[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]
Today In Mormon History-fb
Several curious tidbits that happened on this day in Mormon History
165 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]
180 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]
180 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]
195 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]
30 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]
60 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]
65 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)]]
115 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]
185 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]
200 years ago today - Dec 20, 1825
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]
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
45 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."
90 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]
145 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]
190 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]
30 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]
125 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]
135 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]
140 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]
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]
145 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]
165 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]
180 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]
190 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]
90 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]
130 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]
140 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]
165 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]
180 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]
180 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]
185 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]
190 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]
195 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]
60 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.]
125 years ago today - Dec 16, 1900
Second counselor Joseph F. Smith tells Mormons of St. Johns, Arizona, that Jesus was married to the Mary who anointed his feet.
[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 - Dec 16, 1900
[In St. Johns, Arizona:] Pres[ident] Jos[eph] F Smith on the Sacred Law of Marriage Said that Jesus fulfilled every Law of God while on the earth and that the loving Mary who came into minister to him in Simonds House and who anointed his feet with costly ointment and bathed his feet also, with her tears and wiped them with the hairs of her head was not a strumpet to him but infer[r]ed plainly that she was his wife.
[Seymour B. Young, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[Seymour B. Young, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
155 years ago today - Dec 16, 1870
Patriarchal Blessing of Samuel RosKelley ... thy Guardian Angel hath warded off the shafts of the Adversary which has been hurled at thee. He hath protected thee for a wise purpose ...
[Patriarchal Blessings]
[Patriarchal Blessings]
165 years ago today - Dec 16, 1860
Bro. Brigham then spoke and showed that none of us, not even He, had as yet learned the first principles of the Gospel. Explained the passages of scripture where Christ says, other sheep I have which are not of this fold, explained it thus: other sheep I have which are not of this fold. Also where it reads Ephraim shall become a multitude of nations was wrong, ought to be, Ephraim is in the midst of a multitude of nations. Said the Anglo Saxon Race were the pure Ephraimites and they might kick and flounce like the Wild Bull in the net, but the Lord would cuff [them] from one side to the other and chasten them and finally gather them out, for they were of the seed of Abraham. Touched on the Celestial law. -- SLC Tabernacle
[Diary of Charles Lowell Walker, 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, 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 16, 1845. Tuesday.
[William Clayton]
.... At a quarter after 8 o clock A.M. commenced washing...At 9 o clock President Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, George A. Smith, Amasa Lyman retired to President Youngs Room, and without dressing consecrated and dedicated a new horn which has been prepared for the anointing, praying that we may be permitted to use it for this purpose for many years to come and that the spirit and power of God may attend it whenever it shall be used.
At 20 minutes after 10 o clock A.M. President Young, Heber C. Kimball, Orson Hyde, Orson Pratt, George Miller, Amasa Lyman and George A. Smith clothed themselves and retired to President Youngs room and consecrated 13 bottles of Oil which had been prepared and perfumed by Bishops Whitney and Miller. After consecrating the Oil a letter which had been written by Elder Hyde was dedicated to God with prayer that the desired object may be accomplished by it. At half after 10 they got through and undressed . . .
During the day the 29th quorum of Seventies brought in 44 bottles of Oil for the anointing which was delivered into the care of Bishop Whitney.
President Young has been very busy through the day, dictating the order of business, appointing men to work in the various offices and giving much important and beneficial instruction, at different intervals, in connection with Elder H. C. Kimball who has also taken a very active part in conducting matters . . .
Sisters Whitney and Kimball have been very busy through the day overseeing the washings and anointings in the female department, and instructing the Sisters in cutting and making robes and garments.
President Young retired at 5 minutes past 7, and Elder Kimball at 17 M[inutes] past 7.
[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 a quarter after 8 o clock A.M. commenced washing...At 9 o clock President Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, George A. Smith, Amasa Lyman retired to President Youngs Room, and without dressing consecrated and dedicated a new horn which has been prepared for the anointing, praying that we may be permitted to use it for this purpose for many years to come and that the spirit and power of God may attend it whenever it shall be used.
At 20 minutes after 10 o clock A.M. President Young, Heber C. Kimball, Orson Hyde, Orson Pratt, George Miller, Amasa Lyman and George A. Smith clothed themselves and retired to President Youngs room and consecrated 13 bottles of Oil which had been prepared and perfumed by Bishops Whitney and Miller. After consecrating the Oil a letter which had been written by Elder Hyde was dedicated to God with prayer that the desired object may be accomplished by it. At half after 10 they got through and undressed . . .
