Mormon Wards

A ward is a designated Mormon congregation. Typically, wards are made up of between 300-350 members who live within a specific area. Wards are determined by where a person lives, and members are encouraged to attend the ward to which they are assigned.All wards are designed to work in the same way, though single’s wards are set up somewhat differently to facilitate their members’ situations. A ward is presided over by a bishop and his two counselors. The bishopric is then responsible for organizing the ward and filling the roles of the organizations within the ward, such as Relief Society, Young Men, Primary, and Sunday School.

Each Sunday, the entire ward meets together for a three hour block. In most cases the block starts with Sacrament meeting, followed by Sunday School, then ending with classes based on age and/or gender (Priesthood, Relief Society, Young Women’s, Primary, etc.).

The size of wards is meant to allow most of the members of the ward to have a calling. This system helps make every member feel needed within the ward and increases participation in the various activities.  Wards are encouraged to create an atmosphere where their members can get to know each other and learn to serve and love one another. Many people refer to wards as a ward family, and this is the ideal.