[East German Secret Police report]
"In the May 18, 1985, political-operational report of Department XX … regarding the political-ideological orientation of the US-American Mormons, it was determined that they are to be classified as representatives of the right wing of American conservatism. There are close connections between their leadership and ruling circles within the government [at that time the Reagan administration]. Relationships also exist between persons and institutions of the church and the American secret service."
[Karlheinz Leonhardt, Die Ersten Hundert Jahre, 358 (1985 internal report by Stasi, the East German secret police) as referenced in Gregory A. Prince and Wm. Robert Write, David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press (2005)]
Today In Mormon History-fb
Several curious tidbits that happened on this day in Mormon History
75 years ago today - May 18, 1950
First Presidency letter to make 30 percent increase in living allowances for general authorities.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
75 years ago today - May 18, 1950
A First Presidency letter to make a 30 percent increase in the living allowances for general authorities.
[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 - May 18, 1945
[Spencer W. Kimball]
It [i.e., Heber J. Grant's funeral] was most impressive and inspiring to me when [Senior member] Pres. George Albert Smith stood at the pulpit, called the meeting to order and announced that PRESIDENT J. REUBEN CLARK, Counselor to Pres. Grant would conduct the services. Then when Pres. Clark announced the speakers he said 'President' George Albert Smith will now address us etc' then 'ELDER DAVID O. MCKAY OF THE COUNCIL OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES will address you' then 'ELDER J. REUBEN CLARK JR. OF THE COUNCIL OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES will address you' Such humility!!! Such power!!! Such honor!!! (Most any where else in the world that I know if, there would have been evidence of ambition, envy, jealousy, ill felling) It is the work of the Lord. These are truly great and inspired and 'called' men of God who have been leading the Church through the declining days and months and years of Pres. Grants presidency.
[Spencer W. Kimball 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]
It [i.e., Heber J. Grant's funeral] was most impressive and inspiring to me when [Senior member] Pres. George Albert Smith stood at the pulpit, called the meeting to order and announced that PRESIDENT J. REUBEN CLARK, Counselor to Pres. Grant would conduct the services. Then when Pres. Clark announced the speakers he said 'President' George Albert Smith will now address us etc' then 'ELDER DAVID O. MCKAY OF THE COUNCIL OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES will address you' then 'ELDER J. REUBEN CLARK JR. OF THE COUNCIL OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES will address you' Such humility!!! Such power!!! Such honor!!! (Most any where else in the world that I know if, there would have been evidence of ambition, envy, jealousy, ill felling) It is the work of the Lord. These are truly great and inspired and 'called' men of God who have been leading the Church through the declining days and months and years of Pres. Grants presidency.
[Spencer W. Kimball 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]
140 years ago today - Monday, May 18, 1885
[John Henry Smith]
Bros. Francis C. Gunnell myself and five other brethren went over to Lyman [Idaho] and held meeting. I presented Bp. Weeks to the Saints to be sustained. 14 voted in his favor and 18 against. He resigned and his resignation was accepted. The people voted unanimously to sustain Bro. George Arnold as a presiding priest.
[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]
Bros. Francis C. Gunnell myself and five other brethren went over to Lyman [Idaho] and held meeting. I presented Bp. Weeks to the Saints to be sustained. 14 voted in his favor and 18 against. He resigned and his resignation was accepted. The people voted unanimously to sustain Bro. George Arnold as a presiding priest.
[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]
140 years ago today - May 18, 1885
John Taylor tells Abraham H. Cannon, "It seems that some so-called Saints in various parts of the country are beginning to weaken and talk of compromise. Some of the leading men in Idaho are even in this frame of mind. Such talk is an evidence to me of utter lack of faith in God and His promises." Five years later WIlford Woodruff issues the Manifesto.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
185 years ago today - May 18, 1840
Mary Pitt had not walked except on crutches for 11 years. Was healed by laying on of hands.
[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]
60 years ago today - May 17, 1965
Ezra Taft Benson wrote to FBI director Edgar Hoover with a plea. "Word has come to me, not yet fully confirmed, that some of our liberal 'soft-on-communist' groups are planning to put pressure on you to come out with a statement against the John Birch Society." He urged Hoover not to do so. "It is my conviction that this organization is the most effective non-church group in America against creeping socialism and godless communism," Benson wrote.
Hoover, however, in response to a question at a news conference soon thereafter, said he had little respect for the society or its founder, Robert Welch.
After Hoover's disavowal of Welch, Benson decided to meet with Hoover to explain his support of the society and how Welch's writings had convinced him that Eisenhower aided communism.
Files show that Hoover's aides twice told Benson that he was unavailable for such a meeting — as memos had advised them to do. So Benson wrote Hoover the sensitive "personal-confidential" letter of May 28, 1965, outlining his conclusions about Eisenhower.
Benson also soon sent a book by Welch titled The Politician, noting it was what led him to his conclusions about Eisenhower.
In the book, Welch argues that Eisenhower was either ignorant, a politician blinded by opportunism or was "consciously aiding the communist conspiracy" — and said it really didn't matter because "they all come to the same end … namely tragedy."
Benson wrote Hoover that he inscribed the following words on the flyleaf of the book after he first read it:
"Have just finished this shocking volume. ... While I do not agree with all or the extent of some of the author's conclusions, one must agree that the documented record makes the thesis of the book most convincing.
"How can a man [Eisenhower] who seems to be so strong for Christian principles and base American concepts be so effectively used as a tool to serve the communist conspiracy?
"I believe the answer is found in the fact that these godless communist conspirators and their fellow travelers are masters of deceit — who deceived the very elect. How our people need to be alerted and informed."
Benson added that he hoped the $1 book would be made available widely.
"This story must be told even at the risk of destroying the influence of men who are widely respected and loved by the American people. The stakes are high. Freedom and survival are the issues," he had written in his copy of the book.
Benson also wrote of Eisenhower: "I presume I will never know in this life why he did some of the things he did which gave help to the [communist] conspiracy. It is not my divine prerogative to know the motives of men. It is easier, however, to judge the consequences of man's actions."
["Ike and the Birch Society," Lee Davidson, Salt Lake Tribune, November 16, 2010]
Hoover, however, in response to a question at a news conference soon thereafter, said he had little respect for the society or its founder, Robert Welch.
