Research Guide
Young Men Organization
Overview
Welcome to the research guide for the Young Men organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This guide is designed to assist you in finding and accessing resources about the Young Men organization and its history.
The
Another helpful source is the Church History Topic essay on
Please note that this guide is not a comprehensive list of available sources but provides key records and a sampling of available records. Some sources require a Church account for access. Additionally, not all sources are digitized; some must be viewed in-person at the Church History Library.
Historical Details
Like many organizations within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Young Men organization began in wards and stakes prior to becoming part of the general Church organization. The Young Ladies’ Department of the Cooperative Retrenchment Association was formed in 1870 as a way to help the young women in the Church to retrench and focus their thoughts, actions, and dress on the gospel. The organization also advocated for spiritual and intellectual growth. Similarly, the leaders of the Church were finding ways for the young men to improve. Included in these early attempts are the Instructive Association (1873) in the Salt Lake Utah Sixth Ward and the Young Men’s Literary Association (1874) in the Salt Lake Utah Tenth Ward. The first Young Men’s Association was organized in 1874 with the Salt Lake Utah Thirteenth Ward.1
In 1875, Brigham Young tasked Junius F. Wells to create an organization for the young men of the Church.2 This organization’s leadership would include a superintendent, first assistant, and second assistant.3 According to Junius F. Wells, when he was asked to organize the young men, Brigham Young advised him:
“We want to have our young men enrolled and organized throughout the Church, so that we shall know who and where they are, so that we can put our hands upon them at any time for any service that may be required. We want them to hold meetings where they will stand up and speak—get into the habit of speaking—and of bearing testimony. These meetings are to be for our young men, to be composed of young men for their improvement—for their mutual improvement—a society of young men for mutual improvement. There is your name: The Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Soci — Association.”4
As the Young Men’s program developed, its leaders found ways to communicate lesson plans, spiritual and intellectual development, and uplifting content through official magazines.The Contributor began to be published in 1879. It ran until 1896, when The Improvement Era
began to be published. The Young Woman’s Journal was “married” to The Improvement Era in 1929.5 The Improvement Era became the official magazine of all of the youth until 1970 when The New Era began to be published. In 2020, a new youth magazine was introduced, For the Strength of Youth , which was designed to better meet the needs of the global Church.6
In 1875, Brigham Young tasked Junius F. Wells to create an organization for the young men of the Church.2 This organization’s leadership would include a superintendent, first assistant, and second assistant.3 According to Junius F. Wells, when he was asked to organize the young men, Brigham Young advised him:
“We want to have our young men enrolled and organized throughout the Church, so that we shall know who and where they are, so that we can put our hands upon them at any time for any service that may be required. We want them to hold meetings where they will stand up and speak—get into the habit of speaking—and of bearing testimony. These meetings are to be for our young men, to be composed of young men for their improvement—for their mutual improvement—a society of young men for mutual improvement. There is your name: The Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Soci — Association.”4
As the Young Men’s program developed, its leaders found ways to communicate lesson plans, spiritual and intellectual development, and uplifting content through official magazines.
Online Resources
These resources are available digitally through the Church History Catalog or other online locations. Below are just a few of the digitized resources available in the
Church Records (CR)
Letters related to various YMMIA matters. Included are letters from Junius F. Wells, Moses Thatcher, and Franklin D. Richards.
Letters and reports related to various YMMIA matters, including information on the managing of The Improvement Era.
Letters and reports related to various YMMIA matters; includes information about the Deseret Gymnasium and the Boy Scouts.
Letter from European Mission president John A. Widtsoe to the Young Men superintendency and general board suggesting courses of study for the young men appropriate for Europe and other areas outside of the United States.
Local Records (LR)
Minutes of the Young Men Organization for the Campina Grande Branch, Brazil North Mission.
Minutes of the Young Men Organization for the Cologne Branch, Central German Mission.
Minutes of the Young Men Organization for the Dargaville Branch, New Zealand North Stake.
Minutes of the Young Men Organization for the Eden Ward, Ogden Utah Stake.
Minutes of the Young Men Organization for the Miao Li Branch, Southern Far East Mission.
Minutes of the first Young Men organization, Thirteenth Ward, Ensign Utah Stake.
Minutes from the Young Men Organization for the University Ward, Chicago South Illinois Stake.
Minutes from the Young Men Organization for the Washakie Ward, Box Elder Utah Stake.
Minutes from the Young Men Organization for the Yuen Long Branch, Hong Kong Mission.
Manuscripts (MS)
Includes programs from the general conferences of the YMMIA and YLMIA.7
Assistant Church historian Andrew Jenson created these charts about the YMMIA, including its leadership.
Includes information about Anderson’s service as secretary of the YMMIA.
Collection includes addresses delivered to the YMMIA general board meetings in 1919.
Includes information about YMMIA conferences.
A program for the 1927 YMMIA General Conference.
Photographs (PH)
Photograph of a group of young Aaronic Priesthood chorus members from the Chicago Stake. See also
Photograph of George Albert Smith and the YMMIA General Board during the 1925 MIA Jubilee. Some individuals have been identified.
Includes negatives of portraits of stake MIA directors of the East Mill Creek Stake.
Includes photographs of MIA members and leaders, as well as ward and area bands, youth representing the different missions, and the Jubilee parade.
Published Manuals
Researchers can find many different subjects for YMMIA manuals by searching M257.46 Y743. Some of these manuals have been digitized.
Manual includes “Science and the gospel (Joseph Smith as scientist),” an attempt “to show the young men of Zion that the Gospel of Jesus Christ as taught by Joseph Smith harmonizes with the great teachings of science.”
Manual for the Young Men organization focusing on teaching economics, agriculture, and finance.
Manual for the Young Men organization focusing on teaching social services.
Additional Young Men manuals can be found under M257.46 Y743 in the
Other Materials
Thesis by Leon M. Strong, Brigham Young University, 1939, on the history of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association.
A book of songs used in YMMIA, published in 1919.
The official periodical for the YMMIA until 1896, when The Improvement Era began to be published.
The official periodical for the YMMIA. It became the official periodical for both the YMMIA and YWMIA in 1930. It was published until 1970 when The New Era became the official periodical for the youth.
Prospectus to create The Improvement Era, a periodical for the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association.
A “marriage announcement” for the combining of the Young Woman’s Journal and The Improvement Era to create one periodical for the M.I.A.
On-Site Resources
On-site resources can be viewed in the Church History Library reading room.
Church Records (CR)
Photographs, programs, and newspaper and periodical clippings related to the Aaronic Priesthood.
Receipt issued to Edith A. Smith for a subscription to The Improvement Era.
Letters from the Church Softball Committee regarding the softball program and its rules and guidelines.
Local Records (LR)
Minutes for the Young Men Organization for the Bonnyrigg Branch, Irish Mission.
Minutes for the Young Men Organization for the Jakarta Branch, Southeast Asia Mission.
Minutes for the Young Men Organization of the Johannesburg 1st Ward, South Africa Stake.
Minutes for the Young Men Organization for the Kortedala Branch, Swedish Mission.
