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When the Prophet Joseph Smith organized the Relief Society he taught that this organization was part of the Restoration and was organized for “the relief of the poor, the destitute, the widow and the orphan” (History of the Church, 4:567). In addition he taught that the Relief Society was “not only to relieve the poor, but to save souls” (History of the Church, 5:25). This is our purpose. |
As sisters in Relief Society today, we have a rich and faithful heritage. More than 165 years have passed since the Prophet Joseph Smith met with a small group in Nauvoo, Illinois, to organize the women of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We now number over five and a half million Relief Society sisters in 170 countries across the earth. Like those who preceded us, we stand today united in faith, steadfast in following the living prophet, and committed to building the kingdom of God.
Those founding sisters came from different circumstances—three of them were in their late teens, some were raising families, and others were single. Then and now, as women of all ages, marital statuses, and cultures, we consecrate ourselves to the cause of Christ through our service.
- Boyd K. Packer, “The Relief Society,” Ensign, May 1998, 72–74.
- Boyd K. Packer, “The Circle of Sisters,” Ensign, Nov. 1980, 109–111.
- Dallin H. Oaks, “The Relief Society and the Church,” Ensign, May 1992, 34–37.
- “The Founding of Relief Society,” Ensign, Mar 1992, 57.
- Heidi S. Swinton and LaRene Gaunt, “The Relief Society Building: A Symbol of Service and Sacrifice,” Ensign, Sept. 2006, 54–57.
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Serving in the Church
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