic version on the album, said the song “is so empowering and reminds me of the incredible trust Heavenly Father has in each one of us.” She added that throughout the challenges of 2020, she often felt depressed about the world situation. She said, “I’m grateful for the hope I felt as I sang the lyrics ‘this is a part of His grand design.’ It reminded me that, yes, the last days will be hard, but they are also going to be the greatest, and it was planned to be that way.”
“For the Strength of Youth” magazine and Gospel Living app will also feature stories that inspire youth to “Lay a Foundation.” In an article introducing the 2021 youth theme, the Young Women and Young Men general presidencies said that “[Latter-day Saint youth] are having a powerful influence on those around them by just quietly being true disciples of Jesus Christ. They are developing their talents and helping their families succeed. … As we trust in Jesus Christ and seek to do His will, we make a difference!” (“A Great Work,” “For the Strength of Youth,” January 2021, p.20).
