Continuing our summary of the general women’s conference broadcast which aired last Saturday night, we take a look at Sister Barbara Thompson’s address, entitled, “Now Let Us Rejoice.” This topic was very appropriate for the second counselor in the general Relief Society presidency, herself being an enthusiastic woman.
Sister Thompson began her address by stating that Relief Society is evidence of God’s love for His daughters. She reminds us of Joseph Smith’s declaration that “the Church was never perfect until the women were organized.” These early sisters went from home to home, administering to the needs of the families under their care, in an early form of visiting teaching. Today, our calling is similar, to reach out to those who might need an uplifting hand or a smile, perhaps even more.
Relief Society is not just a class we attend on Sunday, and membership is not just an obligation to serve. It’s also an admonition for us to learn and grow. Just as Emma was told to expound the scriptures, so does this charge apply to all of us. We should learn the scriptures and teach each other from them. As we seek the gift of the Holy Ghost, we will know what to say to those we teach.
Now is the time for the women of the Church to step up and be strong. We should have faith and speak with boldness. We should be bearing one another’s burdens and mourning with those who mourn. We can be a righteous army of women prepared to do good in this world. The Relief Society has been compared to a place of refuge where its members can go to escape the world, and as we serve each other, we can help create this refuge.
Sister Thompson closed with a joyful, “Don’t you just get excited to belong to Relief Society?” She sets the example for all of us, to appreciate and love this great organization to which we belong.
The next speaker at the session was President Uchtdorf. The transcription of his address is not available online at this time, but I will bring that to you as it is made available, not wanting to rely solely on my memory.
Related Blogs:
General Women’s Conference: Sister Beck’s Address
General Women’s Conference: Sister Allred’s Address
Tristi Pinkston is a full-time blogger for Families.com. Click here to read more of her articles.