Understanding the Schedule for Mormon Church Services on Sundays

For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Sunday is a day dedicated to worship and learning. Typically, the service lasts approximately 2 hours, split into two distinct components: the Sacrament Meeting and the subsequent ward or branch-specific meeting.

The Sacrament Meeting

Every Sunday, the worship service, known as the Sacrament Meeting, is the first hour of the church service. This hour of worship is a sacred and solemn time where church members come together to partake of the sacrament, which is a spiritual symbol instituted by Jesus Christ during the Last Supper, to renew their baptismal covenants. This is also an opportunity for leaders to conduct business, announce the order of service, and guide hymns, particularly sung prayers in harmony with the scriptures.

The Second Hour: Ward or Branch Meetings

The second hour of the Sunday service varies depending on the ward or branch. These meetings are divided by age and gender, as members may choose to attend Sunday School for adults and youth, Relief Society for women, or Priesthood meetings for men, as well as activities for Young Men and Young Women. These meetings rotate to ensure fair scheduling and inclusivity for all.

Specific Start Times and Division

The specific start time for these services can vary based on the location and the number of units using the meetinghouse. In a situation where there is only one ward or branch, the Bishopric or Branch leaders have the flexibility to determine the timing. However, if more than one ward or branch shares the meetinghouse, the first unit often starts at 9:00 am, followed by each subsequent unit starting an hour and a half later. This ensures that all units can have their designated time without overlapping schedules.

Locating Your Local Church

If you're interested in visiting a worship session, the easiest way to find your local congregation is by using a Meetinghouse Locator. When you search, you’ll find the address of the building, the names of the wards or branches meeting there, the times of their meetings, and the names of the Bishop or Branch President.

Welcoming All Ages

Church services are family-oriented, with Sacrament Meeting suitable for all ages. For young children, a nursery is available from 1.5 to 3 years old, and Primary classes cater to children aged 3 to 12. Babes in arms are also welcome in the adult classes. These arrangements reflect the inclusive spirit of the church, ensuring that everyone can participate in the worship and learning process.