50 years ago today - Dec 31, 1970
The Millennial Star, the oldest continuous Church publication, having been published in England since 1840, ends publication. The British Saints are to receive the Ensign magazine.
90 years ago today - Dec 31, 1930
Referring to our telephone conversation of yesterday, I think very likely I misapprehended the purpose of your request for a more definite statement of my objections to the discourse of Elder Joseph Fielding Smith, published in the Utah Genealogical Magazine of October, 1930 [discounting Robert's idea of "pre-Adamites"], than what was found in my letter to the First Presidency of December 15, 1930. ... I herewith submit the following explanation of my letter. First, The purpose of my letter meant to secure from the First Presidency a simple statement whether or not the discourse of Elder Smith had been submitted to them, and perhaps to the Twelve, and had been approved by them as representing what was to be considered the attitude of the Church upon that subject. If that were the case I tried to express the thought that that fact ought to have been mentioned in the discourse; because of the apparent air of finality and authority of the pronouncement. It occurred to me that if the discourse was to be regarded as the authoritative attitude of the Church it ought to have been made by someone else tan Elder Smith, or else the announcement made that he was authorized to speak for the Presidency and other authorities of the Church, since hitherto the Church has made no authoritative statement on the subject.
Second, If the dogmatic and apparently final utterance on the subject treated was after all but the expression of Elder Smith's personal views, then such fact ought somewhere to appear in the discourse that the hearers and readers might know what weight to accord the pronouncement made.
Third, I meant to imply by what was said in my letter that if the discourse of Elder Smith was but the expression of his personal views, hen I questioned his competency to speak with such dogmatic finality as he does in the discourse on the subject, (a) either by reason of his general learning or any known special research on the subject involved, and (b) that as an apostle Elder Smith was not competent to make such a positive and apparently not-to-be questioned pronouncement, because an earlier and a more experienced and learned apostle had made a directly opposite statement on the subject, which statement Brigham Young, President of the Church, publically approved, both which statement and approval, were published in the Journal of Discourses.
Fourth, I meant to imply in my letter that in view of all this, Elder Smith was not warranted in making such a positive and dogmatic statement, and that I had the right to know if he spoke by the authority of an agreed upon attitude of the present administration of the Church or not ' hence the questions of my letter to the First Presidency.
Fifth, To all this I add the following: I call in question the accuracy of Elder Smith's position ain reference to the whole doctrine of his discourse, as being contrary to a great volume of well developed and ascertained truth, established by the researches of scientists of highest character, of profoundest learning, and world-wide research. I hold his doctrine contrary at least to the plain implications of the scripture; as tending also to reduce the Church of the New Dispensation to the character of a narrow, bigoted sect, forsaking the God-given world movement idea of it; and as injurious to the continued faith in, and adherence to, the teachings of the Church not by 'a scattered few', but by a very great number of its membership.
Of course I stand ready to maintain the truth of these statements if given the opportunity, and I respectfully ask for permission to do so.
[B. H. Roberts, Letter to Rudger Clawson, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
Second, If the dogmatic and apparently final utterance on the subject treated was after all but the expression of Elder Smith's personal views, then such fact ought somewhere to appear in the discourse that the hearers and readers might know what weight to accord the pronouncement made.
Third, I meant to imply by what was said in my letter that if the discourse of Elder Smith was but the expression of his personal views, hen I questioned his competency to speak with such dogmatic finality as he does in the discourse on the subject, (a) either by reason of his general learning or any known special research on the subject involved, and (b) that as an apostle Elder Smith was not competent to make such a positive and apparently not-to-be questioned pronouncement, because an earlier and a more experienced and learned apostle had made a directly opposite statement on the subject, which statement Brigham Young, President of the Church, publically approved, both which statement and approval, were published in the Journal of Discourses.
Fourth, I meant to imply in my letter that in view of all this, Elder Smith was not warranted in making such a positive and dogmatic statement, and that I had the right to know if he spoke by the authority of an agreed upon attitude of the present administration of the Church or not ' hence the questions of my letter to the First Presidency.
Fifth, To all this I add the following: I call in question the accuracy of Elder Smith's position ain reference to the whole doctrine of his discourse, as being contrary to a great volume of well developed and ascertained truth, established by the researches of scientists of highest character, of profoundest learning, and world-wide research. I hold his doctrine contrary at least to the plain implications of the scripture; as tending also to reduce the Church of the New Dispensation to the character of a narrow, bigoted sect, forsaking the God-given world movement idea of it; and as injurious to the continued faith in, and adherence to, the teachings of the Church not by 'a scattered few', but by a very great number of its membership.
Of course I stand ready to maintain the truth of these statements if given the opportunity, and I respectfully ask for permission to do so.
[B. H. Roberts, Letter to Rudger Clawson, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
120 years ago today - Dec 31, 1900
Church membership: 284,000. About five out of every six latter-day Saints live in the predominantly Mormon Intermountain area of the western Unites States.
[Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
[Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
135 years ago today - Dec 31, 1885 (Thursday)
After two days' trial in the First District Court, at Ogden, the jury returned a verdict of guilty against Lorenzo Snow for u.c. [Unlawful Cohabitation] in 1885, notwithstanding the evidence introduced had proven him innocent.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
160 years ago today - Dec 31, 1860
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff]
This is the last day of 1860 which Ends this important & momentious year, which has been looked forward to by thousands for many years as a period which would date the Commencement of great & mighty Changes in the Earth...
The whole European World have appeared inspired to spend millions & labor with all their might to build Navies & Equipt armies & prepare For a mighty struggle & deadly Conflict with Each others. [Description of political events in Italy, England, France & China].
But the United States of America is the spot whare 1860 markes the Commencement of a new Erea ... Joseph Smith the Prophet of God told the people of the United States Government what awaited them & there final Destiny as a Nation because of there wickedness & abominations & because they would shed the Blood of Prophets & Saints. He said in 1832, 28 years ago that South Carolinia would rise up in rebelion and that war would Commence at that place & that the Southern States would arise up in rebelion against the Northern States & the Northern States against the Southern States & that war would be poured out upon all Nations which would End in the death & misery of many Souls & because of these things or as the prophet has said the people of the United States have put to death the prophet Joseph the Patriarchs Apostle & many Saints and driven the Church of Christ from place to place for about thirty years and Finally have driven them into the wilderness even into these vallies of the Mountain and the Lord told us "to plead at the feet of the Judges Governors & Presidets of the United States & if they Heed us not and do not redress us of our wrongs (then the Lord says) I will arise out of my hiding place & in my fury I will vex the Nation and I will Cut off those wicked & unjust Stewards and appoint them there portions with Hipocritts & unbelievers.
1860 has laid the foundation for the fulfillment of these things. During this year the Abolitionest of Republicans of the Northern States Elected their President and Vice President and this has been taken as a pretext and the Southern States are rising up in rebelion against the Northern States are holding Conventions & preparing to Cecede from the Union as Joseph Smith said they would. South Carolinia Ceceded from the Union on the 20 Dec 1860 and others are preparing to follow their example. ...
The foundation has been laid during the year 1860 To break up & annihilate the American Government and the scenes which will follow in quick succession will be terrible & horrible in their detail. This Nation is guilty of sheding the Blood of the Lords anointed, of his Prophets & Saints and the Lord Almighty has decreed their destruction. The Lord has Commenced a Controversy with the American Government and Nation in 1860 and he will never cease untill they are destroyed from under heaven, and the Kingdom of God Esstablished upon their ruins. Let the Gentiles upon this land prepare to meet their God.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
This is the last day of 1860 which Ends this important & momentious year, which has been looked forward to by thousands for many years as a period which would date the Commencement of great & mighty Changes in the Earth...
The whole European World have appeared inspired to spend millions & labor with all their might to build Navies & Equipt armies & prepare For a mighty struggle & deadly Conflict with Each others. [Description of political events in Italy, England, France & China].
But the United States of America is the spot whare 1860 markes the Commencement of a new Erea ... Joseph Smith the Prophet of God told the people of the United States Government what awaited them & there final Destiny as a Nation because of there wickedness & abominations & because they would shed the Blood of Prophets & Saints. He said in 1832, 28 years ago that South Carolinia would rise up in rebelion and that war would Commence at that place & that the Southern States would arise up in rebelion against the Northern States & the Northern States against the Southern States & that war would be poured out upon all Nations which would End in the death & misery of many Souls & because of these things or as the prophet has said the people of the United States have put to death the prophet Joseph the Patriarchs Apostle & many Saints and driven the Church of Christ from place to place for about thirty years and Finally have driven them into the wilderness even into these vallies of the Mountain and the Lord told us "to plead at the feet of the Judges Governors & Presidets of the United States & if they Heed us not and do not redress us of our wrongs (then the Lord says) I will arise out of my hiding place & in my fury I will vex the Nation and I will Cut off those wicked & unjust Stewards and appoint them there portions with Hipocritts & unbelievers.
1860 has laid the foundation for the fulfillment of these things. During this year the Abolitionest of Republicans of the Northern States Elected their President and Vice President and this has been taken as a pretext and the Southern States are rising up in rebelion against the Northern States are holding Conventions & preparing to Cecede from the Union as Joseph Smith said they would. South Carolinia Ceceded from the Union on the 20 Dec 1860 and others are preparing to follow their example. ...
The foundation has been laid during the year 1860 To break up & annihilate the American Government and the scenes which will follow in quick succession will be terrible & horrible in their detail. This Nation is guilty of sheding the Blood of the Lords anointed, of his Prophets & Saints and the Lord Almighty has decreed their destruction. The Lord has Commenced a Controversy with the American Government and Nation in 1860 and he will never cease untill they are destroyed from under heaven, and the Kingdom of God Esstablished upon their ruins. Let the Gentiles upon this land prepare to meet their God.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
165 years ago today - Dec 31, 1855
[Wilford Woodruff]
May the Lord Preserve me from evil sin & transgression. May he enable me to keep the word of wisdom & be preserved in life & health with my wives & Children.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
May the Lord Preserve me from evil sin & transgression. May he enable me to keep the word of wisdom & be preserved in life & health with my wives & Children.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
165 years ago today - 1855
Church Membership at end of year: 63,974
New Converts : -4,455
Percent Change from previous year: -6.51%
[Wikipedia, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Membership History, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Church_of_Jesus_Christ_of_Latter-day_Saints_membership_history]
New Converts : -4,455
Percent Change from previous year: -6.51%
[Wikipedia, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Membership History, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Church_of_Jesus_Christ_of_Latter-day_Saints_membership_history]
190 years ago today - 1830
Church Membership at end of year: 280
New Converts : 274
Percent Change from previous year: 4,566.67%
[Wikipedia, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Membership History, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Church_of_Jesus_Christ_of_Latter-day_Saints_membership_history]
New Converts : 274
Percent Change from previous year: 4,566.67%
[Wikipedia, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Membership History, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Church_of_Jesus_Christ_of_Latter-day_Saints_membership_history]
80 years ago today - Dec 30, 1940
Conduct in Temples
President [J. Reuben] Clark reported in brief to President McKay the report which was made by Brother George F. Richards a few weeks ago regarding information which had come to him of misconduct of temple workers, involving apparently illicit sexual relations, and also the intimation that Brother George F. Richards made that possibly the "new polygamists" were trying to operate there by performing marriages in the temple. President Clark suggested that it seemed to him the only way to meet this situation was for the Presidency to appoint two people'one brother and one sister 'who were thoroughly reliable, alert and not gullible, as workers here in the temple, and to watch and report to the First Presidency what they found to be going on in such matters.
[The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015]
President [J. Reuben] Clark reported in brief to President McKay the report which was made by Brother George F. Richards a few weeks ago regarding information which had come to him of misconduct of temple workers, involving apparently illicit sexual relations, and also the intimation that Brother George F. Richards made that possibly the "new polygamists" were trying to operate there by performing marriages in the temple. President Clark suggested that it seemed to him the only way to meet this situation was for the Presidency to appoint two people'one brother and one sister 'who were thoroughly reliable, alert and not gullible, as workers here in the temple, and to watch and report to the First Presidency what they found to be going on in such matters.
[The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015]
160 years ago today - Dec 30, 1860
Elder John Taylor Preached in the afternoon & refered to many of the revelations & prophesies of Joseph Smiths which are now Fulfilling The Cecession of South Carolina, The Lord's Coming out of his hiding place to vex the Nation, & many other things. He was Followed by President Brigham Young who said I think upon the fulfillment of thes prophesies as much as Elder Taylor. ...
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
160 years ago today - Dec 30, 1860 (Afternoon)
Bro. Brigham spoke on a many things. ... Touched on slavery; said it always was so and would be. The inferior would always be in subjection to the superior. The blacks through Cain and Ham would be servants of servants until every son and daughter had received their blessings through and belonging to the Holy Priesthood. -- SLC Tabernacle
[Diary of Charles Lowell Walker. Andrew Karl Larson, ed. Logan: Utah State University Press, 1980. 154-155, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Diary of Charles Lowell Walker. Andrew Karl Larson, ed. Logan: Utah State University Press, 1980. 154-155, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
160 years ago today - Dec 30, 1860 (Afternoon)
John Taylor has showed us the dissolution of the Union, and the prospect of Zion being redeemed. The President [Brigham Young] remarked we are prepared to go to Jackson County, The President used a few expletives against James Buchanan, and remarked he has broken up the Government. -- SLC Tabernacle
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
175 years ago today - Dec 30, 1845
[Hosea Stout]
... I went to the Temple and was informed that President Young wanted to see me & had dispached a messenger for me so I went to his room in the Temple. He wanted me to raise an additional guard of fifty horse men kept on hands which I immediately went to raising....
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
... I went to the Temple and was informed that President Young wanted to see me & had dispached a messenger for me so I went to his room in the Temple. He wanted me to raise an additional guard of fifty horse men kept on hands which I immediately went to raising....
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
175 years ago today - Dec 30, 1845. Tuesday.
Bishop Whitney has been engaged in arranging some business matters with Aimon W. Babbitt Esquire as counsel for the Lawrence Estate [Joseph Smith had been appointed legal guardian of two orphaned Lawrence girls whom he subsequently married. The estate was worth roughly $4,000 to $8,000].
. . .The labors of the day [in the Temple] having been brought to a close at so early an hour viz; half past 8, it was thought proper to have a little season of recreation, accordingly, Brother Hans Hanson was invited to produce his violin. He did so, and played several lively airs, among the rest some very good lively dancing tunes. This was too much for the gravity of Brother Joseph Young, who indulged in a hornpipe, and was soon joined by several others, and before the dance was over several French fours were indulged in. The first was opened by President B. Young with Sister Whitney and Elder H. C. Kimball with Sister Lewis. The spirit of dancing increased until the whole floor was covered with dancers. After this had continued about an hour, several excellent songs were sung, in which several of the brethren and sisters joined. The Upper California was sung by Erastus Snow. After which Sister Whitney being invited by President Young, stood up and invoking the gift of tongues, sung one of the most beautiful songs in tongues, that ever was heard. The interpretation was given by her husband, Bishop Whitney, it related to our efforts to build this House, and to the privilege we now have of meeting together in it, of our departure shortly to the country of the Lamanites, and their rejoicing when they hear the gospel, and of the ingathering of Israel. Altogether, it was one of the most touching and beautiful exhibitions of the power of the Spirit in the gift of tongues which was ever seen. (So it appeared to the writer of this.) After a little conversation of a general nature, the exercises of the evening were closed by prayer by President B. Young, and soon after most of the persons present left the Temple for their homes . . .
