October 1861
SEMI-ANNUAL CONFERENCE
The Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, convened in the Bowery, Great Salt Lake City, on Sunday October 6, 1861, at 10 a.m., President Brigham Young presiding.
There were on the stand: Of the First Presidency, Presidents Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball and Daniel H. Wells;
Of the Twelve Apostles: Orson Hyde, Orson Pratt, Sen., John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, George A. Smith, Ezra T. Benson, Lorenzo Snow, Erastus Snow and Franklin D. Richards;
Of the First Presidency of the Seventies: Joseph Young, Sen., Levi W. Hancock, Henry Herriman, Zera Pulsipher, Albert P. Rockwood, Horace S. Eldredge and Jacob Gates;
Of the Presidency of the High Priests Quorum: Edwin D. Woolley and Samuel D. Richards;
Of the Presidency of this Stake of Zion: Daniel Spencer, David Fullmer and George B. Wallace;
Of the Presidency of the Bishopric: Edward Hunter, Leonard W. Hardy and Jesse C. Little;
Of the Patriarchs: John Smith and Isaac Morley;
Reporters: George D. Watt and John V. Long.
The conference was called to order by the President, after which the choir sung a hymn.
Elder Wilford Woodruff offered prayer.
Choir sung "I'll praise my Maker while I've breath."
The Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, convened in the Bowery, Great Salt Lake City, on Sunday October 6, 1861, at 10 a.m., President Brigham Young presiding.
There were on the stand: Of the First Presidency, Presidents Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball and Daniel H. Wells;
Of the Twelve Apostles: Orson Hyde, Orson Pratt, Sen., John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, George A. Smith, Ezra T. Benson, Lorenzo Snow, Erastus Snow and Franklin D. Richards;
Of the First Presidency of the Seventies: Joseph Young, Sen., Levi W. Hancock, Henry Herriman, Zera Pulsipher, Albert P. Rockwood, Horace S. Eldredge and Jacob Gates;
Of the Presidency of the High Priests Quorum: Edwin D. Woolley and Samuel D. Richards;
Of the Presidency of this Stake of Zion: Daniel Spencer, David Fullmer and George B. Wallace;
Of the Presidency of the Bishopric: Edward Hunter, Leonard W. Hardy and Jesse C. Little;
Of the Patriarchs: John Smith and Isaac Morley;
Reporters: George D. Watt and John V. Long.
The conference was called to order by the President, after which the choir sung a hymn.
Elder Wilford Woodruff offered prayer.
Choir sung "I'll praise my Maker while I've breath."
President Brigham Young
said when the Latter Day Saints came together in this capacity, they generally wish some instructions which they have not previously had, but he desired to impress the principles upon the minds of the congregation that they had no right to require of the Lord, of a Prophet, an Apostle or other servant of God, any further intelligence until they had improved upon that which they had already received. If we could come to the standard, our lives would be filled up with righteousness, and we should manifest in our every act that the kingdom of God and the building up thereof, was the first thing in our hearts; then the lord has an abundance to pour out upon us, of knowledge, power and the good things of this life. When we have sought the kingdom of God and its righteousness with all our hearts, then we can attain the rest, and assist in the building up of the kingdom temporally; we can then go forward and build the temple. We wish to lay before the conference the necessity of the people paying their labor tithing and of assisting the kingdom, instead of taking out of the pockets of the Church. As the first day of our conference is on the first day of the week, which is set apart for the worship of our Father, we will devote it to teaching the spiritual things of the kingdom, and then to-morrow we will attend to the business.
said when the Latter Day Saints came together in this capacity, they generally wish some instructions which they have not previously had, but he desired to impress the principles upon the minds of the congregation that they had no right to require of the Lord, of a Prophet, an Apostle or other servant of God, any further intelligence until they had improved upon that which they had already received. If we could come to the standard, our lives would be filled up with righteousness, and we should manifest in our every act that the kingdom of God and the building up thereof, was the first thing in our hearts; then the lord has an abundance to pour out upon us, of knowledge, power and the good things of this life. When we have sought the kingdom of God and its righteousness with all our hearts, then we can attain the rest, and assist in the building up of the kingdom temporally; we can then go forward and build the temple. We wish to lay before the conference the necessity of the people paying their labor tithing and of assisting the kingdom, instead of taking out of the pockets of the Church. As the first day of our conference is on the first day of the week, which is set apart for the worship of our Father, we will devote it to teaching the spiritual things of the kingdom, and then to-morrow we will attend to the business.
Elder John Taylor
spoke of the ignorance and darkness in which we were shrouded before the gospel came to us, and the light and intelligence it has brought to our minds.—Reasoned upon faith and obedience, and the necessity of increasing therein, and said that nothing could secure us the greater blessings of the gospel, but complete submission to the mandates of Heaven.
spoke of the ignorance and darkness in which we were shrouded before the gospel came to us, and the light and intelligence it has brought to our minds.—Reasoned upon faith and obedience, and the necessity of increasing therein, and said that nothing could secure us the greater blessings of the gospel, but complete submission to the mandates of Heaven.
President Heber C. Kimball
made some pointed remarks on the principle of obedience; briefly alluded to the subjects of tithing and consecration, and referred to the Apostolic consecration and the fate of Ananias and Sapphira, who lied to the Apostles. He next alluded to the gifts of the Spirit as bestowed upon the faithful. Upon the first principles of the gospel, he said, we are united, and asked if we were also united in temporal things, and remarked that if we do not become one in temporal matters, we cannot long remain united in spiritual things.
Choir sung: "Come all ye Saints who dwell on earth."
Benediction by Elder Lorenzo Snow.
made some pointed remarks on the principle of obedience; briefly alluded to the subjects of tithing and consecration, and referred to the Apostolic consecration and the fate of Ananias and Sapphira, who lied to the Apostles. He next alluded to the gifts of the Spirit as bestowed upon the faithful. Upon the first principles of the gospel, he said, we are united, and asked if we were also united in temporal things, and remarked that if we do not become one in temporal matters, we cannot long remain united in spiritual things.
Choir sung: "Come all ye Saints who dwell on earth."
Benediction by Elder Lorenzo Snow.
2 p.m.
Singing by the choir.
Prayer by Elder Orson Hyde.
Choir sung "How happy every child of grace."
The sacrament was then administered by Bishops Edward Hunter, Lorenzo D. Young, Abraham O. Smoot and Jonathan Pugmire.
Singing by the choir.
Prayer by Elder Orson Hyde.
Choir sung "How happy every child of grace."
The sacrament was then administered by Bishops Edward Hunter, Lorenzo D. Young, Abraham O. Smoot and Jonathan Pugmire.
Elder Orson Hyde
made a few remarks about the crops, and the general prosperity of the people in Sanpete County where he had been living.
made a few remarks about the crops, and the general prosperity of the people in Sanpete County where he had been living.
President Brigham Young
showed the propriety of the elders correcting themselves and not always be dinging at the people to do things and perform duties which they themselves neglect. Explained to the conference the principles relative to the people being one in all things. Briefly referred to the present warlike state of affairs in the States.
showed the propriety of the elders correcting themselves and not always be dinging at the people to do things and perform duties which they themselves neglect. Explained to the conference the principles relative to the people being one in all things. Briefly referred to the present warlike state of affairs in the States.
Elder Orson Hyde
gave some valuable and interesting lessons on domestic economy.
gave some valuable and interesting lessons on domestic economy.
President Daniel H. Wells
urged upon the people the observance and reverence of the Sabbath, and the necessity of keeping it holy. Said that if we obey the Lord in the days of our prosperity we can the better call upon him in the days of our affliction. It is the duty of the people to strive to see a propriety in the counsels that are given by the servants of the Lord. He referred to the late agricultural fair, and expressed himself highly gratified with what he there saw, and said we ought to take courage and endeavor to improve and increase in all that is good; we should strive to add to the number of home manufactured articles; we should also encourage those who are engaged in the manufacture of leather, nails, hats, bonnets, soap; we should likewise consider the propriety and justice of paying as good pay to the home manufacturer as to the stores. He counseled the Bishops to lead forth in doing these things.
We are laboring to accomplish the union of the people and the concentration of our efforts and means for the bringing about of the purposes of the Almighty. Let us then strive with our mights to fear God, keep his commandments, love, serve and obey him and respect all his institutions, and let us not strive to walk them under our feet as a vain thing.
He counseled the brethren to bring in their tithing to the store house of the Lord, the grain, the vegetables and the molasses. Instructed the Bishops how to organize companies of men and teams and send them all through the winter to haul stone from Little Cottonwood for the temple. The presidency wanted to engage all the masons who felt disposed to come along and work to prepare the rock for laying up in the spring. The Lord has saved these valleys of the mountains for his saints and not for the world. It is the duty of saints to work only for the building up of the kingdom of God.
