The Family: A Proclamation to the World ⸺ A Comprehensive Overview
This pivotal proclamation‚ originating from prophetic prayer and divine instruction‚ was directed globally․ It aimed to influence leaders and nations‚
emphasizing preparation for the Lord’s return and the building of Zion․
Historical Context & Origins
The genesis of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” is deeply rooted in the prophetic ministry of Joseph Smith․ The impetus for its creation stemmed directly from his earnest prayers‚ seeking divine guidance on matters of paramount importance to the latter days․
This wasn’t a spontaneous declaration‚ but rather a response to heavenly instruction‚ a direct answer to supplication offered with fervent sincerity․
The Lord’s directive was remarkably specific: the proclamation was to be addressed not merely to Church members‚ but to the entirety of global leadership․ This included “all the kings of the world‚” reaching to “the four corners thereof‚” encompassing presidents‚ governors‚ and leaders across all nations․
The scope was intentionally universal‚ reflecting the proclamation’s fundamental truths as applicable to all humankind․
Crucially‚ the manner of its composition was also divinely ordained․ It was to be penned “in a spirit of meekness‚” guided by “the influence and power of the Holy Spirit․” This emphasis on spiritual attunement underscores the proclamation’s sacred nature and its origin beyond human authorship․
The content itself was to be a clear and compelling call to prepare for the Second Coming and actively participate in the building up of Zion‚ echoing themes found in Doctrine and Covenants 124:1-17․
The Prophet Joseph Smith’s Prayers
The foundational origin of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” lies within the deeply spiritual experiences of the Prophet Joseph Smith․ It wasn’t born of worldly concerns or political agendas‚ but directly from his heartfelt and persistent prayers to God․ These weren’t casual requests‚ but earnest seeking of divine direction regarding the family and its central role in God’s plan․
The Lord‚ in response to Joseph’s supplications‚ revealed the necessity of a proclamation․ This divine mandate wasn’t simply a suggestion‚ but a clear instruction to articulate eternal truths about marriage‚ family‚ and the responsibilities associated with them․
The prayers acted as a catalyst‚ opening the heavens and allowing for the reception of crucial guidance for the latter-day dispensation․
These prayers weren’t isolated incidents‚ but a pattern of seeking divine will․ Joseph Smith consistently demonstrated a reliance on revelation‚ and this proclamation stands as a testament to that unwavering faith․
The Lord’s response highlights the importance of personal revelation and the power of sincere prayer in receiving direction for significant matters‚ ultimately shaping the course of God’s work on earth․
Divine Instruction & Scope of the Proclamation
The Lord provided specific instructions regarding the creation and dissemination of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World․” It was to be a message not confined by geographical boundaries or political affiliations‚ but directed to “all the kings of the world‚” reaching “the four corners thereof․” This expansive scope included addressing the “honorable president-elect” and “high-minded governors‚” extending to “all the nations of the earth scattered abroad․”
Crucially‚ the proclamation was to be penned “in a spirit of meekness‚” guided by “the influence and power of the Holy Spirit․” This emphasizes the divine authorship and the importance of humility in conveying sacred truths․ The content wasn’t intended to be a product of human reasoning‚ but a clear articulation of God’s will concerning the family․
The proclamation’s core purpose centers on a dual call: to prepare for the coming of the Lord and to actively participate in “building up Zion․” These aren’t separate endeavors‚ but interconnected aspects of God’s work․ Preparing spiritually and strengthening families are essential components in establishing Zion‚ both personally and globally․
Target Audience: Global Leaders & Nations
“The Family: A Proclamation to the World” wasn’t primarily intended for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints‚ but for a far broader audience: global leaders and nations․ The directive from the Lord explicitly stated it should reach “all the kings of the world‚” signifying a deliberate effort to influence those in positions of power and authority․
This targeting wasn’t about political intervention‚ but about presenting divine principles concerning the family – principles believed to be foundational to a stable and righteous society․ The proclamation aimed to offer a heavenly perspective on the roles of mothers and fathers‚ the importance of marriage‚ and the nurturing of children․
By addressing “the honorable president-elect” and “high-minded governors‚” the proclamation sought to engage with those shaping public policy and societal norms․ It was a call to recognize and uphold the sanctity of family life‚ believing that strong families are vital for the well-being of nations․ The intent was to inspire righteous leadership and promote policies that support families worldwide․
The Role of the Holy Spirit in its Creation
The creation of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” was profoundly guided by the Holy Spirit‚ a crucial element emphasized in the divine instruction received․ The Lord specifically commanded that the proclamation be written “in a spirit of meekness by the influence and power of the Holy Spirit․” This wasn’t merely a suggestion‚ but a direct requirement for its legitimacy and impact․