After Hoover's disavowal of Welch, Benson decided to meet with Hoover to explain his support of the society and how Welch's writings had convinced him that Eisenhower aided communism.
Files show that Hoover's aides twice told Benson that he was unavailable for such a meeting — as memos had advised them to do. So Benson wrote Hoover the sensitive "personal-confidential" letter of May 28, 1965, outlining his conclusions about Eisenhower.
Benson also soon sent a book by Welch titled The Politician, noting it was what led him to his conclusions about Eisenhower.
In the book, Welch argues that Eisenhower was either ignorant, a politician blinded by opportunism or was "consciously aiding the communist conspiracy" — and said it really didn't matter because "they all come to the same end … namely tragedy."
Benson wrote Hoover that he inscribed the following words on the flyleaf of the book after he first read it:
"Have just finished this shocking volume. ... While I do not agree with all or the extent of some of the author's conclusions, one must agree that the documented record makes the thesis of the book most convincing.
"How can a man [Eisenhower] who seems to be so strong for Christian principles and base American concepts be so effectively used as a tool to serve the communist conspiracy?
"I believe the answer is found in the fact that these godless communist conspirators and their fellow travelers are masters of deceit — who deceived the very elect. How our people need to be alerted and informed."
Benson added that he hoped the $1 book would be made available widely.
"This story must be told even at the risk of destroying the influence of men who are widely respected and loved by the American people. The stakes are high. Freedom and survival are the issues," he had written in his copy of the book.
Benson also wrote of Eisenhower: "I presume I will never know in this life why he did some of the things he did which gave help to the [communist] conspiracy. It is not my divine prerogative to know the motives of men. It is easier, however, to judge the consequences of man's actions."
["Ike and the Birch Society," Lee Davidson, Salt Lake Tribune, November 16, 2010]
85 years ago today - May 17, 1940
[President Heber J. Grant]
They have re-elected me as a director of the Union Pacific Railroad, also of the Oregon Short Line Railroad, and the Salt Lake Los Angeles Railroad.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
They have re-elected me as a director of the Union Pacific Railroad, also of the Oregon Short Line Railroad, and the Salt Lake Los Angeles Railroad.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
95 years ago today - May 17, 1930
International Hygiene exposition at Dresden, Germany, includes LDS exhibit on Word of Wisdom. This is church's first formal participation in national or international exposition. In 1933, church has exhibit which includes sculptures by Avard Fairbanks in Hall of Religion at Century of Progress Exposition in Chicago. In 1935 church has its first exhibit building at California-Pacific International Exposition in San Diego.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
95 years ago today - May 17, 1930
The International Hygiene Exposition at Dresden, Germany, includes an LDS exhibit on the Word of Wisdom. This is the church's first formal participation in a national or international exposition. In 1933, the church as an exhibit which includes sculptures by Avard Fairbanks in the Hall of Religion at the Century of Progress Exposition in Chicago. In 1935 the church has its first exhibit building at the California-Pacific International Exposition in San Diego.
[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 )]]
125 years ago today - May 17, 1900; Thursday
[Lorenzo Snow and George Q. Cannon, letter to Bishop George W. Bramwell]
We have just had a conversation with Brother Grant Geddes, in regard to your decision in the case of Sister Margaret Geddes [who had confessed to an adulterous affair, but refused to give the name of the man to protect his reputation. He was actually her post-manifesto husband - David Eccles], and have decided that it would be right and proper in this case that you accept of her confession and forgive her transgression without any further requirement.
[See Today in Mormon History, May 16, 1900]
[Lorenzo Snow and George Q. Cannon, letter to George W. Bramwell, typed excerpt in Quinn Papers, original in LDS Archives]
We have just had a conversation with Brother Grant Geddes, in regard to your decision in the case of Sister Margaret Geddes [who had confessed to an adulterous affair, but refused to give the name of the man to protect his reputation. He was actually her post-manifesto husband - David Eccles], and have decided that it would be right and proper in this case that you accept of her confession and forgive her transgression without any further requirement.
[See Today in Mormon History, May 16, 1900]
[Lorenzo Snow and George Q. Cannon, letter to George W. Bramwell, typed excerpt in Quinn Papers, original in LDS Archives]
125 years ago today - May 17, 1900
Apostle George Teasdale (sixty-eight years of age) marries twenty-three-year-old Letitia Dolly Thomas in the Logan Temple. Teasdale had lost four of his five wives through death. He formally divorces the fifth, (after a marriage of 24 years) just prior to this marriage charging that she was unable to have sexual intercourse, an impediment he discovered "immediately after said marriage took place." Teasdale had taken a post-Manfesto plural wife, Marion E. Scoles, three years previously but she had died in childbirth. After Apostle Teasdale's death Letitia married one of his sons (by a previous wife) George Washington Teasdale and thus became her own step-mother-in-law
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
135 years ago today - May 17, 1890
LDS political newspaper SALT LAKE HERALD condemns "the scheme of the conspirators to consummate the political debauchery of making Utah a Republican state."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
100 years ago today - May 16, 1925
[President Heber J. Grant]
At 9:30 tonight I was called on the phone and learned that President Penrose had just died. It was after midnight before I was able to go to sleep, thinking of the life and labors of President Penrose and who to choose as a successor to him in the Presidency. I shall ask Brother Ivins to be my first counselor and whoever I choose to fill the vacancy in the presidency to be my second counselor. While I naturally would have some personal preferences, I hope and pray to select the man that will be most useful and who will be pleasing to our Heavenly Father.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
At 9:30 tonight I was called on the phone and learned that President Penrose had just died. It was after midnight before I was able to go to sleep, thinking of the life and labors of President Penrose and who to choose as a successor to him in the Presidency. I shall ask Brother Ivins to be my first counselor and whoever I choose to fill the vacancy in the presidency to be my second counselor. While I naturally would have some personal preferences, I hope and pray to select the man that will be most useful and who will be pleasing to our Heavenly Father.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
125 years ago today - May 16, 1900; Wednesday
Bro[ther]. Grant Geddes had a talk with President [Lorenzo Snow]. It appears that his deceased brother's wife (Margaret) who is a widow, has confessed to the a charge of adultery in the Bishop's court, and that the court had given her time to reveal the name of the man [i.e., David Eccles] in transgression with her. This she had refused to do on the grounds that he was a man of family, respected in the community, and to do so would do no good, but only bring reproach upon his family, and add to her mortificaiton. She was willing to make a public confession and ask forgiveness, and desired that she may be permitted to do this in order to retain her standing in the Church. The court held however that she must obey its requirement, and Bro[ther]. Geddes' business was to consult the Presidency in regard to the matter.
