LDS programs evolve over the years

Records — The presiding bishopric began keeping master membership records in 1941, eliminating the need for personal membership certificates. A computerized system for recording contributions went into effect in 1970. All membership records were computerized worldwide by 1991.

Relief Society — All women were automatically enrolled in the program and dues were eliminated as of 1971.

Sacrament service — The tradition of passing the sacrament to the presiding authority first began in 1946. Drip-proof sacrament trays first appeared in the late 1950s.

Student wards — The first appeared at BYU in 1956 and the practice expanded to other universities.

Tithing/contributions — This practice of paying a 10th of one's increase was re-emphasized by President Lorenzo Snow in 1899. In 1908, the church discontinued "tithing script" and moved to an all-cash system. Meetinghouse construction costs were shifted to general church funds in 1982, ending local building fund campaigns. Stakes and wards no longer have budget assessments, starting in 1989.

Welfare — The church began its first formal welfare program to help the needy in 1936.

(Sources: Deseret Morning News Church Almanac, Mormon Encyclopedia, Desert Morning News archives.)

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E-mail: lynn@desnews.com