Minutes for the Young Men Organization for the LeJeado Branch, Brazil South Mission.
Minutes for the Young Men Organization for the Reichbach Branch, Berlin Germany Mission.
Minutes for the Young Men Organization for the Stoke-On-Trent Branch, Central British Mission.
Minutes for the Young Men Organization for the Waterloo Ward, Wells Stake, Salt Lake City, Utah.
Manuscripts (MS)
Contains information about church-sponsored discussions regarding the Church and the Third Reich, written by Friedrich Hermann Peters, Hamburg Stake YMMIA superintendent. It includes a statement written by Peters in 1962 when he had urged Latter-day Saints to take YMMIA member and political activist Helmuth Hübener as seriously as other Germans did.
Includes information about Brimhall’s service on the YMMIA general board. Brimhall was later the first president of Brigham Young University.
Includes information about Joseph E. Johnson’s activities with the YMMIA. Milas and Joseph were brothers who owned a mercantile business in Huntington, Utah.
A personal history of G. Carlos Smith, a member of the YMMIA general presidency.
Photographs (PH)
Photographs of Boy Scout bands taken during the Jubilee in Salt Lake City, 1925.
Photograph of the British Mission YMMIA superintendency, including superintendent G. Homer Durham.
Photographs of MIA activities within the Pocatello, Idaho Stake.
Includes photographs of YMMIA basketball teams.
Photograph of the YMMIA officers and aides for the Salt Lake Stake, Utah.
Other Materials
Other M Men manuals are available by searching for M257.46 M6852.
Researchers can find more information on the fathers and sons’ annual outings by searching M257.4 F252. The Church History Library has the years 1920, 1923-1930.
Researchers can find other manuals for the senior YMMIA classes by searching M257.46 S477. Some of these manuals have been digitized.
Researchers can find other manuals for the junior YMMIA classes by searching M257.46 J95.
A weekly periodical printed for the MIA in the Ogden, Utah area. It was discontinued when The Contributor began to be published.
Researchers can find other editions of this YMMIA and missionary hymn and tune book by searching M285.14 Y74.
Handbook for YMMIA. Researchers can find other YMMIA handbooks by searching M257.42 H2364.
Young Men Organization Timeline
Providing definitive dates for firsts can be challenging. It is important to note that many of the activities associated with the Young Men or youth programs initially began in wards and stakes and were later adopted by the general Church.
This timeline is not comprehensive but provides a basic understanding of how the Young Men organization started and has evolved to meet the changing needs of a global Church.
1874 - The first Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association organized in the Salt Lake Thirteenth Ward1
1875 - First central YMMIA committee organized; Junius F. Wells was named president2
1876 - Beginning of full-time YMMIA missions3
1877 - Bishops encouraged to ordain most young men to the priesthood4
1879 - The Contributor first published
1880 - First General Young Men’s Superintendency called5
1888 - First MIA General Annual Conference6
1891 - Young Men organization manuals printed and distributed by the Church7
1896 - The Contributor discontinued
1897 - The Improvement Era first published
1898 - Central Committee renamed to General Board
1901 - YMMIA separated into two grades (juniors and seniors)8
1901 - YMMIA changes focus of study to include theology.
1905 - Full-time YMMIA missions discontinued9
1909 - General Board created eight committees to help run the Young Men Organization10
1913 - YMMIA becomes affiliated with Boy Scouts of America11
1920 - YMMIA changes grades to juniors or MIA Scouts (12-16 years old), seniors or M-Men (17-21 years old), and advanced seniors or adults (22 years old and older)12
1921 - M-Men and Gleaner departments introduced in the MIA worldwide to meet the needs of those young men and young women aged 17 to 23 years old13
1924 - First roadshow presented in the Granite Stake14
1925 - MIA Jubilee15
1928 - Priesthood quorums meet during Sunday School hour for gospel instruction as part of a correlated experiment. It lasted until 1938. Tuesday nights were reserved as an activity night for MIA.16
1929 - Young Woman’s Journal merged with (“married to”) The Improvement Era17
1931 - First Presidency announces Aaronic Priesthood Correlation Plan18
1932 - Senior Department created to address the needs of men aged 24-35 years old19
1937 - First Presidency officially adopts practice of ordaining young men into the Aaronic Priesthood at specific ages20
1939 - M-Men and Gleaners to include young women and young men up to 30 years old; Senior Department discontinued21
1940 - Special Interests Department formed for members over 25 years old22
1952 - New Senior Aaronic Priesthood program introduced for men over the age of 2123
1955 - Duty to God award introduced24
1962 - Worldwide Youth Conferences begin
1962 - Correlation between Scouting and Aaronic Priesthood established25
1965 - For the Strength of Youth pamphlet first published26
1969 - Bishop Youth Councils held in each ward27
1970 - The Improvement Era discontinued
1970 - Aaronic Priesthood Personal Achievement Program introduced28
1971 - Youth magazine The New Era introduced
1971 - “All Church” sports tournaments and festivals discontinued29
1972 - Melchizedek Priesthood took over adult groups of 18 and older (including M-Men and Gleaner groups)30
1974 - Presiding Bishopric to direct the youth of the Church; Young Men Presidency released31
1974 - The name Mutual Improvement Association (MIA) is retired32
1975 - June Conferences discontinued33
1977 - New Young Men’s presidency is announced, and the organization’s name is changed to the Young Men Organization, under the direction of the Priesthood Executive Committee34
1978 - All worthy young men could receive the priesthood, regardless of race35
1980 - New consolidated Sunday meetings for Church; a meeting dedicated to Young Men is part of the “Sunday block”36
1997 - Special Aaronic Priesthood Sesquicentennial Fireside broadcast “Faith in Every Footstep”37
2001 - Aaronic Priesthood Achievement program introduced38
2001 - New
2004 - Young Men Presidency members no longer composed of General Authorities39
2010 -
2011 - For the Strength of Youth pamphlet updated41
2012 - Young Men can be called as missionaries at age 1842
2013 - New youth curriculum introduced43
2018 - Priests can officiate for baptisms for the dead at the temple44
2018 - Change in ages for advancement and ordination: young men are now ordained to priesthood offices at the beginning of the year they have an important birthday (i.e. 12, 14, or 16) rather than having to wait until their birthday arrives.45
2019 - Church ends partnership with Boy Scouts of America46
2019 - New Young Men’s theme announced47
2019 - Ward Young Men presidencies discontinued; Bishopric Youth Committee changed to Ward Youth Council48
2020 - Church starts news Children and Youth Program49
2020 - For the Strength of Youth conferences introduced in conjunction with stake youth conferences50
2021 - New youth magazine For the Strength of Youth replaces New Era51
Additional Resources
These websites are not Church-sponsored, and the Church does not endorse their content.