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
. . .The labors of the day [in the Temple] having been brought to a close at so early an hour viz; half past 8, it was thought proper to have a little season of recreation, accordingly, Brother Hans Hanson was invited to produce his violin. He did so, and played several lively airs, among the rest some very good lively dancing tunes. This was too much for the gravity of Brother Joseph Young, who indulged in a hornpipe, and was soon joined by several others, and before the dance was over several French fours were indulged in. The first was opened by President B. Young with Sister Whitney and Elder H. C. Kimball with Sister Lewis. The spirit of dancing increased until the whole floor was covered with dancers. After this had continued about an hour, several excellent songs were sung, in which several of the brethren and sisters joined. The Upper California was sung by Erastus Snow. After which Sister Whitney being invited by President Young, stood up and invoking the gift of tongues, sung one of the most beautiful songs in tongues, that ever was heard. The interpretation was given by her husband, Bishop Whitney, it related to our efforts to build this House, and to the privilege we now have of meeting together in it, of our departure shortly to the country of the Lamanites, and their rejoicing when they hear the gospel, and of the ingathering of Israel. Altogether, it was one of the most touching and beautiful exhibitions of the power of the Spirit in the gift of tongues which was ever seen. (So it appeared to the writer of this.) After a little conversation of a general nature, the exercises of the evening were closed by prayer by President B. Young, and soon after most of the persons present left the Temple for their homes . . .
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
175 years ago today - Dec 30, 1845
President Brigham Young spoke in a foreign tongue. -- Nauvoo, Illinois
[Journal History of the Church, Selected Collections from the Archives of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints DVD 2 (2002); CA, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Journal History of the Church, Selected Collections from the Archives of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints DVD 2 (2002); CA, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
180 years ago today - Dec 30, 1840
[Wilford Woodruff]
I again dreamed of being among serpents. One bit me. We are begining to Stir the Devil up some in London. We shall soon find enemies & opposition & may the Lord Hasten it for it will bring us friends.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I again dreamed of being among serpents. One bit me. We are begining to Stir the Devil up some in London. We shall soon find enemies & opposition & may the Lord Hasten it for it will bring us friends.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
75 years ago today - Late December 1945
After several turned Ezra Taft Benson down (including former European mission presidents), Fredrick Babbel accepted a "call" as an assistant and translator for Benson for his post-World War II relief mission. Babbel recalled they did not engage in a lot of conversation. "I never interrupted him at all. I was told before I left that I should never counsel him in any way unless he asked for it. Later on I found out why, because he would consider every matter very seriously. He is an extremely intense individual. I found him to have such a dynamic faith that if a difficult situation arose he believed not in leaving it in the hands of the Lord but in doing everything within his power to help bring it about and then trust that whatever his deficiencies were they would be made up."
[Gary James Bergera, "Ezra Taft Benson's 1946 Mission to Europe" Journal of Mormon History 34:2 (Spring 2008)]
[Gary James Bergera, "Ezra Taft Benson's 1946 Mission to Europe" Journal of Mormon History 34:2 (Spring 2008)]
75 years ago today - Dec 29, 1945
[First Presidency statement]
"... people who pride themselves on their strict observance of the rules and ordinances and ceremonies of the Church, are led astray by false spirits who exercise an influence so imitative of that which proceeds from a Divine source that even these persons who think they are 'the very elect'"
..."No person has the right to induce his fellow members of the Church to engage in speculations or take stock in ventures of any kind on the specious claim of divine revelation or vision or dream...
"We feel it our duty to warn the Latter-day Saints against mining schemes which have no warrant for success beyond the professed spiritual manifestations of their projectors and the influence gained over the excited minds of their victims. We caution the Saints against investing money or property in shares of stock which bring no profit to anyone but those who issue and trade in them.
"Financial schemes to make money for the alleged purpose of 'redeeming Zion' or providing means for the 'salvation of the dead' or other seemingly worthy objects should not deceive anyone acquainted with the order of the Church, and will result only in waste of time and labor, which might be devoted now to doing something tangible and worthy and of record on earth and in heaven...
"GEO. ALBERT SMITH, J. REUBEN CLARK, JR., DAVID O. MCKAY, First Presidency.
[Deseret News, Church Section, December 29, 1945, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
"... people who pride themselves on their strict observance of the rules and ordinances and ceremonies of the Church, are led astray by false spirits who exercise an influence so imitative of that which proceeds from a Divine source that even these persons who think they are 'the very elect'"
..."No person has the right to induce his fellow members of the Church to engage in speculations or take stock in ventures of any kind on the specious claim of divine revelation or vision or dream...
"We feel it our duty to warn the Latter-day Saints against mining schemes which have no warrant for success beyond the professed spiritual manifestations of their projectors and the influence gained over the excited minds of their victims. We caution the Saints against investing money or property in shares of stock which bring no profit to anyone but those who issue and trade in them.
"Financial schemes to make money for the alleged purpose of 'redeeming Zion' or providing means for the 'salvation of the dead' or other seemingly worthy objects should not deceive anyone acquainted with the order of the Church, and will result only in waste of time and labor, which might be devoted now to doing something tangible and worthy and of record on earth and in heaven...
"GEO. ALBERT SMITH, J. REUBEN CLARK, JR., DAVID O. MCKAY, First Presidency.
[Deseret News, Church Section, December 29, 1945, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
100 years ago today - Dec 29, 1920
[George F. Richards]
Arranged a committee meeting with A.W. Ivins, R. R. Lyman and Willard Young and myself appointed by President Grant to investigate certain charges made by one Mr Punett [?] against the Presiding Bishopric and others, charging them with graft &c from the Church in construction of the Belvedere apartments & other buildings & improvements. In referring to this committee I shall call it the Investigation Committee.
[George F. Richards Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
Arranged a committee meeting with A.W. Ivins, R. R. Lyman and Willard Young and myself appointed by President Grant to investigate certain charges made by one Mr Punett [?] against the Presiding Bishopric and others, charging them with graft &c from the Church in construction of the Belvedere apartments & other buildings & improvements. In referring to this committee I shall call it the Investigation Committee.
[George F. Richards Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
110 years ago today - Dec 29, 1910; Thursday
Pres[iden]t. Lund said he met with the Swedish Saints at the Twelfth-Thirteenth Ward meeting house on Friday night. The object of the meeting was to protest against changes made by the priests of Sweden against our people. Besides the misrepresentation and false accusations made by the ministers, they petitioned the king of Sweden that the Mormon missionaries be expelled from the country. A resolution was adopted by this meeting setting forth our side of the question, which will be sent to the King of Sweden. ...
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
120 years ago today - Dec 29, 1900
[Brigham Young Jr.]
Saw Pres[ident]. [Lorenzo] Snow. asked him privately if he could find it in his heart to send that man (pointing to R[eed]. S[moot]. who sat at table writing Jos[eph]. F. S[mith]. Jno [John] H[enry] S[mith] sitting close by). He answered, No, no. I said amen though every fibre in my body said Reed is the man for the Senate.
[Brigham Young Jr. Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
Saw Pres[ident]. [Lorenzo] Snow. asked him privately if he could find it in his heart to send that man (pointing to R[eed]. S[moot]. who sat at table writing Jos[eph]. F. S[mith]. Jno [John] H[enry] S[mith] sitting close by). He answered, No, no. I said amen though every fibre in my body said Reed is the man for the Senate.
[Brigham Young Jr. Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
125 years ago today - Dec 29, 1895
Patriarchal Blessing of Levi Lorenzo Savage by Lorenzo Hill Hatch ... I bless you also that you may ... live upon the earth until the wicked shall be cut off and witness the coming of our Lord and Savior, and be able to abide the day of His Glorious Coming. ...
[Patriarchal Blessings]
[Patriarchal Blessings]
175 years ago today - Dec 29, 1845. Monday.
...The carpets [of the Nauvoo temple] were taken up to some extent and shook, and the floors swept, stoves blacked, trees and shrubbery arranged in the garden, and a general arrangement of matters attended to in the morning. Sisters Thompson and Snow engaged on the drapery and cushions for the new Altar, Sisters Moon and Harmon sewing garments, Sisters Kimball, Young, Cutler and Cahoon, engaged in arranging the Furniture &c. in the east room.
... At 10 minutes before 6, President Young ordered the lights taken out of the stair case, as the troops were endeavoring to get into the Temple. It was soon after ascertained to be a false alarm. They were searching for hogs said to have been stolen from Mr. Hibbard . . .
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
... At 10 minutes before 6, President Young ordered the lights taken out of the stair case, as the troops were endeavoring to get into the Temple. It was soon after ascertained to be a false alarm. They were searching for hogs said to have been stolen from Mr. Hibbard . . .
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
185 years ago today - 1835: 29 December
[Patriarchal Blessing ]
Orson Hyde. (Given by Joseph Smith [Sen.]).
" ... The time will come when thou shalt behold thy Redeemer--thou shalt behold him face to face--he will instruct thee into the mysteries of his kingdom--he will show thee the right way. ... Thou shalt travel to the ends of the earth and among thy kingdom--thou shalt have power to know his spirit--Yea brother thou shalt travel from land to land from sea to sea and from island to island and be a mighty man in the Earth. Thou shalt have all power. Thou wilt have enemies and they will have power to confine thee within the walls of a prison for a little season. Thou shalt be able to deliver thyself from prison and from the hands of wicked men. No power of the enemy shall stay thy hand. Thou shall have power over prisons and prison walls and over fires and floods. ... Yea thou shalt stand on the earth and behold thy Savior and meet him in the cloud when he comes with power and great glory to reward his saints and judge his enemies. Thou shalt stand to witness the winding up scene of this generation."
[In Barron, Howard H.: Orson Hyde: Missionary, Apostle, Colonizer, Bountiful, Utah: Horizon Books, 1977, pp. 314-315; quotes from Box 2, Folder 1 of the Orson Hyde Folder--1805-78, LDS Archives, Ms Source d 1386, in Selected LDS Patriarchal Blessings, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Orson Hyde. (Given by Joseph Smith [Sen.]).
" ... The time will come when thou shalt behold thy Redeemer--thou shalt behold him face to face--he will instruct thee into the mysteries of his kingdom--he will show thee the right way. ... Thou shalt travel to the ends of the earth and among thy kingdom--thou shalt have power to know his spirit--Yea brother thou shalt travel from land to land from sea to sea and from island to island and be a mighty man in the Earth. Thou shalt have all power. Thou wilt have enemies and they will have power to confine thee within the walls of a prison for a little season. Thou shalt be able to deliver thyself from prison and from the hands of wicked men. No power of the enemy shall stay thy hand. Thou shall have power over prisons and prison walls and over fires and floods. ... Yea thou shalt stand on the earth and behold thy Savior and meet him in the cloud when he comes with power and great glory to reward his saints and judge his enemies. Thou shalt stand to witness the winding up scene of this generation."
[In Barron, Howard H.: Orson Hyde: Missionary, Apostle, Colonizer, Bountiful, Utah: Horizon Books, 1977, pp. 314-315; quotes from Box 2, Folder 1 of the Orson Hyde Folder--1805-78, LDS Archives, Ms Source d 1386, in Selected LDS Patriarchal Blessings, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
185 years ago today - Dec 29, 1835 (Tuesday)
[Joseph Smith]
I pray God that it my be like a nail in a sure place, driven by the master of assemblies.
[The Woodland Institute, http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
I pray God that it my be like a nail in a sure place, driven by the master of assemblies.
[The Woodland Institute, http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
190 years ago today - Late December 1830
"Soon after" the Enoch revelation was received , Joseph Smith receives another revelation (D&C 37) in Canandaigua (NY) instructing him and Sidney Rigdon to stop their revision of the Bible until they move to Ohio . Lucy Smith says that the revelation was received in the "later part" of December . The revelation instructs: "ye shall not go until ye have preached my gospel in those parts, and have strengthened up the church whithersoever it is found, and more especially in Colesville".
[Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
[Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
190 years ago today - Winter 1830
According to David Whitmer, when Martin Harris has problems raising the money to pay for the printing, Hyrum suggests that they go to Canada and sell the copyright. Hyrum asks Joseph, and Joseph receives a revelation that agrees. When Hiram Page and Oliver return from Toronto, having been unsuccessful, they ask Joseph why the revelation failed, and he says, "Some revelations are of God; some revelations are of men; and some revelations are of the devil." Mass meetings are held in Palmyra to boycott the printing of the book, and Grandin becomes so nervous about his money that he suspends printing. Joseph returns to Palmyra to urge Martin to pay the printer in full, but Martin's wife is opposed, so he refuses
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology; Brigham H. Roberts, A Comprehensive History of the Church (6 volumes) 1: 162-66.]
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology; Brigham H. Roberts, A Comprehensive History of the Church (6 volumes) 1: 162-66.]
25 years ago today - late Dec 1995
An announcement is made that Jack Hoag (the Church's lawyer in Hawaii) is working on something important, possibly the creation of Hawaii's Future Today [the church's first front organization against same-sex marriage].
[Crapo, Richley, Chronology Of Mormon / LDS Involvement In Same-Sex Marriage Politics http://www.mormonsocialscience.org/?q=node/59]
[Crapo, Richley, Chronology Of Mormon / LDS Involvement In Same-Sex Marriage Politics http://www.mormonsocialscience.org/?q=node/59]
55 years ago today - Dec 28, 1965
The organization of the Mormon History Association (MHA) with Professor Leonard J. Arrington as its first president. In 1974 this organization begins publishing its annual Journal of Mormon History, which is still active.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
105 years ago today - Dec 28, 1915
[Joseph F. Smith]
Young men or middle aged men who have had experience in the Church should not be ordained to the Priesthood nor recommended to the privileges of the House of the Lord unless they will abstain from the use of tobacco and intoxicating drinks. This is the rule of the Church and should be observed by all its members.
[Joseph F. Smith to C. Elmo Cluff, Dec. 28, 1915, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
Young men or middle aged men who have had experience in the Church should not be ordained to the Priesthood nor recommended to the privileges of the House of the Lord unless they will abstain from the use of tobacco and intoxicating drinks. This is the rule of the Church and should be observed by all its members.
[Joseph F. Smith to C. Elmo Cluff, Dec. 28, 1915, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
120 years ago today - Friday-Saturday, 28-Dec 29, 1900
[Rudger Clawson]
On Saturday afternoon it was finally decided by the Presidency and some members of the Twelve that Apostle Reed Smoot refrain from allowing his name to be put forward as a candidate for the U.S. senatorship. And in view of the fact that President McKinley and the national Republican committee favored Thomas Kearns, it was decided that so far as it might be proper, the brethren would support him for the place.
[Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]
On Saturday afternoon it was finally decided by the Presidency and some members of the Twelve that Apostle Reed Smoot refrain from allowing his name to be put forward as a candidate for the U.S. senatorship. And in view of the fact that President McKinley and the national Republican committee favored Thomas Kearns, it was decided that so far as it might be proper, the brethren would support him for the place.
[Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]
160 years ago today - Dec 28, 1860
[Brigham Young]
President Young remarked to A. Carrington and others of the brethren who were present that Abel Lincoln must either learn that South Carolina will conform to the Constitution of the Government or he must not take his oath of Office, if he does take the oath of Office he must then compel South Carolina to be submissive to the Constitution of the Union, or he must break his oath of office'- President Young said the US Officers will be scarce here if they do not get their pay. They hate the Mormons because they feel they will rule the world. The worst thing about it is the Blacks will kill off their families and they in their turn will be slaughtered by thousands. I regret many of the innocent will be killed. I am like the woman who saw her husband fighting with a Bear, her husband called upon her to assist him, she replied I have no interest in who whips [who]. ...
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
President Young remarked to A. Carrington and others of the brethren who were present that Abel Lincoln must either learn that South Carolina will conform to the Constitution of the Government or he must not take his oath of Office, if he does take the oath of Office he must then compel South Carolina to be submissive to the Constitution of the Union, or he must break his oath of office'- President Young said the US Officers will be scarce here if they do not get their pay. They hate the Mormons because they feel they will rule the world. The worst thing about it is the Blacks will kill off their families and they in their turn will be slaughtered by thousands. I regret many of the innocent will be killed. I am like the woman who saw her husband fighting with a Bear, her husband called upon her to assist him, she replied I have no interest in who whips [who]. ...
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
175 years ago today - Dec 28, 1845. Sunday.
... Elder Kimball continued his remarks, alluded to the stories in circulation that several persons had been killed on their way through the ordinances, and that men and women were stripped naked here. Joseph said that for men and women to hold their tongues, was their Salvation.
A circle was formed, composed of about 20 persons, most of whom had received the ordinances, and been admitted to the first quorum at a previous time. They united in prayer. ...
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
A circle was formed, composed of about 20 persons, most of whom had received the ordinances, and been admitted to the first quorum at a previous time. They united in prayer. ...
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
175 years ago today - Dec 28, 1845
[Brigham Young]
... After his fall another name was given - he being full of integrity and not to listen to the woman, he was permitted to receive the tokens of the priesthood I wish you to learn one lesson, you will find one lesson, that you hold your tongues, you will never be extricated unless you go to hell; unless you learn, you will be damned - we let no person assemble except in an Upper room according to the priesthood. I have been saluted by the grips and tokens, I have felt to slap their faces. Look at the result of persons rushing to the vail - one of the most sacred places on the earth. ... In prayer you use the first tokens in your own name. This quorum is the more important [because] you are washed - it is [not] trifling. no. ... by all things past rather than [-] my [-] although foreordain Man should follow his wife out of the Garden it follows the woman should be led back - he related an anecdote of Uncle John and the [-] kitchen [-] so with us I want this to be understood all things sacred not Eternity will never become upon the world until they learn the principle ... [-] do you understand the love of David and Jonathan it was above the law; Women it was the love of the Priesthood I could say Goodbye to the Mountain as freely could to the woman yet I love the priesthood and the principles of righteousness they may go. God told eve your desires shall be to your husband and not his desire to her and he shall rule over him for if God rules over a Man he ought to rule over his household. and you ought to submit to it. I have heard upon the principle of men and Joseph Smith being God I will explain - in your prayer you ask for food. I believe God and the son are personages of tabernacle [and] the Holy Ghost is a personage of a spirit. God dwells in eternal fire [and] it would consume all matter that will [be] consumed. I do not believe any man [can] see his glory and live, as we but [see the writing] as on [the wall or through] the vail [as] the hand is passed through. so the finger [of God] or the knuckle [-] so the Lord will sometimes pass through his hand and the wicked may see so much and no more because He is behind the vail. if you do not sanctify [yourselves before] the Lord and [purity] your heart, you will go quick to Hell and be dammed four fold. I am rough but I mean what I say. [I] do not like the Dumb Ass that brays in the Streets. - I have shut down the gates for the present - When I begin again, I shall bring in such as are worthy and good Men and women.
[The Nauvoo Endowment Companies, 1845-1846: A Documentary History. Devery Scott Anderson and Gary James Bergera, eds. Salt Lake City: Signature Books-Smith-Pettit Foundation, 2005. 203-207, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
... After his fall another name was given - he being full of integrity and not to listen to the woman, he was permitted to receive the tokens of the priesthood I wish you to learn one lesson, you will find one lesson, that you hold your tongues, you will never be extricated unless you go to hell; unless you learn, you will be damned - we let no person assemble except in an Upper room according to the priesthood. I have been saluted by the grips and tokens, I have felt to slap their faces. Look at the result of persons rushing to the vail - one of the most sacred places on the earth. ... In prayer you use the first tokens in your own name. This quorum is the more important [because] you are washed - it is [not] trifling. no. ... by all things past rather than [-] my [-] although foreordain Man should follow his wife out of the Garden it follows the woman should be led back - he related an anecdote of Uncle John and the [-] kitchen [-] so with us I want this to be understood all things sacred not Eternity will never become upon the world until they learn the principle ... [-] do you understand the love of David and Jonathan it was above the law; Women it was the love of the Priesthood I could say Goodbye to the Mountain as freely could to the woman yet I love the priesthood and the principles of righteousness they may go. God told eve your desires shall be to your husband and not his desire to her and he shall rule over him for if God rules over a Man he ought to rule over his household. and you ought to submit to it. I have heard upon the principle of men and Joseph Smith being God I will explain - in your prayer you ask for food. I believe God and the son are personages of tabernacle [and] the Holy Ghost is a personage of a spirit. God dwells in eternal fire [and] it would consume all matter that will [be] consumed. I do not believe any man [can] see his glory and live, as we but [see the writing] as on [the wall or through] the vail [as] the hand is passed through. so the finger [of God] or the knuckle [-] so the Lord will sometimes pass through his hand and the wicked may see so much and no more because He is behind the vail. if you do not sanctify [yourselves before] the Lord and [purity] your heart, you will go quick to Hell and be dammed four fold. I am rough but I mean what I say. [I] do not like the Dumb Ass that brays in the Streets. - I have shut down the gates for the present - When I begin again, I shall bring in such as are worthy and good Men and women.
[The Nauvoo Endowment Companies, 1845-1846: A Documentary History. Devery Scott Anderson and Gary James Bergera, eds. Salt Lake City: Signature Books-Smith-Pettit Foundation, 2005. 203-207, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
175 years ago today - Dec 28, 1845
[Brigham Young]
... The ordinances that you have received in the garden together with the performances of those things that has been presented are to represent the creation of the world. The name that was given to Adam was more ancient than he was. The name Adam was given him because he was the first man, but his new name pertained to the Holy Priesthood and, as I before stated, is more ancient than he was. There are 4 penal signs and 4 penal tokens and should I want to address the throne to enquire after ancient things which transpired on planets that rolled away before this planet came into existence I should use my new name which is ancient and referred to ancient things. Should I wish to enquire for present things I should use my own name which refers to present things. And should I want to enquire for future things I would use the 3rd name which refers to the first token of the Melchizedek Priesthood or is the 3rd token that is given and refers to the Son. The 2nd token of the Melchizedek Priesthood is to be given only in one place and nowhere else, but these signs and tokens that pertain to the Priesthood should never be given anywhere only in such places as belong to the P. H. and that too by none but such as belong to the order of the Priesthood. But there are not 6 persons that have gone through these ordinances that can offer them correctly, and some has had the presumption to approach this veil, which is the most sacred ordinances that is performed in this house, and have marked the garments wrong. And levity has been used here which is not pleasing in the sight of the Lord, therefore I have shut down the gate, and came to the conclusion that when we commence again we would make a selection of such persons as are worthy and will give them their endowments first, and when they get their endowments then the remainder may get their endowment. I don't know but what I shall displease some of you, but I don't care if you I do. There are about 2,00 persons that are dressed today and unless I lay an embargo on the brethren we will not find garments enough to take the company through tomorrow without changing them from one to another. The Seventies have had about 18 garments made and this morning there are not more than 5 or 6 to be found. Some have taken garments and carried them off. I call such conduct stealing and it must be stopped. ... Lay aside all party strife such as the Seventies and the H P striving to excel each other in power,this ought to be. I intend to put a stop to all such feelings. The H. P. commenced it in Kirtland; the Seventies commenced it in Quincey and to let it go we shall soon be split up and divided into parties. ...
[Nauvoo Temple - Seventies Record, Book B pp 164-165, quoted in Elden J. Watson, ed. Brigham Young Addresses, 1801-1877: A Chronological Compilation of Known Addresses of the Prophet Brigham Young, 6 vols. (Salt Lake City: Privately published, 1971)]
... The ordinances that you have received in the garden together with the performances of those things that has been presented are to represent the creation of the world. The name that was given to Adam was more ancient than he was. The name Adam was given him because he was the first man, but his new name pertained to the Holy Priesthood and, as I before stated, is more ancient than he was. There are 4 penal signs and 4 penal tokens and should I want to address the throne to enquire after ancient things which transpired on planets that rolled away before this planet came into existence I should use my new name which is ancient and referred to ancient things. Should I wish to enquire for present things I should use my own name which refers to present things. And should I want to enquire for future things I would use the 3rd name which refers to the first token of the Melchizedek Priesthood or is the 3rd token that is given and refers to the Son. The 2nd token of the Melchizedek Priesthood is to be given only in one place and nowhere else, but these signs and tokens that pertain to the Priesthood should never be given anywhere only in such places as belong to the P. H. and that too by none but such as belong to the order of the Priesthood. But there are not 6 persons that have gone through these ordinances that can offer them correctly, and some has had the presumption to approach this veil, which is the most sacred ordinances that is performed in this house, and have marked the garments wrong. And levity has been used here which is not pleasing in the sight of the Lord, therefore I have shut down the gate, and came to the conclusion that when we commence again we would make a selection of such persons as are worthy and will give them their endowments first, and when they get their endowments then the remainder may get their endowment. I don't know but what I shall displease some of you, but I don't care if you I do. There are about 2,00 persons that are dressed today and unless I lay an embargo on the brethren we will not find garments enough to take the company through tomorrow without changing them from one to another. The Seventies have had about 18 garments made and this morning there are not more than 5 or 6 to be found. Some have taken garments and carried them off. I call such conduct stealing and it must be stopped. ... Lay aside all party strife such as the Seventies and the H P striving to excel each other in power,this ought to be. I intend to put a stop to all such feelings. The H. P. commenced it in Kirtland; the Seventies commenced it in Quincey and to let it go we shall soon be split up and divided into parties. ...
[Nauvoo Temple - Seventies Record, Book B pp 164-165, quoted in Elden J. Watson, ed. Brigham Young Addresses, 1801-1877: A Chronological Compilation of Known Addresses of the Prophet Brigham Young, 6 vols. (Salt Lake City: Privately published, 1971)]
65 years ago today - Dec 27, 1955
A letter from the Presiding Bishopric announced that students at BYU would be organized into campus wards and stakes beginning Jan. 8, 1956. This move set the pattern for student wards to be organized at Church colleges and institutes of religion wherever their numbers warranted it.
[Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnewsarchive.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html]
[Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnewsarchive.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html]
120 years ago today - Dec. 27th, 1900
[Apostle Brigham Young Jr.]
Pres. Snow too ill to go out. Met in Office. Question of sending "Mormon" to Senate. I am decidedly in favor of it. Gentiles have one Senator or Representative. We must have a Representative or Senator. Pres. Snow thoroughly worn out...
[Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Pres. Snow too ill to go out. Met in Office. Question of sending "Mormon" to Senate. I am decidedly in favor of it. Gentiles have one Senator or Representative. We must have a Representative or Senator. Pres. Snow thoroughly worn out...
[Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
175 years ago today - Dec 27, 1845. Saturday.
[William Clayton]
At 15 minutes past 10 o clock the United States Deputy Marshall, from Springfield, by the name of Roberts, came to the [Nauvoo] Temple in company with Almon W. Babbitt. He was freely admitted to every part of the Temple, to which he desired access. He went into the tower, on the roof, and into the Attic Story, passed through the various departments into the east room, where he very intently examined the portraits, and made enquiries as to whose they were, severally but obtained no correct information on the subject. ...
In the evening several of the Twelve came in ... these met for prayer in President Younges room at 15 minutes before 7 o clock. Bishop Whitney was with them also. All were clothed in priestly garments. Elder John Taylor came in just as they were commencing their exercises, and without having clothed himself united with them in prayer. . . .
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
At 15 minutes past 10 o clock the United States Deputy Marshall, from Springfield, by the name of Roberts, came to the [Nauvoo] Temple in company with Almon W. Babbitt. He was freely admitted to every part of the Temple, to which he desired access. He went into the tower, on the roof, and into the Attic Story, passed through the various departments into the east room, where he very intently examined the portraits, and made enquiries as to whose they were, severally but obtained no correct information on the subject. ...
In the evening several of the Twelve came in ... these met for prayer in President Younges room at 15 minutes before 7 o clock. Bishop Whitney was with them also. All were clothed in priestly garments. Elder John Taylor came in just as they were commencing their exercises, and without having clothed himself united with them in prayer. . . .
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
175 years ago today - Dec 27, 1845
Patriarch John Smith blesses a woman whose husband is non-LDS: "the Priesthood in its fullness shall be confered upon thee in due time[--]thou shalt have pow[e]r ov[e]r try relatives & friends & thy husband & children to lead them whethersoever thou wilt in as much as you seek faithfully & truly to preserve them in the bonds of the new & ev[e]rlasting covenant."
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
195 years ago today - Dec 27, 1825
"A few days since was discovered in this town, by the help of a mineral stone, (which becomes transparent when placed in a hat and the light excluded by the face of him who looks into it, provided he is fortune's favorite,) a monstrous potash kettle in the bowels of old mother Earth, filled with the purest bullion. Some attempts have been made to dig it up, but without success. His Satanic Majesty, or some other invisible agent, appears to keep it under marching orders; for no sooner is it dug on to in one place, than it moves off like "false delusive hope," to another still more remote [place]. ... They have entrenched the kettle all around, and driven a steel ramrod into the ground directly over it, to break the enchantment."
[Wayne Sentinel]
[Wayne Sentinel]
120 years ago today - Dec 26, 1900; Wednesday
President [Lorenzo] Snow was feeling somewhat better this morning and was at the office, also President [Joseph F.] Smith. A letter from President [George Q.]