[Office Journal of the First Presidency]
[Office Journal of the First Presidency]
125 years ago today - May 16, 1900; Wednesday
Elder Anthon H. Lund called and had a talk this morning with Presidents Snow and Cannon in relation to the employment of Brigham H. Roberts as editor of the proposed history of the Church, Elder John Henry Smith was also present. Brother Lund reported that Elder Roberts, while drawing $1200. a year as compensation for church services, wanted another $2,500. for doing this work, making $3,700 a year. Presidents Snow and Cannon thought this was too much, especially in view of the fact that the work to be done did not require the ability of an author. The names of Elders James E. Talmage and Joseph M. Tanner were mentioned for the honor ... in consequence of a remark of one of the brethren that perhaps President Cannon might be able to do this work, at least so far as supervising it was concerned... President Snow then asked President Cannon if he felt that his physical condition would permit him to undertake the task. President Cannon answered that if this was the mind of President
Snow and the committee, he had no other alternative than to place himself at their services, and this he did freely and willingly, promising to give the publication of the work his best attention. Elder Lyman expressed himself more than satisfied at the turn things had taken, and withdrew saying he would seek an interview with Elder B. H. Roberts at once and inform him of it.
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
Snow and the committee, he had no other alternative than to place himself at their services, and this he did freely and willingly, promising to give the publication of the work his best attention. Elder Lyman expressed himself more than satisfied at the turn things had taken, and withdrew saying he would seek an interview with Elder B. H. Roberts at once and inform him of it.
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
125 years ago today - Wednesday, May 16, 1900
[Apostle John Henry Smith]
Salt Lake City
I rebaptized and re-confirmed John Henry Evans, he having been guilty of fornication. It was attended to at the Hot spring bath house.
[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]
Salt Lake City
I rebaptized and re-confirmed John Henry Evans, he having been guilty of fornication. It was attended to at the Hot spring bath house.
[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]
135 years ago today - May 16, 1890
New Canadian law prohibiting polygamy goes into effect. This law closes an existing loophole: previously it had been illegal only to take an additional wife while already married. However a Mormon had publicly pointed out that marrying two wives simultaneously was therefore legal under the existing law.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
165 years ago today - May 16, 1860
Testimony of Jeremiah Stokes and William Green
"I was setting up with the Corpse of Elder John W. Brown about 3 oclok in the morning (Friday May the 4th 1860) When I beheld a vary bright light hovering near the door which Fronts to the west. Near the top of the door on the left side was a Crown shineing Brilliantly below was a Circle of 12 stars also vary bright and Beautiful. On the left was a representation of Br Browns Coffin. On the right lower down was a large Stone the Express image of the one that killed Brother Brown. This light remained without Changing its position one hour and a half. There were two Candles burning in the room but the light far surpassed there Brilliancy.
Brother William Green was also present and testified that the above is Correct and Adds "I saw the light before Brother Stokes and previous to seeing the light on the door I saw on the lid of the Coffin two small looking glasses vary Clear & bright set in Stone. In a moment more I saw Brother John Brown standing on the opposite side of the Coffin. He looked as he did when found after his death. He soon disappeared and then I saw the light on the door.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
"I was setting up with the Corpse of Elder John W. Brown about 3 oclok in the morning (Friday May the 4th 1860) When I beheld a vary bright light hovering near the door which Fronts to the west. Near the top of the door on the left side was a Crown shineing Brilliantly below was a Circle of 12 stars also vary bright and Beautiful. On the left was a representation of Br Browns Coffin. On the right lower down was a large Stone the Express image of the one that killed Brother Brown. This light remained without Changing its position one hour and a half. There were two Candles burning in the room but the light far surpassed there Brilliancy.
Brother William Green was also present and testified that the above is Correct and Adds "I saw the light before Brother Stokes and previous to seeing the light on the door I saw on the lid of the Coffin two small looking glasses vary Clear & bright set in Stone. In a moment more I saw Brother John Brown standing on the opposite side of the Coffin. He looked as he did when found after his death. He soon disappeared and then I saw the light on the door.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
155 years ago today - May 16, 1870
[Wilford Woodruff]
16, 17 & 18 I Fought Grasshoppers.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
16, 17 & 18 I Fought Grasshoppers.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
180 years ago today - May 16, 1845
[Wilford Woodruff]
16th + I left my family & friends in Liverpool & took the Steemer Victorie for Carlisle at 4 oclock in the afternoon. As soon as we went out of the dock I discoverd the boat was newly Painted so that one could not sit down in any place from the stem to the stern of the boat without carrying the paint with him the whole bigness of the place he sat in or touched. And as the sea began to be rough I found it necessary to get some place to lie down & as the last & ownly resort I paid 2/ shillings for the use of a bunk among the sailors on the fore castle over the bow for the night.
I went below to take my bed among the Sailors which was a small confined place. I had no sooner gone below than I was inveloped in a Stench the most Horrid of any thing I ever experianced. It arose from the cargo which consisted of goano A kind of dung dug out of the earth brought to this country to put on to land. It is supposed to have origionally been birds dung but the worst die pot I ever saw was plesant in comparrison to this stench. I lay down but my stomach was immediately so filled with the stench that it made me as sick as Death.
I immediately commenced vomiting which continued for five hours. At times I gaged upon an empty stomach untill I strained myself to such a degree that blood run out of my nose almost a stream. I suffered much through the night & the sailors smoked their pipes & filled the hole with tobaco smoke. Though this was nacious to me it was much better than the stink that arose from the cargo. And in addition to this the seas were breaking fore & aft over the boat & the boat pitching badly. This with breathing the sent of the paint guano & tobaco smoke made me vomit to that degree that my sufferings were great & I thought it the most horrid night I ever spent on the water.
In the morning I crawled out into the air on deck but felt vary week & feeble. Could scarcely walk. Distance to Port Carlisle 190 miles.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
16th + I left my family & friends in Liverpool & took the Steemer Victorie for Carlisle at 4 oclock in the afternoon. As soon as we went out of the dock I discoverd the boat was newly Painted so that one could not sit down in any place from the stem to the stern of the boat without carrying the paint with him the whole bigness of the place he sat in or touched. And as the sea began to be rough I found it necessary to get some place to lie down & as the last & ownly resort I paid 2/ shillings for the use of a bunk among the sailors on the fore castle over the bow for the night.
