What should I know about the Restoration of the Church?

From “The Message of the Restoration,” Ensign, May 2007, 85–88.

Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shares some of his thoughts on this subject.

The First Vision

This vision revealed unto us that God our Father and Jesus Christ, His Beloved Son, are two separate personages. Each has a body of flesh and bones that is glorified and perfected.

The Book of Mormon

This ancient volume of holy scriptures is a sacred companion to the Bible, containing the fulness of the everlasting gospel of Jesus Christ. It also provides convincing evidence to the world that Joseph Smith is truly a prophet of God.

The Priesthood

The keys of the priesthood have been restored to man, with the power to seal on earth and in the heavens.

The Church of Jesus Christ

Joseph [Smith] was commanded to formally organize the Church. … Thus the Church of Jesus Christ was again in existence on the earth to bless mankind with the doctrines and teachings of the Savior. This Church was organized according to the plan the Lord had established anciently.

We declare to the world that the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ has been restored to the earth. … We invite all to listen to the message of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.

The First Vision © Gary Kapp—do not copy; Gold Plates © 1991 IRI; Elder L. Tom Perry © 2004 IRI; The Restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood by Del Parson, © 1984 IRI; Organization of the Church © Robert Barrett—do not copy