The
Anointed Quorum, also known as the
Quorum of the Anointed, or the
Holy Order, was a select body of men and women who
Joseph Smith initiated into
Mormon temple ordinances at
Nauvoo,
Illinois, which gave them special standing in the early
Latter Day Saint movement. Beginning in May 1842, Smith gave this group, which ultimately numbered over sixty persons, their
washings and anointings and
endowments in the upper floor of his
Red Brick Store on Water Street, as well as in a few private residences in the city. Most couples, but not all, also received their
Second Anointing. Members typically referred to their meetings, which were held usually every two weeks, as
prayer circles, because prayer played an important role in the group's religious activities.