I went below to take my bed among the Sailors which was a small confined place. I had no sooner gone below than I was inveloped in a Stench the most Horrid of any thing I ever experianced. It arose from the cargo which consisted of goano A kind of dung dug out of the earth brought to this country to put on to land. It is supposed to have origionally been birds dung but the worst die pot I ever saw was plesant in comparrison to this stench. I lay down but my stomach was immediately so filled with the stench that it made me as sick as Death.
I immediately commenced vomiting which continued for five hours. At times I gaged upon an empty stomach untill I strained myself to such a degree that blood run out of my nose almost a stream. I suffered much through the night & the sailors smoked their pipes & filled the hole with tobaco smoke. Though this was nacious to me it was much better than the stink that arose from the cargo. And in addition to this the seas were breaking fore & aft over the boat & the boat pitching badly. This with breathing the sent of the paint guano & tobaco smoke made me vomit to that degree that my sufferings were great & I thought it the most horrid night I ever spent on the water.
In the morning I crawled out into the air on deck but felt vary week & feeble. Could scarcely walk. Distance to Port Carlisle 190 miles.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
180 years ago today - May 16, 1845
[Patriarchal Blessing of Israel Barlow by John Smith]
.... Thou shalt have the ministering of Angels. Thou shalt converse with them face to face as with thy familiar friends. This will enable thee to escape all dangers. Thou shalt gather thy thousands & lead them to Zion with much riches. ... Thou shalt live to see the end of this Gentile race ...
[Patriarchal Blessings]
.... Thou shalt have the ministering of Angels. Thou shalt converse with them face to face as with thy familiar friends. This will enable thee to escape all dangers. Thou shalt gather thy thousands & lead them to Zion with much riches. ... Thou shalt live to see the end of this Gentile race ...
[Patriarchal Blessings]
50 years ago today - May 15, 1975
U.S. Soldier Ralph Cocroft is killed in Okinawa. Paul H. Dunn later admits that his buddy Harold Lester Brown didn't die in his arms on Okinawa as he said (Brown lived a long life after the war) but that Dunn took "Harold Brown's relationship and combine it with Ralph Cocroft's dying." Cocroft, however, neither lived on, wounded, through the night nor died in Dunn's arms as the story was told concerning Brown.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
75 years ago today - May 15, 1950
The L.D.S. Girls Program administered under the direction of the ward bishoprics to be transferred to the jurisdiction of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association.
[1950-May 15-Original circular letter, L.D.S. Church Archives, quoted in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
[1950-May 15-Original circular letter, L.D.S. Church Archives, quoted in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
95 years ago today - May 15, 1930
[Quorum of Twelve to First Presidency letter]
The Council of the Twelve, to whom was referred the work of Elder B.H. Roberts, 'The Truth, the Way, the Life,' for consideration, beg to report that they do not regard said work in its present form as a suitable study for the Priesthood quorums of the Church.
Their objections to Elder Roberts's work are clearly set forth in the exceptions taken by their sub committee, who with Brother Roberts read the manuscript carefully and discussed the doctrinal points in question. Elder Roberts declined to make the changes or modifications suggested by the Twelve.
Th Twelve now submit herewith a copy of the exceptions referred to and also a letter addressed by Elder Roberts to the sub committee, dated April 28, in which he defines his attitude in regard to his work covered by the manuscript.
Sincerely your brethren,
[Attachment]
Doctrinal points questioned by the Committee which read the Manuscript of Elder B. H. Roberts, entitled ' THE TRUTH, THE WAY, THE LIFE. Ch. Page Subject 16 7 That the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil had in it the seeds of life and death, is questioned by the committee. 19 9 The committee questions the advisability of stating any give time when the spirit unites with the body. This question has never been definitely settled although it has been asked of the First presidency from time to time. The record in the Book of Mormon where Nephi received the word that the savior was to come into the world is not looked upon as a criterion by which we are to be governed. 27 5 Intelligence and Spirit as used in this chapter are confusing terms. The thought may be gathered that 'Intelligence' ' that eternal entity which was not created, may, and some times does, rebel against truth and God. We do not so understand it. Those who revealed in the world of spirits were begotten
spirits, who, if they had remained faithful, were prepared to come into this mortal world. The revelation which speaks of intelligence says: 'Man was in the beginning with God.' (when was this beginning?) Then this thought follows: 'Intelligence, or the light of truth, was not created or made, neither indeed can be.' Again we are taught that Light an truth' ' intelligence ' 'forsaketh that evil one.' This being true, and treating intelligence as an entity, then that entity cannot rebel against light an truth, for it would rebel against itself. 27 12 The use of the expression 'Spirit-body of Christ,' and 'the Word,' is not made clear to us, and we are left to wonder if these terms apply to the 'Intelligence' or to the begotten spirit of Jesus Christ. 27 12 The use of 'Mind, spirit, and soul,' appears confusing to us. 29 5 'Baptisms for the remission of sins.' We question the plural. 30 6 The place of man in the order of creation is questioned, as it is taught in this chapter. The
expression, 'the first flesh upon the earth also,' is not interpreted by member of the committee as you have expressed it here. We feel that the arguments as give contradict the accounts given in all our scriptures, and more especially in the temple ceremonies. As we understand it the term, 'first flesh also' doe not have reference to Adam as being the first living creature of the creation on the earth, but that he, though the 'fall' became the first 'flesh,' or mortal soul. The term 'flesh' in reference to mortal existence is of common usage. We find it so used in the scriptures. Adam having partaken of the fruit became mortal and subject to death, which was not the condition until that time. We are taught in the Temple as well as in the scriptures that man was the last creation placed upon the earth, before death was introduced. Adam was the first to partake of the change and to become subject to the flesh. This is the view expressed by President Joseph F. Smith and President
Anthon H. Lund. ...
This entire chapter deals with the question of 'pre-Adamites. 'This doctrine is not taught by the Church; it is not sustained in the scriptures. It can only be treated as an hypothesis, and the result will be uncertain, confusing, for after all is said it is speculation leading to endless controversy. We are aware that one of the brethren ...
[Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Letter to the First Presidency, 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]
The Council of the Twelve, to whom was referred the work of Elder B.H. Roberts, 'The Truth, the Way, the Life,' for consideration, beg to report that they do not regard said work in its present form as a suitable study for the Priesthood quorums of the Church.
Their objections to Elder Roberts's work are clearly set forth in the exceptions taken by their sub committee, who with Brother Roberts read the manuscript carefully and discussed the doctrinal points in question. Elder Roberts declined to make the changes or modifications suggested by the Twelve.
Th Twelve now submit herewith a copy of the exceptions referred to and also a letter addressed by Elder Roberts to the sub committee, dated April 28, in which he defines his attitude in regard to his work covered by the manuscript.
Sincerely your brethren,
[Attachment]
Doctrinal points questioned by the Committee which read the Manuscript of Elder B. H. Roberts, entitled ' THE TRUTH, THE WAY, THE LIFE. Ch. Page Subject 16 7 That the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil had in it the seeds of life and death, is questioned by the committee. 19 9 The committee questions the advisability of stating any give time when the spirit unites with the body. This question has never been definitely settled although it has been asked of the First presidency from time to time. The record in the Book of Mormon where Nephi received the word that the savior was to come into the world is not looked upon as a criterion by which we are to be governed. 27 5 Intelligence and Spirit as used in this chapter are confusing terms. The thought may be gathered that 'Intelligence' ' that eternal entity which was not created, may, and some times does, rebel against truth and God. We do not so understand it. Those who revealed in the world of spirits were begotten
spirits, who, if they had remained faithful, were prepared to come into this mortal world. The revelation which speaks of intelligence says: 'Man was in the beginning with God.' (when was this beginning?) Then this thought follows: 'Intelligence, or the light of truth, was not created or made, neither indeed can be.' Again we are taught that Light an truth' ' intelligence ' 'forsaketh that evil one.' This being true, and treating intelligence as an entity, then that entity cannot rebel against light an truth, for it would rebel against itself. 27 12 The use of the expression 'Spirit-body of Christ,' and 'the Word,' is not made clear to us, and we are left to wonder if these terms apply to the 'Intelligence' or to the begotten spirit of Jesus Christ. 27 12 The use of 'Mind, spirit, and soul,' appears confusing to us. 29 5 'Baptisms for the remission of sins.' We question the plural. 30 6 The place of man in the order of creation is questioned, as it is taught in this chapter. The
expression, 'the first flesh upon the earth also,' is not interpreted by member of the committee as you have expressed it here. We feel that the arguments as give contradict the accounts given in all our scriptures, and more especially in the temple ceremonies. As we understand it the term, 'first flesh also' doe not have reference to Adam as being the first living creature of the creation on the earth, but that he, though the 'fall' became the first 'flesh,' or mortal soul. The term 'flesh' in reference to mortal existence is of common usage. We find it so used in the scriptures. Adam having partaken of the fruit became mortal and subject to death, which was not the condition until that time. We are taught in the Temple as well as in the scriptures that man was the last creation placed upon the earth, before death was introduced. Adam was the first to partake of the change and to become subject to the flesh. This is the view expressed by President Joseph F. Smith and President
Anthon H. Lund. ...
This entire chapter deals with the question of 'pre-Adamites. 'This doctrine is not taught by the Church; it is not sustained in the scriptures. It can only be treated as an hypothesis, and the result will be uncertain, confusing, for after all is said it is speculation leading to endless controversy. We are aware that one of the brethren ...
[Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Letter to the First Presidency, 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]
145 years ago today - May 15, 1880
These additional powers [second anointing] include all the keys that belong to the holy priesthood on the earth, or were ever revealed to man in any dispensation, and which admit men and women within the veil. They enable them to pass by the angels and the gods, until they get into the presence of the Father and the Son. They make of them kings and priests, queens and priestesses to God, to rule and reign as such over their posterity and those who may be given to them by adoption, in the great jubilee of rest which is near at hand. It gives them the right to the tree of life, and the "seal of the living God in their foreheads," spoken of by John the revelator.
[Daniel Tyler, "Temples," Juvenile Instructor as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[Daniel Tyler, "Temples," Juvenile Instructor as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
180 years ago today - Tuesday, May 15th, 1845
[John Taylor]
On the 15th of May, I with some others of my brethren had to secrete ourselves, to escape the hands of mobbers, who would have murdered us, if they had us in their power; they with the design of entrapping us, had made out writs against us to appear at this session of the Court to answer to charges preferred against us. We went to Brother Hunter's, and afterward to Bro. Pierce's to hide; and were employed in correcting and preparing Church history for the press.
['The John Taylor Nauvoo journal, January 1845-September 1845,' BYU Studies 23:3 (1983) edited by Dean C. Jessee]
On the 15th of May, I with some others of my brethren had to secrete ourselves, to escape the hands of mobbers, who would have murdered us, if they had us in their power; they with the design of entrapping us, had made out writs against us to appear at this session of the Court to answer to charges preferred against us. We went to Brother Hunter's, and afterward to Bro. Pierce's to hide; and were employed in correcting and preparing Church history for the press.
['The John Taylor Nauvoo journal, January 1845-September 1845,' BYU Studies 23:3 (1983) edited by Dean C. Jessee]
190 years ago today - mid May 1835
At about this time, Solomon W. Denton [a boarder at the Smith home] borrowed two pistols from his boss in the Church printing office, Oliver Cowdery. With these guns Denton reportedly accompanied M. C. Davis to make a murder attempt upon Grandison Newell. The attempt was unsucccessful; exact date unknown.
[Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
[Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
195 years ago today - May 15, 1830
[Rochester Gem]
Some months ago a noise was made among the credulous of the earth, respecting a wonderful production [about the coming forth of the Book of Mormon].... The author, who has the "copy-right secured according to law," says, `that he was commanded of the Lord in a dream,' to go and find, and that he went and found. At one time it was said that he was commanded of the Lord not to show the plates, on pain of instant death--but it seems he has shown them to the said witnesses, and yet is alive! At another time it is said that none could see them but he who was commanded;--that though they should lie in the middle of the street beneath the broad glare of a meridian sun, in the presence of hundreds, yet no eye but his could see them! ...