During the day the 29th quorum of Seventies brought in 44 bottles of Oil for the anointing which was delivered into the care of Bishop Whitney.
President Young has been very busy through the day, dictating the order of business, appointing men to work in the various offices and giving much important and beneficial instruction, at different intervals, in connection with Elder H. C. Kimball who has also taken a very active part in conducting matters . . .
Sisters Whitney and Kimball have been very busy through the day overseeing the washings and anointings in the female department, and instructing the Sisters in cutting and making robes and garments.
President Young retired at 5 minutes past 7, and Elder Kimball at 17 M[inutes] past 7.
[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 16, 1840
The governor of Illinois signs the Nauvoo charter which Joseph Smith uses to make the Mormon capital an independent theocracy. Abraham Lincoln votes for the charter, even though Nauvoo's Mormons had voted as a bloc against him in the previous election.
[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]
185 years ago today - 1840 Dec 16
Nauvoo charter conceived. The Charter was essentially a copy and paste of the Springfield City Charter, but there were a few subtle additions which enshrined the city of Nauvoo as a sanctuary to Jo and the Mormons, and created a separate military arm, the Nauvoo Legion, as the law enforcement agency through which Jo exercised nothing short of martial law under the banner of his newly founded theocracy. Joseph was untouchable. Nauvoo could now collect taxes on the citizens to be dedicated to the overall city fund. They could issue writs of habeas corpus, to any prisoner, in any jurisdiction, to extradite them to be tried in Nauvoo-s jurisdiction (or just let go like Joseph Smith was). Nauvoo Legion was created as a militia under the control of the mayor, to carry out will of city leadership ...
[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]
190 years ago today - Dec 16, 1835 (Wednesday)
[Joseph Smith]
Elder McLellen Elder B. Young and Elder J. Carter called and paid me a visit, with which I was much gratified. I exibited and explaind the Egyptian Records to them, and explained many things to them concerning the dealings of God with the ancients and the formation of the planetary System, they seemed much pleased with the interview.
[The Woodland Institute, http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
Elder McLellen Elder B. Young and Elder J. Carter called and paid me a visit, with which I was much gratified. I exibited and explaind the Egyptian Records to them, and explained many things to them concerning the dealings of God with the ancients and the formation of the planetary System, they seemed much pleased with the interview.
[The Woodland Institute, http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
190 years ago today - Dec 16, 1835
Patriarchal Blessing of Jesse Hitchcock given by Joseph Smith, Sr. ... nothing shall be to hard for thee: the rivers shall obey thy voice, and the wicked shall tremble at the power and greatness of thy deeds if thou continuest to magnify thyself before the Lord in righteousness. I seal upon thee this blessing in the name of Jesus. Amen. Wm. W. Phelps, Clerk.
Given in Kirtland, Dec. 16, 1835, and recorded in this book the 22nd of the same month. O. Cowdery, R[ecorder] [Patriarchal Blessing Book 1:26]
[Early Patriarchal Blessings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Joseph Smith Sr. (Author), H. Michael Marquardt (Editor), http://amzn.to/rCBHVe]
Given in Kirtland, Dec. 16, 1835, and recorded in this book the 22nd of the same month. O. Cowdery, R[ecorder] [Patriarchal Blessing Book 1:26]
[Early Patriarchal Blessings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Joseph Smith Sr. (Author), H. Michael Marquardt (Editor), http://amzn.to/rCBHVe]
190 years ago today - (Wed) Dec 16, 1835
William Smith resumed his semi-public debate with Joseph Smith, Jr. at their parents' home in Kirtland. Following its conclusion, William wished to carry on the controversy It seems that Joseph did not wish to continue the debate and was seriously beaten by William Smith -- so much so that he was "unwell" the next day.
[Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
[Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
65 years ago today - Dec 15, 1960
At a temple meeting of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve, first counselor Henry D. Moyle reports on the "baseball baptism program," which began targeting pre-adolescent and adolescent boys during the summer of 1959. Moyle reports that this is occurring "not only in England but all over the Continent." Missions choose their preferred recreational approach for teenage converts. For example, it is basketball in the Northwestern States Mission and beach parties in the Gulf States Mission.
