We have are five buildings and nine different meeting times.

The Church is organized into local geographic units called stakes and wards. A stake typically has eight to ten congregations (wards) within its physical boundary. The name “stake” derives from the Book of Isaiah: “enlarge the place of thy tent; stretch forth the curtains of thine habitation; spare not, lengthen thy cords, and strengthen thy stakes”. The Mesa Arizona Stake is located in south of downtown Mesa and is comprised of nine congregations which share five chapels.

Wards hold weekly worship services called Sacrament Meeting. Wards also have their own unique community activities, special interest groups and events. Contact that ward for information.

Stakes host a conference for community residents within the stake twice a year and hold many larger community events.

What should I wear?
You’re welcome to wear any modest clothes that you feel comfortable in. But just so you know, most men wear shirts and ties, and women wear dresses or skirts. Children also typically dress up.

Do I have to donate money?
No. We don’t solicit donations or pass a plate.

What happens during sacrament meeting?
We sing hymns (hymnbooks are provided). Church members say opening and closing prayers. Members partake of the sacrament (communion), which consists of prepared bread and water, blessed and passed to members of the congregation by priesthood holders. If you are not a baptised member just pass the sacrament tray to the next person. After this we listen to two or more speakers who are usually members of the congregation. You might be surprised that we don’t have just one pastor or preacher. We  have an unpaid clergy called bishop who presides over each congregation (called a ward) with other lay leaders.

Will it feel uncomfortable attending alone?
We hope not. Many of our members come to church by themselves each week. However, if you’d like someone to attend with you for the first time, feel free to contact the missionaries or the bishop of the ward when you arrive and they’ll find you a friend to sit with. It’s always hard to be new, regardless of the situation, but in time you’ll get to know the other members and feel more at home.

Do I have to participate.
No. Visitors aren’t required to participate in any way. You can simply sit back and enjoy the service.

Are there any other meetings on Sunday?
After sacrament meeting there are a variety of other age-appropriate meetings you and your children can attend. If you want to attend these additional meetings, ask someone for directions. If they don’t know, they’ll find someone who does.

Will everyone know I’m a visitor?
This probably depends on the size of the congregation you’re visiting. Some congregations are so large that its regular members may or may not realize you’re a visitor. Others are so tiny that the members all know each other and will definitely recognize and welcome a newcomer.

How long does church last?
Our family worship service is called sacrament meeting. It’s held in our chapels on Sunday and lasts approximately one hour. You’re welcome to come alone or bring your family; children are all through our congregations.