In June of 1830, the Church of Jesus Christ held its first conference in Fayette, New York. This was a crucial step for the early Church. The conference was where the Articles and Covenants of the Church were introduced to the members for their vote.1
The year before, Joseph Smith received a revelation that instructed Oliver Cowdery to "rely upon the things which are written" when he wrote. Oliver Cowdery was writing a brief document entitled "The Articles of the Church of Christ" which gave instruction on baptism and priesthood ordinances.2 About the same time, Joseph began working on the Articles and Covenants, which emphasized several key aspects of the Church's teachings. It described the coming forth of the Book of Mormon and elaborated on the atonement of Jesus Christ. It also detailed instructions for priesthood bearers, providing insightful guidance for those undertaking these sacred duties.3
These Articles and Covenants were published in the Book of Commandments in 1833 and are now available as Section 20 of the Doctrine & Covenants.4
first published in the paineville telegraph: https://history.churchofjesuschrist.org/content/museum/museum-treasures-articles-and-covenants?lang=eng