Cannon dated December 17th was received today. President Cannon referring to the meeting held the day before (Dec[ember]. 16) in Honolulu [Hawaii], stated that seldom had he felt more of the spirit of the Lord while speaking then on that occasion to the people, and that he was reminded of old times. By invitation from the ex-queen, Liliukalani, he called upon that lady who received him very graciously. She spoke very warmly of the good effects of his visit to the islands and to the people whom she said were full of love towards him on account of his having brought the Gospel to them. On arising to depart she requested him to bless her and led him into a private room, and, before he was aware, she had knelt at his feet, to receive a blessing. He blessed her very freely and the spirit rested upon them both.
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
Cannon dated December 17th was received today. President Cannon referring to the meeting held the day before (Dec[ember]. 16) in Honolulu [Hawaii], stated that seldom had he felt more of the spirit of the Lord while speaking then on that occasion to the people, and that he was reminded of old times. By invitation from the ex-queen, Liliukalani, he called upon that lady who received him very graciously. She spoke very warmly of the good effects of his visit to the islands and to the people whom she said were full of love towards him on account of his having brought the Gospel to them. On arising to depart she requested him to bless her and led him into a private room, and, before he was aware, she had knelt at his feet, to receive a blessing. He blessed her very freely and the spirit rested upon them both.
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
120 years ago today - Wednesday, Dec 26, 1900
[Apostle Rudger Clawson]
Salt Lake City. Cloudy and cold. I was busily engaged all day on the books of the Utah Coal Co. Besides this work I am keeping the books of the Brigham City Roller Mill Co., and also from time to time am getting up financial statements relating to the condition of the church. These things added to the requirements made of me as an apostle are almost more than I can attend to. As it is, I often work until ten and eleven o'clock at night.
[Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]
Salt Lake City. Cloudy and cold. I was busily engaged all day on the books of the Utah Coal Co. Besides this work I am keeping the books of the Brigham City Roller Mill Co., and also from time to time am getting up financial statements relating to the condition of the church. These things added to the requirements made of me as an apostle are almost more than I can attend to. As it is, I often work until ten and eleven o'clock at night.
[Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]
175 years ago today - Dec 26, 1845. Friday.
[William Clayton]
There was a necessity for a reformation of this sort, for some men were doing things which ought not to be done in the Temple of the Lord. Some three or four men and perhaps more, had introduced women into the Temple, not their wives, and were living in the side rooms, cooking, sleeping, tending babies, and toying with their women. The men who were guilty of these things were H. G. Sherwood, B. L. Clapp, L. N. Scovil, and perhaps others. There was also a great many men introduced and passed through the ordinances who were not so deserving as some that were passed by. There were also many women and children passed through who were not well entitled to the ordinances, while none of the sons and daughters of the Twelve had been permitted to enter.
There were also many persons lounging about, who had no particular duty to attend to, but who thought they had a right to be present, because they had once passed through the Vail. There was also a number of men taking their stations at the vail without permission of the President; considering it their right to receive through the vail any female whom they might introduce into the washing and anointing room, while it is evidently the sole prerogative of the President to officiate at that place or any one that he may authorize to do so. ...
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
There was a necessity for a reformation of this sort, for some men were doing things which ought not to be done in the Temple of the Lord. Some three or four men and perhaps more, had introduced women into the Temple, not their wives, and were living in the side rooms, cooking, sleeping, tending babies, and toying with their women. The men who were guilty of these things were H. G. Sherwood, B. L. Clapp, L. N. Scovil, and perhaps others. There was also a great many men introduced and passed through the ordinances who were not so deserving as some that were passed by. There were also many women and children passed through who were not well entitled to the ordinances, while none of the sons and daughters of the Twelve had been permitted to enter.
There were also many persons lounging about, who had no particular duty to attend to, but who thought they had a right to be present, because they had once passed through the Vail. There was also a number of men taking their stations at the vail without permission of the President; considering it their right to receive through the vail any female whom they might introduce into the washing and anointing room, while it is evidently the sole prerogative of the President to officiate at that place or any one that he may authorize to do so. ...
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
175 years ago today - Dec 26, 1845
Pres. Young said when he began again he should pay no respect to quorums--every man that comes in is washed & anointed by good men and it makes no difference. Every man that gets his endowment, whether he is High Priest or Seventy, may go into any part of the world and build up the kingdom if he has the keys--or on to any island. We have been ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood, which is the highest order of Priesthood, and it has many branches or offices--And those who have come in here and have received their washing & anointing will be ordained Kings & Priests, and will then have received the fullness of the Priesthood, all that can be given on earth, for Brother Joseph said he had given us all that could be given to man on the earth.--
I feel disposed to rest a few days, and let the Temple rest, and when I commence work again I am going to make a selection of my hands, and shall select those that will stay all the time. We will have no more cooking and eating going on in those rooms. ...
I shall not have any more cutting & sewing of garments going on in the Temple. I shall have houses selected, where garments can be cut and made--It is my right to receive persons through the veil, and it does not belong to any one else, unless I put him there--When persons come into this house & receive the tokens & signs and the key words, they have got all they have worked for in building this house.
[Nauvoo Temple - Heber C. Kimball Journal Mss., in Elden J. Watson, ed. Brigham Young Addresses, 1801-1877: A Chronological Compilation of Known Addresses of the Prophet Brigham Young, 6 vols. (Salt Lake City: Privately published, 1971)]
I feel disposed to rest a few days, and let the Temple rest, and when I commence work again I am going to make a selection of my hands, and shall select those that will stay all the time. We will have no more cooking and eating going on in those rooms. ...
I shall not have any more cutting & sewing of garments going on in the Temple. I shall have houses selected, where garments can be cut and made--It is my right to receive persons through the veil, and it does not belong to any one else, unless I put him there--When persons come into this house & receive the tokens & signs and the key words, they have got all they have worked for in building this house.
[Nauvoo Temple - Heber C. Kimball Journal Mss., in Elden J. Watson, ed. Brigham Young Addresses, 1801-1877: A Chronological Compilation of Known Addresses of the Prophet Brigham Young, 6 vols. (Salt Lake City: Privately published, 1971)]
175 years ago today - Dec 26, 1845 (Morning)
[Brigham Young]
... I have been amused at the people making [use] of their eyes to see who takes the sisters through the vail. It has nothing to do with the sealing power, they say they cannot receive their endowment without being sealed and this [is] to be known hereafter when persons come through the vail. Those who have labored on the temple, they have all they can expect for a recompense. If we get more it is through the mercy of God. ...
[The Nauvoo Endowment Companies, 1845-1846: A Documentary History. Devery Scott Anderson and Gary James Bergera, eds. Salt Lake City: Signature Books-Smith-Pettit Foundation, 2005. 190-191, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
... I have been amused at the people making [use] of their eyes to see who takes the sisters through the vail. It has nothing to do with the sealing power, they say they cannot receive their endowment without being sealed and this [is] to be known hereafter when persons come through the vail. Those who have labored on the temple, they have all they can expect for a recompense. If we get more it is through the mercy of God. ...
[The Nauvoo Endowment Companies, 1845-1846: A Documentary History. Devery Scott Anderson and Gary James Bergera, eds. Salt Lake City: Signature Books-Smith-Pettit Foundation, 2005. 190-191, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
185 years ago today - Dec 26, 1835
Patriarchal Blessing of Harlow Redfield and companion given by Joseph Smith, Sr. ... Thou shalt stand upon the earth till the end of wickedness & see the winding up scene. God shall support thee & be with thee to deliver thee from the power of all thy enemies. & give thee power over fire to command all things, heal the sick, cast out Devils open the eyes of the blind, & do all things that shall come within thy mission to do. Thou shalt stand among the 100 & 44000 even as thou hast desired, with the thousands which thou shalt gather from the nations ...
Also a blessing for thy companion who is absent She also is sealed up unto eternal life. & I seal a blessing for her even all power which shall be necessary for her in all circumstances, that she may be able to resist the adversary, & escape the power of the destroyer -- She shall remain on the earth even to the end of time & live till She is fully satisfied with life, & the blessing of heaven shall rest upon her, & she shall be qualified for every duty - with wisdom, intel[l]igence, all things both for her & her children, to teach them their duties & govern her house in the absence of her husband. & be accepted at last in the celestial kingdom. These & all kneadful [needful] blessings I seal for her in the name of Jesus Amen.
[Patriarchal Blessings]
Also a blessing for thy companion who is absent She also is sealed up unto eternal life. & I seal a blessing for her even all power which shall be necessary for her in all circumstances, that she may be able to resist the adversary, & escape the power of the destroyer -- She shall remain on the earth even to the end of time & live till She is fully satisfied with life, & the blessing of heaven shall rest upon her, & she shall be qualified for every duty - with wisdom, intel[l]igence, all things both for her & her children, to teach them their duties & govern her house in the absence of her husband. & be accepted at last in the celestial kingdom. These & all kneadful [needful] blessings I seal for her in the name of Jesus Amen.
[Patriarchal Blessings]
185 years ago today - Dec 26, 1835 (Saturday)
Joseph Smith, jun., with other Elders, commenced studying the Hebrew language, having previously commenced reading Greek. Mr. Seixas, a competent professor of languages, was subsequently employed as teacher.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
15 years ago today - Dec 25, 2005
"Well, we have nothing to hide. Our history is an open book. They may find what they are looking for, but the fact is the history of the church is clear and open and leads to faith and strength and virtues." -- Gordon B. Hinckley - interview with The Associated Press
[LDS Quotations, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html]
[LDS Quotations, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html]
165 years ago today - Dec 25, 1855
[Hosea Stout]
Tuesday 25 Decr 1855. Cold Christmass but still times[.] No guns firing no boys hooping[.] No petty fandangos,No brilliant cotillion parties[.] Every one minding his own business. And perhaps some few wife hunting or rather hunting the raw material[.]
House met at ten a. m. [and a number of legislative considerations were discussed]
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
Tuesday 25 Decr 1855. Cold Christmass but still times[.] No guns firing no boys hooping[.] No petty fandangos,No brilliant cotillion parties[.] Every one minding his own business. And perhaps some few wife hunting or rather hunting the raw material[.]
House met at ten a. m. [and a number of legislative considerations were discussed]
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
40 years ago today - Dec 24, 1980
National broadcast of "Mr. Krueger's Christmas," dramatic production starring James Stewart and produced by LDS church with proselytizing message at end. It is rebroadcast a year later on 125 commercial U.S. stations in all major markets, on PBS in Spanish, on 136 Spanish International Network stations, and on Turner Broadcasting Network. This rebroadcast airs in every Latin American country, as well as in Italy, Australia, the Philippines, and Iceland. Stewart later donates his papers to BYU.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
100 years ago today - Dec 24, 1920
The First Presidency announces the release of a new edition of the Book of Mormon with footnotes and new chapter introductions. The text of this version is set in two columns on each page rather than one.
150 years ago today - Dec 24, 1870
Patriarchal Blessing given by John Smith, Patriarch, upon the head of [future apostle] Moses Thatcher... he [God] hath given thine Angel charge concerning thee; He hath protected thee from the Destroyer, and hath preserved thy life for a wise purpose; therefore seek wisdom and thou shalt know the will of the Lord concerning thee. Thy course shall be made clear and thou shalt comprehend future events. ... Live up to thy priviledges [privileges] and thou shalt become a mighty man in Israel and thy name shall be heard among the nations of the earth, and the wicked shall tremble at the sound of thy voice, and if necessary thou shalt command elements, and the waves of the sea shall obey thy voice. Thou shalt also assist in avenging the blood of the saints and Prophets which was shed by the ungodly; Be prudent and thou shalt live to a good old age; thy posterity shall be numerous and bear thy name in honorable remembrance from generation to generation. This Blessing I seal upon thy head, and I seal thee up unto eternal life ...
[Patriarchal Blessings]
[Patriarchal Blessings]
175 years ago today - Dec 24, 1845. Wednesday.
[William Clayton]
... And being clothed in the Robes of Priesthood, offered up prayers to God for our prosperity, the preservation of the Twelve, for means to remove from this place, for the welfare of all the honest in heart, our wives and children &c &c . . .
At 20 minutes past 12, William Miller who was arrested yesterday, came into the Temple, having been liberated from arrest at Carthage last evening, when they found out that he was not Brigham Young. He was not ill treated . . .
at about 20 minutes past eleven, President Young and H. C. Kimball came in and remained the rest of the night. The labors of this day have been very arduous 122 persons having been washed and anointed and received into the upper department. It was expected that troops would be in, with officers and writs, for the purpose of arresting the Twelve, who are mostly charged with counterfeiting the current coin of the United States, but no signs of troops, writs or officers have appeared to molest our peace. ...
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
... And being clothed in the Robes of Priesthood, offered up prayers to God for our prosperity, the preservation of the Twelve, for means to remove from this place, for the welfare of all the honest in heart, our wives and children &c &c . . .
At 20 minutes past 12, William Miller who was arrested yesterday, came into the Temple, having been liberated from arrest at Carthage last evening, when they found out that he was not Brigham Young. He was not ill treated . . .
at about 20 minutes past eleven, President Young and H. C. Kimball came in and remained the rest of the night. The labors of this day have been very arduous 122 persons having been washed and anointed and received into the upper department. It was expected that troops would be in, with officers and writs, for the purpose of arresting the Twelve, who are mostly charged with counterfeiting the current coin of the United States, but no signs of troops, writs or officers have appeared to molest our peace. ...
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
180 years ago today - Dec 24, 1840
[Wilford Woodruff]
... in addition to some bread & Cheese & a pint of beer we made out a supper & went to bed, & I dreamed of falling among thieves & robbers, who tried to rob us under pretence that we had done sumthing wrong in London some years since. I told them we never had been in London untill within few months that we were Americans & had a family there, & we had come to preach the gospel & we would preach to them, if they would open their doors & after bothering awhile with them I awoke, & found it to be the first Christmas Eve I ever Spent in London.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
... in addition to some bread & Cheese & a pint of beer we made out a supper & went to bed, & I dreamed of falling among thieves & robbers, who tried to rob us under pretence that we had done sumthing wrong in London some years since. I told them we never had been in London untill within few months that we were Americans & had a family there, & we had come to preach the gospel & we would preach to them, if they would open their doors & after bothering awhile with them I awoke, & found it to be the first Christmas Eve I ever Spent in London.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
25 years ago today - Dec 23, 1995
190th birthday of Mormon founder Joseph Smith; First Presidency announces new logo for church's name, with larger letters for JESUS CHRIST.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
80 years ago today - Dec 23, 1940
[Frank Evans]
Conferred with office attaches re persons entering vault. Understood by all that one person only shall have combination and that sealed copy of combination shall be kept in secure place; that no one shall enter vault except by consent of person holding key.
[Frank Evans Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
Conferred with office attaches re persons entering vault. Understood by all that one person only shall have combination and that sealed copy of combination shall be kept in secure place; that no one shall enter vault except by consent of person holding key.
[Frank Evans Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
110 years ago today - Dec 23, 1910; Friday
[George F. Richards]
My brother Fred came down from Logan [Utah] and I spent an hour with him and my mother at her home and after his departure at 3:30 to go down town and attend to business, I talked with Mother upon a subject about which we have never before conversed.
