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This is a large building whose construction was started in the 1920's but was interrupted by W.W.II and the depression. It was completed in the 1960's. I entered the visitor's center and was greeted by an elderly man who served as tour guide.
I stated that I was a Utah Mormon (term they use to describe the followers of Brigham Young). I also told him that I wanted to hear about the differences between the two religions. He was friendly and I began the tour with a 12 minute movie.
This movie started with the formation of Mormonism and it paralleled the Utah Church up until the death of the founder, Joseph Smith.
After Joseph's death the church splintered into 12 different factions located throughout the United States. Brigham Young took his followers to Salt Lake City, Utah while the members who rejected Brigham rallied behind Joseph Smith's son, Joseph III. They recognized him as the president in 1860.
The film continued to explain that membership has reached 250,000 in 38 countries. Service to the community and striving for peace and harmony were the major themes.
After it ended I was led to the auditorium where their semi-annual world conferences are held. It was an impressive sight. It seats 5,300 and has a pipe organ similar to the one in Salt Lake City, Utah. We sat down and he told me that not only was this room used for church business, but that it was the social hub of Independence, Missouri. High school/college graduations, concerts, and other civic activities are held here.
After he finished I asked him some questions on doctrine.