Tracy Y. Browning has reflected on her historic role as the first Black woman to serve in a churchwide presidency in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She also leads the global children’s ministry through the Primary General Presidency.
She shared her experience while speaking at a major women’s conference in New York. The event gathered about 2,000 people in person and many more across regional broadcast locations. Her remarks focused on faith, service, and learning through leadership.
Browning said her time in leadership has felt meaningful and unexpected. She described it as a “miraculous” experience shaped by service and trust in God’s direction.
Women Central to Ministry of Jesus Christ LDS Church Message in New York Gathering
At the “Onward, Ever Onward” women’s conference in New York City, Browning emphasized that women played a central role in the ministry of Jesus Christ. She said women were active followers who supported and served alongside him.
She explained that women were not on the margins of Christ’s work. Instead, they were partners in ministry. She said, “He noticed women … healed women … trusted women … and welcomed women among his followers.”
Browning also pointed to biblical examples such as Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna. She said their contributions show that even small offerings can become meaningful in the hands of Jesus Christ.
Leadership in Primary General Presidency and Global Children Ministry Focus
Browning currently serves as second counselor in the Primary General Presidency, which oversees children’s programs worldwide in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She will complete her service in August.
She highlighted the importance of children in the church. She said children have real capacity for discipleship and spiritual commitment. According to her, covenants made at age eight are as meaningful as those made later in life.
Browning also said the church should feel inclusive for children. Her team worked to make children more visible in prayers, speaking roles, and service opportunities. She said this helps children feel they truly belong in their faith community.
Call Experience and Surprise Appointment to Churchwide Leadership
Browning shared that her appointment to churchwide leadership came as a surprise. She said she had been focused on other areas of church service before receiving the call.
She recalled sitting with her husband while waiting to meet church president Russell M. Nelson. During that moment, she read scripture about Jesus loving children. That moment shifted her understanding of her future role.
She said she thought at first it had nothing to do with her current service. However, she later learned she was being called to serve in the Primary General Presidency. She said she had never served in Primary before, but accepted the responsibility with faith.
Future Plans After Stepping Down from LDS Children Ministry Role
Browning is set to step down from her role in August. She said she does not have fixed plans for what comes next. Instead, she expects continued direction through faith and service.
She said, “We will just move on to the next thing that the Lord has in store.” Her focus remains open to future assignments and opportunities.
Her reflections suggest a continued commitment to service within her faith community. She emphasized trust in spiritual guidance as she transitions from her current leadership role.