She told me about President Brigham Young's treatment of Father Willard [Richards]'s family after his death. Father Willard as Church Historian had his office in his home where my mother and his sister Sarah lived. At his death the office effects, papers, records &c were removed from there and when certain papers were wanted and could not be found Brigham came over to their home and charged them with having purloined them for the purpose of getting money out of them later "as did Emma Smith." Mother and Aunt Sarah disclaimed any knowledge of them and he in a gruff manner insisted that they had them and commanded them to tear open their feather beds, which of course they did not do, and when they shed the tears of broken hearts and wounded spirits he charged them with shedding crocodile tears. Bro[ther]. Robert Campbell later told the folks that the papers had been found but no apology was ever offered. The women took in sewing and did what they could at maintaining themselves and raised what they could in their garden. It was in a conspicuous place where the present Des[eret]. News building stands & in the rear. Brigham told Tho[ma]s. L. Kane the administrator of the estate that that family must be moved from there. Brigham told him to have them moved to Farmington [Utah] and it was done to the sorrow and almost breaking of their hearts. This the cause of the move because these widows were seen working in the garden which was a shame and a disgrace, to whom? After property had been recovered, Brigham instructed B[isho]p. J. W. Hess to not let the Doctor's widows be baptized at time of the reformation and it became known and they were under a cloud in Farmington in consequence, but later word was sent to them that they might be baptized. At one time the properties were consecrated to the Church. Brigham told our folks they owned nothing it all belonged to the Church but when he came to try & sell the property he found the title vested in the family (Estate) Jennings Corner. I allude to particularly as it was he who was trying to buy the property. Mother's justification for speaking of these things even now for the first time when I am in my fiftieth year is as a partial paliation for the weak faith of Heber, Willard & Joseph, not justifying them but accounting for their condition of faith.
[George F. Richards, Diary]
My brother Fred came down from Logan [Utah] and I spent an hour with him and my mother at her home and after his departure at 3:30 to go down town and attend to business, I talked with Mother upon a subject about which we have never before conversed.
She told me about President Brigham Young's treatment of Father Willard [Richards]'s family after his death. Father Willard as Church Historian had his office in his home where my mother and his sister Sarah lived. At his death the office effects, papers, records &c were removed from there and when certain papers were wanted and could not be found Brigham came over to their home and charged them with having purloined them for the purpose of getting money out of them later "as did Emma Smith." Mother and Aunt Sarah disclaimed any knowledge of them and he in a gruff manner insisted that they had them and commanded them to tear open their feather beds, which of course they did not do, and when they shed the tears of broken hearts and wounded spirits he charged them with shedding crocodile tears. Bro[ther]. Robert Campbell later told the folks that the papers had been found but no apology was ever offered. The women took in sewing and did what they could at maintaining themselves and raised what they could in their garden. It was in a conspicuous place where the present Des[eret]. News building stands & in the rear. Brigham told Tho[ma]s. L. Kane the administrator of the estate that that family must be moved from there. Brigham told him to have them moved to Farmington [Utah] and it was done to the sorrow and almost breaking of their hearts. This the cause of the move because these widows were seen working in the garden which was a shame and a disgrace, to whom? After property had been recovered, Brigham instructed B[isho]p. J. W. Hess to not let the Doctor's widows be baptized at time of the reformation and it became known and they were under a cloud in Farmington in consequence, but later word was sent to them that they might be baptized. At one time the properties were consecrated to the Church. Brigham told our folks they owned nothing it all belonged to the Church but when he came to try & sell the property he found the title vested in the family (Estate) Jennings Corner. I allude to particularly as it was he who was trying to buy the property. Mother's justification for speaking of these things even now for the first time when I am in my fiftieth year is as a partial paliation for the weak faith of Heber, Willard & Joseph, not justifying them but accounting for their condition of faith.
[George F. Richards, Diary]
115 years ago today - Saturday, Dec 23, 1905
[John Henry Smith]
South Royalton, Vermont
The Prophet Joseph Smith is one hundred years old today.
... At 11 a.m. services were held in the Cottage owing to the storm. ...President Joseph F. Smith offered the Dedicatory Prayer.
Singing by Choir. Benediction by George Albert Smith. ..
The monument wont cost less than $25,000.00. It is of gray granite polished and about 53 feet high....
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
South Royalton, Vermont
The Prophet Joseph Smith is one hundred years old today.
... At 11 a.m. services were held in the Cottage owing to the storm. ...President Joseph F. Smith offered the Dedicatory Prayer.
Singing by Choir. Benediction by George Albert Smith. ..
The monument wont cost less than $25,000.00. It is of gray granite polished and about 53 feet high....
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
175 years ago today - Dec 23, 1845. Tuesday.
[William Clayton]
... At 3 o clock John Scott informed George D. Grant that an officer and assistants were watching for President Young and others at the front door of the Temple. Brother Grant carried the information to President Young, who soon devised a scheme by which their intentions to carry him off might be frustrated.
He directed William Miller who was present at the time, to put on Elder Kimball's cloak, and go down with Geo. D. Grant to his carriage, at the door. They accordingly went down, and as Mr. Miller was about to get into the carriage, with Elder Grant, the officer and 5 or 6 of his assistants arrested him, supposing it to be President B. Young. They were about to drive away with him, having made their boasts that they would get as many of the Twelve as they could, take them down to Warsaw, and have a new Years frolic killing them, but were persuaded to drive to the Nauvoo Mansion and tarry until tomorrow morning when the validity of the writ would be tested.
They were kept in profound ignorance of their mistake all the time. ...
Esquire Babbitt came in at 5 o clock and reports that the Officer who arrested Wm. Miller (supposing it to be President Young) has left the city, and gone to Carthage, with the prisoner, continuing ignorant of his mistake. Mr. Edmonds, a partner of Mr. Babbitts, has gone with them to act as counsel for the prisoner. The Officer has writs for B. Young, P. P. Pratt, H. C. Kimball, John Taylor, Geo. A. Smith, Amasa Lyman and T[heodore] Turley who are all charged with counterfeiting the coin of the United States with President Young . . .
At 20 minutes past 8 o clock, President Brigham Young, H. C. Kimball, P. P. Pratt, George A. Smith and Amasa Lyman left the Temple, nearly at the same time, disguised with other mens Hats and Coats. The reason of this is that their enemies are seeking their lives charging them with high crimes &c . . .
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
... At 3 o clock John Scott informed George D. Grant that an officer and assistants were watching for President Young and others at the front door of the Temple. Brother Grant carried the information to President Young, who soon devised a scheme by which their intentions to carry him off might be frustrated.
He directed William Miller who was present at the time, to put on Elder Kimball's cloak, and go down with Geo. D. Grant to his carriage, at the door. They accordingly went down, and as Mr. Miller was about to get into the carriage, with Elder Grant, the officer and 5 or 6 of his assistants arrested him, supposing it to be President B. Young. They were about to drive away with him, having made their boasts that they would get as many of the Twelve as they could, take them down to Warsaw, and have a new Years frolic killing them, but were persuaded to drive to the Nauvoo Mansion and tarry until tomorrow morning when the validity of the writ would be tested.
They were kept in profound ignorance of their mistake all the time. ...
Esquire Babbitt came in at 5 o clock and reports that the Officer who arrested Wm. Miller (supposing it to be President Young) has left the city, and gone to Carthage, with the prisoner, continuing ignorant of his mistake. Mr. Edmonds, a partner of Mr. Babbitts, has gone with them to act as counsel for the prisoner. The Officer has writs for B. Young, P. P. Pratt, H. C. Kimball, John Taylor, Geo. A. Smith, Amasa Lyman and T[heodore] Turley who are all charged with counterfeiting the coin of the United States with President Young . . .
At 20 minutes past 8 o clock, President Brigham Young, H. C. Kimball, P. P. Pratt, George A. Smith and Amasa Lyman left the Temple, nearly at the same time, disguised with other mens Hats and Coats. The reason of this is that their enemies are seeking their lives charging them with high crimes &c . . .
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
175 years ago today - Dec 23, 1845
Apostle Willard Richards and a new bride entered into a mutual covenant of marriage for time and eternity, without having Young or anyone else perform this as an ordinance. Richards (who was official Church Recorder of all temple ordinances) recorded the words of the ceremony, as the couple holds each other by the hand: "of our own free will and avow[, we] mutually acknowledge each other [as] husband & wife, in a covenant not to be broken in time or Eternity for time and for all Eternity, to all intents & purposes as though the seal of the covenant had been placed upon us. for time & all Eternity." He did not have this ceremony re-performed in the temple.
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
175 years ago today - Dec 23, 1845
["Bogus Brigham" arrest]
About two oclock a company of the governors troops came in the city with a United States writ for some of 12 and came to the Temple and while they were there not knowing what to do Br William Miller & G. D. Grant came down out of the Temple and started to Brigham carriage and as they were going Br Grant called Br Miller President Young & asked him if he did not want to take a ride and the officer hearing what was said immediately arrested Br Miller and took him down to the Mansion House and from thence to Carthage not knowing but they had Br Young until they had got there.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
About two oclock a company of the governors troops came in the city with a United States writ for some of 12 and came to the Temple and while they were there not knowing what to do Br William Miller & G. D. Grant came down out of the Temple and started to Brigham carriage and as they were going Br Grant called Br Miller President Young & asked him if he did not want to take a ride and the officer hearing what was said immediately arrested Br Miller and took him down to the Mansion House and from thence to Carthage not knowing but they had Br Young until they had got there.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
215 years ago today - Dec 23, 1805
Smith is born in Sharon, Vermont to Joseph Smith, Sr. and Lucy Mack Smith. Vermont residents recall that Smith, Sr. told them the young Joseph was born with a caul (a sign of good luck), and that Smith, Sr. "intended to procure a stone for [him] to see all over the world with".
[Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
[Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
35 years ago today - Dec 22, 1985
The First Presidency issued a special invitation to those members who had ceased activity or become critical of the Church to "come back", and they opened the temples to worthy members married to unendowed spouses.
["Ezra Taft Benson." In Encyclopedia of Mormonism, edited by Daniel H. Ludlow, by Reed Benson and Sheri Dew. New York: Macmillan, 1992; Church News, Dec. 22, 1985, p. 3]
["Ezra Taft Benson." In Encyclopedia of Mormonism, edited by Daniel H. Ludlow, by Reed Benson and Sheri Dew. New York: Macmillan, 1992; Church News, Dec. 22, 1985, p. 3]
60 years ago today - Dec 22, 1960
David O. McKay warns Twelve against growing power of LDS bureaucracy.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
75 years ago today - Dec 22, 1945
Having received permission from U.S. President Harry S. Truman to send aid to the Saints in war-torn Europe, the First Presidency assigns Elder Ezra Taft Benson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles to go immediately to Europe to assess the spiritual and temporal needs of the thirty thousand members of the Church there.
120 years ago today - Dec 22, 1900
With respect to Zadok K. Judd's letter (herewith enclosed) asking for second blessings [second anointings] for his father and grandfather, Pres[iden]t [Lorenzo] Snow says that many faithful people have gone into the spirit world without those blessings, and they will lose nothing by it; and all such cases he prefers to refer to the future than to undertake to endorse recommends for persons who cannot be regularly recommended.
[George F. Gibbs to David H. Cannon, Dec. 22, 1900, quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[George F. Gibbs to David H. Cannon, Dec. 22, 1900, quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
130 years ago today - Dec 22, 1890 (Monday)
The U.S. Supreme Court rendered a decision in William E. Bassett's case, reversing the decision of the Utah courts, and declaring it illegal for a lawful wife to testify against her husband.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
140 years ago today - Dec 22, 1880
[Wilford Woodruff]
The Devil is stired up in washington against Mormonism. I drew out a list of our persecutors.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
The Devil is stired up in washington against Mormonism. I drew out a list of our persecutors.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
140 years ago today - Dec 22, 1880
[Joseph F. Smith]
At the Presidents Office I had a long talk with Brother Andrew Burt on city matters relative to our policy respecting the treatment of gamblers, prostitutes and liquor dealers. He advocates a change of policy and more rigor. I sincerely concur. P.M. at council in the E[ndowment]. H[ouse]. I brought up marshal Burt's suggestion, but Brother [John] Taylor seemed unconcerned and uninterested so the matter dropped. I also recalled the subject of setting apart the officers of the Y[oung] M[ens] M[utual] I[mprovement] A[ssociation]. Brother Taylor objected to it so the matter dropped.
[Joseph F. Smith Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
At the Presidents Office I had a long talk with Brother Andrew Burt on city matters relative to our policy respecting the treatment of gamblers, prostitutes and liquor dealers. He advocates a change of policy and more rigor. I sincerely concur. P.M. at council in the E[ndowment]. H[ouse]. I brought up marshal Burt's suggestion, but Brother [John] Taylor seemed unconcerned and uninterested so the matter dropped. I also recalled the subject of setting apart the officers of the Y[oung] M[ens] M[utual] I[mprovement] A[ssociation]. Brother Taylor objected to it so the matter dropped.
[Joseph F. Smith Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
155 years ago today - Dec 22, 1865
[Wilford Woodruff]
... I will say unto Sister Jane [Blackhurst] in the name of Jesus Christ as an Appostle that all the Blessings which have been promised you by the Apostles shall be fulfilled upon your head & when you get through with the toils of this life you shall Come forth in the Morning of the first resurrection Clothed with glory immortality & Eternal Life & you shall have the privilege of associating in the Celestial kingdom of God with these vary Apostles & Prophets whom you have been feeding Annually for the last fifteen years. ...
I care not what Congress or the Nation attempts to do against us. God will overthrow them & hedge up their way. ...
Elder Taylor Prophesyed that the Twelve should be delivered from the bondage of the poverty under which they had been weltering for years. ...
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
... I will say unto Sister Jane [Blackhurst] in the name of Jesus Christ as an Appostle that all the Blessings which have been promised you by the Apostles shall be fulfilled upon your head & when you get through with the toils of this life you shall Come forth in the Morning of the first resurrection Clothed with glory immortality & Eternal Life & you shall have the privilege of associating in the Celestial kingdom of God with these vary Apostles & Prophets whom you have been feeding Annually for the last fifteen years. ...
I care not what Congress or the Nation attempts to do against us. God will overthrow them & hedge up their way. ...
Elder Taylor Prophesyed that the Twelve should be delivered from the bondage of the poverty under which they had been weltering for years. ...
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
175 years ago today - Dec 22, 1845
... Mr. Kimball came to the room; some other persons were then present; he, K., asked if We understood the signs, and Was answered, "We did not." He explained them . . . "Are these not hard sayings?" said he, "you are bound to obey the Heads of the Church; avenge the blood of your brethren in every way possible, and strive to build up the kingdom; if you do not, you must suffer the penalties before mentioned." . . .
