The general Relief Society presidency: Silvia Allred, Julie B. Beck and Barbara Thompson
A common question asked of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is, “Do Mormon women lead in the Church?” A post from the blog, “Mormon Women,” answers this question in the affirmative.
In addition to speaking to all Mormons during the Church’s semi-annual general conferences (one of which will take place this Saturday and Sunday), women leaders address millions of Latter-day Saint women across the world during satellite broadcasts. For example, this past Saturday, 24 March, the Church’s Young Women General Presidency (positions filled by women) taught girls ages 12 to 18 in a worldwide meeting that originated from Temple Square in Salt Lake City. (You can watch the full meeting here.)
The author of the blog post also tells of the impact the Church’s women leaders have had on her. After witnessing the Church’s Young Women General President, Elaine S. Dalton, speak at a previous meeting, the author was struck by Dalton’s strong influence and sincerity.
Not only did I feel the power and righteous influence she has for a worldwide audience of youth and their leaders, I also witnessed the personal love and concern she has for individuals. Watching her made me think of the Savior and His love.
On another occasion, the author was able to see Julie B. Beck, general president of the Relief Society (the Church’s global organization for women 18 years and over), teach more than 10,000 women at a training meeting in Idaho.
“I was again struck not only at the clarity with which she taught a multitude of people, but also to see how she cares for the one,” the author says. “After the meeting, she was mingling with attendees, extending her love and support.”
Links are also provided to comments Beck made in an interview with the Mormon Channel in which she answers women’s questions about using time wisely, blogging, reading and media use.
Read the entire post from “Mormon Women.”
For more information about women and church leadership, see the Mormon Newsroom’s “Mormonism 101: FAQ” answer to, “Do Mormon Women lead in the Church?”