“Contributor,” Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Brigham Young University,
“Improvement Era,” Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Brigham Young University,
“Young Men,” Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Brigham Young University,
Cowan, Richard O., “Church Programs in Transition,” Joseph F. Smith: Reflections on the Man and His Times, Brigham Young University Religious Studies Center,
Esplin, Scott C., “Tying It to the Priesthood: Harold B. Lee’s Restructuring of the Young Men Organization,” A Firm Foundation: Church Organization and Administration, Brigham Young University Religious Studies Center,
Terry, Charlotte, “History of LDS Youth Programs,” The Juvenile Instructor Blog,
Williams, John Kent, “A History of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association 1939 to 1974,” Brigham Young University, BYU ScholarsArchive;
Young Men Presidencies
This is a list of the presidencies of the YMMIA and the Young Men organizations. When photographs are available, they are linked to the individual. Some photographs in the Church History Catalog may be copyright protected, which means you must be signed in with your Church Account to view them.
Young Men Slogans/Themes/Mottos
Since its inception, the Young Men’s programs have used slogans and themes to teach and reinforce important principles. The slogans all began with the phrase “We stand for…” followed by a subject/area of focus. Themes often used scriptures; alternately, themes were authored by Church leaders, as is often the case with the most recent examples.
Slogans
“We stand for…”
1914 – A sacred Sabbath and a weekly half holiday61
1915 – A weekly home evening
1916 – State and nationwide prohibition
1917 – Thrift and economy
1918 – Service to God and country
1919 – Spiritual growth through attendance at sacrament meetings
1920 – The nonuse and nonsale of tobacco
1921 – Loyal citizenship
1922 – A pure life through clean thought and action
1923 – Divine guidance through individual and family prayer
1924 – The commandment “honor thy father and thy mother”
1925 – An individual testimony of the divinity of Jesus Christ
1926 – A testimony of the divine mission of Joseph Smith
1927 – A fuller knowledge of the Book of Mormon and a testimony of its divine origin
1928 – Law, for the people who live it and the officers who enforce it
1929 – The preservation of our heritage through obedience to law
1930 – Loyal adherence to Latter-day Saint ideals
1931 – Physical, mental, and spiritual health, through observance of the Word of Wisdom
1932 – Enrichment of life through constructive use of leisure and personal service to fellowmen
1933 – Inspired by the refining influences of Mormonism, we will develop the gifts within us
1934 – By my actions, I will prove my allegiance to the Church
1935 – Spirituality and happiness in the home
Themes
1936 – “Let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God” (Doctrine and Covenants 121:45).
1937 – “Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place?
“He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.
“He shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation” (Psalm 24:3–5).
1938 – “By love serve one another.
“For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” (Galatians 5:13–14).
1939 – “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
“This is the first and great commandment.
“And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
“On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets” (Matthew 22:37–40).
1940 – “My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:
“Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck.
“When thou goest, it shall lead thee; and when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee” (Proverbs 6:20-22).
1941 – “I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise” (Doctrine and Covenants 82:10).
1942 – “Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest” (Joshua 1:9).
1943 – “Let us all do the will of our Father in heaven today, and we will then be prepared for the duty of tomorrow, also for the eternities which are to come” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Heber J. Grant [2011], 30).
1944 – “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
“In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5–6).
1945 – “Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.
“Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.
“The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry” (Psalm 34:13-15).
1946 – “Let every one get a knowledge for himself that this work is true. . . . Then let every person say: ‘I will live my religion. . . . I will walk humbly before my God and deal honestly with my fellow beings’” (Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. Widtsoe [1954], 429).
1947 – “If you keep my commandments and endure to the end you shall have eternal life” (Doctrine and Covenants 14:7).
1948 – “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8).
1949 – “How glorious and near to the angels is youth that is clean; this youth has joy unspeakable here and eternal happiness hereafter” (“The Message of the First Presidency to the Church,” Improvement Era, May 1942, 273).
1950 – “Learn wisdom in thy youth; yea, learn in thy youth to keep the commandments of God” (Alma 37:35).
1951 – “Choose you this day whom ye will serve; . . . as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15).
1952 – “Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).
1953 – “Abide ye in the liberty wherewith ye are made free; entangle not yourselves in sin, but let your hands be clean, until the Lord comes” (Doctrine and Covenants 88:86).
1954 – “Seek not for riches but for wisdom, and behold, the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you, and then shall you be made rich” (Doctrine and Covenants 6:7).
1955 – “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth” (Romans 1:16).
1956 – “Seek not to counsel the Lord, but to take counsel from his hand. For behold, ye yourselves know that he counseleth in wisdom, and in justice, and in great mercy, over all his works” (Jacob 4:10).
1957 – “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou has sent” (John 17:3).
1958 – “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
1959 – “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
“And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32).
1960 – “Be thou humble; and the Lord thy God shall lead thee by the hand, and give thee answer to thy prayers” (Doctrine and Covenants 112:10).
1961 – “I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them” (1 Nephi 3:7).
1962 – “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy might, mind, and strength; and in the name of Jesus Christ thou shalt serve him” (Doctrine and Covenants 59:5).
1963 – “And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost” (Moroni 10:4).
1964 – “For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors” (Alma 34:32).
1965 – “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him” (John 14:21).
1966 – “There is a law, irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of this world, upon which all blessings are predicated—
“And when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated” (Doctrine and Covenants 130:20-21).
1967 – “Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection” (Doctrine and Covenants 130:18).
1968 – “Therefore, cheer up your hearts, and remember that ye are free to act for yourselves—to choose the way of everlasting death or the way of eternal life” (2 Nephi 10:23).
1969 – “For the eternal purposes of the Lord shall roll on, until all his promises shall be fulfilled” (Mormon 8:22).
1970 – “We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul—We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things” (Articles of Faith 1:13).
1971 – “Search diligently, pray always, and be believing, and all things shall work together for your good, if ye walk uprightly” (Doctrine and Covenants 90:24).
1972 – “And if you keep my commandments and endure to the end you shall have eternal life, which gift is the greatest of all the gifts of God.” (Doctrine and Covenants 14:7)
1973 – “For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39)
1974 – “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17)
Researchers can find later themes for young men and young women in the
2019 – I am a beloved son of God, and He has a work for me to do.
With all my heart, might, mind, and strength, I will love God, keep my covenants, and use His priesthood to serve others, beginning in my own home.
As I strive to serve, exercise faith, repent, and improve each day, I will qualify to receive temple blessings and the enduring joy of the gospel.
I will prepare to become a diligent missionary, loyal husband, and loving father by being a true disciple of Jesus Christ.
I will help prepare the world for the Savior’s return by inviting all to come unto Christ and receive the blessings of His Atonement.
Aaronic Priesthood
On 15 May 1829, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery prayed to know more about the ordinance of baptism. In response, the Lord revealed to them instruction about baptism and the Aaronic Priesthood through His messenger John the Baptist. John the Baptist conferred the Aaronic Priesthood upon the heads of Joseph and Oliver.62
The Aaronic Priesthood was not originally associated with Young Men. It was not until the creation of the Young Men organization that young men became associated with the Aaronic Priesthood. In fact, it was only in 1877 that the First Presidency began encouraging bishops to interview young men to be ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood.63
Gospel Topic:
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Collections
A compilation of instructions and standards for awards programs within the various Aaronic priesthood handbooks, containing years 1936 through 1967.