[Catherine Lewis, Narrative of Some of the Proceedings of the Mormons; Giving an Account of Their Iniquities, with Particulars Concerning the Training of the Indians by Them, Description of the Mode of Endowment, Plurality of Wives, (19)c., (19)c. (Lynn, Mass.: Catherine Lewis, 1848), 11, 17, as quoted in Sources on the Oath of Vengeance or Law of Retribution, Christopher C. Smith, privately circulated]
[Catherine Lewis, Narrative of Some of the Proceedings of the Mormons; Giving an Account of Their Iniquities, with Particulars Concerning the Training of the Indians by Them, Description of the Mode of Endowment, Plurality of Wives, (19)c., (19)c. (Lynn, Mass.: Catherine Lewis, 1848), 11, 17, as quoted in Sources on the Oath of Vengeance or Law of Retribution, Christopher C. Smith, privately circulated]
185 years ago today - 22 December 1835 - Tuesday
... Continued my studys [of Hebrew] O may God give me learning even Language and indo [endue] me with qualifycations to magnify his name while I live I also deliv[er]ed an ad dress to the Church this Evening the Lord blessed my Soul, my scribe also is un well O my God heal him and for his kindness to me O my soul be thou greatful to him and bless him and he shall be blessed of for ever of God for ever I believe him to be a faithful friend to me therefore my soul delighteth in him Amen Joseph Smith Jr
[Joseph Smith, “Sketch Book for the use of Joseph Smith, jr.,†Journal, Sept. 1835â€"Apr. 1836]
[Joseph Smith, “Sketch Book for the use of Joseph Smith, jr.,†Journal, Sept. 1835â€"Apr. 1836]
140 years ago today - Tuesday, Dec 21, 1880
[John Henry Smith]
J. F. S. [Joseph Fielding Smith] blessed my wife Sarah who is about to be confined [in anticipation of child birth] and to leave her was one of the severest trials of my life. But she said go and do my duty she would not stand in my way.
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
J. F. S. [Joseph Fielding Smith] blessed my wife Sarah who is about to be confined [in anticipation of child birth] and to leave her was one of the severest trials of my life. But she said go and do my duty she would not stand in my way.
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
160 years ago today - Dec 21, 1860
Bishop Hunter called in for counsel about having dances in the Ward School houses. The President [Brigham Young] told him they could have Some dancing, provided the B[isho]ps would see there was no drinking going, and the B[isho]ps should refrain from drinking themselves, and should in every case refuse it when offered to them by any of the Members of their wards. If the Bishops saw any of them with a jug of whiskey in their hands they should smash it.
[Brigham Young Office Journals, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Brigham Young Office Journals, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
175 years ago today - Dec 21, 1845. Sunday.
[William Clayton]
According to appointment on Sunday last, a meeting was held in the east room this day of all those who could clothe themselves in the garments of Priesthood, 75 persons were present, Elder H. C. Kimball presiding . . .
Father John Smith then made a few remarks, blessed the bread and it handed round by Bishop Geo. Miller, the Wine was blessed by Geo. Miller and handed round by him. While the wine was passing round, Elder George A. Smith arose and addressed the congregation. He thanked God for the privileges this day enjoyed and spoke of the difficulties under which the church had labored to attain the blessings we now enjoy. ...
He then related an instance of some children being healed and cured of the whooping cough in one night, through the prayers of himself and Elder Woodruff, in Michigan, while they were there on a mission. Said that whenever they could get an opportunity they retired to the wilderness or to an upper room, they did so and offered up the signs, and were always answered. It would be a good thing for us to put on our garments every day and pray to God, and in private circles, when we can do so with safety.
We are now different from what we were before we entered into this quorum. Speedy vengeance will now overtake the transgressor. ...
Elder Kimball next addressed the meeting. He concurred in all that had been said, the observation of these things is most essential. About 4 years ago next May nine persons were admitted into the Holy order 5 are now living. B. Young W. Richards George Miller N. K. Whitney and H. C. Kimball two are dead, and two are worse than dead. You have not got all you will have if you are faithful and keep your tongue in your mouth. You are pronounced clean, but were you pronounced clean from the blood of this generation? No! not all of you, only some few who have deserved it. Females were not received when we first received the Holy order. Men apostatized, being led by their wives, if any such cases occur again, no more women will be admitted. He spoke of the Necessity of Women being in subjection to their husbands. I am subject to my God, my wife is in subjection to me and will reverence me in my place and I will make her happy. I do not want her to step forward and dictate to me any more than I dictate to President Young. In his absence I take his place according to his request. ... In the coming week we will take through 100 a day, we want no man to come in here unless he is invited, or on business. Let those having cloth to make up send it here and we will make it up and put it to good use. Women should be appointed to attend to the washing and anointings of the High Priests wives. There is a large lot ahead. You are not yet ordained to any thing, but we have the clay here, it is mellow and we shall soon put it on the wheel. ... We cannot rest day nor night until we put you in possession of the Priesthood. We want you now to make up garments for yourselves. I want my own robe back again. If we have made you clean every whit, now go to work and make others clean. ...
Let women wait upon women and let men wait upon men, then no jealousies will arise.
...Elder Kimball showed the right fashion for a leaf, spoke of Elder Richards being protected at Carthage Jail, having on the robe, while Joseph and Hyrum and Elder Taylor were shot to pieces, said the Twelve would have to leave shortly, for a charge of treason would be brought against them for swearing us to avenge the blood of the anointed ones, and some one would reveal it and we shall have to part some say between sundown and dark.
George Miller said that when near the camp of Gen[eral] Hardin, he was shot at, and the Sentinel who was near him was killed, but he escaped unhurt, having on his garment. He then spoke of the design and purpose for which all the Symbols in the garden were given &c. Paul said he bore in his body the marks of the Lord Jesus Christ, which was as plainly as he dare allude to these things in writing. But the marks Paul alluded to were just such as we now have on our garments. He spoke of the signs, tokens and penalties and of the work in general, said it was the work of God, by which he designs to reinstitute man into his presence &c.
Elder John Taylor confirmed the saying that Joseph and Hyrum and himself were without their robes in the jail at Carthage, while Doctor Richards had his on, but corrected the idea that some had, that they had taken them off through fear. W. W. Phelps said Joseph told him one day about that time, that he had laid aside his garment on account of the hot weather.
Elder Kimball said word came to him and to all the Twelve about that time to lay aside their garments, and take them to pieces, or cut them up so that they could not be found.
The Sisters ought not to gather together in schools to pray unless their husbands, or some man be with them, every evening at 5 o clock the High Priests meet for prayer by themselves. Clothed in their robes of Priesthood. Also the High Council and the Seventies.
There are from seven to twelve persons who have met together every day to pray ever since Joseph's death, and this people have been sustained upon this principle. Here is brother [Theodore] Turley has been liberated by the power of God and not of man, and I have covenanted, and never will rest nor my posterity after me until those men who killed Joseph and Hyrum have been wiped out of the earth.
...The whole assembly were then formed into 2 circles one within the other, the signs and tokens were given, the proper attitude for prayer assumed, and Elder Taylor being mouth, the whole congregation united with him in prayer to God, at 10 minutes past 2 the meeting was dismissed and all unclothed themselves of their robes and another congregation which had been waiting in the vestibule of the temple was admitted into the east room, not being clothed in the garments of Priesthood.
... You have now learned how to pray. You have been taught how to approach God and be recognized. This is the principle by which the Church has been kept together, and not the power of arms. ...
Elder H. C. Kimball said ... We have been taken as it were from the earth, and have travelled until we have entered the Celestial Kingdom and what is it for, it is to personify Adam. And you discover that our God is like one of us, for he created us in his own image. Every man that ever came upon this earth, or any other earth will take the course we have taken. ... You have got to honor and reverence your brethren, for if you do not you never can honor God. The man was created, and God gave him dominion over the whole earth, but he saw that he never could multiply, and replenish the earth, without a woman. And he made one and gave her to him. He did not make the man for the woman; but the woman for the man, and it is just as unlawful for you to rise up and rebel against your husband, as it would be for man to rebel against God.
When the man came to the vail, God gave the key word to the man, and the man gave it to the woman. But if a man dont use a woman well and take good care of her, God will take her away from him, and give her to another.
Perfect order and consistency makes Heaven but we are now deranged, and the tail has become the head.
We have now come to this place, and all your former covenants are of no account, and here is the place where we have to enter into a new covenant, and be sealed, and have it recorded. One reason why we bring our wives with us, is, that they make a covenant with us to keep these things sacred. You have been anointed to be kings and priests, but you have not been ordained to it yet, and you have got to get it by being faithful. You can't sin so cheap now as you could before you came to this order. It is not for you to reproach the Lord's anointed nor to speak evil of him. You have covenanted not to do it.
... You have been washed and pronounced clean, but not from the blood of this generation.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
According to appointment on Sunday last, a meeting was held in the east room this day of all those who could clothe themselves in the garments of Priesthood, 75 persons were present, Elder H. C. Kimball presiding . . .
Father John Smith then made a few remarks, blessed the bread and it handed round by Bishop Geo. Miller, the Wine was blessed by Geo. Miller and handed round by him. While the wine was passing round, Elder George A. Smith arose and addressed the congregation. He thanked God for the privileges this day enjoyed and spoke of the difficulties under which the church had labored to attain the blessings we now enjoy. ...
He then related an instance of some children being healed and cured of the whooping cough in one night, through the prayers of himself and Elder Woodruff, in Michigan, while they were there on a mission. Said that whenever they could get an opportunity they retired to the wilderness or to an upper room, they did so and offered up the signs, and were always answered. It would be a good thing for us to put on our garments every day and pray to God, and in private circles, when we can do so with safety.
We are now different from what we were before we entered into this quorum. Speedy vengeance will now overtake the transgressor. ...
Elder Kimball next addressed the meeting. He concurred in all that had been said, the observation of these things is most essential. About 4 years ago next May nine persons were admitted into the Holy order 5 are now living. B. Young W. Richards George Miller N. K. Whitney and H. C. Kimball two are dead, and two are worse than dead. You have not got all you will have if you are faithful and keep your tongue in your mouth. You are pronounced clean, but were you pronounced clean from the blood of this generation? No! not all of you, only some few who have deserved it. Females were not received when we first received the Holy order. Men apostatized, being led by their wives, if any such cases occur again, no more women will be admitted. He spoke of the Necessity of Women being in subjection to their husbands. I am subject to my God, my wife is in subjection to me and will reverence me in my place and I will make her happy. I do not want her to step forward and dictate to me any more than I dictate to President Young. In his absence I take his place according to his request. ... In the coming week we will take through 100 a day, we want no man to come in here unless he is invited, or on business. Let those having cloth to make up send it here and we will make it up and put it to good use. Women should be appointed to attend to the washing and anointings of the High Priests wives. There is a large lot ahead. You are not yet ordained to any thing, but we have the clay here, it is mellow and we shall soon put it on the wheel. ... We cannot rest day nor night until we put you in possession of the Priesthood. We want you now to make up garments for yourselves. I want my own robe back again. If we have made you clean every whit, now go to work and make others clean. ...
Let women wait upon women and let men wait upon men, then no jealousies will arise.
...Elder Kimball showed the right fashion for a leaf, spoke of Elder Richards being protected at Carthage Jail, having on the robe, while Joseph and Hyrum and Elder Taylor were shot to pieces, said the Twelve would have to leave shortly, for a charge of treason would be brought against them for swearing us to avenge the blood of the anointed ones, and some one would reveal it and we shall have to part some say between sundown and dark.
George Miller said that when near the camp of Gen[eral] Hardin, he was shot at, and the Sentinel who was near him was killed, but he escaped unhurt, having on his garment. He then spoke of the design and purpose for which all the Symbols in the garden were given &c. Paul said he bore in his body the marks of the Lord Jesus Christ, which was as plainly as he dare allude to these things in writing. But the marks Paul alluded to were just such as we now have on our garments. He spoke of the signs, tokens and penalties and of the work in general, said it was the work of God, by which he designs to reinstitute man into his presence &c.
Elder John Taylor confirmed the saying that Joseph and Hyrum and himself were without their robes in the jail at Carthage, while Doctor Richards had his on, but corrected the idea that some had, that they had taken them off through fear. W. W. Phelps said Joseph told him one day about that time, that he had laid aside his garment on account of the hot weather.
Elder Kimball said word came to him and to all the Twelve about that time to lay aside their garments, and take them to pieces, or cut them up so that they could not be found.
The Sisters ought not to gather together in schools to pray unless their husbands, or some man be with them, every evening at 5 o clock the High Priests meet for prayer by themselves. Clothed in their robes of Priesthood. Also the High Council and the Seventies.
There are from seven to twelve persons who have met together every day to pray ever since Joseph's death, and this people have been sustained upon this principle. Here is brother [Theodore] Turley has been liberated by the power of God and not of man, and I have covenanted, and never will rest nor my posterity after me until those men who killed Joseph and Hyrum have been wiped out of the earth.
...The whole assembly were then formed into 2 circles one within the other, the signs and tokens were given, the proper attitude for prayer assumed, and Elder Taylor being mouth, the whole congregation united with him in prayer to God, at 10 minutes past 2 the meeting was dismissed and all unclothed themselves of their robes and another congregation which had been waiting in the vestibule of the temple was admitted into the east room, not being clothed in the garments of Priesthood.
... You have now learned how to pray. You have been taught how to approach God and be recognized. This is the principle by which the Church has been kept together, and not the power of arms. ...
Elder H. C. Kimball said ... We have been taken as it were from the earth, and have travelled until we have entered the Celestial Kingdom and what is it for, it is to personify Adam. And you discover that our God is like one of us, for he created us in his own image. Every man that ever came upon this earth, or any other earth will take the course we have taken. ... You have got to honor and reverence your brethren, for if you do not you never can honor God. The man was created, and God gave him dominion over the whole earth, but he saw that he never could multiply, and replenish the earth, without a woman. And he made one and gave her to him. He did not make the man for the woman; but the woman for the man, and it is just as unlawful for you to rise up and rebel against your husband, as it would be for man to rebel against God.
When the man came to the vail, God gave the key word to the man, and the man gave it to the woman. But if a man dont use a woman well and take good care of her, God will take her away from him, and give her to another.
Perfect order and consistency makes Heaven but we are now deranged, and the tail has become the head.
We have now come to this place, and all your former covenants are of no account, and here is the place where we have to enter into a new covenant, and be sealed, and have it recorded. One reason why we bring our wives with us, is, that they make a covenant with us to keep these things sacred. You have been anointed to be kings and priests, but you have not been ordained to it yet, and you have got to get it by being faithful. You can't sin so cheap now as you could before you came to this order. It is not for you to reproach the Lord's anointed nor to speak evil of him. You have covenanted not to do it.
