Articles and Covenants

A foundational document presented at the first conference of the church for the approval of church members. The Articles and Covenants included a brief historical prologue, a declaration of beliefs, and a description of the offices, ordinances, and procedures of the church. The document was included in early manuscript compilations of JS’s revelations, printed in early secular and church newspapers, and published in the Book of Commandments and the Doctrine and Covenants. JS’s revelations often referenced the Articles and Covenants, and leaders of the church admonished church members to follow its guidelines.