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This month the United States Senate unanimously passed a resolution recognizing the 75th anniversary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Welfare Program. Aside from noting the program’s historic anniversary, the resolution congratulated, “the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for the significant contribution that its Welfare Program has had on United States citizens and many people throughout the world; and commend[ed] the many efforts made by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its members, through its Welfare Program, to serve others regardless of religious affiliation.” The full text of the resolution can be read here.

 

In the April 2011 General Conference of the Church, President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor of the First Presidency, announced that, “To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Church welfare program, members worldwide will be invited to participate in a day of service.” Consequently, members have participated in various service projects around the world organized by local church leaders.

Recently, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor of the First Presidency, reflected on the good which such service-oriented efforts produce.

“I experienced firsthand the blessings of the welfare program of the Church,” said President Uchtdorf during the Church’s October 2011 General Conference. “Even though I was a young child, I still remember the sweet taste of canned peaches with cooked wheat and the special smell of the donated clothing sent to the postwar German Saints by caring Church members from the United States. I will never forget and I will always cherish these acts of love and kindness to those of us who were in great need.”

President Uchtdorf also stated, “This work of providing in the Lord’s way is not simply another item in the catalog of programs of the Church. It cannot be neglected or set aside. It is central to our doctrine; it is the essence of our religion.”

See examples of the Church's humanitarian aid and welfare programs in action.