This reliance on the Holy Spirit underscores the proclamation’s divine origin and its intended purpose as a message from God․ It highlights that the principles contained within weren’t formulated through human reasoning alone‚ but were revealed through spiritual insight and guidance․ The Spirit’s influence ensured the proclamation’s clarity‚ power‚ and resonance with eternal truths․
The emphasis on a “spirit of meekness” suggests a humble approach‚ acknowledging that the proclamation wasn’t a declaration of human authority‚ but a conveyance of divine will․ The Holy Spirit’s role was to inspire the wording‚ ensuring it would be received with openness and understanding‚ ultimately preparing the world for the Lord’s return and the building of Zion․
Emphasis on Preparing for the Lord’s Coming
A central tenet of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” is a clear and urgent call to prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ․ This wasn’t an incidental addition‚ but a fundamental directive received from the Lord Himself․ Divine instruction explicitly stated the proclamation “should contain a clear call to prepare for the coming of the Lord․”
This emphasis isn’t simply about anticipating a future event; it’s about actively aligning one’s life with the teachings and example of Jesus Christ․ It necessitates personal righteousness‚ strengthening families‚ and fostering a society built on gospel principles․ Preparing for His coming requires a spiritual and moral transformation‚ both individually and collectively․
The proclamation serves as a wake-up call‚ reminding individuals and nations of the importance of spiritual readiness․ It’s an invitation to examine one’s life‚ repent of shortcomings‚ and dedicate oneself to living a life of service and devotion․ This preparation is inextricably linked to the building of Zion‚ a righteous society prepared to welcome the Savior․
Building Up Zion as a Central Theme
Integral to “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” is the imperative to “help build up Zion․” This directive‚ received alongside the instruction to prepare for the Lord’s coming‚ highlights Zion not merely as a physical location‚ but as a people—a community of Saints united in faith and righteousness․ The proclamation implicitly calls for the establishment of righteous families and communities as the foundational building blocks of Zion․
Building Zion involves creating a society where gospel principles permeate all aspects of life—from personal relationships to civic governance․ It requires fostering a culture of love‚ compassion‚ and service‚ where individuals prioritize the well-being of others․ This isn’t a passive endeavor; it demands active participation and commitment from every member of the Church․
The proclamation’s emphasis on strengthening families directly contributes to the building of Zion․ Righteous families serve as the primary unit of society‚ nurturing future generations in the faith and equipping them to be responsible citizens and disciples of Christ․ Ultimately‚ building Zion is about preparing the world for the Lord’s return․
The Proclamation’s Revelation Status
President Packer affirmed that the proclamation qualifies as revelation‚ a divinely inspired guide for Church members․ Subsequent editing clarified intent‚
ensuring its message resonated with clarity and spiritual power․
Boyd Packer’s 2010 General Conference Address
In October 2010‚ President Boyd K․ Packer delivered a significant address during general conference‚ directly addressing the revelatory nature of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World․” He unequivocally stated that the proclamation met the definition of a revelation‚ marking it as more than a simple declaration or policy statement․ This assertion underscored the profound spiritual origins and authority behind the document․
President Packer’s remarks highlighted the importance of understanding the proclamation not merely as a guideline‚ but as divinely inspired counsel․ He emphasized that the printed version served as a crucial resource‚ a guide that members of the Church should diligently read and actively follow in their lives․ This call to action reinforced the proclamation’s practical application and enduring relevance․
Furthermore‚ President Packer’s address set the stage for a deeper understanding of the meticulous process that followed‚ including the standard post-conference editing procedures designed to ensure clarity and precision in the published text․ This careful attention to detail demonstrated the Church’s commitment to accurately conveying the message of revelation․
Defining the Proclamation as Revelation
President Boyd K․ Packer’s declaration in the 2010 General Conference firmly established “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” as a revelation․ This categorization transcends a typical policy statement‚ signifying divine origin and authority․ It wasn’t merely counsel‚ but a direct communication from God‚ intended to guide His children in a crucial era․
Defining it as revelation carries significant weight‚ implying a sacred responsibility to understand and implement its principles․ The proclamation’s content‚ addressing fundamental truths about family‚ gender‚ and divine roles‚ gains heightened importance when viewed through this lens․ It’s a testament to God’s enduring love and concern for His children’s eternal well-being․
