The Genesis Group was established in October 1971 by the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a dependent branch to serve the needs of African-American Latter-day Saints. Following the priesthood revelation, or Official Declaration #2, in June 1978, The Genesis Group continues to host meetings on the first Sunday of every month, and other activities, to support and edify all Latter-day Saints, their families and friends, and individuals interested in the LDS Church. The Genesis Group also provides assistance to mission presidents, stake presidents, and bishops. Elder K. Bruce Boucher & Elder Hutch Fale, members of the Twelfth Quorum of the Seventy, currently oversee The Genesis Group.
We are not an auxiliary like the Relief Society but we are more than a ‘fireside’ while less than a ward. What fireside has a presidency set apart to a specific purpose? What fireside has its own auxiliaries? . . . Genesis is by design not like any other unit of the Church but there is beauty in that special calling. There is also responsibility. We exist and serve at the pleasure of the leadership of the Lord’s Church. Our purpose is the Lord’s purpose – we help to bring souls to the Restored Gospel.”
Regular activities include the annual summer picnic, usually held the first Saturday in June, with 300+ in attendance from all over the United States and Canada. On the first Saturday in December is the annual Christmas potluck dinner. March brings the Brothers Breakfast and September the Sisters Breakfast. Other annual activities are held for Primary and the youth.