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The Relief Society recently marked its 183rd anniversary with celebrations and gatherings across the globe. As one of the largest women’s organizations in the world, with nearly eight million members, the society’s milestone was celebrated in countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, the Philippines, and the United States.
In a global devotional and testimony meeting held at the historic Red Brick store in Nauvoo, Illinois, President Camille N. Johnson, along with her counselors Sister J. Anette Dennis and Sister Kristin M. Yee, addressed a worldwide audience of women. Participants included Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Women from different regions tuned in to the broadcast, sharing their experiences and celebrating the organization's founding. In the Philippines, members of the Carigara Stake gathered at their chapel to view the broadcast, while the San Carlos district hosted a fashion show to mark the occasion.
In West Africa, participants in Ghana and Sierra Leone shared testimonies at the Worldwide Devotional and Testimony Meeting. In Nigeria, the Aba Osisoma Stake Relief Society collected supplies for a local charity.
Sisters in the United Kingdom took to social media to express their commitment to the society's mission of service. Meanwhile, celebrations in Salt Lake City included a dance organized by the Salt Lake Central Tongan Stake Relief Society and their families.
In Canada, sisters reflected on a legacy of faith, service, and sisterhood. The Relief Society was established there shortly after the first Latter-day Saint settlers arrived in Alberta in the late 19th century. Zina Card, daughter of Zina D.H. Young who served as the Relief Society General President from 1888 to 1901, led the first Canadian efforts in Cardston.
Sister Ruth Yates shared her memories of the early days of the Relief Society in Ontario, recalling meetings held in homes before church buildings were available. She highlighted the enduring support and encouragement shared among members, stating, “I know those women were nourished... by the comfort and encouragement that they shared with one another. That has become a hallmark of Relief Society for me.”