This understanding necessitates a shift in perspective – from viewing the proclamation as a suggestion to recognizing it as a directive rooted in heavenly wisdom․ It’s a beacon of truth‚ illuminating the path towards strengthening families and preparing for the Lord’s return‚ deserving of reverent study and faithful application․
Post-Conference Editing Process & Clarification
Following the October 2010 General Conference‚ a standard practice of review and refinement occurred regarding President Packer’s address․ Scott Trotter‚ a Church spokesman‚ explained that speakers receive an opportunity to clarify intent or address discrepancies between delivered remarks and the written text․ This meticulous process ensures accuracy and avoids misinterpretations of the message․
The printed version of President Packer’s talk explicitly states that “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” serves as a guide for Church members‚ encouraging diligent reading and faithful adherence to its principles․ This clarification underscores the proclamation’s practical application in daily life and its importance in strengthening individual and family commitment․
These post-conference edits weren’t about altering the core message‚ but rather about enhancing clarity and ensuring the proclamation’s profound significance was fully understood․ This demonstrates the Church’s commitment to transparent communication and its dedication to presenting divine guidance in a readily accessible manner․
Scott Trotter’s Explanation of Editing Practices
Scott Trotter‚ representing the LDS Church as a spokesman‚ provided crucial insight into the routine post-General Conference editing process․ He clarified that every speaker is granted the opportunity‚ immediately following the conference‚ to review their delivered remarks․ This review allows for necessary adjustments to bridge any gaps between the original written text and the spoken presentation․
The purpose of these edits isn’t to fundamentally change the message‚ but to refine it․ Speakers can clarify their intended meaning‚ address any ambiguities that may have arisen during delivery‚ or ensure the final published version accurately reflects their core message․ This practice highlights the Church’s dedication to precision and thoughtful communication․
Trotter’s explanation emphasizes a commitment to transparency and a desire to present prophetic teachings in the clearest possible light․ It’s a process designed to enhance understanding‚ not to alter doctrine․ This careful approach ensures that the message of leaders resonates accurately with members worldwide․
The Proclamation as a Monument of Words
President Nelson envisioned a lasting monument—not of stone‚ but of sacred words․ These words‚ etched upon human hearts (2 Corinthians 3:3)‚
were proclaimed with a resounding Hosanna Shout worldwide․
President Nelson’s Vision for a Lasting Monument
Rather than constructing a traditional physical monument – a practice employed in previous commemorations of significant Church history – President Nelson‚ guided by inspiration received by the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles‚ articulated a different approach․ He felt strongly that a more enduring and impactful tribute could be created through a “monument of words․”
This monument wasn’t intended to be carved into stone tablets‚ a method reminiscent of ancient proclamations․ Instead‚ the vision centered on crafting “words of solemn and sacred proclamation” designed to transcend the limitations of physical materials․ The profound hope was that these words would not merely be read‚ but internalized – etched‚ as described in 2 Corinthians 3:3‚ “in the fleshy tables of all human hearts․”
President Nelson’s foresight recognized the power of language to penetrate barriers of culture and time‚ offering a lasting legacy far beyond the scope of any tangible structure․ This monument of words‚ therefore‚ represents a deliberate effort to influence thoughts‚ beliefs‚ and actions on a deeply personal and global scale‚ ensuring the proclamation’s principles resonate for generations to come․
Etching Words on Human Hearts (2 Corinthians 3:3)
The deliberate choice to create a “monument of words‚” rather than a physical one‚ reflects a profound understanding of human nature and the enduring power of divine communication․ President Nelson‚ inspired by the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve‚ envisioned a proclamation that would bypass superficial engagement and penetrate directly to the core of individual belief․
The reference to 2 Corinthians 3:3 – “written in the fleshy tables of our hearts” – is central to this concept․ It signifies a transformation that occurs not through external imposition‚ but through internal acceptance and integration of truth․ This isn’t about simply reading the proclamation; it’s about allowing its principles to reshape perspectives‚ priorities‚ and behaviors․
This “etching” process implies a lasting impact‚ a permanent alteration of the heart’s disposition․ It suggests that the proclamation’s message‚ when embraced‚ becomes an intrinsic part of one’s identity‚ guiding choices and fostering a deeper connection to divine purpose․ The goal is not mere intellectual assent‚ but a heartfelt commitment to the principles outlined within․
The Hosanna Shout Following the Proclamation
The immediate response to the reading of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” was a spontaneous and powerful expression of faith – a worldwide Hosanna Shout․ This wasn’t a pre-planned event‚ but a deeply felt outpouring of reverence and affirmation from Latter-day Saints gathered globally․ It signified a collective recognition of the proclamation’s divine origin and significance․