This story brings to our mind one of similar nature ... it was in the year 1815, that a family of Smiths moved into these parts ... They had a wonderful son, of about 18 years of age, who, on a certain day, as they said, while in the road, discovered a round stone of the size of a man's fist, the which when he first saw it, presented to him on the one side, all the dazzling splendor of the sun in full blaze--and on the other, the clearness of the moon. He fell down insensible at the sight, and while in the trance produced by the sudden and awful discovery, it was communicated to him that he was to become an oracle--and the keys of mystery were put into his hands, and he saw the unsealing of the book of fate. He told his tale for money. Numbers flocked to him to test his skill, and the first question among a certain class was, if there was any of [Captain Robert] Kidd's money hid in these parts in the earth. The oracle, after adjusting the stone in his hat, and looking in
upon it sometime, pronounced that there was. The question of where, being decided upon, there forthwith emerged a set, armed with "pick-axe, hoe and spade," out into the mountains, to dislodge the treasure. ... [They] sallied out upon the hills east of the river, and commenced digging--the night was chosen for operation--already had two nights been spent in digging, and the third commenced upon, when Northrop with his pick-axe struck the chest! The effect was powerful, and contrary to an explicit rule laid down by himself he exclaimed, "d--n me, I've found it!"
The charm was broken!--the scream of demons,--the chattering of spirits--and hissing of serpents rent the air, and the treasure moved! The oracle was again consulted, who said that it had removed to the Deep Hollow. There, a similar accident happened--and again it was removed to a hill near the village of Penfield, where, it was pretended the undertakers obtained the treasure.
... He predicted that the enemy [War of 1812] would make an attack; and that blood must flow.--The story flew, and seemed to carry with it a desolating influence--some moved away into other parts, and others were trembling under a full belief of the prediction. At this time a justice of the peace of the place visited the oracle, and warned him to leave the country. He gravely told the magistrate that any one who opposed him would receive judgements upon his head, and that he who should take away the inspired stone from him, would suffer immediate death!...
["Imposition and Blasphemy!!--Money Diggers, &c.," Rochester (NY) Gem 2 (15 May 1830): 15., as cited in Dan Vogel, Early Mormon Documents: Rochester (Ny) Gem]
Some months ago a noise was made among the credulous of the earth, respecting a wonderful production [about the coming forth of the Book of Mormon].... The author, who has the "copy-right secured according to law," says, `that he was commanded of the Lord in a dream,' to go and find, and that he went and found. At one time it was said that he was commanded of the Lord not to show the plates, on pain of instant death--but it seems he has shown them to the said witnesses, and yet is alive! At another time it is said that none could see them but he who was commanded;--that though they should lie in the middle of the street beneath the broad glare of a meridian sun, in the presence of hundreds, yet no eye but his could see them! ...
This story brings to our mind one of similar nature ... it was in the year 1815, that a family of Smiths moved into these parts ... They had a wonderful son, of about 18 years of age, who, on a certain day, as they said, while in the road, discovered a round stone of the size of a man's fist, the which when he first saw it, presented to him on the one side, all the dazzling splendor of the sun in full blaze--and on the other, the clearness of the moon. He fell down insensible at the sight, and while in the trance produced by the sudden and awful discovery, it was communicated to him that he was to become an oracle--and the keys of mystery were put into his hands, and he saw the unsealing of the book of fate. He told his tale for money. Numbers flocked to him to test his skill, and the first question among a certain class was, if there was any of [Captain Robert] Kidd's money hid in these parts in the earth. The oracle, after adjusting the stone in his hat, and looking in
upon it sometime, pronounced that there was. The question of where, being decided upon, there forthwith emerged a set, armed with "pick-axe, hoe and spade," out into the mountains, to dislodge the treasure. ... [They] sallied out upon the hills east of the river, and commenced digging--the night was chosen for operation--already had two nights been spent in digging, and the third commenced upon, when Northrop with his pick-axe struck the chest! The effect was powerful, and contrary to an explicit rule laid down by himself he exclaimed, "d--n me, I've found it!"
The charm was broken!--the scream of demons,--the chattering of spirits--and hissing of serpents rent the air, and the treasure moved! The oracle was again consulted, who said that it had removed to the Deep Hollow. There, a similar accident happened--and again it was removed to a hill near the village of Penfield, where, it was pretended the undertakers obtained the treasure.
... He predicted that the enemy [War of 1812] would make an attack; and that blood must flow.--The story flew, and seemed to carry with it a desolating influence--some moved away into other parts, and others were trembling under a full belief of the prediction. At this time a justice of the peace of the place visited the oracle, and warned him to leave the country. He gravely told the magistrate that any one who opposed him would receive judgements upon his head, and that he who should take away the inspired stone from him, would suffer immediate death!...
["Imposition and Blasphemy!!--Money Diggers, &c.," Rochester (NY) Gem 2 (15 May 1830): 15., as cited in Dan Vogel, Early Mormon Documents: Rochester (Ny) Gem]
40 years ago today - May 14, 1985
John C Bennett: Baptized by proxy into LDS church 23 Apr. 1985, and his priesthood was restored before proxy endowment 14 May 1985.
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers 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 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
60 years ago today - May 14, 1965
Upon request of the First Presidency Elder [Delbert L.] Stapley called and presented samples of the new ceremonial garment which is to take the place of the string garment now being used in the Temples. This new garment will have buttons instead of strings, and [a] closed crotch. It will also have a collar on it. Elder Stapley showed samples of the new ceremonial garments for men and women, and they were approved by me. Letters will be sent to the Presidents of Temples notifying them of this change. This new garment pattern had been presented to the Brethren in the meeting of the council of the First Presidency and the Twelve on January 21, 1965, at which time it was unanimously approved by the Council.
[David O. McKay diary, May 14, 1965, quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[David O. McKay diary, May 14, 1965, quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
80 years ago today - May 14, 1945
Death of Heber J. Grant, who is also last surviving member of the theocratic Council of Fifty. As his funeral procession passes Roman catholic Cathedral of the Madeleine, its bells toll and assembled priests bow in respect. Grant is succeeded by as president by George Albert Smith who is the first LDS president never to have practiced polygamy.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
80 years ago today - May 14, 1945
The death of Heber J. Grant, who is also the last surviving member of the theocratic Council of Fifty. As his funeral procession passes the Roman Catholic Cathedral of the Madeleine, its bells toll and assembled priests bow in respect.
