Country Profiles
USA-Oklahoma
Some of the first members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Oklahoma did construction work in the Cherokee Nation in 1847. They preached about the Church until antagonism forced one Church member to leave the area. In June 1855, Latter-day Saint missionary headquarters for the Native American territory were created. As early as July, missionaries preached to some 400 Native Americans. Many missionaries suffered from illnesses such as malaria from serving in the area, and at least four died. By 1860, most missionaries left for Utah. The Civil War scattered many members and leaders.In 1887, a few missionaries, still plagued by ill health, returned to Oklahoma. Missionary publications were translated into the Cherokee language. In 1892, the first meetinghouse was erected in Manard, Cherokee County. In 1921, a congregation was created in Gore, Oklahoma, with 113 members.
Membership | 42,515 |
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Missions | 2 |
Temples | 1 |
Congregations | 84 |
Family History Centers | 24 |