Choir sung "O happy souls who pray."
Dismissed by Elder W. W. Phelps.
urged upon the people the observance and reverence of the Sabbath, and the necessity of keeping it holy. Said that if we obey the Lord in the days of our prosperity we can the better call upon him in the days of our affliction. It is the duty of the people to strive to see a propriety in the counsels that are given by the servants of the Lord. He referred to the late agricultural fair, and expressed himself highly gratified with what he there saw, and said we ought to take courage and endeavor to improve and increase in all that is good; we should strive to add to the number of home manufactured articles; we should also encourage those who are engaged in the manufacture of leather, nails, hats, bonnets, soap; we should likewise consider the propriety and justice of paying as good pay to the home manufacturer as to the stores. He counseled the Bishops to lead forth in doing these things.
We are laboring to accomplish the union of the people and the concentration of our efforts and means for the bringing about of the purposes of the Almighty. Let us then strive with our mights to fear God, keep his commandments, love, serve and obey him and respect all his institutions, and let us not strive to walk them under our feet as a vain thing.
He counseled the brethren to bring in their tithing to the store house of the Lord, the grain, the vegetables and the molasses. Instructed the Bishops how to organize companies of men and teams and send them all through the winter to haul stone from Little Cottonwood for the temple. The presidency wanted to engage all the masons who felt disposed to come along and work to prepare the rock for laying up in the spring. The Lord has saved these valleys of the mountains for his saints and not for the world. It is the duty of saints to work only for the building up of the kingdom of God.
Choir sung "O happy souls who pray."
Dismissed by Elder W. W. Phelps.
Evening in the Tabernacle.
Choir sung "Praise ye the Lord, 'tis good to raise."
This being the first meeting in the Tabernacle since it was repaired, enlarged and made suitable for public worship, President B. Young offered the following dedication prayer:
Our Father, and our God, we present ourselves before thee on this occasion, in the name of the Son Jesus Christ, in whose name we dedicate ourselves unto thee and to thy service, for building up thy kingdom upon the earth, for the promotion of righteousness, for gathering the House of Israel, and for establishing thy Zion, until the laws of Zion shall become the laws of all nations. We also dedicate unto thee our friends, our families, our brethren and their families and friends, with our flocks and our herds, and our possessions as thy people. We dedicate unto thee thy kingdom in every nation, and among all people where thy gospel has been preached, and thy kingdom established. We dedicate unto thee this house that we now occupy, and the ground upon which it stands; as it has before been dedicated unto thee, we again dedicate it unto thee with the addition and improvements that have been made upon it. We dedicate to thee the foundation walls, the foundations upon which the timbers and floors rest; we dedicate to thee the walls above the foundation, the adobies, and all the wood work, the timbers, and the lathing and plastering on the walls, the doors and the hangings thereof, and we desire that they may be opened and shut by the Saints of the Most High; we dedicate unto thee the timbers of the roof, with all the appurtenances thereunto belonging—the brace timbers that strengthen and sustain the roof, with the lathing and plastering of the ceiling, also the shingles, and the boards upon which they are fastened, and the nails and bolts of iron that bind the whole together; we dedicate unto thee the window frames, and the sash, and glass, and the trimmings thereof, and all the conveniences pertaining to this building, both those that are on the ground and those that are in the ground; we dedicate unto thee the sleepers and the flooring above them, and the nails that bind them together, and the seats that rest upon the floor; we dedicate unto thee the pulpit and the platform upon which it rests, and the seats, and everything that pertains to the stand; we dedicate unto thee the organ and the foundation upon which it rests, and all its appurtenances and conveniences; we dedicate unto thee the new portion of this house, the foundation upon which it rests, and its conveniences above and below, together with the former portion of this, our place of worship, which thou hast permitted us to erect, wherein to worship the name of the Lord of Hosts. We ask thee, our Father, in the name of Jesus Christ thy Son, to let thy presence and thy power dwell in this hall, and suffer not thine enemies to ever occupy it.
Thou art acquainted with our faith and our hopes, with our labors of love, with all that we possess for all things are open before thee. Let righteousness and peace dwell here, that thine holy angels may take up their abode here and dwell with us. Let great peace, the peace of God that passeth understanding, dwell upon thy people that enter this house; may the spirit and power of the Holy Ghost rest upon male and female, old and young and middle aged, that come here to worship thee in spirit and in truth; and let thy servants who speak to thy people in this house be inspired by thy wisdom and with thy power, and be filled with the revelations of Jesus Christ; let them thus be blessed at this time, and in all time to come.
Bless thy Saints in every land and clime, and all that pertains to them. We pray thee to bless thy Priesthood in all their abiding places and in all their fields of labor. Pour out thy Holy Spirit upon the faithful of thy servants, and preserve those who are laboring in foreign lands, who travel from nation to nation, from people to people, and from land to land, to gather and save the honest in heart. May great peace and great power be upon them and round about them by day and by night, and let them not be hurt by any power. Give them every qualification that is requisite to their respective calling and standing before thee and the people among whom they minister. Give them money and means, food and raiment, and the hearts of the people. Give them abundance to gather up the poor and bring them home to Zion.
Bless the inhabitants of this Territory. We thank thee for the land in the chambers of these mountains; we thank thee for the mountains, for the kanyons and the rugged rocks, for the sandy deserts, and salt wastes, that surround and embrace these hiding places for the poor and meek of the earth; we thank thee for the pure streams of water that flow from the kanyon gorges, that gush forth in the mountain tops and come to us a healing, cooling, reviving beverage; we thank thee for the healthy, thriving vegetation of these fat vallies of Ephraim, for our bread and meat, for our habitations and our raiment, for our families, friends, and connections for the society of thy people, for useful animals, and for all the conveniences and creature comforts of life, all of which we dedicate unto thee our Father and our God.
We ask thee to bless the Quorums of thy servants who have assembled this evening with the High Priests' Quorum; may we all feel one in Christ; and let thy spirit of wisdom be continually with us as thine Elders, that none may feel in their hearts some of Heber, some of Willard, some of Jeddy, some of Daniel, some of Joseph, and some of Brigham, some of John, some of Paul, and some of Christ. Bless us with understanding, that our capacities may reach to the heavens and our minds be opened to behold heavenly things, and things upon the earth, and things under the earth, that we may be acquainted with the power by which thy works are organized and sustained. When we meet as High Priests, as the Twelve Apostles, as Seventies, as Bishops, as Elders, as Priests, as Teachers, as Deacons and as members of this thy great latter-day kingdom that is growing upon the earth according to the words of thine ancient prophets, may we meet as members of the same body. And in all our communications may we have the spirit of intelligence to receive as well as to give, and all be benefited together.
We dedicate all unto thee, and ask thy blessing upon all the subjects of our prayers, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord: Amen.
Choir sung another hymn.
Choir sung "Praise ye the Lord, 'tis good to raise."
This being the first meeting in the Tabernacle since it was repaired, enlarged and made suitable for public worship, President B. Young offered the following dedication prayer:
Our Father, and our God, we present ourselves before thee on this occasion, in the name of the Son Jesus Christ, in whose name we dedicate ourselves unto thee and to thy service, for building up thy kingdom upon the earth, for the promotion of righteousness, for gathering the House of Israel, and for establishing thy Zion, until the laws of Zion shall become the laws of all nations. We also dedicate unto thee our friends, our families, our brethren and their families and friends, with our flocks and our herds, and our possessions as thy people. We dedicate unto thee thy kingdom in every nation, and among all people where thy gospel has been preached, and thy kingdom established. We dedicate unto thee this house that we now occupy, and the ground upon which it stands; as it has before been dedicated unto thee, we again dedicate it unto thee with the addition and improvements that have been made upon it. We dedicate to thee the foundation walls, the foundations upon which the timbers and floors rest; we dedicate to thee the walls above the foundation, the adobies, and all the wood work, the timbers, and the lathing and plastering on the walls, the doors and the hangings thereof, and we desire that they may be opened and shut by the Saints of the Most High; we dedicate unto thee the timbers of the roof, with all the appurtenances thereunto belonging—the brace timbers that strengthen and sustain the roof, with the lathing and plastering of the ceiling, also the shingles, and the boards upon which they are fastened, and the nails and bolts of iron that bind the whole together; we dedicate unto thee the window frames, and the sash, and glass, and the trimmings thereof, and all the conveniences pertaining to this building, both those that are on the ground and those that are in the ground; we dedicate unto thee the sleepers and the flooring above them, and the nails that bind them together, and the seats that rest upon the floor; we dedicate unto thee the pulpit and the platform upon which it rests, and the seats, and everything that pertains to the stand; we dedicate unto thee the organ and the foundation upon which it rests, and all its appurtenances and conveniences; we dedicate unto thee the new portion of this house, the foundation upon which it rests, and its conveniences above and below, together with the former portion of this, our place of worship, which thou hast permitted us to erect, wherein to worship the name of the Lord of Hosts. We ask thee, our Father, in the name of Jesus Christ thy Son, to let thy presence and thy power dwell in this hall, and suffer not thine enemies to ever occupy it.
