Mormon Church

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. (more…)