“We are going to do something extraordinary— when a boat is stuck on the rapids with a multitude of Mormons on board we shall consider that a loud call for relief— we expect extraordinary occasions and pressing calls.” — Emma Smith¹

On March 17, 1842, Emma Smith was appointed as the first president of the Female Relief Society of Nauvoo, a women's organization in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The society was established under the direction of Joseph Smith to encourage women to care for the needy, correct errors, and strengthen the community. Emma was unanimously chosen by the women present, and she selected Sarah Cleveland and Ann Whitney as her counselors. Joseph then read the 1830 revelation to Emma now found in Doctrine and Covenants 25, which refers to Emma as an "elect lady".² Following this, John Taylor confirmed Emma in her new calling. Emma emphasized that charity should be the driving force behind the society's efforts, and she played a key role in shaping the organization's mission to do extraordinary good.³

1. Nauvoo Relief Society Minute Book, p. 12, The Joseph Smith Papers

2. Doctrine and Covenants, Section 25

3. Saints, Volume 1, Chapter 37, 448-451