The prophet Enoch built a great city, where all residents felt a sense of belonging. They “were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness, and there was no poor among them” (Moses 7:18).
“No poor” implies that they had an effective welfare program. When some people had a surplus and others lacked, resources were freely distributed so that all had what they needed. But I think the phrase implies something more. It doesn’t say they “gave to the poor” or “took care of the poor.” It says “there was no poor.” I think that means that everyone was valued as a contributing member of the community, regardless of background, current skill level, or physical and mental capabilities. When someone new joined their community, they were welcomed as a full member, not burdened by whatever worldly labels they may have carried before.
The Book of Mormon describes this same spirit among those who were baptized in the waters of Mormon. Alma instructed these new church members to avoid contention, to “look forward with one eye, having one faith and one baptism,” and to have their “hearts knit together in unity and in love one towards another” (Mosiah 18:21).
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are invited to follow the examples of Enoch’s city and Alma’s church, welcoming new members with a spirit of unity and love. Elder Quentin L. Cook instructed us:
Our sacred duty is to accept and welcome new and returning members. As the Lord hastens His work, we should love, nurture, and serve those who accept His gospel. We can help build a Zion people, where we are “of one heart and one mind, and [dwell] in righteousness.” To be one with the Lord, we must be one before the Lord. …
We can be among the friends who assure these new converts that they belong and are not just guests. We can help them understand that they are disciples of Jesus Christ who can minister to others and accept callings to serve.
“The Lord Is Hastening His Work,” October 2025 general conference
Today, I will strive to help make my congregation a welcoming place where all feel included and valued. I will be careful to avoid worldly labels or distinctions and to treat all church members as “fellowcitizens with the saints” (Ephesians 2:19)—accepted, valued, and ready to contribute.
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