Secret Societies
Evidences and Reconciliations, pg 282; “And again, I would further suggest the impropriety of the organization of bands or companies, by covenant or oaths, by penalties or secrecies; but let the time past of our experience and sufferings by the wickedness of Doctor Avard suffice and let our covenant be that of the Everlasting Covenant, as is contained in the Holy Writ and the things that God hath revealed unto us. Pure friendship always becomes weakened that very moment you undertake to make it stronger by penal oaths and secrecy. (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 146)”
