Belle Smith Spafford
1945-1974
Shortly after Belle S.
Spafford was called to be the ninth general president of the Relief Society,
she received an invitation to a National Council of Women (NCW) meeting in New York City
After much consideration, Belle and her counselors decided to
propose to the prophet that the Relief Society terminate its membership.
Belle presented her recommendation and reasons in writing to
President George Albert Smith and then added, “‘We don’t get a thing from these
councils.’
“[The] wise, old prophet tipped back in his chair and looked at
her with a disturbed expression. ‘You want to withdraw because you don’t get
anything out of it?’ he questioned.
“‘That is our feeling,’ she replied.
“‘Tell me,’ he said, ‘what is it that you are putting into it?’
“‘Sister Spafford,’ he continued, ‘you surprise me. Do you
always think in terms of what you get? Don’t you think also in terms of what
you have to give?’
“He returned that paper to her and extended his hand. With
considerable firmness he said, ‘You continue your membership in these councils
and make your influence felt.’”
Sister Spafford humbly took the counsel and in time, through her
patience and faithfulness, won over the hearts of the women she worked with.
Consequently, women around the world were blessed by her faith, wisdom, and
inspiration as she not only led the Relief Society for 29 years but also served
on the NCW for 42 years and as its president from 1968 to 1970.
Relief Society sisters united to donate more than $500,000 to
build the long-desired Relief Society Building in Salt Lake City, Utah. It was
dedicated October 3, 1956. In 1970, Relief Societies stopped raising their own
funds and were given a budget. This allowed sisters to focus on compassionate
service and visiting teaching instead of fund-raising. In September 1971 all
sisters in the Church became members of the Relief Society.
During Belle’s almost three decades as general president, she
served under the leadership of six prophets.
