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Relief Society

“Relief Society,” True to the Faith (2004), 130–31

“Relief Society,” True to the Faith, 130–31

Relief Society

The Relief Society was founded by the Prophet Joseph Smith on March 17, 1842, in Nauvoo, Illinois. In the days of its founding, the Relief Society had two main purposes: to provide relief for the poor and needy and to save souls. The organization continues today, staying true to those original guiding principles. Throughout the world, sisters in the Relief Society work with priesthood holders to carry out the mission of the Church. They support one another as they:

  • Increase their testimonies of Jesus Christ through prayer and scripture study.

  • Seek spiritual strength by following the promptings of the Holy Ghost.

  • Dedicate themselves to strengthening marriages, families, and homes.

  • Find nobility in motherhood and joy in womanhood.

  • Delight in service and good works.

  • Love life and learning.

  • Stand for truth and righteousness.

  • Sustain the priesthood as the authority of God on the earth.

  • Rejoice in the blessings of the temple.

  • Understand their divine destiny and strive for exaltation.

If you are in the Relief Society, one way you can contribute to the mission of the organization is to accept an assignment to serve as a visiting teacher. As you visit and serve your assigned sisters, take time to teach the gospel and nurture friendships. In addition to serving individuals, you can play an important role in strengthening families.

Leaders in wards and branches ensure that visiting teachers are assigned to each sister age 18 or older. Priesthood and Relief Society leaders follow up with visiting teachers to help meet each sister’s spiritual and temporal needs.

As a sister in Relief Society, you are a member of a worldwide sisterhood, united in devotion to Jesus Christ. You join with other daughters of God as a woman of faith, virtue, vision, and charity, with the sure knowledge that your life has meaning, purpose, and direction. Through your participation in Relief Society, you have opportunities to enjoy sisterhood and companionship, give meaningful service, share your testimony and your talents, and grow spiritually.