Account of the structuring of the quorums of the Aaronic Priesthood on 21 March 1841.
Local Records
Minutes from the Aaronic Priesthood meetings for the Aurora Branch, Chicago Illinois South Stake.
Minutes from the Aaronic Priesthood meetings for the Bloemfontein Branch, South Africa Mission.
Certificates of ordination to the Aaronic Priesthood for the Downey 1st Ward, Arimo Idaho Stake.
Minutes from the Aaronic Priesthood meetings for the Owensboro Branch, Evansville Indiana Stake.
Minutes from the Aaronic Priesthood meetings for the Randers Branch, Denmark Mission.
Minutes from the Aaronic Priesthood meetings for the São Carlos Branch, Brazilian Mission.
Minutes from the Aaronic Priesthood meetings for the Singapore Branch, South Asia Mission.
Minutes from the Aaronic Priesthood meetings for the Washakie Ward, Box Elder Utah Stake.
Photographs
Photograph of the Church historic site of the Restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood.
Photograph of the Susquehanna River, near where Joseph Smith Jr. and Oliver Cowdery were given the Aaronic Priesthood.
Other Materials
Booklet of an experimental program in Ogden, Utah, which later became the Aaronic Priesthood Personal Achievement Program.
Scouting
As with many programs that were eventually instituted widely throughout the Church, Scouting began small, at the ward level. It was first brought to the Salt Lake City Waterloo Ward by Thomas George Wood in 191064; three years later, in 1913, Scouting would become the Church’s official activity for young men. For a detailed history of Scouting and the Church, please see Century of Honor: 100 Years of Scouting in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints .
The Church discontinued its relationship with the Boy Scouts of America in 2020.
1910 – Scouting introduced to Utah
1911 - Scouting introduced to M.I.A.
1913 – The Church officially joins the Boy Scouts of America as its first charter organization, adopting the program as the activity arm of the M.I.A.
1914 – First Scout Sunday held
1917 – Scouts participate in selling war bonds and stamps for World War I
1921 – Weekly activities changed to focus solely on Scouting
1928 – Vanguard program introduced (15- to 16-year-old young men)
1933 – Vanguard name changed to Explorers
1943 – Senior scouting now includes young men aged 15 to 1765
1945 – Explorer Scout Deseret Recognition award introduced
1954 – Duty to God award introduced
1957 – Vanguard (International) program introduced
1958 – Explorers (in the Church) were divided into two groups: Ensign-Explorers (or Ensigns) and Explorers;
1963 – Mormon Leaders Training Conference initiated
1970 – New Boy Scouts of America Manual introduced
1971 – Name changes: Priests who had been previously called Ensigns were now Explorers. Teachers were now Venturers
1974 – Sustaining Membership Enrollment (SME) introduced to help Boy Scouts of America budgets within wards66
1977 – On My Honor award introduced67
1983 – Varsity Scouting officially adopted by the Church (14- to 15-year-old young men)
1983 – Aaronic Priesthood Scouting (AP Scouts) organized in Europe
1998 – Venture Scouting officially adopted by the Church (16- to 18-year-old young men)
2001 – “Aaronic Priesthood: Fulfilling our Duty to God” replaces Duty to God program
2013 – Church celebrates 100 Years of Scouting
2018 – Church discontinues Varsity and Venturing programs68
2020 – Church discontinues relationship with the Boy Scouts of America69
Escultismo: manual administrativo para los lideres del sacerdocio y de la Primaria en estacas, barrios y misiones, asi como para lideres de consejos de Boy Scouts of America , M257.43 S432SPA 1990
Scouting handbook for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Spanish. (Manual de escultismo: la relación entre La Iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Últimos Días y la organización Boy Scouts of America.)
Scouting: an administrative manual for Priesthood and Primary leaders in stakes, wards, and missions, and council leaders of the Boy Scouts of America , M257.43 S432 1994
Scouting handbook for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Scouting: an administrative manual for Priesthood and Primary leaders in stakes, wards, and branches , M257.43 S432uk 1987
An administrative manual for the relationship between of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the Scout Association of the United Kingdom.
Vanguard [manual no. 1]: a program of study, advancement, achievement, spiritual growth , M257.43 S432v 1961-1962
Manual for the Vanguard scouts, boys 12 through 14 years old. The Vanguard Scouts were those within the foreign missions of the Church. Digitized.
Vanguard manual no. 1. Chinese , M257.43 S432vCHI 1966-1967
Manual for the Vanguard scouts, boys 12 through 14 years old. The Vanguard scouts were those within the foreign missions of the Church. Published in Chinese.
Cardston 1st Ward Scout Lodge, Alberta Stake , PH 211
Photograph of the Cardston 1st Ward Scout Lodge, Alberta Stake, Canada.
George Albert Smith portrait and photograph collection / Boy Scouts , PH 490
Photographs of George Albert Smith showing his participation in the Boy Scouts of America. Users must sign in to view.
George Albert Smith with international Scouts, PH 2003
Photograph of George Albert Smith along with another Boy Scout leader and four young men who were participants in the international Scouting programs. Those pictured wear their associated uniforms.
George E. Anderson photograph collection, circa 1890-1927 , PH 10485
Various photographs of Boy Scout encampments and activities. Digitized.
George Edward Anderson photograph collection, circa 1880-1929 / Miscellaneous, part 1 / Boy Scouts , PH 726
Photograph of a group Boy Scouts at Camp Stewart, 1923.
Hamilton Ward (Scout’s Lodge), Gunnison Stake , PH 211
Photograph of the Hamilton Ward Scout Lodge, Gunnison Stake, Utah.
Howard W. Hunter portrait collection, undated / Portraits, circa 1920-1980 / President Howard W. Hunter as a boy scout , PH 4615
Photograph of Howard W. Hunter as a Boy Scout.
Missionary Department photograph files, circa 1860-1980 / NUMBERED PHOTOGRAPHS / 1401-1504 / Boy Scouts in 1947 Pioneer Day parade , PH 2003
Photograph of a group of Boy Scouts marching in the 1947 Pioneer Day parade.
Northern States Mission and family photographs, 1914-1986 / Miscellaneous mission pictures, 1940 / Flint Scouts , PH 5184
Photograph of a group of young men identified as Flint Scouts, Northern States Mission.
Scouts of the Cache Stake, 1934 March 18 , PH 2409
Photograph of Cache Stake scouts and their leaders at the Cache Stake Tabernacle, Utah.
Waterloo Ward MIA meeting, 1938 March 1 , PH 2153
Photograph of John D. Giles speaking to a group of Church members at the Waterloo Ward meetinghouse. Most of the young men in attendance are wearing Boy Scout uniforms.
A Plan for the correlation of scouting with the Aaronic Priesthood program in the Church , M251.4 C561p
The plan detailing the relationship between the Aaronic Priesthood and Scouting programs within the Church.
History of Troop 1, Boy Scouts of America, Salt Lake City, Utah: Waterloo Ward, L.D.S. Church, 1910-1916 / by Richard Strong Best , M257.4 B561h 1984
A written history of the first Boy Scout troop in Utah. Only available onsite.
