Women

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has stated in “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” that “All human beings—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny. Gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose.” The role of women in the gospel of Jesus Christ is an area of interest and concern to many. An important part of that role takes place within the family, in particular as wives and mothers. Other elements of the role include Church leadership and service, academic and professional contribution, and sisterhood and friendship. All men and women are children of God with infinite potential and are loved and valued equally by Him. Women as well as men have special gifts, and both genders are necessary and esteemed highly in the Church. The spiritual gifts and responsibilities of both are best combined in the covenant of eternal marriage. Both also work together in Church leadership councils and boards. The following speeches offer insightful perspective on the divine and mortal roles of women, especially Latter-day Saint women. Their scope, ranging through the decades, reveals cultural attitudes that have changed over the years, as well as spiritual doctrines that have not. In addition to these speeches, the addresses given on many different topics by female professors, scholars, professionals, Church leaders, wives, and mothers are a testament to the variety of experiences, accomplishments, and insights of women in the Church. They testify of the supernal importance of the family and their unique influence therein, as well as the endless mental, creative, and spiritual potential of women in all other facets of life.