April 1865
MINUTES OF THE THIRTY-FIFTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
The Conference convened in the Tabernacle, G. S. L. City, on Thursday, April 6, 1865, at 10 a. m., President Brigham Young, presiding.
On the Stand:--Of the First Presidency, Presidents Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball;
Of the Twelve Apostles: Orson Hyde, John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, George A. Smith, Amasa M. Lyman, Ezra T. Benson, Charles C. Rich, Lorenzo Snow, Franklin D. Richards, and George Q. Cannon;
Patriarch: John Smith;
Of the First Presidency of the Seventies: Levi W. Hancock, Albert P. Rockwood, Horace S. Eldredge and John Van Cott;
Of the Presidency of the High Priests' Quorum: Edwin D. Woolley and Samuel W. 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;
Reporters: George D. Watt and John V. Long; and also a large number of Bishops and Elders.
The Conference was called to order by President Brigham Young.
The Choir sung, "All hail the glorious day."
Elder George A. Smith offered the opening prayer.
The Choir sung, "Let sinners take their course."
The Conference convened in the Tabernacle, G. S. L. City, on Thursday, April 6, 1865, at 10 a. m., President Brigham Young, presiding.
On the Stand:--Of the First Presidency, Presidents Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball;
Of the Twelve Apostles: Orson Hyde, John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, George A. Smith, Amasa M. Lyman, Ezra T. Benson, Charles C. Rich, Lorenzo Snow, Franklin D. Richards, and George Q. Cannon;
Patriarch: John Smith;
Of the First Presidency of the Seventies: Levi W. Hancock, Albert P. Rockwood, Horace S. Eldredge and John Van Cott;
Of the Presidency of the High Priests' Quorum: Edwin D. Woolley and Samuel W. 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;
Reporters: George D. Watt and John V. Long; and also a large number of Bishops and Elders.
The Conference was called to order by President Brigham Young.
The Choir sung, "All hail the glorious day."
Elder George A. Smith offered the opening prayer.
The Choir sung, "Let sinners take their course."
President Heber C. Kimball
stated that he rejoiced to meet with the Saints in Conference; he had not been to the meetings in the Tabernacle during the winter in consequence of his feeble state of health and liability to take cold. He had been instructed to take care of himself that he might live to go back to Jackson County, and he intended to do it. He wished the people to understand that they were not all Saints that were called Saints, and except the Latter-day Saints live the lives of Saints they cannot enjoy the spirit of the Gospel. The only pride the saints should have and delight in is that which leads them to be good and to do the will of God.—They should be firm as a rock, and united as a vine with many branches. Referred to the revelation in regard to Church government, showing how the disobedient should be dealt with.—Those who obey the gospel are expected to labor for their own salvation and not depend upon others to work it out for them, for the Lord holds each one responsible for his own acts, and no man can hinder another from living his religion, any more than the Babylonians could prevent Daniel from worshipping God in his day. Spoke of the weakness and frailty of mortals, how Peter, when he thought he was strong, and even boasted of his strength, was overcome and denied his Master. Advocated kindness to the brute creation. Made remarks upon the healing power that is in this Church, and how signally it was made manifest through the faith and prayers of the servants of God.
stated that he rejoiced to meet with the Saints in Conference; he had not been to the meetings in the Tabernacle during the winter in consequence of his feeble state of health and liability to take cold. He had been instructed to take care of himself that he might live to go back to Jackson County, and he intended to do it. He wished the people to understand that they were not all Saints that were called Saints, and except the Latter-day Saints live the lives of Saints they cannot enjoy the spirit of the Gospel. The only pride the saints should have and delight in is that which leads them to be good and to do the will of God.—They should be firm as a rock, and united as a vine with many branches. Referred to the revelation in regard to Church government, showing how the disobedient should be dealt with.—Those who obey the gospel are expected to labor for their own salvation and not depend upon others to work it out for them, for the Lord holds each one responsible for his own acts, and no man can hinder another from living his religion, any more than the Babylonians could prevent Daniel from worshipping God in his day. Spoke of the weakness and frailty of mortals, how Peter, when he thought he was strong, and even boasted of his strength, was overcome and denied his Master. Advocated kindness to the brute creation. Made remarks upon the healing power that is in this Church, and how signally it was made manifest through the faith and prayers of the servants of God.
