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Foreword

It is fitting that the history of Relief Society is being published during the society's sesquicentennial year. The founding of the women's organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, celebrated by a membership of over three million women in 135 countries and territories, is cause for both rejoicing and reflection. The events of Relief Society's 150 years inspire us and make us aware of the level of faith and accomplishment of our sisters past.

It is through these accomplishments of the pioneers of Relief Society, the founding sisters both in Nauvoo and throughout the world, that we see the embodiment of testimony and fortitude. Surpassing tremendous obstacles, women endured and prospered, sustained by their covenants with the Lord and their unique sisterhood.

The sisters, although imperfect by their own admission, understood much of what it means to be a daughter of God and to work together in his name. Through the works of women, done under the auspices of Relief Society, we learn about the core gospel principles of charity, integrity, hard work, education, loyalty, and sisterhood.

We also learn that the women of Relief Society were intrepid and worthy of emulation. Our sisters made "charity never faileth" more than an organizational motto; they made it the personal motto by which they lived. The charitable works of Latter-day Saint women demonstrate their confidence in the Lord and their sure witness of the promised blessings of eternity. The sisters relished the comfort that came from their eternal vision, even when the comforts of life were denied.

Newly created homes contained essentials only, and often missionary husbands were absent. Women raised children, relying on support from other women. Life for the sisters of Zion brought many problems -personal and organizational. It was, after all, no small task to build a sisterhood or a family, Still, the history of Relief Society is one that testifies that close relationships with the Lord, with family, with sisters, and with priesthood leaders make life worthwhile despite the personal and organizational challenges.

The remarkable stories and accomplishments of Relief Society members benefit from the authors of this work. Excellent historians all, Janath, Jill, and Maureen have lived with this history over years. The authors embody the best of Latter-day Saint womanhood and bring to this work their insights, compassion and skills. This volume, the fruit of long labor, is rich.