Thou art acquainted with our faith and our hopes, with our labors of love, with all that we possess for all things are open before thee. Let righteousness and peace dwell here, that thine holy angels may take up their abode here and dwell with us. Let great peace, the peace of God that passeth understanding, dwell upon thy people that enter this house; may the spirit and power of the Holy Ghost rest upon male and female, old and young and middle aged, that come here to worship thee in spirit and in truth; and let thy servants who speak to thy people in this house be inspired by thy wisdom and with thy power, and be filled with the revelations of Jesus Christ; let them thus be blessed at this time, and in all time to come.
Bless thy Saints in every land and clime, and all that pertains to them. We pray thee to bless thy Priesthood in all their abiding places and in all their fields of labor. Pour out thy Holy Spirit upon the faithful of thy servants, and preserve those who are laboring in foreign lands, who travel from nation to nation, from people to people, and from land to land, to gather and save the honest in heart. May great peace and great power be upon them and round about them by day and by night, and let them not be hurt by any power. Give them every qualification that is requisite to their respective calling and standing before thee and the people among whom they minister. Give them money and means, food and raiment, and the hearts of the people. Give them abundance to gather up the poor and bring them home to Zion.
Bless the inhabitants of this Territory. We thank thee for the land in the chambers of these mountains; we thank thee for the mountains, for the kanyons and the rugged rocks, for the sandy deserts, and salt wastes, that surround and embrace these hiding places for the poor and meek of the earth; we thank thee for the pure streams of water that flow from the kanyon gorges, that gush forth in the mountain tops and come to us a healing, cooling, reviving beverage; we thank thee for the healthy, thriving vegetation of these fat vallies of Ephraim, for our bread and meat, for our habitations and our raiment, for our families, friends, and connections for the society of thy people, for useful animals, and for all the conveniences and creature comforts of life, all of which we dedicate unto thee our Father and our God.
We ask thee to bless the Quorums of thy servants who have assembled this evening with the High Priests' Quorum; may we all feel one in Christ; and let thy spirit of wisdom be continually with us as thine Elders, that none may feel in their hearts some of Heber, some of Willard, some of Jeddy, some of Daniel, some of Joseph, and some of Brigham, some of John, some of Paul, and some of Christ. Bless us with understanding, that our capacities may reach to the heavens and our minds be opened to behold heavenly things, and things upon the earth, and things under the earth, that we may be acquainted with the power by which thy works are organized and sustained. When we meet as High Priests, as the Twelve Apostles, as Seventies, as Bishops, as Elders, as Priests, as Teachers, as Deacons and as members of this thy great latter-day kingdom that is growing upon the earth according to the words of thine ancient prophets, may we meet as members of the same body. And in all our communications may we have the spirit of intelligence to receive as well as to give, and all be benefited together.
We dedicate all unto thee, and ask thy blessing upon all the subjects of our prayers, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord: Amen.
Choir sung another hymn.
Bishop E. D. Woolley
arose and said that we had met in the name of the High Priests' Quorum, but as there was no business calling for the immediate action of that body, the meeting would be devoted principally to preaching. He regretted that Br. John Young, Sen., the President of the Quorum could not be present, owing to a recent accident by which he had been so unfortunate as to sprain his ankle, but it afforded him pleasure to communicate Uncle John's blessing and good wishes for the brethren of the Quorum and for all Israel.
arose and said that we had met in the name of the High Priests' Quorum, but as there was no business calling for the immediate action of that body, the meeting would be devoted principally to preaching. He regretted that Br. John Young, Sen., the President of the Quorum could not be present, owing to a recent accident by which he had been so unfortunate as to sprain his ankle, but it afforded him pleasure to communicate Uncle John's blessing and good wishes for the brethren of the Quorum and for all Israel.
Elder Phineas H. Young
remarked that through his whole life he had not felt a more striking interest in the things of the kingdom of God than at the present time. Spoke of the power and authority of the Melchisidec Priesthood to regulate and preside in all spiritual matters, and the duty of the Aaronic Priesthood to control temporal things, under the direction of the Melchisidec. Gave his views upon the doctrine of consecration.
remarked that through his whole life he had not felt a more striking interest in the things of the kingdom of God than at the present time. Spoke of the power and authority of the Melchisidec Priesthood to regulate and preside in all spiritual matters, and the duty of the Aaronic Priesthood to control temporal things, under the direction of the Melchisidec. Gave his views upon the doctrine of consecration.
Elder Samuel W. Richards
observed that he had met many times with the High Priests' Quorum, and the brethren knew his feelings and sentiments in regard to those things that belong to the building up of this kingdom, and the establishment of peace and truth upon the earth. Endeavored to show the propriety of striving to learn from the experience of others, as well as from our own, and prayed the Lord to assist us to perform every duty required at our hands by the servants of God.
observed that he had met many times with the High Priests' Quorum, and the brethren knew his feelings and sentiments in regard to those things that belong to the building up of this kingdom, and the establishment of peace and truth upon the earth. Endeavored to show the propriety of striving to learn from the experience of others, as well as from our own, and prayed the Lord to assist us to perform every duty required at our hands by the servants of God.
Elder George D. Watt
reasoned upon the inseparability of our temporal and spiritual existence He spoke in strong terms of the necessity of the Latter Day Saints observing the law of consecration, and said that all our means should be laid out and expended with a view to an increase. He alluded to the influence and power of wealth.
reasoned upon the inseparability of our temporal and spiritual existence He spoke in strong terms of the necessity of the Latter Day Saints observing the law of consecration, and said that all our means should be laid out and expended with a view to an increase. He alluded to the influence and power of wealth.
President Brigham Young
made some remarks on the vibrations of sound, the advantages and conveniences of the Tabernacle now over what we enjoyed before it was repaired.
Spoke of the natural body having to go into the grave in order that it might be purified and prepared for the resurrection; desired to see the people become of one heart and one mind, and said it was truly gratifying to know that the Elders were, in some degree, learning to put their means in the right channel.—Reviewed the history of Elders coming home from missions, some coming rich, others as merchants, some as teamsters and some with handcarts.
Made a few appropriate remarks on the gathering of the poor Saints from the nations of the wicked.
Choir sung "All hail the glorious day."
Benediction by Elder F. D. Richards.
made some remarks on the vibrations of sound, the advantages and conveniences of the Tabernacle now over what we enjoyed before it was repaired.
Spoke of the natural body having to go into the grave in order that it might be purified and prepared for the resurrection; desired to see the people become of one heart and one mind, and said it was truly gratifying to know that the Elders were, in some degree, learning to put their means in the right channel.—Reviewed the history of Elders coming home from missions, some coming rich, others as merchants, some as teamsters and some with handcarts.
Made a few appropriate remarks on the gathering of the poor Saints from the nations of the wicked.
Choir sung "All hail the glorious day."
Benediction by Elder F. D. Richards.
Monday, Oct. 7, 10 a.m., Bowery.
Choir sung "Come ye that love the Lord."
Prayer by Elder Ezra T. Benson.
Choir sung "Arise O glorious Zion."
Choir sung "Come ye that love the Lord."
Prayer by Elder Ezra T. Benson.
Choir sung "Arise O glorious Zion."
President Brigham Young
said we would now take up the business of the conference, such as the building of the Temple, sending teams east next spring, and many other little items that were necessary to be considered.—Said it was his intention to call upon a number of Swiss and other brethren to go into the Southern part of the Territory, probably about two hundred families, to raise cotton, indigo, grapes, figs and such other articles as cannot be raised in the northern countries. Flax, hemp, wool and silk, he observed, we can raise here as well as they can be raised in any other part of the world.
It was also his desire to have something done respecting the Missionary and Perpetual Emigrating Funds. The first business in order was the presentation of the various authorities of the Church.
said we would now take up the business of the conference, such as the building of the Temple, sending teams east next spring, and many other little items that were necessary to be considered.—Said it was his intention to call upon a number of Swiss and other brethren to go into the Southern part of the Territory, probably about two hundred families, to raise cotton, indigo, grapes, figs and such other articles as cannot be raised in the northern countries. Flax, hemp, wool and silk, he observed, we can raise here as well as they can be raised in any other part of the world.
