"The Redemption of Zion"
September 20-23, 2012, in Independence, Missouri

With John Whitmer Historical Association's return to Independence, Missouri, for its annual meeting on September 20-23, 2012, the theme "The Redemption of Zion" carries with it the hoped for return to Jackson County of the early members of the original church. With the forced removal of the early saints from Jackson County in 1833, the "Redemption of Zion" became a constant and recurring theme for various expressions of the Latter Day Saint movement over the next century. The first Latter Day Saint groups to return to Jackson County were the Church of Christ (Temple Lot), Community of Christ, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the Church of Jesus Christ (Cutler). Today, there are numerous Latter Day Saint denominations in Jackson County, and elsewhere, each trying to fulfill their own understanding of the redemption of Zion.

We are soliciting proposals for papers that consider the meaning or interpretation of this oft-used expression, not only historically, but also its use and interpretation in modern times. Papers may also address sociological or theological perspectives of this theme.

Proposals for other papers dealing with subjects of historical interest to the Latter Day Saint movement are, of course, welcome.

Send a 300-word abstract of your proposal, with a 100-word biographical introduction to JWHA2012@yahoo.com.

PROPOSAL DEADLINE IS February 28, 2012.