The Relief Society

(This article was inspired by Boyd K. Packer)

Many women today question and criticize the Church because they think that women aren't important or don't have a role in the Church.  Well they haven't heard of the Relief Society.

The Relief Society was established in 1842, when Emma Smith and other female members asked Joseph Smith if women have a role in the Church as well as the men.  Joseph prayed and received a revelation.   He later told the women;
“You will receive instructions through the order of the Priesthood which God has established, through the medium of those appointed to … direct the affairs of the Church in this last dispensation; and I now turn the key in your behalf in the name of the Lord, and this Society shall rejoice, and knowledge and intelligence shall flow down from this time henceforth” (History of the Church)

The official purpose of Relief Society is to prepare women for the blessings of eternal life by helping them increase their faith and personal righteousness, strengthen families and homes, and help those in need. Relief Society accomplishes these purposes through Sunday gospel instruction, other Relief Society meetings, visiting teaching, and welfare and compassionate service.  

The Relief Society right now has over 6 million members in over 170 countries and territories.