Hic et Nunc

Building the Kingdom of God in Nauvoo, Illinois

Hancock County, Illinois

™Nauvoo, Illinois rose from the swamplands of the Mississippi River to become a thriving settlement that once rivaled Chicago in size. After 1839, Nauvoo provided a refuge for the Prophet Joseph Smith and the early members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Between 1839 and 1846, Nauvoo became the religious, governmental, and cultural center for the Church. More than 2,000 homes built of brick, frame, and logs housed the growing population, as members gathered to rejoice in the newly established city. Difficulties increased, however, and in 1846 the Saints left their homes behind and began a monumental westward trek to the valley of the Great Salt Lake.

Many important events occurred in Nauvoo, Illinois during this time including:

• The doctrine of baptism for the dead was revealed.
• Temple endowments were first performed.
• The Relief Society was organized.

This lesson discusses how the early Nauvoo Saints worked to build the kingdom of God and how we can learn from their example as we strive to build the kingdom of God today.

OVERVIEW:

Reading assignment: Doctrine and Covenants 124:1–21, 87–90, 97–110; 126; Our Heritage, pages 51–52, 55–58, 61–62.

• The Saints sought refuge in Illinois.
• Missionaries sent from Nauvoo converted thousands of people.
• The examples of the Nauvoo Saints show the importance of enduring to the end in righteousness.
• The Relief Society was organized in Nauvoo.

Here is the handout for this week’s lesson: D&C-Church History Lesson 29.

pax vobiscum