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New Scripture Affirmed by World Conference

Independence, MO—A new passage of scripture has been added to the Doctrine and Covenants, one of three books of scripture used by the Community of Christ. During the March 30 afternoon legislative session of the Community of Christ World Conference, an overwhelming majority of the 2,800 delegates from more than 50 nations voted to include Words of Counsel that had been brought to the Conference by President Stephen M. Veazey on Sunday, March 25, in the Doctrine and Covenants.

The new scripture emphasizes the church’s calling to share the peace of Jesus Christ throughout the world, saying, “You are called to create pathways in the world for peace in Christ to be relationally and culturally incarnate. The hope of Zion is realized when the vision of Christ is embodied in communities of generosity, justice, and peacefulness.”

It goes on to emphasize the idea that “God, the Eternal Creator, weeps for the poor, displaced, mistreated, and diseased of the world because of their unnecessary suffering. Such conditions are not God’s will. Open your ears to hear the pleading of mothers and fathers in all nations who desperately seek a future of hope for their children. Do not turn away from them. For in their welfare resides your welfare.”

The emphasis on peace extends to all of creation, saying, “The earth, lovingly created as an environment for life to flourish, shudders in distress because creation’s natural and living systems are becoming exhausted from carrying the burden of human greed and conflict. Humankind must awaken from its illusion of independence and unrestrained consumption without lasting consequences.”

During the legislative session, President Veazey shared that a letter he received from the youth caucus, feedback from young adults and others around the world who are viewing via live webcast, and support offered by many more groups and individuals impacted his decision to bring the Words of Counsel for consideration by the Conference for inclusion in the Doctrine and Covenants. Veazey left the chamber to allow delegates to freely share their supportive testimonies, as well as questions and concerns.

The Doctrine and Covenants is one of three books affirmed by Community of Christ as scriptural witnesses of God’s love and Christ’s ministry. The Bible is the foundational scripture for the church. The church also uses the Book of Mormon, which confirms the Bible’s message that Jesus Christ is the Living Word of God.

Community of Christ is a worldwide church with approximately 250,000 members in more than 50 nations. The denomination’s international headquarters is located in Independence, Missouri. Visit www.CofChrist.org  to learn more about Community of Christ and the World Conference.