Monument Funding a Worldwide Effort

Sisters around the world are uniting their imaginations and energies as the dream of a Relief Society monument in Nauvoo moves toward reality. The Zurich Switzerland Stake planned a special program, with proceeds to be donated to the fund. Stake Relief Society President Heidy Kaspar and Stake President Hans Ringger got double duty out of the event by stressing its missionary potential as well.

Wilford Ward, Saint Anthony Idaho Stake, sent in a contribution of almost $100, collected only days before the collapse of the Teton Dam completely destroyed the homes of thirty-four of the fifty-three contributors. Relief Society President Rayola Birch commented, “The sisters need Relief Society now more than they ever did in their lives, and they want it, too. We are so thankful we didn’t procrastinate any longer in completing this project.”

The sale of a Bicentennial quilt (Washington, D.C.) and the proceeds from a Bicentennial musical, “Patriots in Pinafores” (Las Vegas), also went to swell the coffers.

Possibly the most touching contribution, sent from Northern Ireland, was accompanied by a handwritten note: “Although we are not members of your Church, we would deem it an honour if you would accept the small contribution to the cost of the Nauvoo Monument which we have enclosed.”

Florence Hansen adds a final touch to her sharing-our-talents grouping. The full-size statue will be one of thirteen pieces in Nauvoo. (Photography by Eldon Linschoten.)