[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 )]]
130 years ago today - May 14, 1895
[Heber J. Grant]
This evening Gusta and I attended the meeting held in the interests of the Woman's suffrage cause in the Assembly Hall. Susan B. Anthony. Rev. Anna Shaw and others addressed the meeting. I was pleased with all that was said, but was amused beyond expression by Miss Shaw's address. It was brim full and running over with good things and delivered with force and ability She has a very amusing way of telling things and I do not think that I ever laughed so much in a half hour before in my life as I did when she was showing up some of the absurdities of those apposed to woman's suffrage.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
This evening Gusta and I attended the meeting held in the interests of the Woman's suffrage cause in the Assembly Hall. Susan B. Anthony. Rev. Anna Shaw and others addressed the meeting. I was pleased with all that was said, but was amused beyond expression by Miss Shaw's address. It was brim full and running over with good things and delivered with force and ability She has a very amusing way of telling things and I do not think that I ever laughed so much in a half hour before in my life as I did when she was showing up some of the absurdities of those apposed to woman's suffrage.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
140 years ago today - May 14, 1885
Apostles Brigham Young, Jr. and Moses Thatcher meet with on Carlos Pacheco of the Porfirio Diaz cabinet to obtain permission for polygamous Mormons to settle just across the border from United States. Although polygamy is illegal under Mexican law, Pacheco says Mexican authorities will not bother a polygamist unless his wife files complaint. Mormon colonies center in Colonia Juarez (named after Mexico's national hero) and include colonies named after President Diaz and cabinet member Pacheco.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
140 years ago today - May 14, 1885
Apostles Brigham Young Jr. and Moses Thatcher meet with Don Carlos Pacheco of the Porfirio Diaz cabinet to obtain permission for polygamous Mormons to settle just across the border from the United States. Although polygamy is illegal under Mexican law, Pacheco says that Mexican authorities will not bother a polygamist unless his wife files a complaint. Mormon colonies center in Colonia Juarez (named after Mexico's national hero) and include colonies named after President Diaz and cabinet member Pacheco.
[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 )]]
150 years ago today - May 14, 1875
"after urging," Elizabeth Ann Whitney spoke in tongues with fluid ease for some five minutes. Eliza R. Snow affirmed that it was the "pure tongue of Adam."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
155 years ago today - May 14th 1870
[Paris Idaho School of the Prophets]
.... Elder Wixom asked a question with regard to the word of wisdom its observance and obligations. ...
Prest. Rich said none of us fully kept the word of wisdom. He did not feel over strenuous in the matter every man ought to know before the Lord what he should do in these things. If he did not who should. Although in some very rare instances it might be wise to use a little of the articles mentioned in the word of wisdom still this should not be taken as a pretext for indiscriminate use. ...
[Paris ward - Bear Lake Stake - School of the Prophets minutes 1869-72, typescript by Michael Nielsen]
.... Elder Wixom asked a question with regard to the word of wisdom its observance and obligations. ...
Prest. Rich said none of us fully kept the word of wisdom. He did not feel over strenuous in the matter every man ought to know before the Lord what he should do in these things. If he did not who should. Although in some very rare instances it might be wise to use a little of the articles mentioned in the word of wisdom still this should not be taken as a pretext for indiscriminate use. ...
[Paris ward - Bear Lake Stake - School of the Prophets minutes 1869-72, typescript by Michael Nielsen]
160 years ago today - May 14, 1865
.... She wished us to pray that she might spedily die as she Could not live. Presidet Young dedicated her to God for her death & burial. In about 12 hours she died.
[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]
165 years ago today - May 14, 1860 (Morning)
A. Carrington read'-an extract relating to Joseph Smith, son of the Prophet being accepted as President of the '"True Church of Latter Day Saints'" a new organization [RLDS / Community of Christ]. The President [Brigham Young] observed it will do good, it will attract the Spirit of the nation to observe its doings, and thus be the means of diverting the attention of the Nation instead of watching us; he further remarked it would have been well if the Apostates that had left us had known of the existence of this new organization, they might have liked to have joined.
[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]
165 years ago today - May 14, 1860 (Evening)
The President remarked one race of men have oppressed another, but finally the best blood will rule.
[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]
180 years ago today - May 14, 1845
[Nauvoo Neighbor]
- Announcement: "Fasting and Prayer" ...
- Story: Nauvoo Vigilance Committee -- Editorial -- Describes and encourages actions by vigilant citizens of Nauvoo.
... - Story: "Spiritual Wife System in the Right Quarter" - Millerism -- Editorial -- Describes several published allegations about the kissing practices of Millerism.
- Letter: William Smith's Letter to the Nauvoo Church" -- William Smith -- Denies the "Spiritual Wife System," and seeks to find favor with the Nauvoo Saints.
...
[http://boap.org/LDS/Nauvoo-Neighbor]
- Announcement: "Fasting and Prayer" ...
- Story: Nauvoo Vigilance Committee -- Editorial -- Describes and encourages actions by vigilant citizens of Nauvoo.
... - Story: "Spiritual Wife System in the Right Quarter" - Millerism -- Editorial -- Describes several published allegations about the kissing practices of Millerism.
- Letter: William Smith's Letter to the Nauvoo Church" -- William Smith -- Denies the "Spiritual Wife System," and seeks to find favor with the Nauvoo Saints.
...
[http://boap.org/LDS/Nauvoo-Neighbor]
180 years ago today - May 14, 1845
The Twelve appoint the next Thursday (third week of the month) "as a day of public FASTING AND PRAYER to Almighty God." In Aug, it was the second Thursday, and Thursday remained fast-day for Utah Mormons until the 1890's.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
180 years ago today - May 14, 1845
The capstone was placed on the Nauvoo Temple
[Homer, Michael W., Joseph’s Temples: The Dynamic Relationship between Freemasonry and Mormonism, Chronology]
[Homer, Michael W., Joseph’s Temples: The Dynamic Relationship between Freemasonry and Mormonism, Chronology]
185 years ago today - May 14, 1840
[Wilford Woodruff]
.... preached but amid much disturdance & as the meeting was about breaking up the congregation was besmeared with rotten eggs.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
.... preached but amid much disturdance & as the meeting was about breaking up the congregation was besmeared with rotten eggs.
[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 - 1830 May 14
Wayne Sentinel: -The Book of Mormon- on sale now!
