ChurchReligious OrganizationThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
*By Appointment Only Monday through Saturday*
No matter your story, we welcome you to join us as we all try to be a little bit better, a little bit kinder, a little more helpful—because that’s what Jesus taught. We are a diverse community of followers of Jesus Christ and welcome all to worship here. We fellowship together as well as offer youth and children’s programs.
Jesus Christ can make you a better person. You can make us a better community. Come worship with us. Church services are held every Sunday. Visitors are always welcome.
Let me tell y’all somethin’—I moved here from West Virginia thinkin’ I was gonna find a nice, God-fearin’ church to settle into. A place to worship, meet good folks, and maybe bring a pie to a potluck. But NO. This place? This so-called Church of Jesus Christ? Somethin’ ain’t right.
First off, the moment I step through them doors, every single person turns and stares at me. Not in a “welcome, new sister in Christ” kinda way. No. More like they’re analyzing me. Like I just walked into a courtroom and the verdict’s already in.
Then comes the humming. I ain’t lyin’—the whole congregation starts HUMMING in unison. Not a hymn. Not a song. Just this low, droning sound that made my fillings vibrate. I ain’t never heard a noise like that outside a beehive.
But the WORST part? After service, one of the elders—real shifty fella with eyes too close together—pulls me aside and says, "We know about West Virginia."
…EXCUSE ME???
I ask him what exactly they know, and he just smiles. And I swear on my hydrangeas, the man ain’t blinked once the whole time. Then another one—some lady with a real stiff perm—walks up, hands me a casserole dish I did not ask for, and whispers, "Eat this before the moon rises."
You think I took that home? You think I’m tryna get CURSED??
And just when I thought it couldn’t get any worse, I see my poor husband Earl—God bless him, 72 years old, just tryna mind his business—gettin’ surrounded by three of these church folk, and they’re measuring his arms. One of them pulls out a clipboard. I yell, “WHAT ARE Y’ALL DOIN’?” and one of ‘em just says, "Assessing."
ASSESSING WHAT???
We ran outta there so fast Earl’s wheelchair caught air on the steps. I don’t know WHAT they’re doin’ in that place, but I sure as heck ain’t stickin’ around to find out.
Stay FAR away.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Can anyone attend Church services?
Yes! Jesus Christ invites all people to come unto Him. As stated on the signage outside the meetinghouse: “Visitors Welcome.”
What time does your Church meet on Sunday? How long are Church services?
COVID: Church services typically last one hour. NON-COVID: Church services typically last two hours. The first hour consists of a worship service for everyone and the second hour of different classes for children, youth and adults.
What can I expect at your Church worship service?
The Church meeting always starts with a welcome and announcements from one of the lay leaders. Next, an opening song by the congregation and prayer offered by one of the members is followed by another hymn while the communion in remembrance of Jesus Christ is prepared and distributed to those who desire to receive it. Then, one or two of the members of the congregation (including youth and children) give talks--sometimes a musical number is performed by a member of the congregation or choir. The lay leader gives some brief concluding words followed by a closing song and prayer. On just the first Sunday of each month the members of the Church fast for the poor and needy. Instead of speakers a few members of the congregation choose to share their feelings with the others about Jesus Christ and how grateful they are for him.
Do you provide virtual or in-person tours of your Church? Who can I call, or text, if I want to find out more about your Church?
Yes, we give informal Church tours at your convenience! Call or text us at the phone number listed to arrange for a tour, or just ask questions about our Church.
Should you dress up to attend Church?
All are welcome to dress as they want but many do wear their “Sunday best” clothes on Sunday. For weekday activities everyone dresses more casually.
Are youth and children welcome at your Church?
Yes, even babies. There is also a mother’s room for nursing mothers and a nursery for children one-year-old and older to attend for the second hour.
Is there a social media account for your Church?
Yes. We have a Local Church Facebook Page you can access by typing in the search field the following: “WalkwithChristBakken” Just LIKE it and you will receive inspiring posts from time to time from local members and missionaries.
What are the acceptable names of your Church?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or The Church of Jesus Christ. You can learn more about the Church’s by going to its website by typing “comeuntochrist” into the search field. You can also go to the Church’s newsroom for more facts and statistics about the Church.
Are we Christians?
Yes! Definitely. As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Savior of the World. He loves us all more than we can imagine. Does that mean we have exactly the same beliefs as other Christian churches? No. But we definitely consider ourselves devoted followers of Jesus Christ.
Can I participate if I’m not a member?
Yes! You are invited to join us for weekly activities, service projects, social outings, and worship services. We’d love to get to know you and will appreciate your involvement in our Church community.
Do I have to donate money during church services?
No. We don’t solicit donations or pass a plate during our services. Contributions by members are made privately. Learn more about tithing.
Can anyone attend services at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Pierre?
Yes, all people are welcome to attend services. Visitors are always welcome as stated on the signage outside the meetinghouse.
What are the typical times and duration for Sunday services?
Sunday services typically last two hours without COVID restrictions. The first hour is a worship service for everyone, followed by different classes during the second hour. Currently, due to COVID-19, services last about one hour.
Are youth and children welcome to attend church services and activities?
Yes, youth and children including babies are welcome. There is a mother's room for nursing mothers and a nursery for children over one year old during the second hour.
Does The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints offer virtual or in-person tours?
Yes, informal tours are available by appointment. You can call or text the church phone number to arrange a tour or ask questions.
What is the dress code to attend church services?
All are welcome to dress as they wish, though many wear their 'Sunday best' on Sunday. Weekday activities usually have a more casual dress code.
Is the church building wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the church has wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, seating, and restrooms, including a unisex restroom.
Where is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located in Pierre?
It is located at 506 N Jefferson Ave, Pierre, SD 57501-2627, USA.
What are the church's weekly hours of operation?
The church is open Monday from 6 PM to 9 PM; Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM; and Sunday from 10 AM to 1 PM.
What nearby places of interest can I visit before or after attending the church?
You can visit the FamilySearch center for genealogical research, the Rawlins Municipal Library for books and resources, or enjoy a swim at the Pierre Aquatic Center, all located near the church.
Are there other religious organizations near The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Pierre?
Yes, nearby religious organizations include The Episcopal Diocese of South Dakota, Trinity Episcopal Church, and Pierre Seventh-Day Adventist Church, offering diverse worship opportunities.
Is there a community gym or social center close to the church?
Yes, the Oahe Family YMCA and YMCA are nearby and offer gym facilities and social services, perfect for community activities before or after church.