It was also his desire to have something done respecting the Missionary and Perpetual Emigrating Funds. The first business in order was the presentation of the various authorities of the Church.
Elder John Taylor was called upon and he presented the authorities of the Church as follows:--
Brigham Young, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Heber C. Kimball, his first, and Daniel H. Wells, his second counselors;
Orson Hyde, as President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and Orson Pratt, Sen., John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, George A. Smith, Amasa M. Lyman, Ezra T. Benson, Chas. C. Rich, Lorenzo Snow, Erastus Snow, Franklin D. Richards and George Q. Cannon, as members of said Quorum;
John Smith, Patriarch of the whole Church.
Daniel Spencer, President of this Stake of Zion, and David Fulmer and George B. Wallace, his counselors;
William Eddington, James A. Little, John V. Long, John L. Blythe, George Nebeker, John T. Caine, Joseph W. Young, Gilbert Clements, Brigham Young, Jun., and Howard Spencer, as members of the High Council;
John Young, President of the High Priests' Quorum, Edwin D. Woolley, and Samuel W. Richards, his counselors,
Joseph Young, President of the first seven Presidents of the Seventies, and Levi W. Hancock, Henry Herriman, Zera Pulsipher, Albert P. Rockwood, Horace S. Eldredge and Jacob Gates, as members of the first seven Presidents of the Seventies;
John Nebeker, President of the Elders' Quorum, and Nathan Eldredge and Joseph Felt, his counselors;
Edward Hunter, Presiding Bishop; Leonard W. Hardy and Jesse C. Little, his counselors;
Lewis Wight, President of the Priests' Quorum; William Whiting and Samuel Moore, his counselors;
McGee Harris, President of the Teachers' Quorum; Adam Speirs and David Bowman, his counselors;
John S. Carpenter, President of the Deacons' Quorum; William F. Cook and Warren Hardy, his counselors.
Brigham Young was presented as Trustee in Trust for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints;
Daniel H. Wells, Superintendent of Public Works;
William H. Folsom, Architect for the Church. Elder Truman O. Angell resigned the office of Architect in consequence of poor health, and recommended Br. Folsom for his successor.
Brigham Young, President of the Perpetual Emigrating Fund to gather the poor;
Heber C. Kimball, Daniel H. Wells and Edward Hunter, his assistants and agents for said fund;
George A. Smith, Historian and general Church Recorder, and Wilford Woodruff his assistant.
The foregoing quorums and authorities were all voted for separately, and each and all unanimously sustained by the conference.
Brigham Young, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Heber C. Kimball, his first, and Daniel H. Wells, his second counselors;
Orson Hyde, as President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and Orson Pratt, Sen., John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, George A. Smith, Amasa M. Lyman, Ezra T. Benson, Chas. C. Rich, Lorenzo Snow, Erastus Snow, Franklin D. Richards and George Q. Cannon, as members of said Quorum;
John Smith, Patriarch of the whole Church.
Daniel Spencer, President of this Stake of Zion, and David Fulmer and George B. Wallace, his counselors;
William Eddington, James A. Little, John V. Long, John L. Blythe, George Nebeker, John T. Caine, Joseph W. Young, Gilbert Clements, Brigham Young, Jun., and Howard Spencer, as members of the High Council;
John Young, President of the High Priests' Quorum, Edwin D. Woolley, and Samuel W. Richards, his counselors,
Joseph Young, President of the first seven Presidents of the Seventies, and Levi W. Hancock, Henry Herriman, Zera Pulsipher, Albert P. Rockwood, Horace S. Eldredge and Jacob Gates, as members of the first seven Presidents of the Seventies;
John Nebeker, President of the Elders' Quorum, and Nathan Eldredge and Joseph Felt, his counselors;
Edward Hunter, Presiding Bishop; Leonard W. Hardy and Jesse C. Little, his counselors;
Lewis Wight, President of the Priests' Quorum; William Whiting and Samuel Moore, his counselors;
McGee Harris, President of the Teachers' Quorum; Adam Speirs and David Bowman, his counselors;
John S. Carpenter, President of the Deacons' Quorum; William F. Cook and Warren Hardy, his counselors.
Brigham Young was presented as Trustee in Trust for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints;
Daniel H. Wells, Superintendent of Public Works;
William H. Folsom, Architect for the Church. Elder Truman O. Angell resigned the office of Architect in consequence of poor health, and recommended Br. Folsom for his successor.
Brigham Young, President of the Perpetual Emigrating Fund to gather the poor;
Heber C. Kimball, Daniel H. Wells and Edward Hunter, his assistants and agents for said fund;
George A. Smith, Historian and general Church Recorder, and Wilford Woodruff his assistant.
The foregoing quorums and authorities were all voted for separately, and each and all unanimously sustained by the conference.
President Heber C. Kimball
commenced his address by asking the question, shall we go to work and build a temple? Voices: yes. Is this the feeling of the people here today? Voices: Yes. As the body without the spirit is dead, so also is our faith without works. He then asked the people if they would pay their tithing, and the congregation responded yes. He said there was no lack of means, all that was required was the will; and if the people will do it, God will help us. Spoke of the importance of the Latter Day Saints concentrating their means and their energies for the purpose of erecting a temple to the name of our God.
commenced his address by asking the question, shall we go to work and build a temple? Voices: yes. Is this the feeling of the people here today? Voices: Yes. As the body without the spirit is dead, so also is our faith without works. He then asked the people if they would pay their tithing, and the congregation responded yes. He said there was no lack of means, all that was required was the will; and if the people will do it, God will help us. Spoke of the importance of the Latter Day Saints concentrating their means and their energies for the purpose of erecting a temple to the name of our God.
Building of the Temple—Necessity of Union
Remarks by President Heber C. Kimball, made in the Bowery, Great Salt Lake City, October 7, 1861.
Reported by J. V. Long.
The matter has been plainly presented before us in regard to the Temple, and the question for us to consider is, “Does this people, or this Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with all its authorities that are present here today, want to build the Temple?” (The congregation responded, “Yes.”) “Is it your feeling and desire as a people that we shall go to work and build a Temple?” (All the Conference with one united voice responded in the affirmative.) I now want to put another question, for I do not understand or know of anything that lives but what has got a spirit and a body, and I know that to separate them here on the earth is death, so it is with us without our works, our faith is dead. Now, then, I am coming to the point; “Will you pay your Tithing?” (All answered, “Yes.”) “Will you attend to the calls of the First Presidency of this Church?” (One simultaneous “Yes” burst forth in answer to this question.)
What is the use of talking about things; let us go to work and do them. We as a people must go to work, beginning at the head or root of this branch of the house of Israel. We must go to work and build a Temple, and everything that pertains to it that is necessary for this day and time that we have to stay in these mountains. Is there any lack of means? No, not a particle. (President Brigham Young: All the lack is the will, brother Heber.) If we say we will do it, God will help us to do. There is no other way for this people to prosper, except for every leading man holding the Priesthood in this Church and kingdom to go to work unitedly, and except we are one in purpose, and all of us become like clay in the hands of the potter, we can do nothing. Every vessel has to be turned and become pliable in the hands of the potter. Do you know this, brethren? I have worked at the potting business, and I have made twenty dozen milk pans in a day, and I could not make one stand for the other; but I had to take each for itself, every bowl had to stand for itself. It is so with us in the kingdom of God; if we are saved at all, it must be by subjecting ourselves to the principles of salvation and eternal life, by observing strictly the law of Christ; and it is precisely so with regard to this people and the building of that Temple. It is one of the easiest things for us to do, if we will only go to work and do it in the way that we are commanded. When we start to do it in good earnest, our means will increase in proportion to what we do. Some will turn round and say, if by building that Temple we shall be prospered, we are ready; but if I tell you that by going at it, you will be able to send four hundred teams next year, if required, you will think this is extravagant; but I see it just as it is, and that by the Spirit of the living God, even by the Spirit of revelation. I am of opinion that if President Young had not started that theater, there would not have been half so many improvements here as we now see. Men increase their efforts frequently because of the examples of others. When boys lay down a snow ball, if it is not rolled it does not increase in size; but when it is rolled then it is the time that it increases. It is so with this Church and kingdom, the progress of the work of God is in proportion to the labor performed and the diligence of the people in the Church. We are all required to be diligent and to labor faithfully for the upbuilding of the kingdom of God; we have all got an interest alike in the triumph of righteousness, and it should be our meat and drink to assist all we can in this great work of human redemption.