[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)]]
70 years ago today - Dec 15, 1955
[First Presidency to Stake Presidents]
It has been called to our attention that there has accumulated in the various temples of the Church a large number of male names for which endowment work has not been done. Ordinances have been performed for the corresponding female names in the families thus represented, but as you realize, families cannot be sealed until all members are endowed. To equalize the situation and make it possible to complete this work we desire to call upon worthy holders of the Melchizedek Priesthood to assist. With this in mind, we propose [various steps to increase male temple work]...
[David O. McKay, Stephen L. Richards, and J. Reuben Clark Jr. to stake presidents, Dec. 15, 1955, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
It has been called to our attention that there has accumulated in the various temples of the Church a large number of male names for which endowment work has not been done. Ordinances have been performed for the corresponding female names in the families thus represented, but as you realize, families cannot be sealed until all members are endowed. To equalize the situation and make it possible to complete this work we desire to call upon worthy holders of the Melchizedek Priesthood to assist. With this in mind, we propose [various steps to increase male temple work]...
[David O. McKay, Stephen L. Richards, and J. Reuben Clark Jr. to stake presidents, Dec. 15, 1955, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
75 years ago today - Dec 15, 1950
[J. Reuben Clark]
Talked with Robert D. Young [president of the Salt Lake Temple] about the talk going around regarding a visit of the Three Nephites at the Temple, so far as he knows the report is untrue.
[The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015]
Talked with Robert D. Young [president of the Salt Lake Temple] about the talk going around regarding a visit of the Three Nephites at the Temple, so far as he knows the report is untrue.
[The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015]
95 years ago today - Dec 15, 1930
[B. H. Roberts]
I am writing you to ask if the article published in the Utah Genealogical and Historical Magazine of October, 1930, under the title 'Faith Leads to a Fulness of Truth and Righteousness', dealing mainly with the antiquity of the life and death upon the earth and treated as a discourse by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith on the 5th of April, 1930, is a treatise on that subject that was submitted to and approved by the Council of the First Presidency and perhaps the Quorum of the Twelve? And is it put forth as the official declaration of the Church on the subject treated? Or is it the unofficial and personal declaration of the opinion only of Elder Smith? In the latter event then I feel that that fact should have been expressed in the discourse; or if it is an official pronouncement of the Church then that fact should have been avowed; for the strictly dogmatical and the pronounced finality of the discourse demand the suggested explanation in either case.
If the discourse of Elder Smith is merely his personal opinion, while not questioning his right to such opinions, and also the right to express them, when so avowed as his personal opinions, yet I object to the dogmatism and finality spirit of the pronouncement and the apparent official announcement of them, as if speaking with final authority.
If Elder Smith is merely putting forth his own opinions I call in question his competency to utter such dogmatism either as a scholar or as an Apostle. I am sure he is not competent to speak in such manner from general learning or special research work on the subject; nor as an Apostle, as in that case he would be in conflict with the plain implication at least of the scriptures, both ancient and modern, and with the teaching of a more experienced and learned and earlier Apostle than himself, and a contemporary of the Prophet Joseph Smith ' whose public discourse on the subject appears in the Journal of Discourses and was publicly endorsed by President Brigham Young, all which would have more weight in setting forth doctrine tan this last dictum of Elder Smith.
My question is important as effecting, finally the faith and status of a very large portion of the priesthood and educated membership of the Church. I am sure and I trust this matter will receive early consideration.
[B. H. Roberts, 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]
I am writing you to ask if the article published in the Utah Genealogical and Historical Magazine of October, 1930, under the title 'Faith Leads to a Fulness of Truth and Righteousness', dealing mainly with the antiquity of the life and death upon the earth and treated as a discourse by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith on the 5th of April, 1930, is a treatise on that subject that was submitted to and approved by the Council of the First Presidency and perhaps the Quorum of the Twelve? And is it put forth as the official declaration of the Church on the subject treated? Or is it the unofficial and personal declaration of the opinion only of Elder Smith? In the latter event then I feel that that fact should have been expressed in the discourse; or if it is an official pronouncement of the Church then that fact should have been avowed; for the strictly dogmatical and the pronounced finality of the discourse demand the suggested explanation in either case.
If the discourse of Elder Smith is merely his personal opinion, while not questioning his right to such opinions, and also the right to express them, when so avowed as his personal opinions, yet I object to the dogmatism and finality spirit of the pronouncement and the apparent official announcement of them, as if speaking with final authority.
