Against the velvet sky, a star, brighter than the rest, and newer, hangs steady. The light it spills is otherworldly, and it's as though the firmament has been pierced. Awash in the star’s unceasing luminescence, a small brotherhood forges across the desert. These men follow the light of one sun in search of another. The desert is unforgiving, and their textile packs hold just the bare essentials. But nestled between the food and water, bound up in liquid-soft silk, are gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Little do they know that the greatest gift ever given—an eternal one—awaits them. It’s a gift to all who ever have lived or ever will. It’s a gift that is available to all and is infinite in its power. The Christ child is born.
Each December, we celebrate this ultimate gift by giving gifts of our own. From candy canes to cars, sapphires to service projects, Christmas is a time of giving. With each gift selflessly given, we emulate the eternal Giver just a little bit more.
But what if we could give eternal gifts, and what if we gave them year-round?
At BYU Continuing Education, that’s exactly what we’ve been seeing. Over the course of 2025, generous donors have given the gift of lifelong learning to so many, from young dance enthusiasts to Women’s Conference attendees. This selfless financial aid has enlightened minds, encouraged growth, and expanded opportunity. In short, it’s changed lives.
This Christmas, we want to thank our donors and recognize the impact they’ve had.
Here’s what financial aid recipients had to say this year:
BYU Vocal and Choral Institute
“With the help of faculty members, I was able to realize my potential to become not only a good musician, but an effective force for good. I believe that music has the power to soften hearts and change lives, just like it has changed mine.”
BYU Musicians’ SummerFestival (Bass)
“Working with Dr. Hansen, the bass professor at BYU, was one of the best parts of the camp. I learned so much, and now I can probably ask him for a letter of recommendation when I start applying to colleges. That opportunity might not have happened without this camp.”
BYU Musicians’ Institute and SummerFestival (piano)
“This year, I found new motivation and learned how to practice more efficiently and effectively, a crucial skill for a musician. It was inspiring to be surrounded by others who share my passion and to feel supported in my goal to pursue piano performance as a career.”
BYU Ballet Summer Workshop
“That week, I was surrounded by good people who uplifted me and helped me become a better person. I felt the Spirit throughout the intensive, and the teachers not only trained me to be a better dancer but brought me closer to God.”
“I see ballet as a gift from God, and dancing is a way I honor Him. At BYU’s intensive, I felt His love deeply. It reminded me how much He cares about the things we care about and how dance can be a form of worship.”
Contemporary Dance Intensive
“Performing five pieces in four days was a huge challenge, but an unforgettable one. That moment reminded me why I love this art form so much. It inspired me to keep creating and sharing through dance.”
BYU Sketch Comedy Workshop
“The BYU Sketch Comedy Workshop worked my rear end off, in the best way. I’ve never felt so fulfilled. Two weeks packed with writing, performing, and learning among peers who love what I love was life-changing.”
BYU Youth Ballroom
“Performing at the BYU Nationals event was unforgettable. The hours of practice and teamwork showed me what perseverance and unity can create. Representing the program and seeing the joy on the audience’s faces reminded me why I love to dance.”
“Our Junior Latin team took first place at nationals! It was an incredible feeling to stand there with my teammates, knowing how far we’d come. That moment made me determined to keep dancing and someday earn a spot on the BYU A team.”
EFY in Moab
“River rafting was my favorite activity because the rapids were fun, and it taught me something. Life has obstacles, but we can make it through them if we stay on the covenant path. That lesson will stay with me.”
“During a reflection activity, I couldn’t think of anything to say until the Spirit helped me realize how God had guided me all along, like keeping me on the mountain biking trail. It was a powerful moment that reminded me how loved I am.”
EFY Special Edition—Nauvoo
“Going to the Nauvoo Temple, where my parents were sealed, helped me feel connected to their roots and my own. This experience helped strengthen my testimony and gave me a new perspective on my spiritual journey.”
Life After Loss
“After my sister died, I often felt isolated and lonely. Being at camp with others who are grieving—who also belong to the Church—lifted that burden. I now feel better prepared to help others who are hurting, too.”
BYU InterMuse Academy
“I was stretched to my limits, and at times I felt discouraged, but by the end of the two weeks, I couldn’t believe how much I had grown. I left transformed and excited to use my new training at church, in my studio, and hopefully at my children’s school.”
“Our young family is juggling medical expenses from our son’s surgeries, so receiving this scholarship meant everything. It allowed me to fully invest in the program without extra stress. I’ll carry that gift with me as I develop a folk song curriculum for Latter-day Saint classrooms.”
These comments reflect the true impact of the gift of lifelong learning. This financial aid isn’t a temporary convenience; it’s generosity that has developed talents, broadened perspectives, and brought recipients closer to God. The impact of these donors and their generosity will have a generational—an eternal—impact.
Merry Christmas! How can you give eternal gifts?