But to return to the subject of the building of the Temple, which is closely connected with the salvation of both the living and the dead. There is quite a quantity of rock on the ground now, about enough to make one tier all round about sixteen inches high. Now, if you will go and look at the quantity of rock there is on the Temple Block, you will think there is far more than enough to build one tier, for it looks a tremendous pile. We have to carry the walls a little over eighty feet high from the basement. The theater is forty feet high from the water table, so you can readily form an idea of the height of the Temple when completed, and you can also imagine the immense mass of stone that will be required to rear it ready for the roof, when you consider that all the stone we have got on hand will but raise the building sixteen inches. Shall Great Salt Lake City do it all? No, all the people from north to south, and from east to west, have got to take a hand in the work, and by exerting ourselves we shall be enriched tenfold in our property and in our righteousness.
By-and-by President Young will call upon us to build a Tabernacle that will hold from 15,000 to 20,000 people, and it will be so constructed that the congregation will be able to sit and hear full as well as they can in the Tabernacle behind us, and it gives us a good idea of erecting another one, for the people can hear him when he speaks at a very moderate tone of voice; he does not have to speak one third as loud in the Tabernacle as he does here. Speaking here feels as if it would destroy a man's lungs, for the voice is scattered or wasted through the bushes, while a tight room will hold the sound. We shall commence that large Tabernacle when President Young says so. Can we build that Temple by building that Tabernacle, of which I have been speaking? Yes, I say we can, and that too much quicker than if we do not build it.
I know these things. For years I heard Joseph tell the people to put in their means to help, and he, under the direction of the Almighty, would push forward the work and make the people rich. But Joseph could not do it, for the people were not filled with the Spirit of revelation, but if the people would partake of the same attributes as the man who stands at their head, which they can do by living the religion of Jesus Christ, they will prosper abundantly. Brother Brigham may talk all the day long, expecting that we have got the same spirit, and that we are blessed with the same sap and nourishment as he is, which comes from God the Father and his Son Jesus Christ. You must be alive in Christ in order to partake of his Spirit, power, and authority. The principle is true and the rule is good; just let us hand over twice as many teams to go east next year as we sent this, and then we shall be able to do more work than we have ever done in the mountains before, and we will be better off.
Now, remember, we shall want you to come on with your teams, hauling rock, and take an active part in the good work. The people in the country must remember that the workmen will require butter, eggs, meat, cheese, and lots of strong clothing.
Brethren and sisters, remember all your duties and perform them, and the Lord Almighty will bless you and prosper you in all things which you set your hands to do.
May the choicest of our Heavenly Father's blessings attend you, is my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Remarks by President Heber C. Kimball, made in the Bowery, Great Salt Lake City, October 7, 1861.
Reported by J. V. Long.
The matter has been plainly presented before us in regard to the Temple, and the question for us to consider is, “Does this people, or this Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with all its authorities that are present here today, want to build the Temple?” (The congregation responded, “Yes.”) “Is it your feeling and desire as a people that we shall go to work and build a Temple?” (All the Conference with one united voice responded in the affirmative.) I now want to put another question, for I do not understand or know of anything that lives but what has got a spirit and a body, and I know that to separate them here on the earth is death, so it is with us without our works, our faith is dead. Now, then, I am coming to the point; “Will you pay your Tithing?” (All answered, “Yes.”) “Will you attend to the calls of the First Presidency of this Church?” (One simultaneous “Yes” burst forth in answer to this question.)
What is the use of talking about things; let us go to work and do them. We as a people must go to work, beginning at the head or root of this branch of the house of Israel. We must go to work and build a Temple, and everything that pertains to it that is necessary for this day and time that we have to stay in these mountains. Is there any lack of means? No, not a particle. (President Brigham Young: All the lack is the will, brother Heber.) If we say we will do it, God will help us to do. There is no other way for this people to prosper, except for every leading man holding the Priesthood in this Church and kingdom to go to work unitedly, and except we are one in purpose, and all of us become like clay in the hands of the potter, we can do nothing. Every vessel has to be turned and become pliable in the hands of the potter. Do you know this, brethren? I have worked at the potting business, and I have made twenty dozen milk pans in a day, and I could not make one stand for the other; but I had to take each for itself, every bowl had to stand for itself. It is so with us in the kingdom of God; if we are saved at all, it must be by subjecting ourselves to the principles of salvation and eternal life, by observing strictly the law of Christ; and it is precisely so with regard to this people and the building of that Temple. It is one of the easiest things for us to do, if we will only go to work and do it in the way that we are commanded. When we start to do it in good earnest, our means will increase in proportion to what we do. Some will turn round and say, if by building that Temple we shall be prospered, we are ready; but if I tell you that by going at it, you will be able to send four hundred teams next year, if required, you will think this is extravagant; but I see it just as it is, and that by the Spirit of the living God, even by the Spirit of revelation. I am of opinion that if President Young had not started that theater, there would not have been half so many improvements here as we now see. Men increase their efforts frequently because of the examples of others. When boys lay down a snow ball, if it is not rolled it does not increase in size; but when it is rolled then it is the time that it increases. It is so with this Church and kingdom, the progress of the work of God is in proportion to the labor performed and the diligence of the people in the Church. We are all required to be diligent and to labor faithfully for the upbuilding of the kingdom of God; we have all got an interest alike in the triumph of righteousness, and it should be our meat and drink to assist all we can in this great work of human redemption.
But to return to the subject of the building of the Temple, which is closely connected with the salvation of both the living and the dead. There is quite a quantity of rock on the ground now, about enough to make one tier all round about sixteen inches high. Now, if you will go and look at the quantity of rock there is on the Temple Block, you will think there is far more than enough to build one tier, for it looks a tremendous pile. We have to carry the walls a little over eighty feet high from the basement. The theater is forty feet high from the water table, so you can readily form an idea of the height of the Temple when completed, and you can also imagine the immense mass of stone that will be required to rear it ready for the roof, when you consider that all the stone we have got on hand will but raise the building sixteen inches. Shall Great Salt Lake City do it all? No, all the people from north to south, and from east to west, have got to take a hand in the work, and by exerting ourselves we shall be enriched tenfold in our property and in our righteousness.
By-and-by President Young will call upon us to build a Tabernacle that will hold from 15,000 to 20,000 people, and it will be so constructed that the congregation will be able to sit and hear full as well as they can in the Tabernacle behind us, and it gives us a good idea of erecting another one, for the people can hear him when he speaks at a very moderate tone of voice; he does not have to speak one third as loud in the Tabernacle as he does here. Speaking here feels as if it would destroy a man's lungs, for the voice is scattered or wasted through the bushes, while a tight room will hold the sound. We shall commence that large Tabernacle when President Young says so. Can we build that Temple by building that Tabernacle, of which I have been speaking? Yes, I say we can, and that too much quicker than if we do not build it.
I know these things. For years I heard Joseph tell the people to put in their means to help, and he, under the direction of the Almighty, would push forward the work and make the people rich. But Joseph could not do it, for the people were not filled with the Spirit of revelation, but if the people would partake of the same attributes as the man who stands at their head, which they can do by living the religion of Jesus Christ, they will prosper abundantly. Brother Brigham may talk all the day long, expecting that we have got the same spirit, and that we are blessed with the same sap and nourishment as he is, which comes from God the Father and his Son Jesus Christ. You must be alive in Christ in order to partake of his Spirit, power, and authority. The principle is true and the rule is good; just let us hand over twice as many teams to go east next year as we sent this, and then we shall be able to do more work than we have ever done in the mountains before, and we will be better off.
Now, remember, we shall want you to come on with your teams, hauling rock, and take an active part in the good work. The people in the country must remember that the workmen will require butter, eggs, meat, cheese, and lots of strong clothing.
Brethren and sisters, remember all your duties and perform them, and the Lord Almighty will bless you and prosper you in all things which you set your hands to do.
May the choicest of our Heavenly Father's blessings attend you, is my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
President Brigham Young
made a few timely remarks on cash tithing. Counseled the people to make their investments in the kingdom of God, and then they will see the benefits resulting from it.
made a few timely remarks on cash tithing. Counseled the people to make their investments in the kingdom of God, and then they will see the benefits resulting from it.
President Daniel H. Wells
called for fifty teams to go to work and haul rock from Little Cottonwood, for the building of the temple, that number to be on hand for service from this time until the temple is completed. He wished the hauling to be done on labor tithing. Each settlement is expected to furnish its quota of men, teams and wagons, to be provided with suitable camping equipage, so that the work can be prosecuted through the winter season.
called for fifty teams to go to work and haul rock from Little Cottonwood, for the building of the temple, that number to be on hand for service from this time until the temple is completed. He wished the hauling to be done on labor tithing. Each settlement is expected to furnish its quota of men, teams and wagons, to be provided with suitable camping equipage, so that the work can be prosecuted through the winter season.