“A Century of Honor – Celebrating 100 Years of Service to God and Country ,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
A broadcast entitled “A Century of Honor – Celebrating 100 Years of Service to God and Country” that was shown to young men and their leaders, as well as other Church members.
Swensen, Jason, “’A Century of Honor’ Chronicles Scouting in the Church ,” Church News, ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
Church News article briefly outlining the history of the Church and the Boy Scouts of America.
The Church discontinued its relationship with the Boy Scouts of America in 2020.
1910 – Scouting introduced to Utah
1911 - Scouting introduced to M.I.A.
1913 – The Church officially joins the Boy Scouts of America as its first charter organization, adopting the program as the activity arm of the M.I.A.
1914 – First Scout Sunday held
1917 – Scouts participate in selling war bonds and stamps for World War I
1921 – Weekly activities changed to focus solely on Scouting
1928 – Vanguard program introduced (15- to 16-year-old young men)
1933 – Vanguard name changed to Explorers
1943 – Senior scouting now includes young men aged 15 to 1765
1945 – Explorer Scout Deseret Recognition award introduced
1954 – Duty to God award introduced
1957 – Vanguard (International) program introduced
1958 – Explorers (in the Church) were divided into two groups: Ensign-Explorers (or Ensigns) and Explorers;
1963 – Mormon Leaders Training Conference initiated
1970 – New Boy Scouts of America Manual introduced
1971 – Name changes: Priests who had been previously called Ensigns were now Explorers. Teachers were now Venturers
1974 – Sustaining Membership Enrollment (SME) introduced to help Boy Scouts of America budgets within wards66
1977 – On My Honor award introduced67
1983 – Varsity Scouting officially adopted by the Church (14- to 15-year-old young men)
1983 – Aaronic Priesthood Scouting (AP Scouts) organized in Europe
1998 – Venture Scouting officially adopted by the Church (16- to 18-year-old young men)
2001 – “Aaronic Priesthood: Fulfilling our Duty to God” replaces Duty to God program
2013 – Church celebrates 100 Years of Scouting
2018 – Church discontinues Varsity and Venturing programs68
2020 – Church discontinues relationship with the Boy Scouts of America69
Manuals
Scouting handbook for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Spanish. (Manual de escultismo: la relación entre La Iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Últimos Días y la organización Boy Scouts of America.)
Scouting handbook for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
An administrative manual for the relationship between of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the Scout Association of the United Kingdom.
Manual for the Vanguard scouts, boys 12 through 14 years old. The Vanguard Scouts were those within the foreign missions of the Church. Digitized.
Manual for the Vanguard scouts, boys 12 through 14 years old. The Vanguard scouts were those within the foreign missions of the Church. Published in Chinese.
Photographs
Photograph of the Cardston 1st Ward Scout Lodge, Alberta Stake, Canada.
Photographs of George Albert Smith showing his participation in the Boy Scouts of America. Users must sign in to view.
Photograph of George Albert Smith along with another Boy Scout leader and four young men who were participants in the international Scouting programs. Those pictured wear their associated uniforms.
Various photographs of Boy Scout encampments and activities. Digitized.
Photograph of a group Boy Scouts at Camp Stewart, 1923.
Photograph of the Hamilton Ward Scout Lodge, Gunnison Stake, Utah.
Photograph of Howard W. Hunter as a Boy Scout.
Photograph of a group of Boy Scouts marching in the 1947 Pioneer Day parade.
Photograph of a group of young men identified as Flint Scouts, Northern States Mission.
Photograph of Cache Stake scouts and their leaders at the Cache Stake Tabernacle, Utah.
Photograph of John D. Giles speaking to a group of Church members at the Waterloo Ward meetinghouse. Most of the young men in attendance are wearing Boy Scout uniforms.
Other Materials
The plan detailing the relationship between the Aaronic Priesthood and Scouting programs within the Church.
A written history of the first Boy Scout troop in Utah. Only available onsite.
“
A broadcast entitled “A Century of Honor – Celebrating 100 Years of Service to God and Country” that was shown to young men and their leaders, as well as other Church members.
Swensen, Jason, “
Church News article briefly outlining the history of the Church and the Boy Scouts of America.
Athletics
Athletic programs were created in many Salt Lake wards in the early 1900s; basketball, in particular, was a major part of these programs at both the stake and Church-wide levels. These sporting programs were integrated throughout many countries. The Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association eventually adopted a standardized basketball program and began an all-Church tournament in the 1920s that was held until 1971. After that time, basketball became a stake activity and the Church no longer held large tournaments.
1906 – Athletic Program introduced in the Junior Department, Twentieth Ward, Salt Lake City Ensign Stake70
1928 – First Church-sponsored all-Church basketball game71
1943 – Softball and basketball leagues created for the Explorers
1949 – Senior softball becomes an all-Church sport
1950 – Senior volleyball becomes an all-Church sport
1952 – YMMIA assumes responsibility of the junior softball program
1952 – First all-Church softball tournament held
1953 – Junior Basketball is designated for young men aged 12 to 16, and Senior Basketball is designated for men aged 19 to 28; 17- and 18-year-old young men are given a choice between the two.
1971 - “All Church” sports tournaments and festivals discontinued72
Library Collections
Copies of the All-Church basketball programs, including teams, players, and brackets.
Reports, programs, and pictures of YMMIA basketball tournaments.
Reports, programs, and pictures of YMMIA volleyball tournaments.
Photographs include those of a missionary basketball team in the Brazilian Mission.
Includes information about volleyball and basketball competitions held in the Chilean Mission.
Photographs from the Australia-New Zealand area, including baseball players.
Photograph of a baseball team in England in 1909. Lists the last names of the players.
Photograph of the Juarez Stake Academy baseball team, Colonia Juarez, Mexico.
Photograph of an Aaronic Priesthood softball team. Users must sign in to view.
Photograph of a M Men Basketball Tournament, including band and flag ceremony. Users must sign in to view.
Photograph of the Wells Ward basketball team, Utah.
Periodical Sources
Milne, E. J. “
Professor E. J. Milne, then-Physical Director at the University of Utah, wrote this article for The Improvement Era extolling the need for gymnasiums in ward buildings to support the YMMIA athletic programs.
“
An article in The Improvement Era where it was “Resolved, That we recommend to the stake and ward officers, in the city districts, at least, that wherever practicable, arrangements be made for the use of ward amusement halls for the purpose of affording light gymnasium work for the boys, in their respective wards or localities…”
“
An article in The Improvement Era that includes the rules and regulations of the athletic league in the Ensign Stake.
Other Sources
Embry, Jessie L.
Historian Jessie Embry researches the history of combining athletics and religion in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Oborn, Gordon Norman,
Thesis written by Gordon Oborn exploring the history of softball tournaments within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Notes
Notes
1. The Improvement era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 June (No. 8); Church History Library, https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=bada5af9-91d6-4efb-82d9-c2f272272c6f&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 10, 2020)
2. “Young Men Organizations,” Church History Topic, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/history/topics/young-men-organizations?lang=eng (accessed 10 December 2020).