If Elder Smith is merely putting forth his own opinions I call in question his competency to utter such dogmatism either as a scholar or as an Apostle. I am sure he is not competent to speak in such manner from general learning or special research work on the subject; nor as an Apostle, as in that case he would be in conflict with the plain implication at least of the scriptures, both ancient and modern, and with the teaching of a more experienced and learned and earlier Apostle than himself, and a contemporary of the Prophet Joseph Smith ' whose public discourse on the subject appears in the Journal of Discourses and was publicly endorsed by President Brigham Young, all which would have more weight in setting forth doctrine tan this last dictum of Elder Smith.
My question is important as effecting, finally the faith and status of a very large portion of the priesthood and educated membership of the Church. I am sure and I trust this matter will receive early consideration.
[B. H. Roberts, 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]
115 years ago today - Dec 15, 1910; Thursday
Brother Penrose reported Bear Lake [Idaho/Utah] Stake Conference. ... Held meeting with the Bishops of Garden City, Laketown and a representative from Round Valley on the contemplated move of joining them to Woodruff [Wyoming/Utah] Stake, and learned that a majority of the people opposed the change for the reason that they would be separated from the new stake by a high mountain, very difficult to travel in the winter. The change therefore was not made. ...
Consideration was given to a special communion service for sacramental meetings, which had been procured by the Bishop of the 18th Ward, and known as the individual service, distinct from the service of other meeting houses, in this, that it consisted of about three dozen exceedingly small glasses set on the silver castor. It seems that the Parents' Class of the Ward had discussed the way in which our sacrament was being administered, and in order to avoid so many people drinking from the same cups, this individual service was suggested, and was submitted by the Eighteenth Ward Bishopric for permission to use it at the 18th Ward meeting house, if deemed advisable.
The sense of the Council was, on motion of Pres[iden]t. John Henry Smith, that the Eighteenth Ward Bishopric be at liberty to test the use of the service. It was thought however that they might deem it advisable to use larger glasses. ...
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
Consideration was given to a special communion service for sacramental meetings, which had been procured by the Bishop of the 18th Ward, and known as the individual service, distinct from the service of other meeting houses, in this, that it consisted of about three dozen exceedingly small glasses set on the silver castor. It seems that the Parents' Class of the Ward had discussed the way in which our sacrament was being administered, and in order to avoid so many people drinking from the same cups, this individual service was suggested, and was submitted by the Eighteenth Ward Bishopric for permission to use it at the 18th Ward meeting house, if deemed advisable.
The sense of the Council was, on motion of Pres[iden]t. John Henry Smith, that the Eighteenth Ward Bishopric be at liberty to test the use of the service. It was thought however that they might deem it advisable to use larger glasses. ...
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
125 years ago today - Saturday, Dec 15, 1900
[Apostle Rudger Clawson]
I was engaged most of the day in entering up the cash payments on the bills payable liability of the church for Sept., Oct., and Nov. 1900. During the three months named the church indebtedness has been reduced, in round numbers, $148,000 and now stands as follows:
Bonded indebtedness
$1,000,000
Note indebtedness
551,000
Total indebtedness
$1,551,000
In the evening Lydia and myself went to the theatre.
[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]
I was engaged most of the day in entering up the cash payments on the bills payable liability of the church for Sept., Oct., and Nov. 1900. During the three months named the church indebtedness has been reduced, in round numbers, $148,000 and now stands as follows:
Bonded indebtedness
$1,000,000
Note indebtedness
551,000
Total indebtedness
$1,551,000
In the evening Lydia and myself went to the theatre.
[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]
180 years ago today - Dec 15, 1845. Monday.
[William Clayton]
At 5 minutes to 9 o clock A.M. commenced washing and anointing . . .
At a quarter to 10 o clock the president called the brethren together who had Volunteered to assist in administering the ordinances this day and made the following appointments...
At a quarter to 11 o clock the bell was rung and commenced receiving those washed and anointed this morning through the lower and middle departments, the following persons officiating, viz. In the upper department John Taylor as Number 1 Amasa Lyman as number 2 Erastus Snow as number 3. In the middle department. Orson Hyde as number 1 Franklin D. Richards as number 2 Lucius N. Scovil as Number 3 W. W. Phelps as number 4 And George A. Smith as prompter . . .
About half after 8 o clock the president made a selection of men to assist in the ordinances tomorrow and also a list of brethren to be here on Wednesday to receive their endowment.
At 20 minutes to 10 President B. Young, H. C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, John Taylor, Amasa Lyman, George Miller, George A. Smith, John D. Lee and Franklin D. Richards retired to President Young's room being clothed and having offered up the signs of the Holy Priesthood offered up prayers President Young being mouth. At 5 minutes after 10 o clock they dismissed part retiring to their homes and ...