Elder George A. Smith
took up the subject of improvement, and metaphorically presented the Latter Day Saints as one great building and our President as the great master builder; argued that it is our duty to unite our strength and build that temple. If we do right it is for us to follow him, and if he says brother, go south and raise cotton; go to these flats and make adobies, into those hills and get lumber, we should do it with our whole hearts. We have come here to build up Zion, and we should be willing to go and do what we can, and to do it when and where he dictates us. Touched briefly upon the subject of paying cash tithing, and exposed the conduct of some; contended that it is the duty of every man to strive and do his share towards the building up of the kingdom of God upon the earth. He was in favor of sending down two or three hundred families to the cotton country this fall, to raise cotton, indigo, figs, grapes, etc.
The Importance of the Mission to the Cotton Country
Remarks by Elder George A. Smith, made in the Tabernacle, Great Salt Lake City, October 8, 1862.
Reported by J. V. Long.
Brethren, there is a subject which has been spoken of during this Conference in regard to the mission to the cotton growing district of our Territory, to which I desire to again call your attention.
We have been instructed in the principles of the kingdom to a wonderful extent during this Conference. The instructions which we have received have been of a character that they may be reduced to practice by every person whose feelings are so disposed.
The President remarked that he desired to strengthen the missions to the cotton country by sending down two hundred more families. It will be recollected that a request was made last year for the brethren to volunteer to go on that important mission. There were a few who came up and gave in their names, but the great mass of the brethren did not feel to do so. They were aware that it was the wish of the Presidency that certain things should be done, but they seemed as though they needed taking by the ears and shaking to make them sensible of the great importance that ought to be attached to this mission. It appeared as if some of the brethren (to use a figurative expression) had become fastened to the earth with tremendous roots, so that it was with considerable difficulty that they could be got up, but they had to be taken up root and branch.
We, as a Conference, voted that the President should call, but none of us felt like volunteering. [President B. Young: I volunteered, on the condition that the people would consent to it.] Yes, the President volunteered, but it is well known that the Presidency are required here; most of the time they must be present to superintend the building of the Temple and direct the affairs of the Church in all the world, but the Elders are set apart to go into all the earth and labor as directed by the Presidency. It is also well known that the master builder has influence and power here and that he understands how the foundation, the walls, the timbers, the roof, and all connected with the Temple of our God should be put together. It is likewise well known that the Presidency never ask men to do a service except that their labors are required in that new position. One particular remark which I wish to make is, that notwithstanding the unprecedented high water in Washington County and the damage and disappointment consequent upon the flood, the settlements made by the last year's mission have proved a decided success. That mission has proven the nature of the climate more perfectly than it had before, it has tested the soil, and accomplished many other things of immense advantage and worth. It was stated by many that the mission would prove a failure, that there was no country there, but the truth is, that the elements, including the water, the soil and all that surround them are actually aching for the brethren to combine them together and make them into good cotton and other choice productions of a mild climate; all these elements are ready to render aid to build up Zion.
I consider that we should feel ready and willing to do anything that may be required of us, to lend our exertions to establish the kingdom of God permanently upon the earth.
When the people first settled in San Pete Valley some were discouraged, they never thought that wheat could be produced in such a country as that; they did not believe that anything would grow there; the white-colored soil alarmed them, but it is now the granary of the mountains. Now, there has recently been just such a feeling in regard to Washington County, but the past year's experience has demonstrated more fully that most excellent cotton, sugar cane, grapes, peaches and many other commodities of life can be successfully raised there in that desert-looking country.
There are quite a number of men who have remarked to me that they would willingly go if they were called on. I wish to say to such brethren that they are called on now, and I sincerely wish that two hundred brethren would volunteer today by giving in their names to me at the Historian's office. By going this fall you have all winter to prepare, and the advantage can be taken of the early spring season, thus giving the brethren an excellent opportunity to raise a crop of cotton the first year. By sowing wheat in October tolerable crops can be raised, and by planting corn early in March two crops can be raised in one year, or one good crop of cotton. The fact, in brief, is, that so far as the country has been tried it has proven a success, and many of the brethren have said that the country is a great deal better than they expected to find it.
I hope all that has been said by the brethren in reference to the culture of hemp, flax, indigo, and in fact all that will tend to build up Zion will be attended to, for let it be remembered that it is coming to this necessity of producing for ourselves or to go without, and the question resolves itself into the simple proposition, “Clothes or no clothes.” We must make our own woolen, flax, hemp, and cotton goods or we must go naked. We cannot get these articles much longer from the States, according to the present prospect. The vengeance of the Almighty is sweeping the land with the besom of destruction; millions of men are forsaking their industrial pursuits for the purpose of destroying each other. Let us each and all attend to this, that the beauty of our garments may be the beauty of the workmanship of our own hands, or we shall find ourselves without many of the necessaries of life altogether.
May God bless the people, in the name of Jesus: Amen.
Choir sung a hymn, after which F. D. Richards pronounced the benediction.
took up the subject of improvement, and metaphorically presented the Latter Day Saints as one great building and our President as the great master builder; argued that it is our duty to unite our strength and build that temple. If we do right it is for us to follow him, and if he says brother, go south and raise cotton; go to these flats and make adobies, into those hills and get lumber, we should do it with our whole hearts. We have come here to build up Zion, and we should be willing to go and do what we can, and to do it when and where he dictates us. Touched briefly upon the subject of paying cash tithing, and exposed the conduct of some; contended that it is the duty of every man to strive and do his share towards the building up of the kingdom of God upon the earth. He was in favor of sending down two or three hundred families to the cotton country this fall, to raise cotton, indigo, figs, grapes, etc.
The Importance of the Mission to the Cotton Country
Remarks by Elder George A. Smith, made in the Tabernacle, Great Salt Lake City, October 8, 1862.
Reported by J. V. Long.
Brethren, there is a subject which has been spoken of during this Conference in regard to the mission to the cotton growing district of our Territory, to which I desire to again call your attention.
We have been instructed in the principles of the kingdom to a wonderful extent during this Conference. The instructions which we have received have been of a character that they may be reduced to practice by every person whose feelings are so disposed.
The President remarked that he desired to strengthen the missions to the cotton country by sending down two hundred more families. It will be recollected that a request was made last year for the brethren to volunteer to go on that important mission. There were a few who came up and gave in their names, but the great mass of the brethren did not feel to do so. They were aware that it was the wish of the Presidency that certain things should be done, but they seemed as though they needed taking by the ears and shaking to make them sensible of the great importance that ought to be attached to this mission. It appeared as if some of the brethren (to use a figurative expression) had become fastened to the earth with tremendous roots, so that it was with considerable difficulty that they could be got up, but they had to be taken up root and branch.
We, as a Conference, voted that the President should call, but none of us felt like volunteering. [President B. Young: I volunteered, on the condition that the people would consent to it.] Yes, the President volunteered, but it is well known that the Presidency are required here; most of the time they must be present to superintend the building of the Temple and direct the affairs of the Church in all the world, but the Elders are set apart to go into all the earth and labor as directed by the Presidency. It is also well known that the master builder has influence and power here and that he understands how the foundation, the walls, the timbers, the roof, and all connected with the Temple of our God should be put together. It is likewise well known that the Presidency never ask men to do a service except that their labors are required in that new position. One particular remark which I wish to make is, that notwithstanding the unprecedented high water in Washington County and the damage and disappointment consequent upon the flood, the settlements made by the last year's mission have proved a decided success. That mission has proven the nature of the climate more perfectly than it had before, it has tested the soil, and accomplished many other things of immense advantage and worth. It was stated by many that the mission would prove a failure, that there was no country there, but the truth is, that the elements, including the water, the soil and all that surround them are actually aching for the brethren to combine them together and make them into good cotton and other choice productions of a mild climate; all these elements are ready to render aid to build up Zion.
I consider that we should feel ready and willing to do anything that may be required of us, to lend our exertions to establish the kingdom of God permanently upon the earth.
When the people first settled in San Pete Valley some were discouraged, they never thought that wheat could be produced in such a country as that; they did not believe that anything would grow there; the white-colored soil alarmed them, but it is now the granary of the mountains. Now, there has recently been just such a feeling in regard to Washington County, but the past year's experience has demonstrated more fully that most excellent cotton, sugar cane, grapes, peaches and many other commodities of life can be successfully raised there in that desert-looking country.
There are quite a number of men who have remarked to me that they would willingly go if they were called on. I wish to say to such brethren that they are called on now, and I sincerely wish that two hundred brethren would volunteer today by giving in their names to me at the Historian's office. By going this fall you have all winter to prepare, and the advantage can be taken of the early spring season, thus giving the brethren an excellent opportunity to raise a crop of cotton the first year. By sowing wheat in October tolerable crops can be raised, and by planting corn early in March two crops can be raised in one year, or one good crop of cotton. The fact, in brief, is, that so far as the country has been tried it has proven a success, and many of the brethren have said that the country is a great deal better than they expected to find it.
