Solemn Assemblies

From The Encyclopedia of Mormonism

See this page in the original 1992 publication.

Author: Turley, Richard E., Jr.

In the Old Testament, Israel met in solemn assembly on the seventh day of the Feast of the Passover (Ex. 23:14-17; Deut. 16:8, 16) and the eighth day of the Feast of Tabernacles (Lev. 23:33-36; Neh. 8:18). The dedication of Solomon's Temple occurred during the latter feast (2 Chr. 5:2-3;7:9-11).

By commandment, the Prophet Joseph Smith convened a solemn assembly on March 27, 1836, in the Kirtland Temple and in a nearby schoolhouse. During the meeting, the saints sustained Joseph and other Church leaders in their callings, Joseph offered the dedicatory prayer for the new temple, and Church leaders instructed each other and bore testimony, which led to a rich outpouring of the Spirit of God (D&C 88:70;108:4; HC 2:410-28).

Church leaders have called solemn assemblies for many purposes since then. The foremost is to sustain general Church leaders. Following the death of a president of the church, the Church holds a solemn assembly in the Salt Lake tabernacle to approve and sustain its new First Presidency. Church members participate at the Tabernacle and in other places where the proceedings are broadcast (see, e.g., CR [Apr. 1986]:93-95).

A second purpose is to dedicate new or refurbished temples. Worthy Church members attend dedicatory services, which are held in the temples themselves and in other nearby facilities (see Dedications).

A third purpose is to instruct and encourage Church members in their responsibilities. Such solemn assemblies generally take place in temples or stake centers. Church members invited to these assemblies are usually priesthood leaders. Sometimes in such assemblies the Sacrament is served, but traditionally the main function is for those assembled to receive counsel from the presiding Church authorities.

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