This publicly recited prayer obviously reinforces unity in the society. These people have elected to follow Zoram to this new city. Such a public declaration creates community solidarity by openly displaying the commonality of belief.
A second function stresses the separation from the Nephite religion espoused by “our brethren” and, therefore, their separation from Zarahemlaite politics. At least part of their strategy for creating unity is by focus on a common “enemy.” Notice the explicit statements of contrast to the Nephites: “we do not believe in the tradition of our brethren;… there shall be no Christ.” They are defining themselves by what they are not as much as by what they are.