I hope all that has been said by the brethren in reference to the culture of hemp, flax, indigo, and in fact all that will tend to build up Zion will be attended to, for let it be remembered that it is coming to this necessity of producing for ourselves or to go without, and the question resolves itself into the simple proposition, “Clothes or no clothes.” We must make our own woolen, flax, hemp, and cotton goods or we must go naked. We cannot get these articles much longer from the States, according to the present prospect. The vengeance of the Almighty is sweeping the land with the besom of destruction; millions of men are forsaking their industrial pursuits for the purpose of destroying each other. Let us each and all attend to this, that the beauty of our garments may be the beauty of the workmanship of our own hands, or we shall find ourselves without many of the necessaries of life altogether.
May God bless the people, in the name of Jesus: Amen.
Choir sung a hymn, after which F. D. Richards pronounced the benediction.
2 p.m.
Singing by the choir.
Prayer by Bishop Edwin D. Woolley.
Choir sung "Come let us anew our journey pursue."
Singing by the choir.
Prayer by Bishop Edwin D. Woolley.
Choir sung "Come let us anew our journey pursue."
President Brigham Young
made pointed remarks on the science of music. Alluded to his late visit to the extreme northern and southern settlements of the Territory, and their adaptation for producing everything that is necessary to sustain human life.
made pointed remarks on the science of music. Alluded to his late visit to the extreme northern and southern settlements of the Territory, and their adaptation for producing everything that is necessary to sustain human life.
Elder Albert Carrington
was then called upon and read an address which is being sent to all the Bishops of the Territory, calling upon them to use their best endeavors to husband the tithing now being placed in their hands, so that all may be preserved to assist in building the temple the coming season.
was then called upon and read an address which is being sent to all the Bishops of the Territory, calling upon them to use their best endeavors to husband the tithing now being placed in their hands, so that all may be preserved to assist in building the temple the coming season.
Elder Ezra T. Benson
felt thankful for the present opportunity of speaking to the brethren and sisters in Great Salt Lake City. He ever felt anxious to discharge those duties that were required at his hands. Spoke of the general duties and responsibilities devolving upon the Latter Day Saints. Advocated the doctrines of tithing and consecration; and the necessity of the saints being liberal with their means and doing all in their power towards the building up of the kingdom of God. He said the temple would cost one million of dollars, and one half of that sum was wanted for the next season's operations. Admonished the brethren and sisters to be faithful in all things, and said many other good things.
felt thankful for the present opportunity of speaking to the brethren and sisters in Great Salt Lake City. He ever felt anxious to discharge those duties that were required at his hands. Spoke of the general duties and responsibilities devolving upon the Latter Day Saints. Advocated the doctrines of tithing and consecration; and the necessity of the saints being liberal with their means and doing all in their power towards the building up of the kingdom of God. He said the temple would cost one million of dollars, and one half of that sum was wanted for the next season's operations. Admonished the brethren and sisters to be faithful in all things, and said many other good things.
Elder Mark A. Coombs,
being invited to make a few remarks, told his experience in the Church, and described the way and manner of his receiving the gospel, in Jackson County, Missouri. Related a vision which the Lord gave him to open his mind ready for the reception of the "Word of Wisdom," which was revealed through Joseph Smith.
being invited to make a few remarks, told his experience in the Church, and described the way and manner of his receiving the gospel, in Jackson County, Missouri. Related a vision which the Lord gave him to open his mind ready for the reception of the "Word of Wisdom," which was revealed through Joseph Smith.
President B. Young
called for volunteers to go to Washington County and raise cotton, indigo, figs, grapes, sugar, olives and all the products of a southern climate.
called for volunteers to go to Washington County and raise cotton, indigo, figs, grapes, sugar, olives and all the products of a southern climate.
Patriarch Isaac Morley
made a few remarks, in which he bore a strong testimony to the truth of the latter day work now being accomplished by the saints of God. Offered some pertinent remarks on self government, and the saving effects of being submissive to the powers that be. In conclusion, he said, "let us strive to understand our relationship to each other, and never neglect to harken to counsel. I feel to leave my blessing upon the people as it is my right by virtue of the patriarchal office. I bless you, brethren and sisters, with the blessings of the heavens and of the earth and the fullness thereof; also with the blessings of eternal life and exaltation in the kingdom of our Heavenly Father, and I do it in the name of Jesus Christ: Amen."
made a few remarks, in which he bore a strong testimony to the truth of the latter day work now being accomplished by the saints of God. Offered some pertinent remarks on self government, and the saving effects of being submissive to the powers that be. In conclusion, he said, "let us strive to understand our relationship to each other, and never neglect to harken to counsel. I feel to leave my blessing upon the people as it is my right by virtue of the patriarchal office. I bless you, brethren and sisters, with the blessings of the heavens and of the earth and the fullness thereof; also with the blessings of eternal life and exaltation in the kingdom of our Heavenly Father, and I do it in the name of Jesus Christ: Amen."
Brother Daniel Bonelli
then read the names of the Swiss brethren who were selected to go and settle in the southern part of the Territory.
then read the names of the Swiss brethren who were selected to go and settle in the southern part of the Territory.
President Brigham Young
said that as the brethren did not choose to volunteer for this mission the Presidency and Twelve would make the selections, and they would expect the brethren to go and stay until they are released.
Choir sung "The spirit of God like a fire is burning."
Benediction by Elder George A. Smith.
said that as the brethren did not choose to volunteer for this mission the Presidency and Twelve would make the selections, and they would expect the brethren to go and stay until they are released.
Choir sung "The spirit of God like a fire is burning."
Benediction by Elder George A. Smith.
At half past six in the evening
the Bishops held a meeting in the Tabernacle for the transaction of business, Bishop Hunter presiding. Nearly all the wards and settlements in the Territory were represented, the house was densely crowded and a good spirit prevailed.
the Bishops held a meeting in the Tabernacle for the transaction of business, Bishop Hunter presiding. Nearly all the wards and settlements in the Territory were represented, the house was densely crowded and a good spirit prevailed.
The presiding Bishop [Edward Hunter]
delivered a short address, during which he briefly touched upon the important items of business upon which he desired them to express their minds.
delivered a short address, during which he briefly touched upon the important items of business upon which he desired them to express their minds.
President D. H. Wells
then arose and delivered an excellent discourse on the building of the temple, the gathering of the poor saints from all the nations of the earth, the necessity of sustaining the families of missionaries while they are abroad preaching the gospel to those who sit in darkness.
Several enlivening songs were sung by Messrs. Wm. Willis, George Goddard, Andrew Sprowl and Charles W. Penrose, after which the congregation was dismissed with benediction by President B. Young.
then arose and delivered an excellent discourse on the building of the temple, the gathering of the poor saints from all the nations of the earth, the necessity of sustaining the families of missionaries while they are abroad preaching the gospel to those who sit in darkness.
Several enlivening songs were sung by Messrs. Wm. Willis, George Goddard, Andrew Sprowl and Charles W. Penrose, after which the congregation was dismissed with benediction by President B. Young.
Tuesday, Oct. 8, 1861, 10 a.m., Bowery.
Choir sung "The morning breaks, the shadows flee."
Prayer by Elder Jacob Gates.
Owing to the disagreeable change in the weather which took place during the opening ceremonies, the conference adjourned to the Tabernacle.
Tabernacle, 10.30
The choir sung "I'll praise my maker while I've breath."
Choir sung "The morning breaks, the shadows flee."
Prayer by Elder Jacob Gates.
Owing to the disagreeable change in the weather which took place during the opening ceremonies, the conference adjourned to the Tabernacle.
Tabernacle, 10.30
The choir sung "I'll praise my maker while I've breath."
Elder William W. Phelps
read and commented upon several passage and revelations contained in the Evening and Morning Star, a paper published in the early days of the church. He bore testimony to the restoration of the gospel through Joseph Smith. Quoted Matthew and Mark on the promise of "a hundred fold" to him that forsakes houses, lands, mothers, wives or children; he also made numerous other quotations, and comments in his usually eccentric style.
read and commented upon several passage and revelations contained in the Evening and Morning Star, a paper published in the early days of the church. He bore testimony to the restoration of the gospel through Joseph Smith. Quoted Matthew and Mark on the promise of "a hundred fold" to him that forsakes houses, lands, mothers, wives or children; he also made numerous other quotations, and comments in his usually eccentric style.
