What is the Relief Society?
What is the Relief Society?
Personal Response by Bethany
The Relief Society is an organization including all female Church members ages 18 and older. The Relief Society was founded in Nauvoo, Illinois by the Prophet Joseph Smith on March 17, 1842. At that time, it served for two main purposes which were to provide relief for the poor and needy and to bring people to Christ; these purposes stand the same today.
Joseph Smith personally instructed the women in the same gospel principles he taught the men, with particular emphasis on humility, charity, and unity and also introduced them to sacred doctrines relating to temple worship. This instruction set the pattern for meetings in which women could talk about religious principles and testify of their faith in the restored gospel.
As recorded in the Encyclopedia of Mormonism, “An integral part of the Church organization, the Relief Society, functions in close connection with, rather than independent of, the ecclesiastical priesthood structure. Ward Relief Society presidents work with bishops, stake Relief Society presidents, with stake presidents, and the general Relief Society presidency, with designated General Authorities.” The Relief Society and the priesthood work side-by-side as a companionship. It brings women into the formal structure of the Church and gives them significant responsibility and authority.
On a world-wide basis, sisters in the Relief Society support one another and the priesthood as they: Increase their testimonies of Jesus Christ through prayer and scripture study; seek spiritual strength by following the promptings of the Holy Ghost; dedicate themselves to strengthening marriages, families, and homes; find nobility in motherhood and joy in womanhood; delight in service and good works; love life and learning; stand for truth and righteousness; sustain the priesthood as the authority of God on the earth; rejoice in the blessings of the temple; understand their divine destiny and strive for exaltation.
As a member of the Relief Society I take joy from the opportunities I have to give meaningful service and I benefit from the sisterhood and companionship that it provides. I grow spiritually as testimonies and talents are shared and I am so grateful for the blessings that I receive by being a part of this inspired organization.
Tags: mormon, Relief, Society, women
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