As on the days previous the most perfect harmony and good feeling prevailed. President Young superintended and directed all the movements of the day also selected those who should come on Wednesday assisted by Elder Kimball ...
[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 5 minutes to 9 o clock A.M. commenced washing and anointing . . .
At a quarter to 10 o clock the president called the brethren together who had Volunteered to assist in administering the ordinances this day and made the following appointments...
At a quarter to 11 o clock the bell was rung and commenced receiving those washed and anointed this morning through the lower and middle departments, the following persons officiating, viz. In the upper department John Taylor as Number 1 Amasa Lyman as number 2 Erastus Snow as number 3. In the middle department. Orson Hyde as number 1 Franklin D. Richards as number 2 Lucius N. Scovil as Number 3 W. W. Phelps as number 4 And George A. Smith as prompter . . .
About half after 8 o clock the president made a selection of men to assist in the ordinances tomorrow and also a list of brethren to be here on Wednesday to receive their endowment.
At 20 minutes to 10 President B. Young, H. C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, John Taylor, Amasa Lyman, George Miller, George A. Smith, John D. Lee and Franklin D. Richards retired to President Young's room being clothed and having offered up the signs of the Holy Priesthood offered up prayers President Young being mouth. At 5 minutes after 10 o clock they dismissed part retiring to their homes and ...
As on the days previous the most perfect harmony and good feeling prevailed. President Young superintended and directed all the movements of the day also selected those who should come on Wednesday assisted by Elder Kimball ...
[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 15, 1845
The Great Proclamation of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to all the Kings of the world, to the Presidents, Governors, Rulers, and People of all nations The saints must be already aware that they are conjointly engaged in a work, on the accomplishment of which hang important events; and, also that, according to the testimony of the ancients who have spoken of it, but little time is to be given for its fulfillment-- This proclamation is of vast importance to the Saints of God, to the whole Gentile world, as well as to all the house of Israel. It is made in fulfillment of the commandments and revelations of God of both ancient and modern times... Such a call and proclamation is necessary, in order that the present generation may be left without excuse ... This proclamation bears testimony to the nations of the earth that the kingdom of God has come, as has been predicted by the ancient prophets, and prayed for in all ages, even that kingdom
which shall fill the whole earth and stand forever. WILFORD WOODRUFF.
[TIMES AND SEASONS. "TRUTH WILL PREVAIL." VOL. VI, NO. 19, City of Nauvoo, ILL. Dec. 15, 1845. http://www.centerplace.org/history/ts/v6n19.htm, as quoted in The Last Days and December 1890 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ, y George D. Speer Sr., privately circulated]
which shall fill the whole earth and stand forever. WILFORD WOODRUFF.
[TIMES AND SEASONS. "TRUTH WILL PREVAIL." VOL. VI, NO. 19, City of Nauvoo, ILL. Dec. 15, 1845. http://www.centerplace.org/history/ts/v6n19.htm, as quoted in The Last Days and December 1890 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ, y George D. Speer Sr., privately circulated]
185 years ago today - Dec 15, 1840
Joseph announces Hyrum as the patriarch of the Church in a letter to the Quorum of the Twelve and elders in England.
[Jeffrey S. O'Driscoll, Hyrum Smith: A Life of Integrity, A Brief Chronology of the Life of Hyrum Smith: 1800-1844]
[Jeffrey S. O'Driscoll, Hyrum Smith: A Life of Integrity, A Brief Chronology of the Life of Hyrum Smith: 1800-1844]
190 years ago today - Dec 15, 1835
Orson Hyde visits Joseph to hand him a letter explaining certain grievances. He feels the temple committee store (the committee that was in charge of building the temple also ran a store in Kirtland) has been more lenient with credit toward William Smith than toward Hyde. He thought that the Twelve were to be equal in all things, either richness or poverty. Joseph is very upset about Hyde's complaint.
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
195 years ago today - Mid-Dec. 1830
In response to a visit from Sidney Rigdon and Edward Partridge, the Lord reveals to Joseph D&C 35 and 36. To encourage the small flock of 70 members in Colesville and surrounding areas, the Lord reveals to Joseph some of the lost books of the Bible. Joseph records the Prophecy of Enoch (what is now Moses 7:1-69). Joseph also receives D&C 37. ___
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
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