Elder William H. Miles
was next invited to the stand. He reviewed his experience in this church for the past twenty-one years; said he rejoiced in the privilege of being here, and also in the opportunity of bearing testimony to the truth of the religion he had embraced.
Elder Wm. Willis sung "The city I love so well."
was next invited to the stand. He reviewed his experience in this church for the past twenty-one years; said he rejoiced in the privilege of being here, and also in the opportunity of bearing testimony to the truth of the religion he had embraced.
Elder Wm. Willis sung "The city I love so well."
President Brigham Young
preached a highly interesting and instructive discourse upon the important subject of marriage for time and all eternity.
Choir sung "Praise to the man who communed with Jehovah."
Benediction by Elder G. D. Watt.
preached a highly interesting and instructive discourse upon the important subject of marriage for time and all eternity.
Choir sung "Praise to the man who communed with Jehovah."
Benediction by Elder G. D. Watt.
2 p.m.
Singing by the choir.
Prayer by Elder Wilford Woodruff.
Choir sung "O, say what is truth."
Singing by the choir.
Prayer by Elder Wilford Woodruff.
Choir sung "O, say what is truth."
President Brigham Young
called the attention of the Bishops and people to the importance of gathering up all such worn out fabrics, articles of clothing and other material suitable for the manufacture of cotton and linen paper. He said twenty-five thousand dollars had been expended in the paper machine, and it was a good one. The only thing now lacking, he observed, is material to make into paper, and he wished the people to save their rags and to gather up all suitable refuse material for making paper. Said we ought now to print our own school books, works on science, &c., and if we can get the rags and the flax together we can soon make the paper and print our own books.
called the attention of the Bishops and people to the importance of gathering up all such worn out fabrics, articles of clothing and other material suitable for the manufacture of cotton and linen paper. He said twenty-five thousand dollars had been expended in the paper machine, and it was a good one. The only thing now lacking, he observed, is material to make into paper, and he wished the people to save their rags and to gather up all suitable refuse material for making paper. Said we ought now to print our own school books, works on science, &c., and if we can get the rags and the flax together we can soon make the paper and print our own books.
Elder Lorenzo Snow
next addressed the congregation. He spoke with energy and spirit upon the principles of tithing and consecration, and the necessity of always holding everything ready and upon the altar of sacrifice. Counseled the saints to be faithful and diligent in the discharge of those duties devolving upon them as children of God.
William C. Dunbar was called upon and sung the favorite hymn "O Zion, dear Zion."
next addressed the congregation. He spoke with energy and spirit upon the principles of tithing and consecration, and the necessity of always holding everything ready and upon the altar of sacrifice. Counseled the saints to be faithful and diligent in the discharge of those duties devolving upon them as children of God.
William C. Dunbar was called upon and sung the favorite hymn "O Zion, dear Zion."
Elder Orson Pratt
introduced the Missionary Fund, and said that it had been determined that the missionaries should be sustained in this Territory, and their families be supported here so that the brethren could go forth with the spirit of their missions upon them, instead of striving to get means to sustain their families at home. Referred to his missions abroad and the course he had taken in publishing pamphlets on the first principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Spoke also of the doctrine of consecration; advocated the building of the temple in which to administer ordinances for the living and for the dead, and stated his willingness to do anything in his power for its erection. He then dwelt upon the subject of the gathering of the poor from all nations; was of opinion that a servant of God had no right to plead ignorance in regard to his duties, but he ought to learn what his duties were and then do them.
introduced the Missionary Fund, and said that it had been determined that the missionaries should be sustained in this Territory, and their families be supported here so that the brethren could go forth with the spirit of their missions upon them, instead of striving to get means to sustain their families at home. Referred to his missions abroad and the course he had taken in publishing pamphlets on the first principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Spoke also of the doctrine of consecration; advocated the building of the temple in which to administer ordinances for the living and for the dead, and stated his willingness to do anything in his power for its erection. He then dwelt upon the subject of the gathering of the poor from all nations; was of opinion that a servant of God had no right to plead ignorance in regard to his duties, but he ought to learn what his duties were and then do them.
President Heber C. Kimball
reviewed the early history of the church; alluded to his connection with Zion's camp and the promises of the Almighty to the Elders at that time. Bore testimony to the truth of the work in which he was engaged.
Choir sung "Now let us rejoice in the day of salvation."
The conference adjourned till the 6th day of April next at 10 a.m.
reviewed the early history of the church; alluded to his connection with Zion's camp and the promises of the Almighty to the Elders at that time. Bore testimony to the truth of the work in which he was engaged.
Choir sung "Now let us rejoice in the day of salvation."
The conference adjourned till the 6th day of April next at 10 a.m.
President Daniel H. Wells pronounced the concluding benediction as follows:--
"O God the Eternal Father, at the close of this our conference we render unto thee our unfeigned gratitude for the blessings thou hast poured out upon us, and the instructions thou hast given us during this conference. We thank thee that we live in this age and generation of the world in which thou hast revealed thy holy gospel, and that we have become the happy recipients of the blessings thereof. Qualify us to perform the duties required of us with pure hearts, willing minds and ready hands, walking uprightly before thee all the days of our lives. Direct our steps day by day, enlarge our capacities, and strengthen us to discharge our duties in a manner acceptable unto thee, filling up all our days in usefulness in thy kingdom, bringing to pass thy purposes according to thy good mind and pleasure. Accept of us now, while we devote and dedicate ourselves and our efforts unto thee in the building up of thy cause; this we desire to do in the days of our prosperity while the hand of mercy and blessing is extended over us, that we may labor to accomplish thy purposes with credit to ourselves, and honor to thy cause, producing all things necessary for the building up of thy kingdom and the maintaining of thy people in these mountains, according to the directions we may receive from thy servant Brigham, from time to time. May the instructions which have been given us this conference be acted upon by us in all our avocations of life. Bless thy people in all their settlements in these mountains and throughout the world, and in all the avocations and enterprises they may be engaged in that have for their object the building up of thy kingdom and cause upon the earth, may they be abundantly prospered; shield them from the powers of the adversary, and from evil influences that may attend upon their footsteps, and let them be made aware that thy power is over them. Bless the rising generation, enable thy people to train up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, to rear up thy kingdom in their day and generation. Bless the earth and the elements that they may bring forth in their strength for the sustenance of thy people. Thwart the plans of our enemies, and may they waste and destroy each other, while thy people shall abide in power and in strength. Gather out from our midst the workers of iniquity, and let thy people dwell in righteousness, and build cities and temples and public buildings in these valleys of the mountains, wherein they shall worship thee, and none make them afraid, and finally receive us to thyself, and unto thee be ascribed all the glory world without end. All these blessings we ask in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ: Amen.
J. V. Long,
Clerk of the Conference.
"O God the Eternal Father, at the close of this our conference we render unto thee our unfeigned gratitude for the blessings thou hast poured out upon us, and the instructions thou hast given us during this conference. We thank thee that we live in this age and generation of the world in which thou hast revealed thy holy gospel, and that we have become the happy recipients of the blessings thereof. Qualify us to perform the duties required of us with pure hearts, willing minds and ready hands, walking uprightly before thee all the days of our lives. Direct our steps day by day, enlarge our capacities, and strengthen us to discharge our duties in a manner acceptable unto thee, filling up all our days in usefulness in thy kingdom, bringing to pass thy purposes according to thy good mind and pleasure. Accept of us now, while we devote and dedicate ourselves and our efforts unto thee in the building up of thy cause; this we desire to do in the days of our prosperity while the hand of mercy and blessing is extended over us, that we may labor to accomplish thy purposes with credit to ourselves, and honor to thy cause, producing all things necessary for the building up of thy kingdom and the maintaining of thy people in these mountains, according to the directions we may receive from thy servant Brigham, from time to time. May the instructions which have been given us this conference be acted upon by us in all our avocations of life. Bless thy people in all their settlements in these mountains and throughout the world, and in all the avocations and enterprises they may be engaged in that have for their object the building up of thy kingdom and cause upon the earth, may they be abundantly prospered; shield them from the powers of the adversary, and from evil influences that may attend upon their footsteps, and let them be made aware that thy power is over them. Bless the rising generation, enable thy people to train up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, to rear up thy kingdom in their day and generation. Bless the earth and the elements that they may bring forth in their strength for the sustenance of thy people. Thwart the plans of our enemies, and may they waste and destroy each other, while thy people shall abide in power and in strength. Gather out from our midst the workers of iniquity, and let thy people dwell in righteousness, and build cities and temples and public buildings in these valleys of the mountains, wherein they shall worship thee, and none make them afraid, and finally receive us to thyself, and unto thee be ascribed all the glory world without end. All these blessings we ask in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ: Amen.
J. V. Long,
Clerk of the Conference.