The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was organized in the Peter and Mary Whitmer home in Fayette, New York, on April 6, 1830. Doctrine and Covenants 20 reveals the Lord’s desires for the newly restored Church. This lesson is intended to help students understand the significance of the Savior’s Church.
Possible Learning Activities
The importance of a church
Imagine that while discussing with your friends what you did over the weekend, you mentioned attending church. One of your friends replied: “I don’t mean to be rude, but I don’t understand the point of organized religion. Do you really feel like you need a church to feel close to God and be a good person?”
Why do you think some people don’t see the need for organized religion?
How would your life be different without the Church of Jesus Christ?
The organization of the Church of Christ
Eleven days after the Book of Mormon was published, on April 6, 1830, the Church of Christ was organized. The organization took place in the home of Peter and Mary Whitmer in Fayette, New York. To satisfy the legal requirement, six people were chosen to become the first members of the new church. Around 40 others were also present to witness this momentous occasion. Later, in 1838, the Lord revealed the name of the Church as we know it today: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Why do you think the Savior would want His Church on the earth?
Encourage learners to share truths they are learning: The following section of the lesson gives students a chance to ponder and then share what they are learning. For more practice on this, see the training titled “Help students create or begin gospel conversations,” found in Teacher Development Skills: Invite Diligent Learning.
After students have had sufficient time to complete the handout, remind them of the scenario from the beginning of the lesson. Then give them the following instructions:
Using what you have learned today, create a response to help someone who does not understand the need for the Savior’s Church upon the earth. If desired, the following questions could help guide you:
What does The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have to offer that no other organization can give us?
How does the Savior’s Church help us learn of Him and come unto Him?
How has being a member of the Savior’s Church blessed your life?
After students have had sufficient time to prepare their responses, give them an opportunity to share with another student. A few willing students could also share their responses with the entire class.
Conclude the lesson by testifying of the truths you have studied today.