[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]
30 years ago today - May 13, 1995
Gordon B. Hinckley presides at "ground-breaking" ceremony for temple to be constructed by remodeling nearly ninety-year-old Uintah Stake Tabernacle in Vernal, Utah. This is first time new temple is to be created from pre-existing building which had other uses.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
60 years ago today - May 13, 1965
First Presidency approves the posthumous rebaptism and restoration of blessings for former apostle John W. Taylor who was excommunicated in 1911. His son Samuel Taylor had requested this two days previously.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
125 years ago today - Sunday, May 13, 1900
R[eed]. S[moot]. Expressed a desire to magnify the office of an apostle. The great evil existing in the world and to some extent among our people of restricting and limiting by unlawful means the number of children in our families; warned the saints against the practice.
R. S[moot]. Related a vision he had while on a mission to England, which was fulfilled and which he related to a railroad conductor to prove the existence of a God. ...
[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]
R. S[moot]. Related a vision he had while on a mission to England, which was fulfilled and which he related to a railroad conductor to prove the existence of a God. ...
[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]
130 years ago today - May 13, 1895 (Monday)
The Intermountain Woman Suffrage convention convened in Salt Lake City; Susan B. Anthony presided.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
140 years ago today - May 13, 1885
A delegation, appointed by a mass meeting held in the Tabernacle in Salt Lake City on May 2, met with U.S. President Grover Cleveland in the White House in Washington, D.C. They presented to the president a "Statement of Grievances and Protest" concerning injustices brought about because of the Edmunds law.
[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]
180 years ago today - May 13, 1845
[Patriarchal Blessing of Truman O. Angell]
.... Thou shalt live to see the winding up scene of this generation according to the desire of thy heart; and all things accomplished which the Prophets hath spoken concerning the latter day Glory; and the Temple built which is to be done before all this generation pass away. Thou shalt be one of the laborers in that Temple to accomplish the curious workmanship for the woodwork of the same ...
[Patriarchal Blessings]
.... Thou shalt live to see the winding up scene of this generation according to the desire of thy heart; and all things accomplished which the Prophets hath spoken concerning the latter day Glory; and the Temple built which is to be done before all this generation pass away. Thou shalt be one of the laborers in that Temple to accomplish the curious workmanship for the woodwork of the same ...
[Patriarchal Blessings]
180 years ago today - May 13, 1845
[Heber C. Kimball]
B. Young dremp of seeing a vessel blown on to dry land. I dremp of saving some persons from being drowned.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
B. Young dremp of seeing a vessel blown on to dry land. I dremp of saving some persons from being drowned.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
55 years ago today - May 12, 1970
After days of student protests at University of Utah against the Ohio National Guard's killing of students at Kent State, a bomb destroys the offices of the Utah National Guard.
[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 )]]
140 years ago today - May 12, 1885
[Heber J. Grant]
Prest Taylor offered prayer Prest John Taylor spoke very warmly regarding the failure of the City officials to hunt up cases against men that were known to be guilty of sexual sins and who were very active in hunting up cases of polygamy against our brethren. I can't remember when I have ever seen him worked up more than he was while talking on this subject. He talked with much force against those of our City Officials who for fear of losing a little means allowed our enemies that were known to be guilty of crime, to go free.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Prest Taylor offered prayer Prest John Taylor spoke very warmly regarding the failure of the City officials to hunt up cases against men that were known to be guilty of sexual sins and who were very active in hunting up cases of polygamy against our brethren. I can't remember when I have ever seen him worked up more than he was while talking on this subject. He talked with much force against those of our City Officials who for fear of losing a little means allowed our enemies that were known to be guilty of crime, to go free.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
150 years ago today - May 12, 1875
THE DESERET NEWS reports that Judge David B. Lowe has set aside a previous court order that Brigham Young pay $9,500 accumulated alimony to Ann Eliza Webb Young. The court reasoned that alimony could not be awarded unless a valid marriage existed. Since Young had alleged that the marriage was illegal and the allegation was not denied, it had to be considered true, and the order was set aside.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
155 years ago today - May 12, 1870
Former Apostle Amasa M. Lyman is excommunicated for associating himself with the Godbeite movement. Three years previously he had been dropped from the Council of Twelve for teaching that a person could work out their own salvation independent of Christ's atonement.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
165 years ago today - May 12, 1860
B[isho]p Allen Taylor related an immoral affair to the President and requested counsel of him, he [Brigham Young] replied '"I would cut him off the Church.'" The President observed in many cases women are much to blame; but the man must always realize he is the Lord of the woman; and in the end is responsible for his actions and not the woman.
[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]
180 years ago today - May 12, 1845
[Heber C. Kimball]
.... Told my family that I had got to hide up with my Brethren to keepe way from rits, as thare is sevreal out for us. Went to Edwards Hunters in company with B. Young and W. Richards with the history of the Church and hid up in this upper room. Went to rest at 12 Oclock--thare was two of the Hodg family taken up fore roberry [robbery], killed one man and wounded one.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
.... Told my family that I had got to hide up with my Brethren to keepe way from rits, as thare is sevreal out for us. Went to Edwards Hunters in company with B. Young and W. Richards with the history of the Church and hid up in this upper room. Went to rest at 12 Oclock--thare was two of the Hodg family taken up fore roberry [robbery], killed one man and wounded one.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
185 years ago today - May 12, 1840
[Wilford Woodruff]
It seemed as though some would worship me while they cried out here is a man of Zion the man of God that we have so long looked for. Who is worthy to receieve him into our house? I told them to worship God for I was ownly a servant of God.
I spent the night at William Hills. I Baptized 3 & confirmed 22 in all. Distance 8 mi.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
It seemed as though some would worship me while they cried out here is a man of Zion the man of God that we have so long looked for. Who is worthy to receieve him into our house? I told them to worship God for I was ownly a servant of God.
I spent the night at William Hills. I Baptized 3 & confirmed 22 in all. Distance 8 mi.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
190 years ago today - May 12, 1835
[Heber C. Kimball]
.... my feet were so blistered I could not wear my boots, nor proceed without.
[Whitney, Helen Mar, Jeni Broberg Holzapfel, and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, A Woman's View: Helen Mar Whitney's Reminiscences of Early Church History, Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 1997]
.... my feet were so blistered I could not wear my boots, nor proceed without.
[Whitney, Helen Mar, Jeni Broberg Holzapfel, and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, A Woman's View: Helen Mar Whitney's Reminiscences of Early Church History, Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 1997]
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