LDS Church announces major changes to member worship services

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced a new “home-centered, Church-supported” plan and adjusted church meeting schedules during the opening session of the church’s 188th Semiannual General Conference.

“For many years, church leaders have been working on an integrated curriculum to strengthen family and individuals thorough a home centered and church supported plan,” Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said. “This will bring new balance and connection between gospel instruction in the home and in the church.”

Immediately following President Nelson’s remarks, Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles addressed the global audience and provided details of the forthcoming adjustments.

The new Sunday two-hour schedule begins in January 2019 and will consist of the following:

– 60 minute Sacrament Meeting
– 10 minute class transition
– 50 minute class alternating between Sunday School and Priesthood/Relief Society meetings

“Sunday School will be held on the first and third Sundays. Priesthood quorums, Relief Society, and Young Women meetings will be held on the second and fourth Sundays,” Cook said. “Meetings on the fifth Sunday will be under the direction of the bishop. Primary will be held each week during this same 50-minute period and will include singing time and classes.”

The Church’s current format of three consecutive hours of Sunday worship services began in 1980. Prior to that, Church meetings were held throughout the Sabbath day and during the week.