February Visiting Teach Message
The History and Heritage of Relief Society

Eliza R. Snow recalled the Prophet Joseph Smith teaching that “although the name [Relief Society] may be of modern date, the institution is of ancient origin.” ¹

Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, visited Joseph Smith and, through him, restored the fulness of the gospel to the earth. Relief Society was part of that restoration. The organization of the Church was not complete until the sisters were organized. ²

In the coming months, each Visiting Teaching Message will give us the opportunity to learn more about the history of Relief Society and its part in the restored gospel. For many reasons, understanding our history is not only important but essential.

First, an understanding of our history inspires us to be the women of God we need to be. By following the examples of noble Latter-day Saint women, we can learn from the past how to face the future. ³

Second, our history teaches that the same principles that existed in the early Church are our foundational principles today. This knowledge and our purposes—to increase faith and personal righteousness, strengthen families and homes, and help those in need—draw a connection between our past and our present.

Third, as we value our history, we can better share our spiritual heritage. President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency, said: “You pass the heritage along as you help others receive the gift of charity. … The history of Relief Society is recorded in words and numbers, but the heritage is passed heart to heart.” ⁴

Finally, understanding our history helps make us an effective part of the future of Relief Society. President Spencer W. Kimball (1895–1985) explained, “We know that women who have deep appreciation for the past will be concerned about shaping a righteous future.” ⁵

Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.

Stonewood 5^th Ward Relief Society
“Come Unto Christ”
*********************************************************************
“Learn of me, and listen to my words: walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me.”
-Doctrine and Covenants 19:23
********************************************************************
Lesson Schedule
January 30^th: Relief Society/Priesthood Combined
February 6^th: Presidency Message, by Louise Lyman
February 13^th: Lesson 26 “Sacrifice”, by Karen Hoag
February 20^th: Lesson 27 “Work and Personal Responsibility”, by Joanne Arroyo
February 27^th: Teachings of our Times “Pride and the Priesthood”, by Yvonne Glenn
*********************************************************************
Announcements
Book Club: Wednesday, February 2^nd
Lunch Bunch: Tuesday, February 8^th @ 11:30am held at the Sizzler in Orem. Everyone is invited, especially those who have birthdays in the month of February. Call Bonnie Williams with any questions, 801-221-7720
Visiting Teaching Conference: Wednesday, February 9^th @ 6:30pm. The theme will be “Follow the Path of Thy Feet”.
*********************************************************************
Visit our Blog: www.stonewood5rs.blogspot.com
Email and announcement: stonewood5rs@gmail.com
Walk Around the World: www.stonewoodstake.com/walk
walk.stonewoodstake.com

Birthdays

Feb 2^nd:
Raylynn Marvel

Feb 4^th:
Helen Dixon
Alicia Kidman

Feb 7^th:
Heather Best

Feb 19^th:
Tatiana Leao

Feb 20^th:
Irene Redford

Feb 23^rd:
Jennifer Aidukaitis

Feb 28^th:
Jennifer Dracoulis