From Dallin H. Oaks, Prophet and President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints taught:
The idea that a person can be spiritual or worship God without organized religion is popular in our day. Some may wonder, “Why do we need a church?”
While developing a relationship with God is personal and can certainly progress independent of church participation, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints exists to teach the fullness of his doctrine and officiate with His priesthood authority to preform ordinances necessary to enter the kingdom of God with our loved ones forever.
In other words, church attendance and participation help us focus on our eternal priorities. In addition, those who forego church attendance and rely only on individual Spirituality forfeit many opportunities to make sacred covenants with God, including in holy temples, or qualify to perpetuate their family for eternity.
The Bible teaches that Jesus Christ is the “head of the church” (Ephesians 4:12). We affirm the spiritual origin of the need for a church directed and with the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ.
From the book “Direct Messages”. . . .”Words from God’s Prophets to You” p.196-97