3. “The following year [1972], Brother [Russell M.] Nelson discussed with President [Harold B.] Lee the fact that the presiding authorities in priesthood quorums, the Relief Society, the Primary, and the Young Women’s Mutual Improvement Association were called ‘presidents’ and ‘counselors.’ In the Sunday School and the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association, however, the leaders were called superintendents and assistant superintendents. Shortly thereafter, the Church decided that the leaders of all Church auxiliaries should uniformly be called presidents and counselors.” Condie, Spencer J., Russell M. Nelson: Father, Surgeon, Apostle. Deseret Book, 2013. Pg. 166-67.
4. The Improvement Era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 June (No. 8); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=bada5af9-91d6-4efb-82d9-c2f272272c6f&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 10, 2020)
5. Wedding announcement [Salt Lake City]: [publisher not identified], [1929],https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=43361005-9d8e-4ace-a2dc-c133a6690455&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 10, 2020)
6. “Introduction to New Magazines: For the Strength of Youth,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-magazine/for-the-strength-of-youth-a-new-magazine-for-youth?lang=eng (accessed 10 December 2020)
7. SeeGeneral Conference Research Guide FAQs .
8. The Improvement era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 June (No. 8); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=bada5af9-91d6-4efb-82d9-c2f272272c6f&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 10, 2020)
9. “Young Men Organizations,” Church History Topic, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/history/topics/young-men-organizations?lang=eng (1 December 2020).
10. “As will be seen by the following letter, the committee is authorized to call missionaries, which it has already done to some extent. Salt Lake City, U. T., February 16, 1877. To the Central Committee of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Associations: Junius F. Wells, President; John Nicholson, Secretary. Dear Brethren:—It is very desirable that you call missionaries from the associations under your direction, as often as possible, to visit the various wards and settlements throughout the territory; in this way giving to our young brethren the great privilege of bearing testimony to the truths of the gospel and enjoying its spirit, while they gain an experience as teachers of its divine principles. Praying the Lord to abundantly bless all your labors amongst the youth of God’s people, We remain your brethren in the gospel, John W. Young, Daniel H. Wells.” The Improvement era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 June (No. 8); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=bada5af9-91d6-4efb-82d9-c2f272272c6f&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 17, 2020)
11. “Young Men Organizations,” Church History Topic, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/history/topics/young-men-organizations?lang=eng (1 December 2020).
12. The Improvement era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 September (No. 11); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=938c53fc-e3c9-4aac-8700-c959caa00a28&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 17, 2020)
13. The Improvement era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 August (No. 10); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=4cad9e98-20d7-43e6-a9de-e39be2cbcfd4&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 17, 2020)
14. The Improvement era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 June (No. 8); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=bada5af9-91d6-4efb-82d9-c2f272272c6f&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 17, 2020)
15. The Improvement era; 1897-1910 (Volumes 1-13); 1900-1901 (Volume 4); 1901 August (No. 10); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=e704a6f2-11af-4ca6-8ea3-3d7f7a654ada&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 18, 2020)
16. The Improvement era; 1897-1910 (Volumes 1-13); 1904-1905 (Volume 8); 1905 July (No. 9); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=7c845a8e-b661-43dc-a6b7-2295d5036877&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 18, 2020)
17. The committees created were class study, athletics and fields sports, music and drama, social affairs, library and ready courses, conferences and conventions, missionary work, and debate and lecture. The Improvement era; 1897-1910 (Volumes 1-13); 1908-1909 (Volume 12); 1909 October (No. 12); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=d5edc698-b698-4b51-81c6-0d1a4f73e4a9&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 18, 2020)
18. The Improvement era; 1910-1920 (Volumes 14-23); 1912-1913 (Volume 16); 1913 September (No. 11); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=416dc554-ecc7-41da-8dc6-e5d3a9edd34c&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 18, 2020)
19. The Improvement era; 1910-1920 (Volumes 14-23); 1919-1920 (Volume 23); 1920 September (No. 11); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=486db126-8f70-4900-bfdc-9c1c590322e3&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 18, 2020)
20. Deseret News Church almanac / prepared and edited by the staff of the Church News ... in cooperation with the staff of the Historical Department of The Church ...; 1981-1990; 1981; Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=a939fbd7-9366-485a-a844-2741b9f36e7d&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: January 8, 2021)
21. Granite Stake Young Women’s Mutual Improvement Association minutes and records, 1909–1969, Church History Library, Salt Lake City.
22. The Improvement era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 June (No. 8); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=bada5af9-91d6-4efb-82d9-c2f272272c6f&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 17, 2020)
23. Deseret News Church almanac / prepared and edited by the staff of the Church News ... in cooperation with the staff of the Historical Department of The Church ...; 1981-1990; 1981; Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=a939fbd7-9366-485a-a844-2741b9f36e7d&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: January 8, 2021)
24. “Wedding announcement: Mrs. Y.L. General Board announces the marriage of her daughter Miss Young Woman’s Journal and Mr. Improvement Era on Saturday, June the eighth, nineteen hundred twenty-nine,” June 1929, Church History Library, Salt Lake City.
25. “Young Men Organizations,” Church History Topic, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
26. The Improvement era; 1930-1940 (Volumes 34-43); 1931-1932 (Volume 35); 1932 September (No. 11); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=a304ca0b-6703-4e61-b46a-5a09d01d464d&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 18, 2020)
27. Deseret News Church almanac / prepared and edited by the staff of the Church News ... in cooperation with the staff of the Historical Department of The Church ...; 1981-1990; 1981; Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=a939fbd7-9366-485a-a844-2741b9f36e7d&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: January 8, 2021)
28. The Improvement era; 1930-1940 (Volumes 34-43); 1939 (Volume 42); 1939 May (No. 5); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=7274c5ea-98f9-460c-b977-49ce1a53ded5&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 18, 2020)
29. The Improvement era; 1930-1940 (Volumes 34-43); 1940 (Volume 43); 1940 September (No. 9); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=defe51ed-9d24-4e4c-8b3d-931c7cd81d31&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 18, 2020)
30. Deseret News Church almanac / prepared and edited by the staff of the Church News ... in cooperation with the staff of the Historical Department of The Church ...; 1981-1990; 1981; Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=a939fbd7-9366-485a-a844-2741b9f36e7d&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: January 8, 2021)
31. “’Duty to God’ Award Set Up For Youth of Church,” Church News, 8 January 1955.
32. “Plan Outlined to Correlate Boys’ Program,” Church News, 10 February 1962.
33. The Improvement era; 1961-1970 (Volumes 64-73); 1965 (Volume 68); 1965 September (No. 9); Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=61770fe0-31ea-4475-ab9f-01b79df01a73&crate=0&index=0 (accessed: December 18, 2020)
34. “New Bishop’s Youth Council,” Church News, 3 May 1969.
35. “New A. P. Program is Outlined,” Church News, 19 December 1970.
36. “Big Changes in MIA Programs,” New Era, September 1971.