... You have been washed and pronounced clean, but not from the blood of this generation.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
175 years ago today - Dec 21, 1845
Mention of oath by Heber C. Kimball during a priesthood meeting and recorded in the journal of William Clayton:
[Heber C. Kimball] said the Twelve would have to leave shortly, for a charge of treason would be brought against them for swearing us to avenge the blood of the anointed ones, and some one would reveal it and we shall have to part some say between sundown and dark. . . . [He also said] I have covenanted, and never will rest nor my posterity after me until those men who killed Joseph and Hyrum have been wiped out of the earth.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle: The Journals of William Clayton (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1995), 223–24, as quoted in Sources on the Oath of Vengeance or Law of Retribution, Christopher C. Smith, privately circulated]
[Heber C. Kimball] said the Twelve would have to leave shortly, for a charge of treason would be brought against them for swearing us to avenge the blood of the anointed ones, and some one would reveal it and we shall have to part some say between sundown and dark. . . . [He also said] I have covenanted, and never will rest nor my posterity after me until those men who killed Joseph and Hyrum have been wiped out of the earth.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle: The Journals of William Clayton (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1995), 223–24, as quoted in Sources on the Oath of Vengeance or Law of Retribution, Christopher C. Smith, privately circulated]
190 years ago today - about Dec 21, 1830
Fayette, New York. Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon received Doctrine & Covenants 37, a revelation calling the Saints to gather in Ohio.
[BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]
[BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]
25 years ago today - Dec 20, 1995
[Gordon B. Hinckley]
Announced new logo design for the name of the Church
[LDS Newsroom, Time line of Significant Events as President, http://newsroom.lds.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/news-releases-stories/time-line-of-significant-events-as-president]
Announced new logo design for the name of the Church
[LDS Newsroom, Time line of Significant Events as President, http://newsroom.lds.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/news-releases-stories/time-line-of-significant-events-as-president]
55 years ago today - Dec 20, 1965
It has come to our attention that in some wards marriage ceremonies have been performed for couples following their marriage in the temple, in order that non-member relatives and friends might be privileged to witness such a pretended marriage. We are also informed that in other instances relatives and friends of the newly married couple have gathered in the ward house or elsewhere following the temple marriage in a service somewhat similar to a wedding, where prayer has been offered, remarks made by the bishop or others, and at times pomp and ceremony introduced somewhat aping sectarian weddings. These practices make a mockery of the temple marriage; they are unauthorized and contrary to Church procedures and must not be encouraged or permitted. This does not have reference to the wedding reception which customarily follows civil and temple marriages. We shall appreciate your accepting this letter as a directive for your guidance in matters of this kind.
[David O. McKay, Hugh B. Brown, N. Eldon Tanner, Joseph Fielding Smith, and Thorpe B. Isaacson, circular letter, Dec. 20, 1965, quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[David O. McKay, Hugh B. Brown, N. Eldon Tanner, Joseph Fielding Smith, and Thorpe B. Isaacson, circular letter, Dec. 20, 1965, quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
60 years ago today - Dec 20, 1960
Adewole Ogunmokun writes LDS headquarters requesting that LDS missionaries be sent to Nigeria to officially baptize and formally organize Nigerians who have converted to Mormonism after reading LDS publications. In this unprecedented development in Mormonism, a dozen groups of self-converted Nigerians have already organized, calling themselves "Latter-day Saints" and baptizing themselves as sign of their conversion. Within five years one of these Nigerian groups has "seventy-five congregations with nearly ten thousand baptized adult members and six thousand children," many of whom are living in polygamous families and few of whom know about LDS church's policy of denying priesthood to black Africans. This situation creates a quandary with which LDS leaders struggle for years.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
110 years ago today - Dec 20, 1910; Tuesday
[Anthony Ivins]
I have been in council with my quorum considering various matters which came before us. The question of plural marriages were discussed & it was decided that cases rising where plural mar- riages were entered into prior to 1904 the parties to such marriages should not be molested unless they be cases where the interests of the Church are involved. Where men are in prominence in the Church who have taken wives plural wives since Prest. [Wilford] Woodruff manifesto be removed where it can be done without giv- ing unnecessary offence.
[Anderson, Elizabeth Oberdick, editor, Cowboy Apostle: The Diaries of Anthony W. Ivins: 1875-1932, Signature Books, Salt Lake City in association with the Smith-Pettit Foundation (2013) - http://bit.ly/AnthonyIvins]
I have been in council with my quorum considering various matters which came before us. The question of plural marriages were discussed & it was decided that cases rising where plural mar- riages were entered into prior to 1904 the parties to such marriages should not be molested unless they be cases where the interests of the Church are involved. Where men are in prominence in the Church who have taken wives plural wives since Prest. [Wilford] Woodruff manifesto be removed where it can be done without giv- ing unnecessary offence.
[Anderson, Elizabeth Oberdick, editor, Cowboy Apostle: The Diaries of Anthony W. Ivins: 1875-1932, Signature Books, Salt Lake City in association with the Smith-Pettit Foundation (2013) - http://bit.ly/AnthonyIvins]
180 years ago today - Dec 20, 1840
[Wilford Woodruff]
We retired to rest & I dreamed of ketching fish, fowl, geese & Turkies, in nets, & seeing a house on fire. Elder Kimball also Dreamed of casting a net & ketching a good hall of fish, two large ones, & gathering fruit. So I think sumthing will be done soon.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
We retired to rest & I dreamed of ketching fish, fowl, geese & Turkies, in nets, & seeing a house on fire. Elder Kimball also Dreamed of casting a net & ketching a good hall of fish, two large ones, & gathering fruit. So I think sumthing will be done soon.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
195 years ago today - Dec 20, 1825
[Joseph Smith]
The Smiths run into financial difficulty, partially through the connivings of others, and are unable to come up with their final house payment. On this date, a Quaker, Lemuel Durfee, takes over ownership of the house, but allows the Smiths to keep residence in it for at least three more years.
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
The Smiths run into financial difficulty, partially through the connivings of others, and are unable to come up with their final house payment. On this date, a Quaker, Lemuel Durfee, takes over ownership of the house, but allows the Smiths to keep residence in it for at least three more years.
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
40 years ago today - Dec 19, 1980
The BYU football team wins the 1980 Holiday Bowl, the team's first bowl victory, over Southern Methodist University. In the final minutes, the Cougars make an impressive comeback capped by quarterback Jim McMahon's forty-six-yard "hail Mary" touchdown pass to tight end Clay Brown in the closing seconds of the game. The game is later called the "Miracle Bowl."
85 years ago today - Dec 19, 1935
[First Presidency to Sterling B. Talmage]
We have your letter of December 7, with reference to your father's sermon, 'The Earth and Man,' and to the statement made to you by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith regarding the same. You ask certain categorical questions concerning the sermon.
Inasmuch as categorical answers to your questions would not give ' even if it were possible to make them (which it is not)'a true picture of the situation, we feel it due you and your inquiry to advise you of exactly what happened, for your confidential information, regarding you father's sermon above referred to.
There were some antecedents to the preaching of the sermon, of which you may not be fully advised. Briefly they were as follows:
Elder Joseph Fielding Smith had preached a sermon expressing a view different from that later expressed in your father's sermon. The preaching of the sermon by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith brought some controversy between Brother Brigham H. Roberts and Brother Smith, which, after various exchanges, resulted in both brethren being told that they should cease their discussion of the matter.
Thereafter the matter seems to have been taken up with President Ivins by persons near to him who were not willing that the matter should be allowed to rest where it was. As a result of these activities, your father delivered the sermon, 'The Earth and Man.' It would seem that this was brought about through an arrangement between President Ivins and your father. The sermon was delivered at a meeting over which President Ivins presided.
Thereafter the sermon was brought to the attention of the Council of the Twelve, where it was the unanimous view, minus one, that the sermon should not be published. The one not fully approving of this decision asked that the opportunity be give your father so to recast the sermon as to make it acceptable. Accordingly there were some changes made in the sermon, and it was again submitted to the quorum of the Council of the Twelve. Upon this second submission it was again determined by the Twelve, one excepting, that the sermon should not be published. The member making the exception again pleaded that the sermon be further changed in order to make its publication possible.
At this point President Ivins withdrew the sermon from the consideration of the Council and himself decided that it should be published. It was printed within two or three days thereafter.
At the time this final decision was made, President Grant was not at home, and was not consulted.
The foregoing are the recorded facts with reference to the publication and 'approval' of the sermon, 'The Earth and Man.'
The later publication of the sermon in pamphlet form was made without president Grant's knowledge or consent, though, it is understood, with the approval of President Ivins.
You will see from the foregoing that the sermon 'The Earth and Man' cannot be regarded as an official expression of the Church, binding upon the Church and covering the subject matter discussed in the sermon. Its publication was never approved by the President of the Church.
We make this foregoing statement without making any comment at all upon the matters discussed in the sermon. The whole point of this explanation is that the sermon cannot be regarded as the official pronouncement of the Church. ...
[First Presidency, Letter to Sterling B. Talmage, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
We have your letter of December 7, with reference to your father's sermon, 'The Earth and Man,' and to the statement made to you by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith regarding the same. You ask certain categorical questions concerning the sermon.
Inasmuch as categorical answers to your questions would not give ' even if it were possible to make them (which it is not)'a true picture of the situation, we feel it due you and your inquiry to advise you of exactly what happened, for your confidential information, regarding you father's sermon above referred to.
There were some antecedents to the preaching of the sermon, of which you may not be fully advised. Briefly they were as follows:
Elder Joseph Fielding Smith had preached a sermon expressing a view different from that later expressed in your father's sermon. The preaching of the sermon by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith brought some controversy between Brother Brigham H. Roberts and Brother Smith, which, after various exchanges, resulted in both brethren being told that they should cease their discussion of the matter.
Thereafter the matter seems to have been taken up with President Ivins by persons near to him who were not willing that the matter should be allowed to rest where it was. As a result of these activities, your father delivered the sermon, 'The Earth and Man.' It would seem that this was brought about through an arrangement between President Ivins and your father. The sermon was delivered at a meeting over which President Ivins presided.
Thereafter the sermon was brought to the attention of the Council of the Twelve, where it was the unanimous view, minus one, that the sermon should not be published. The one not fully approving of this decision asked that the opportunity be give your father so to recast the sermon as to make it acceptable. Accordingly there were some changes made in the sermon, and it was again submitted to the quorum of the Council of the Twelve. Upon this second submission it was again determined by the Twelve, one excepting, that the sermon should not be published. The member making the exception again pleaded that the sermon be further changed in order to make its publication possible.
At this point President Ivins withdrew the sermon from the consideration of the Council and himself decided that it should be published. It was printed within two or three days thereafter.
At the time this final decision was made, President Grant was not at home, and was not consulted.
The foregoing are the recorded facts with reference to the publication and 'approval' of the sermon, 'The Earth and Man.'
The later publication of the sermon in pamphlet form was made without president Grant's knowledge or consent, though, it is understood, with the approval of President Ivins.
You will see from the foregoing that the sermon 'The Earth and Man' cannot be regarded as an official expression of the Church, binding upon the Church and covering the subject matter discussed in the sermon. Its publication was never approved by the President of the Church.
We make this foregoing statement without making any comment at all upon the matters discussed in the sermon. The whole point of this explanation is that the sermon cannot be regarded as the official pronouncement of the Church. ...
[First Presidency, Letter to Sterling B. Talmage, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
140 years ago today - Dec 19, 1880
[Wilford Woodruff]
Sunday I for the first time in my life talked with Elder Taylor through a telephone One Mile. Surly men have sought out many inventions.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Sunday I for the first time in my life talked with Elder Taylor through a telephone One Mile. Surly men have sought out many inventions.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
185 years ago today - Dec 19, 1835
[Joseph Smith]
I have had many sollam /solemn/ feelings this day Concerning my Brothe[r] William [with whom he fought with a few days earlier] and have prayed in my heart to fervently that the Lord will not him /cast him/ off, but he may return to the God of Jacob and magnify his apostleship and calling. May this be his happy lot for the Lord of Glory's Sake. Amen.
[Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
I have had many sollam /solemn/ feelings this day Concerning my Brothe[r] William [with whom he fought with a few days earlier] and have prayed in my heart to fervently that the Lord will not him /cast him/ off, but he may return to the God of Jacob and magnify his apostleship and calling. May this be his happy lot for the Lord of Glory's Sake. Amen.
[Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
25 years ago today - Dec 18, 1995
Gordon B. Hinckley interviewed by Mike Wallace on CBS's ―60 Minutes.
[Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
[Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
120 years ago today - Dec 18, 1900
[Brigham Young Jr.]
I am sixty-four years old today. I look back upon the experiences of my life with singular feelings. Often have I been on the verge of breaking my covenants when a merciful Father has snatched me as a brand from the burning and He has bought me with a price and saved me from myself. No man in this generation or in any other has been more miraculously preserved than I. When all was lost and I
had yielded to temptation, God has been there to intervene; again and again has this transpired. When leaden messengers have been showered like hail around me, a calmness has passed me'boon of the Holy Spirit. Thrown from a wild mule, my foot passed thru the stirrup firmly fixed to have dragged the life out of me a hundred times. Suddenly, I was torn loose and no harm ensued. My lower jaw and teeth shattered, my spine injured to death, God heard the prayer of His servants and I live unmaimed. How thankful I am to Him who hears and answers prayers and gives me daily breath who have been at point of death so often in the last four years.
[Brigham Young Jr., Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
I am sixty-four years old today. I look back upon the experiences of my life with singular feelings. Often have I been on the verge of breaking my covenants when a merciful Father has snatched me as a brand from the burning and He has bought me with a price and saved me from myself. No man in this generation or in any other has been more miraculously preserved than I. When all was lost and I
had yielded to temptation, God has been there to intervene; again and again has this transpired. When leaden messengers have been showered like hail around me, a calmness has passed me'boon of the Holy Spirit. Thrown from a wild mule, my foot passed thru the stirrup firmly fixed to have dragged the life out of me a hundred times. Suddenly, I was torn loose and no harm ensued. My lower jaw and teeth shattered, my spine injured to death, God heard the prayer of His servants and I live unmaimed. How thankful I am to Him who hears and answers prayers and gives me daily breath who have been at point of death so often in the last four years.
[Brigham Young Jr., Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
130 years ago today - Thursday, Dec. 18th, 1890
[Abraham H. Cannon]
Father [George Q. Cannon] holds that we who live on the earth now and are faithful, will stand at the head of our lineage and will thus become Saviors as has been promised us. Pres. John Taylor was not sealed to his parents though they died in the Church, as he felt that it was rather lowering himself to be thus sealed when he was an apostle and his father was a high priest; but this is rather a questionable proceeding.
[Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
Father [George Q. Cannon] holds that we who live on the earth now and are faithful, will stand at the head of our lineage and will thus become Saviors as has been promised us. Pres. John Taylor was not sealed to his parents though they died in the Church, as he felt that it was rather lowering himself to be thus sealed when he was an apostle and his father was a high priest; but this is rather a questionable proceeding.
[Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
135 years ago today - Dec 18, 1885
Patriarchal Blessing of Samuel RosKelley by Zebedee Coltrin ... thou whall [shall] have power over the elements insomuch that thou shall be able to control the waves of the sea and the winds, and they shall obey thy voice... the kings and the nobles of the earth shall tremble before thee, and the wicked shall flee away at thy presence, for thy voice shall be mighty before the Lord thy God, like that of a lion roaring from the forest that the earth shall tremble and the wicked shall flee, and the righteous shall rejoice before the Lord ... and thy sons shall become mighty men before the Lord, they shall be filled with the wisdom of heaven, and the knowledge of the Lord shall rest upon them, many of them shall be prophets, Seers and Revelators and Kings and Priests of the most High and their possessions shall become very great dwelling in the midst of the Zion of the Lord. Thy daughters shall become women of great renown, filled with wisdom of the heavens, and mighty power of Jehovah shall rest down upon them, and upon their posterity, which shall become as the sands upon the sea shore for multitude, and they shall have great power before the Lord thy God, and thy children-'s children shall dwell among the sanctified and shall behold the Lord when he shall come in the Clouds of Heaven with all his Saints, and many of thy sons shall be of that number of the One Hundred and forty four thousand that shall be clother [clothed] upon with mighty power of Jehovah, and shall be his ministers in his Holy Sanctuary. ... and thou shalt behold the Lord when he shall come to his Temple, and shall do a great work upon the earth both for the living and the dead and shall assist in the redemption of thy father-'s house, and thou shalt become a mighty Prophet in the midst of the Sons of Zion, and thou shalt proclaim unto them the mighty word of God and the Angels shall administer unto you for they eventually shall be thy daily companions, in thy old age they shall be around and about thee by day and by night and shall converse with thee face to face, and thou shall behold the visions of the heavens... and thou shall have power to heal the sick, and it shall be a gift unto thee that whomsoever thou shall command to make whole shall arise and be made well before the Lord. ... if necessary to raise the dead or to do anything that shall be pleasing unto the Spirit of the Lord thy God to dictate thee. ... and thy wives will honor thee ...
[Patriarchal Blessings]
[Patriarchal Blessings]
140 years ago today - Dec 18, 1880
[Wilford Woodruff]
We Met with the Presidency of the [Ogden] Stake & High Council most of the Priesthood. Their has Exhisted a difficulty between the Authorities of the Church in that Place for a good while and the fore noon was taken up in teaching them and some Sharp Chastisements were given and I think the harts of Some were made to quake before the two Edged sword of truth by the Power of God. The spirit of God was with us.
We Met in the Afternoon and Organized 7 Prayer Circles but many of the Company had to settle their difficulties before they Could Enter the Prayer Circle. It was a profitable time.
Meeting opened by Prayer by W Woodruff. F D Richards spoke 15 M John Taylor 50, Joseph F Smith 50 M W Woodruff 20 m. The first Presidency & High Council formed one Circle The High Priest one. The 4 Bishops of the 4 wards of Ogden Each furnish a Circle And the Presidency of the Stake with the Bishop furnish another Circle and Br F D Richards organized the 7 Prayer Circls. We had an interesting time.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
We Met with the Presidency of the [Ogden] Stake & High Council most of the Priesthood. Their has Exhisted a difficulty between the Authorities of the Church in that Place for a good while and the fore noon was taken up in teaching them and some Sharp Chastisements were given and I think the harts of Some were made to quake before the two Edged sword of truth by the Power of God. The spirit of God was with us.
We Met in the Afternoon and Organized 7 Prayer Circles but many of the Company had to settle their difficulties before they Could Enter the Prayer Circle. It was a profitable time.
Meeting opened by Prayer by W Woodruff. F D Richards spoke 15 M John Taylor 50, Joseph F Smith 50 M W Woodruff 20 m. The first Presidency & High Council formed one Circle The High Priest one. The 4 Bishops of the 4 wards of Ogden Each furnish a Circle And the Presidency of the Stake with the Bishop furnish another Circle and Br F D Richards organized the 7 Prayer Circls. We had an interesting time.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
160 years ago today - Dec 18, 1860
[Brigham Young]
Pres. [Heber C.] Kimball and [Daniel H.] Wells called in they [were] with Hosea Stout had some conversation about [U.S.] President Buchanan's Message, in which he had remarked that Utah was in a State of rebellion when he came into Office. The President felt justly indignant at this accusation, and said he should like to tell Buchanan he would have his portion with the liars and hypocrites.
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
Pres. [Heber C.] Kimball and [Daniel H.] Wells called in they [were] with Hosea Stout had some conversation about [U.S.] President Buchanan's Message, in which he had remarked that Utah was in a State of rebellion when he came into Office. The President felt justly indignant at this accusation, and said he should like to tell Buchanan he would have his portion with the liars and hypocrites.
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
175 years ago today - Dec 18, 1845. Thursday.
In consequence of the great pressure of business during the week past it has been decided to devote Saturday to the purpose of washing the robes and other garments, which had been used in the business of initiating those who had come in through the vail, but there being a general desire in the minds of all those who had officiated in the ordinances particularly the Sisters, that the work should not cease, it was afterwards determined that the clothes should be washed this night, and it was accordingly done, by the labors of several sisters, taking up the greater part of the night.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
185 years ago today - Dec 18, 1835
William Smith submits a letter to Hyrum, begging for forgiveness because of the fight with Joseph and asking to be released from his apostleship because of his temper. Joseph answers, encouraging him to keep his apostleship, to control his temper, and "if at any time you should consider me to be an imposter, for heaven's sake leave me in the hands of God, and not think to take vengeance on me yourself. . . . David sought not to kill Saul, although he was guilty of crimes that never entered my heart."
[History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (7 volumes) 2:338-43, referenced in Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (7 volumes) 2:338-43, referenced in Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
85 years ago today - Dec 17, 1935
Bishop Cannon discussed with President McKay the subject of anointing with consecrated oil. The statement was made that Elder John A. Widtsoe had directed that the elders in Europe should anoint the head only. It was felt that if the sick person desires to be anointed by the elders on the afflicted part, this may be done and the sick person allowed to drink some of the consecrated oil. President McKay suggested that the matter be brought up again on the return of President Grant.
[First Presidency, Meeting with Presiding Bishopric, Minutes, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
[First Presidency, Meeting with Presiding Bishopric, Minutes, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
125 years ago today - Dec 17, 1895
I am directed by the First Presidency to say in answer to your favor of [the] 10th inst., that in the cases to which you refer, the same rule holds good with regard to both living and dead. For those who have associated with any upon whom rests the curse of Cain[,] baptisms can be performed, but endowments cannot be received. The fact of them being dead does not make any difference in regard to this law.
[George Reynolds to Levi Savage, Dec. 17, 1895, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[George Reynolds to Levi Savage, Dec. 17, 1895, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
135 years ago today - Dec 17, 1885 (Thursday)
Bishop David K. Udall, of St. Johns, Ariz., who on a trumped up charge of perjury had been sentenced to imprisonment in Detroit, Michigan, was pardoned by Pres. Cleveland and immediately released.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
160 years ago today - Dec 17, 1860
The President [Brigham Young] had some conversation with him upon the Character of Pres[ident] James Buchanan and Daniel Webster, he noticed that Pres[ident] Buchanan would do things that would sacrifice his friends for ever and he would scarcely know why they had deserted him; he was wanting in a knowledge of men and things, whatever claim, he may have to ability in some things. He was a Keen shrewd politician to these remarks Mr. Edward Creighton courteously acquiesced....
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
175 years ago today - Dec 17, 1845. Wednesday.
[William Clayton]
...Brother Lucian R. Foster is now appointed to keep the Records of the endowment. Margaret came with me to the Temple this morning and received her washing and anointing. She was washed by Sister Patty Sessions and anointed by Sister Mary Ann Pratt wife of Elder Parley P. Pratt one of the Twelve. I conducted her through the remaining ceremonies and also received her through into the upper or Celestial department. I feel grateful for this privilege and for all the blessings I receive from day to day for the mercies of the Lord to me are great and many of them. I instructed Brother [Lucien R.] Foster in regard to keeping the Record and in the evening assisted Elder Young and Kimball to collect a list of brethren to come here on Saturday . . .
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
...Brother Lucian R. Foster is now appointed to keep the Records of the endowment. Margaret came with me to the Temple this morning and received her washing and anointing. She was washed by Sister Patty Sessions and anointed by Sister Mary Ann Pratt wife of Elder Parley P. Pratt one of the Twelve. I conducted her through the remaining ceremonies and also received her through into the upper or Celestial department. I feel grateful for this privilege and for all the blessings I receive from day to day for the mercies of the Lord to me are great and many of them. I instructed Brother [Lucien R.] Foster in regard to keeping the Record and in the evening assisted Elder Young and Kimball to collect a list of brethren to come here on Saturday . . .
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
180 years ago today - 1840 Dec 17
The Council of Revision passes the Nauvoo charter. It will take effect on Feb. 1, 1841. The charter is then signed by Governor Carlin. It includes provisions for the city of Nauvoo, the Nauvoo Legion, the University of the City of Nauvoo, and all other municipal necessities. In addition to Governor Carlin, Stephen A. Douglas, Illinois secretary of state, signs it. The charter was written by Joseph Smith, John C. Bennett, and Robert B. Thompson. Once the charter was complete, Bennett took it to the state legislature and pushed it through in 21 days. Bennett pushes through ordinance that all crime charges must be backed by 2-3 witnesses, allowing spiritual wifery to flourish.
[https://docs.google.com/document/d/10ttN3vOzf2UcVhruCrvDf9pF27T0o0PP0Xj1X98tKBc/edit?fbclid=IwAR3HXLgL-X-M_c5LT2W-_F7AYqsqqaQ0yIhfNuyeFsX85irSPuEO6_Q993A]
[https://docs.google.com/document/d/10ttN3vOzf2UcVhruCrvDf9pF27T0o0PP0Xj1X98tKBc/edit?fbclid=IwAR3HXLgL-X-M_c5LT2W-_F7AYqsqqaQ0yIhfNuyeFsX85irSPuEO6_Q993A]
175 years ago today - Dec 17, 1845. Wednesday.
[William Clayton]
At 35 m[inutes] past 7, President B. Young came in, and at 9, appointed each man his particular duty for the day.
At 9, commenced washing . . .
At 20 minutes past 2 o clock P.M. Bishop Miller perfumed 45 Bottles of Oil after which the following brethren, viz. Heber C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, Amasa Lyman, George A. Smith, W. W. Phelps, and Joseph Young clothed themselves and retired to Elder Kimballs room, where after offering up the signs of the Holy Priesthood they dedicated and consecrated the whole for the anointing in the following order, viz: ... after which they consecrated 2 Bottles to the healing of the sick. They then offered up prayers for the sick and other subjects, according to our daily custom, Geo. A. Smith being mouth, at 3 o clock they undressed . . .
About 6 o dock, P.M. President Young selected the following persons to work on Thursday and notified them to be present . . .
He also selected a list of names of persons to be present on Friday to receive their washing and anointing; and put the list into the hands of John Pack to give notice to the individuals. About 20 minutes past 10, about 16 or 18 persons assembled in the east room and sung a hymn, and joined in prayer with President Young. He slept in the Temple, also his son Joseph and 10 or 12 other persons.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
At 35 m[inutes] past 7, President B. Young came in, and at 9, appointed each man his particular duty for the day.
At 9, commenced washing . . .
At 20 minutes past 2 o clock P.M. Bishop Miller perfumed 45 Bottles of Oil after which the following brethren, viz. Heber C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, Amasa Lyman, George A. Smith, W. W. Phelps, and Joseph Young clothed themselves and retired to Elder Kimballs room, where after offering up the signs of the Holy Priesthood they dedicated and consecrated the whole for the anointing in the following order, viz: ... after which they consecrated 2 Bottles to the healing of the sick. They then offered up prayers for the sick and other subjects, according to our daily custom, Geo. A. Smith being mouth, at 3 o clock they undressed . . .
About 6 o dock, P.M. President Young selected the following persons to work on Thursday and notified them to be present . . .
He also selected a list of names of persons to be present on Friday to receive their washing and anointing; and put the list into the hands of John Pack to give notice to the individuals. About 20 minutes past 10, about 16 or 18 persons assembled in the east room and sung a hymn, and joined in prayer with President Young. He slept in the Temple, also his son Joseph and 10 or 12 other persons.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
185 years ago today - Dec 17, 1835
Joseph discusses Orson's letter with him "and satisfyed his mind upon every point." Joseph Sr. and Lucy, "sorely afflicted in mind" by the difficulty between Joseph and William, call on Joseph. He persuades them that "I was not to blame" and invites them to move in with him. They agree. I told Elder Cahoon, of the Temple committee, that we must sustain the Twelve, and not let them go down; if we do not, they must go down, for the burden is on them, and is coming on them heavier and heavier. If the Twelve go down, we must go down, and we must sustain them.
[Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
[Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
190 years ago today - 1830 Dec 17
Oliver Cowdery mentions temple to be built in Independence
[https://docs.google.com/document/d/10ttN3vOzf2UcVhruCrvDf9pF27T0o0PP0Xj1X98tKBc/edit?fbclid=IwAR3HXLgL-X-M_c5LT2W-_F7AYqsqqaQ0yIhfNuyeFsX85irSPuEO6_Q993A]
[https://docs.google.com/document/d/10ttN3vOzf2UcVhruCrvDf9pF27T0o0PP0Xj1X98tKBc/edit?fbclid=IwAR3HXLgL-X-M_c5LT2W-_F7AYqsqqaQ0yIhfNuyeFsX85irSPuEO6_Q993A]
55 years ago today - Dec 16, 1965
By the end of December 1965 other general authorities vetoed an effort by one of Benson's intermediaries to have the Birch Society's president speak at Brigham Young University. Those voting against the proposal were Apostles Joseph Fielding Smith, Harold B. Lee, Delbert L. Stapley, Marion G. Romney, and LeGrand Richards. That unanimous vote reflected First Presidency counselor N. Eldon Tanner's statement to a political science professor: "We certainly don't want the Birch Society to get a hold on the BYU campus." Tanner had served as a counselor for the past two years since Henry D. Moyle's death.
[Board of Trustees, Executive Committee minutes, 16 Dec. 1965, archives, Brigham Young University; Wilkinson diary, 21 Dec. 1965; Bergera and Priddis, Brigham Young University, 197; N. Eldon Tanner statement in the mid-1960s to J. Kenneth Davies as reported in Davies interview by Gary James Bergera, 24 Dec. 1984.However, Apostle Delbert L. Stapley's vote against the Birch Society president as a BYU speaker should not be construed as evidence of his disagreement with Benson's political views. For example, Stapley wrote a woman that "we are drifting towards the socialized state," and sent her copies of Benson's conference talks on Communism (Stapley to Mrs. W. E. Daddow, 19 Feb. 1965, LDS archives). From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
[Board of Trustees, Executive Committee minutes, 16 Dec. 1965, archives, Brigham Young University; Wilkinson diary, 21 Dec. 1965; Bergera and Priddis, Brigham Young University, 197; N. Eldon Tanner statement in the mid-1960s to J. Kenneth Davies as reported in Davies interview by Gary James Bergera, 24 Dec. 1984.However, Apostle Delbert L. Stapley's vote against the Birch Society president as a BYU speaker should not be construed as evidence of his disagreement with Benson's political views. For example, Stapley wrote a woman that "we are drifting towards the socialized state," and sent her copies of Benson's conference talks on Communism (Stapley to Mrs. W. E. Daddow, 19 Feb. 1965, LDS archives). From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]