A friend of mine wrote and sent this letter out to all RS Presidents and Bishops in her stake.  I thought she did a beautiful job of explaining the simple change that has once again come over Relief Society.

Dear Relief Society Leaders,

What a wonderful blessing it is to be called to work with the women of the Lord’s Church.  We know that your life will be blessed and filled with great joy as you seek the Lord’s help to serve His daughters.  You have a great responsibility upon you.  We hope that you will contact us frequently to help you with any concerns or questions that you may have.

In the General Relief Society meeting on Sept 26, 2009, President Julie Beck talked about the individuality of each ward and even noted that each ward has its own personality much like we have our own DNA.  Keeping this in mind Sister Beck taught that each ward should decide on what works best for the particular sisters living in their ward when it comes to fulfilling the purposes of Relief Society.  She taught that the Relief Society President and Bishop should counsel together on how to best meet the needs of their ward families.  In doing so, the Relief Society can work in powerful ways with the Priesthood to accomplish the Lord’s purposes.  Families will be blessed and burdens will be lightened for all who serve as we work together.

With this individuality in mind, new directives have been given to help us govern and simplify our Relief Society meetings.  All Relief Society meetings need to be focused to accomplish the purpose of Relief Society.  This purpose is summed up in three simple words; faith, family & service.  There are additional more lengthy explanations of these areas of focus online and in your materials.  Remembering these three words is an easy way to help you focus on these topics.  These topics are designed to fulfill the ultimate goal of the Relief Society, which is to prepare women for the blessings of eternal life.

In the past there has been a flurry of activities, lunches, book clubs, cultural events, etc. that have been created to fulfill various needs and desires.  While these activities have been great, and in many cases fulfill the goals of the Relief Society, some of them do not.  They are simply fun, but not very focused.  They may fulfill a social need.  Groups of women can still do many good things on their own if they choose to continue, but they wouldn’t fall under the title of Relief Society meetings.

Sister Beck prefaced her new directives with mentioning two very important principles.  1) Using our time wisely and 2) doing away with non-essential activities.  Many activities can continue outside of the ‘umbrella’ of the Relief Society organization but those that are planned by and fall under the Relief Society must meet these guidelines and goals.

It is critical that you and your bishop study Sister Beck’s directives on your own and counsel together in directing the Relief Society of your ward.  You have had hands placed on your head to give you blessings and direction for your call.  We know you will receive the inspiration you need for your particular assignment as you humbly serve our Heavenly Father in carrying out His divine work.

With much love,

The**** Stake Relief Society Presidency

I would like to emphasize one point.  As the RS and Priesthood come together to discuss, keep in mind that the Father of the ward understands fully the needs of that said ward.  He knows its strengths and its weaknesses.  He even has the mantle that allows him to see what future concerns will test his ward and prepare the members accordingly.  It is up to the RS to offer help as the Bishop sees those needs, by teaching, training, and strengthening as needed.

This is a different perspective to view our work.  Our work becomes a holy work.  Enjoy neighborhood gatherings all you want, but reserve this specific, inspired, RS work for the Lord.