37. “FYI: For Your Information,” New Era, January 1973, ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
38. “Priesthood to Direct the Youth of the Church,” Church News, 29 June 1974.
39. “Priesthood to Direct the Youth of the Church,” Church News, 29 June 1974.
40. “Report of June Conference,” Ensign, Aug. 1975, ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
41. “Youth programs are refined,” Church News, 21 May 1977.
42. “Race and the Priesthood,” Gospel Topic, ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
43. “Church Begins a New Era,” Church News, 8 March 1980.
44. “Aaronic Priesthood Satellite Fireside,” Ensign, August 1997
45. “Fulfilling Our Duty to God,” Ensign, Nov. 2001, ChurchofJesusChrist.org
46. Deseret News Church almanac / prepared and edited by the staff of the Church News ... in cooperation with the staff of the Historical Department of The Church ...; 2011-2013; 2013; Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets?id=9856555a-9c77-4011-bd76-7dc267e2c41c&crate=0&index=172 (accessed: January 8, 2021)
47. “Fulfilling My Duty to God: for Aaronic Priesthood Holders Manual,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
48. “Message to the Youth from the First Presidency,” in For the Strength of the Youth (2011), i–iv.
49. Thomas S. Monson, “Welcome to Conference,” October 2012 General Conference.
50. Church Announces New Youth Curriculum for 2013,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/church/news/church-announces-new-youth-curriculum-for-2013?lang=eng (accessed 11 December 2020).
51. “Ordained Priests Who Serve in the Temple Will Be Blessed, Young Men General Presidency Says,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/church/news/ordained-priests-who-serve-in-the-temple-will-be-blessed-young-men-general-presidency-says?lang=eng (accessed 11 December 2020).
52. “Age Changes for Youth Progression and Ordination Announced,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/church/news/age-changes-for-youth-progression-and-ordination-announced?lang=eng (accessed 11 December 2020).
53. “Joint Statement: Church and Boy Scouts of America,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/youth/childrenandyouth/joint-church-bsa-statement?lang=eng (accessed 2 November 2020)
54. “Read the New Aaronic Priesthood Theme for Young Men,” 17 November 2019, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/church/news/read-the-new-young-men-theme?lang=eng (accessed 11 November 2020)
55. “Ward Young Men Presidencies Discontinued, Other Organizational Changes for Youth Announced,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/church/news/ward-young-men-presidencies-discontinued-other-organizational-changes-for-youth-announced?lang=eng (accessed 11 December 2020).
56. “Children and Youth,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/youth/childrenandyouth (accessed 2 November 2020)
57. Find an FSY Event, ChurchofJesusChrist.org/youth/childrenandyouth/fsy.
58. “For the Strength of Youth: A New Magazine for Youth,” Gospel Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-magazine/for-the-strength-of-youth-a-new-magazine-for-youth?lang=eng (accessed 31 December 2021).
59. On 24 June 1974, the Presiding Bishopric was called to direct the youth of the Church. In doing this, the Young Men General Presidency was dissolved. In 1977, the Young Men General Presidency was reinstated. See “Priesthood to Direct Youth of the Church,” Church News, 29 June 1974.
60. In 1977, the youth programs were altered. There was a new Young Men presidency called and the name became the Young Men’s organization. See “Youth Programs are Refined,” Church News, 21 May 1977.
61. “Elder Nicholas G. Morgan enthusiastically advocated a weekly half-holiday throughout the Church for games and play of the members, in order that the Sabbath might more perfectly be observed,”Joint Officers’ Meeting , The Improvement Era, August 1914.
62. “Restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood,” Church History Topic, ChurchofJesusChrist.org
63. “Young Mens Organizations,” Church History Topic, ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
64. Century of Honor: 100 Years of Scouting in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, page 14.
65. “Church Changes Scout Program,” Church News, 15 May 1943.
66. “The First Presidency’s letter also said, ‘Beginning in the calendar year 1974, the present practice in some stakes and wards of allocating funds from the stake and ward budgets for Boy Scout financial support will be discontinued.’…Sustaining Membership Enrollment takes the form of a separate fund-raising drive conducted by sponsoring organizations in cooperation with local Scout councils.” “Finances Help Scouting Go,” Church News, 9 February 1974.
67. Church News (Salt Lake City : 1931- ); 1971-1980; 1977; 1977 May 14; Church History Library,https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/6783246f-b5ff-436e-842b-94ade64e7f83/0/5 (accessed: April 6, 2022).
68. “Questions and Answers about Changes to the Young Men Program,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/questions-answers-changes-young-men-program?__prclt=hIpmHoTx (11 December 2020).
69. “Joint Statement: Church and Boy Scouts of America,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/youth/childrenandyouth/joint-church-bsa-statement?lang=eng (accessed 2 November 2020).
70. Embry, Jessie L. Spiritualized Recreation: All Church Athletic Tournaments and Dance Festivals. Provo, Utah: Charles Redd Center for Western Studies, Brigham Young University, 2008. 54-93.
71. Embry, Jessie L. Spiritualized Recreation: All Church Athletic Tournaments and Dance Festivals. Provo, Utah: Charles Redd Center for Western Studies, Brigham Young University, 2008. 54-93.
72. “Big Changes in MIA Programs,” New Era, September 1971.
2. “Young Men Organizations,” Church History Topic, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
3. “The following year [1972], Brother [Russell M.] Nelson discussed with President [Harold B.] Lee the fact that the presiding authorities in priesthood quorums, the Relief Society, the Primary, and the Young Women’s Mutual Improvement Association were called ‘presidents’ and ‘counselors.’ In the Sunday School and the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association, however, the leaders were called superintendents and assistant superintendents. Shortly thereafter, the Church decided that the leaders of all Church auxiliaries should uniformly be called presidents and counselors.” Condie, Spencer J., Russell M. Nelson: Father, Surgeon, Apostle. Deseret Book, 2013. Pg. 166-67.
