Alma the Elder

Alma the Elder was a prominent figure in the Book of Mormon. He was a priest of King Noah, a wicked ruler of a Nephite settlement. Alma, however, was converted by the prophet Abinadi's preaching concerning the coming of the Messiah and the need for repentance.

Secretly, Alma wrote down the words of Abinadi, which preserved his teachings and allowed him to share them with others. When Abinadi was executed for his prophecies, Alma fled, gathering those who believed in his teachings and forming a group of believers at the Waters of Mormon.

Alma became their leader and high priest, baptizing them into a covenant with God. This group eventually grew and faced persecution from King Noah's forces. Alma led them away from their persecutors, eventually finding refuge in the land of Helam.

Later, they were placed in bondage by a Lamanite army. After praying for deliverance, God delivered them miraculously, and they returned to Zarahemla, where they were reunited with the Nephites.

Alma the Elder played a crucial role in establishing the Church of God among the Nephites. He ordained priests and elders to teach the gospel and administer the ordinances. He is revered as a righteous leader and a powerful example of faith and conversion. His efforts laid the groundwork for the further development of the Nephite society and its religious practices.