The Hosanna Shout‚ traditionally a declaration of praise and adoration‚ served as a public testimony of acceptance․ It was a moment of unity‚ transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences‚ as members united in acknowledging the truth contained within the proclamation’s words․ This act of collective worship underscored the belief that the proclamation wasn’t merely a statement‚ but a revelation․
President Nelson’s leadership in initiating the shout further emphasized its importance․ It wasn’t simply a celebratory gesture‚ but a sacred ordinance‚ a vocal affirmation of covenant and commitment․ The reverberation of “Hosanna!” around the world symbolized a resounding “Amen” to the principles articulated in the proclamation‚ solidifying its place in Latter-day Saint doctrine․
Elder Henry B․ Eyring’s Insights
Elder Eyring‚ in a CES fireside shortly after its release‚ illuminated key principles within the proclamation․ He stressed its enduring significance‚ impacting Church members and families profoundly․
Just one month following the initial presentation of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World‚” Elder Henry B․ Eyring delivered a significant CES fireside address․ This address served as a crucial opportunity to delve deeper into the proclamation’s core principles and teachings‚ offering valuable insights for young adults and Church members alike․
Elder Eyring emphasized the proclamation wasn’t merely a declaration‚ but a divinely inspired guide for navigating complex family matters in a changing world․ He highlighted the importance of understanding its origins – rooted in the heartfelt prayers of the Prophet Joseph Smith – and its broad scope‚ intended to reach leaders and nations globally․
He underscored the proclamation’s call to prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ and its central theme of building up Zion‚ both individually and collectively․ Elder Eyring’s remarks focused on how the principles outlined in the proclamation could strengthen families‚ foster greater faith‚ and ultimately‚ draw individuals closer to God․ He encouraged listeners to study the proclamation diligently and apply its teachings in their own lives‚ recognizing its power to bless generations to come․
Key Principles & Teachings within the Proclamation
“The Family: A Proclamation to the World” articulates fundamental principles regarding family‚ emphasizing its central role in God’s eternal plan․ It affirms marriage between a man and a woman as ordained of God‚ establishing the family unit as the foundational building block of society․ The proclamation stresses the sacredness of procreation and the importance of nurturing children in a righteous environment․
Central to its teachings is the divine responsibility parents have to raise their children in love and righteousness‚ teaching them to keep the commandments․ It also highlights the importance of rights and responsibilities within the family‚ advocating for mutual respect and support․
Furthermore‚ the proclamation condemns societal influences that undermine the family‚ such as infidelity‚ abuse‚ and abandonment․ It serves as a powerful reminder of the eternal nature of family relationships and the need to strengthen families worldwide‚ preparing them for the blessings of eternity and the coming of the Lord․
The Proclamation’s Enduring Significance
Elder Henry B․ Eyring‚ shortly after its introduction‚ underscored the proclamation’s lasting importance‚ framing it not merely as a document‚ but as a divinely inspired guide for individuals and families navigating a changing world․ Its significance lies in its timeless principles‚ offering clarity amidst societal shifts and challenges to traditional family values․
The proclamation continues to resonate deeply with Church members‚ providing a scriptural foundation for understanding the family’s divine purpose․ It serves as a beacon‚ guiding families toward strengthening their relationships and preparing for eternal life․ Its impact extends beyond the Church‚ influencing discussions on family and morality globally․
Ultimately‚ the proclamation’s enduring significance stems from its prophetic nature and its alignment with God’s eternal plan․ It remains a powerful testament to the sanctity of family and a call to action for all to build up Zion and prepare for the Lord’s return‚ etched upon hearts․
Impact on Church Members & Families
The proclamation profoundly impacted Church members‚ offering a renewed focus on the central role of the family in God’s plan․ It prompted introspection and commitment to strengthening family bonds‚ fostering a deeper understanding of parental responsibilities‚ and prioritizing eternal family relationships․
Families utilized the proclamation as a teaching tool‚ discussing its principles with children and striving to create homes centered on faith‚ love‚ and righteousness․ It encouraged greater emphasis on temple marriage and the importance of covenants․ The proclamation’s teachings resonated with a desire to protect children and nurture their spiritual development․
Furthermore‚ it inspired members to actively participate in building Zion‚ both within their families and communities․ The proclamation served as a catalyst for increased family history work and a renewed commitment to living gospel principles‚ ultimately strengthening individual testimonies and collective faith․