Just one day after International Women’s Day, women are still in the spotlight with a recent announcement from LDS Relief Society General President Linda K. Burton. Sister Burton posted on Facebook on Thursday, March 9, detailing updates to the Relief Society purpose.
Sister Burton said she and her presidency earnestly sought the Lord when they were newly called to know what He would have them focus on moving forward. The female leaders for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints took the guidance they received to create the updated Relief Society purpose, which has a new emphasis on the Atonement.
“We were impressed that He would first have us help His beloved daughters understand the doctrine of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, that their faith and righteousness might increase,” Sister Burton wrote on Facebook.
The updated Relief Society purpose has three goals:
- Increase faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and His Atonement
- Strengthen individuals, families, and homes through ordinances and covenants
- Work in unity to help those in need
The updated purpose isn’t a far stretch from the former purpose, though more specific. The former purpose said:
- Increase faith and personal righteousness
- Strengthen families and homes
- Seek out and help those in need
“We hope you will study and focus on the purpose of Relief Society and come to understand the divine identity and eternal work and purpose that each sister in Relief Society has,” Sister Burton wrote.
The updated Relief Society seal, bookmark and poster are all available online.