The solemn assembly has its roots in the Old Testament, when faithful Israelite males and females met together in association with the Feasts of Passover and Tabernacles (see Lev. 23:33–36; Deut. 16:8, 16; Neh. 8:18). On certain occasions, both anciently and in modern times, the Lord commands His people to convene a solemn assembly in the temple. For example, Joel 1:14 states: “Sanctify ye a fast, call a solemn assembly, gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land into the house of the Lord your God.” And in our day, “Call your solemn assembly, as I have commanded you” (D&C 109:6; see also 95:7). On March 27, 1836, the Saints met together in the Kirtland Temple for a solemn assembly; at that time the Saints sustained the Church leaders, and Joseph Smith dedicated the temple.283
Our Church presidents have convened solemn assemblies at various times, including at the dedication or rededication of temples, or when General Authorities meet in the temple with local leaders. A solemn assembly also refers to general conference sessions where a new President of the Church is sustained.