4. The Improvement Era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 June (No. 8); Church History Library,
5. Wedding announcement [Salt Lake City]: [publisher not identified], [1929],
6. “Introduction to New Magazines: For the Strength of Youth,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
7. See
8. The Improvement era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 June (No. 8); Church History Library,
9. “Young Men Organizations,” Church History Topic, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
10. “As will be seen by the following letter, the committee is authorized to call missionaries, which it has already done to some extent. Salt Lake City, U. T., February 16, 1877. To the Central Committee of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Associations: Junius F. Wells, President; John Nicholson, Secretary. Dear Brethren:—It is very desirable that you call missionaries from the associations under your direction, as often as possible, to visit the various wards and settlements throughout the territory; in this way giving to our young brethren the great privilege of bearing testimony to the truths of the gospel and enjoying its spirit, while they gain an experience as teachers of its divine principles. Praying the Lord to abundantly bless all your labors amongst the youth of God’s people, We remain your brethren in the gospel, John W. Young, Daniel H. Wells.” The Improvement era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 June (No. 8); Church History Library,
11. “Young Men Organizations,” Church History Topic, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
12. The Improvement era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 September (No. 11); Church History Library,
13. The Improvement era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 August (No. 10); Church History Library,
14. The Improvement era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 June (No. 8); Church History Library,
15. The Improvement era; 1897-1910 (Volumes 1-13); 1900-1901 (Volume 4); 1901 August (No. 10); Church History Library,
16. The Improvement era; 1897-1910 (Volumes 1-13); 1904-1905 (Volume 8); 1905 July (No. 9); Church History Library,
17. The committees created were class study, athletics and fields sports, music and drama, social affairs, library and ready courses, conferences and conventions, missionary work, and debate and lecture. The Improvement era; 1897-1910 (Volumes 1-13); 1908-1909 (Volume 12); 1909 October (No. 12); Church History Library,
18. The Improvement era; 1910-1920 (Volumes 14-23); 1912-1913 (Volume 16); 1913 September (No. 11); Church History Library,
19. The Improvement era; 1910-1920 (Volumes 14-23); 1919-1920 (Volume 23); 1920 September (No. 11); Church History Library,
20. Deseret News Church almanac / prepared and edited by the staff of the Church News ... in cooperation with the staff of the Historical Department of The Church ...; 1981-1990; 1981; Church History Library,
21. Granite Stake Young Women’s Mutual Improvement Association minutes and records, 1909–1969, Church History Library, Salt Lake City.
22. The Improvement era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1924-1925 (Volume 28); 1925 June (No. 8); Church History Library,
23. Deseret News Church almanac / prepared and edited by the staff of the Church News ... in cooperation with the staff of the Historical Department of The Church ...; 1981-1990; 1981; Church History Library,
24. “Wedding announcement: Mrs. Y.L. General Board announces the marriage of her daughter Miss Young Woman’s Journal and Mr. Improvement Era on Saturday, June the eighth, nineteen hundred twenty-nine,” June 1929, Church History Library, Salt Lake City.
25. “Young Men Organizations,” Church History Topic, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
26. The Improvement era; 1930-1940 (Volumes 34-43); 1931-1932 (Volume 35); 1932 September (No. 11); Church History Library,
27. Deseret News Church almanac / prepared and edited by the staff of the Church News ... in cooperation with the staff of the Historical Department of The Church ...; 1981-1990; 1981; Church History Library,
28. The Improvement era; 1930-1940 (Volumes 34-43); 1939 (Volume 42); 1939 May (No. 5); Church History Library,
29. The Improvement era; 1930-1940 (Volumes 34-43); 1940 (Volume 43); 1940 September (No. 9); Church History Library,
30. Deseret News Church almanac / prepared and edited by the staff of the Church News ... in cooperation with the staff of the Historical Department of The Church ...; 1981-1990; 1981; Church History Library,
31. “’Duty to God’ Award Set Up For Youth of Church,” Church News, 8 January 1955.
32. “Plan Outlined to Correlate Boys’ Program,” Church News, 10 February 1962.
33. The Improvement era; 1961-1970 (Volumes 64-73); 1965 (Volume 68); 1965 September (No. 9); Church History Library,
34. “New Bishop’s Youth Council,” Church News, 3 May 1969.
35. “New A. P. Program is Outlined,” Church News, 19 December 1970.
36. “Big Changes in MIA Programs,” New Era, September 1971.
37. “FYI: For Your Information,” New Era, January 1973, ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
38. “Priesthood to Direct the Youth of the Church,” Church News, 29 June 1974.
39. “Priesthood to Direct the Youth of the Church,” Church News, 29 June 1974.
40. “Report of June Conference,” Ensign, Aug. 1975, ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
41. “Youth programs are refined,” Church News, 21 May 1977.
42. “Race and the Priesthood,” Gospel Topic, ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
43. “Church Begins a New Era,” Church News, 8 March 1980.
44. “Aaronic Priesthood Satellite Fireside,” Ensign, August 1997
45. “Fulfilling Our Duty to God,” Ensign, Nov. 2001, ChurchofJesusChrist.org
46. Deseret News Church almanac / prepared and edited by the staff of the Church News ... in cooperation with the staff of the Historical Department of The Church ...; 2011-2013; 2013; Church History Library,
47. “Fulfilling My Duty to God: for Aaronic Priesthood Holders Manual,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
48. “Message to the Youth from the First Presidency,” in For the Strength of the Youth (2011), i–iv.
49. Thomas S. Monson, “Welcome to Conference,” October 2012 General Conference.
50. Church Announces New Youth Curriculum for 2013,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
51. “Ordained Priests Who Serve in the Temple Will Be Blessed, Young Men General Presidency Says,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
52. “Age Changes for Youth Progression and Ordination Announced,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
53. “Joint Statement: Church and Boy Scouts of America,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
54. “Read the New Aaronic Priesthood Theme for Young Men,” 17 November 2019, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
55. “Ward Young Men Presidencies Discontinued, Other Organizational Changes for Youth Announced,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
56. “Children and Youth,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
57. Find an FSY Event, ChurchofJesusChrist.org/youth/childrenandyouth/fsy.
58. “For the Strength of Youth: A New Magazine for Youth,” Gospel Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
59. On 24 June 1974, the Presiding Bishopric was called to direct the youth of the Church. In doing this, the Young Men General Presidency was dissolved. In 1977, the Young Men General Presidency was reinstated. See “Priesthood to Direct Youth of the Church,” Church News, 29 June 1974.
60. In 1977, the youth programs were altered. There was a new Young Men presidency called and the name became the Young Men’s organization. See “Youth Programs are Refined,” Church News, 21 May 1977.
61. “Elder Nicholas G. Morgan enthusiastically advocated a weekly half-holiday throughout the Church for games and play of the members, in order that the Sabbath might more perfectly be observed,”
62. “Restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood,” Church History Topic, ChurchofJesusChrist.org
63. “Young Mens Organizations,” Church History Topic, ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
64. Century of Honor: 100 Years of Scouting in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, page 14.
65. “Church Changes Scout Program,” Church News, 15 May 1943.
66. “The First Presidency’s letter also said, ‘Beginning in the calendar year 1974, the present practice in some stakes and wards of allocating funds from the stake and ward budgets for Boy Scout financial support will be discontinued.’…Sustaining Membership Enrollment takes the form of a separate fund-raising drive conducted by sponsoring organizations in cooperation with local Scout councils.” “Finances Help Scouting Go,” Church News, 9 February 1974.
67. Church News (Salt Lake City : 1931- ); 1971-1980; 1977; 1977 May 14; Church History Library,
68. “Questions and Answers about Changes to the Young Men Program,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
69. “Joint Statement: Church and Boy Scouts of America,” Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
70. Embry, Jessie L. Spiritualized Recreation: All Church Athletic Tournaments and Dance Festivals. Provo, Utah: Charles Redd Center for Western Studies, Brigham Young University, 2008. 54-93.
71. Embry, Jessie L. Spiritualized Recreation: All Church Athletic Tournaments and Dance Festivals. Provo, Utah: Charles Redd Center for Western Studies, Brigham Young University, 2008. 54-93.
72. “Big Changes in MIA Programs,” New Era, September 1971.