How Church Organization Was Restored

“‘Organization is to go on step after step,’ [Joseph Smith] taught, ‘from one degree to another, just as the people increase and grow in the knowledge of the principles and laws of the kingdom of God, and as their borders shall extend.’” —Orson Pratt

Saints, “The Rise of the Church of Christ”

“On April 6, 1830, Joseph and Oliver met in the Whitmer home to follow the Lord’s commandment and organize His church.”

Restoring the Ancient Order

Key revelations outlined the ancient pattern for Church organization.

Quorum of the Twelve

“The New Testament church was ‘built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets.’”

Quorums of the Seventy

“The first members of the seventy were ordained on February 28, 1835, when Joseph Smith began to call and ordain special missionaries.”

The Relief Society in Nauvoo

“This Society shall rejoice and knowledge and intelligence shall flow down from this time.”

“Brigham Young called Eliza R. Snow to assist bishops in reestablishing local Relief Societies.”

“A standard program of Latter-day Saint Sunday School developed in Utah Territory beginning in 1849.”

Young Women Organizations

The Young Women organization affords young women “opportunities for recreation, education, enjoyment of the cultural arts, and spiritual growth.”

Young Men Organizations

“We want to have our young men … organized … so that we can put our hands upon them at any time for any service that may be required.”

“In early 1878 Aurelia Spencer Rogers was concerned about the unruly behavior of many young boys in her community.”

Adjustments to Priesthood Organization

“Throughout Church history, Presidents of the Church have addressed the needs and opportunities of the growing Church by adjusting the organization of the priesthood.”