Elder George A. Smith
followed with some excellent remarks on the lack of foresight and wisdom in men who have flocks and herds, and do not provide for a severe and trying winter. This was partially attributable to the fact that we had been blessed with a number of mild winters, but in our settlements we must provide forage for wintering our animals, if we intended to save them. Reasoned upon mercantile affairs—the danger of riches to the Saints until they have learned how to use them for building up the kingdom of God; it is the design of the Almighty to make all the faithful saints rich in the things of earth as well as in the things of eternity, as soon as they are properly schooled.
The Choir sung the hymn on the 103d page, and Elder John Taylor dismissed the meeting.
followed with some excellent remarks on the lack of foresight and wisdom in men who have flocks and herds, and do not provide for a severe and trying winter. This was partially attributable to the fact that we had been blessed with a number of mild winters, but in our settlements we must provide forage for wintering our animals, if we intended to save them. Reasoned upon mercantile affairs—the danger of riches to the Saints until they have learned how to use them for building up the kingdom of God; it is the design of the Almighty to make all the faithful saints rich in the things of earth as well as in the things of eternity, as soon as they are properly schooled.
The Choir sung the hymn on the 103d page, and Elder John Taylor dismissed the meeting.
Afternoon.
The Choir sung "The glorious plan which God has given."
Prayer by Elder Orson Hyde.
The Choir sung "See the mighty Angel flying!"
The Choir sung "The glorious plan which God has given."
Prayer by Elder Orson Hyde.
The Choir sung "See the mighty Angel flying!"
Elder Ezra T. Benson
felt it a privilege to meet with the brethren and sisters in general conference, and proceeded to reason upon the blessings extended to the Latter-day Saints; stated that he wanted to see every man at his post and ready to do as he was told by the servants of God. Every member of this Church has the privilege of enjoying that spirit which will guide them in the way of truth. It is our duty to so live that we will become like unto Christ, by walking in his footsteps, by resisting temptation and striving to do right continually. The true Saints evince in their countenances that joy and peace which can alone be imparted by the Holy Ghost. Admonished to prayer, humility and faithfulness.
felt it a privilege to meet with the brethren and sisters in general conference, and proceeded to reason upon the blessings extended to the Latter-day Saints; stated that he wanted to see every man at his post and ready to do as he was told by the servants of God. Every member of this Church has the privilege of enjoying that spirit which will guide them in the way of truth. It is our duty to so live that we will become like unto Christ, by walking in his footsteps, by resisting temptation and striving to do right continually. The true Saints evince in their countenances that joy and peace which can alone be imparted by the Holy Ghost. Admonished to prayer, humility and faithfulness.
President Orson Hyde
addressed the Conference upon the subject of continual elevation. When Joseph was called it was a day of spiritual and moral darkness, and the light which God manifested through him had to be gradually developed, because the people could not at once bear that flood of light necessary to establish the kingdom of God permanently upon the earth. Alluded to the continuous revelation constantly flowing from the living priesthood, pointing out the great advantage to the Saints of having the living oracles always with them. Made observations on the order of the priesthood in its various ramifications.
addressed the Conference upon the subject of continual elevation. When Joseph was called it was a day of spiritual and moral darkness, and the light which God manifested through him had to be gradually developed, because the people could not at once bear that flood of light necessary to establish the kingdom of God permanently upon the earth. Alluded to the continuous revelation constantly flowing from the living priesthood, pointing out the great advantage to the Saints of having the living oracles always with them. Made observations on the order of the priesthood in its various ramifications.
Elder Charles C. Rich
gave a brief and interesting account of the condition of affairs in Bear Lake Valley. The winter had been severe, but the brethren had been fortunate in taking care of their stock. Snow had been three feet deep in the valley, and could be found from that to any depth desired in the adjacent mountains. The people enjoyed good health, only three deaths had occurred during the winter in the county.
Choir sung "We thank thee, O God, for a Prophet."
Benediction by Elder Wilford Woodruff.
gave a brief and interesting account of the condition of affairs in Bear Lake Valley. The winter had been severe, but the brethren had been fortunate in taking care of their stock. Snow had been three feet deep in the valley, and could be found from that to any depth desired in the adjacent mountains. The people enjoyed good health, only three deaths had occurred during the winter in the county.
Choir sung "We thank thee, O God, for a Prophet."
Benediction by Elder Wilford Woodruff.
Evening.
A priesthood meeting was held in the evening, at which addresses were delivered by Bishop Hunter, and Elders Levi W. Hancock,
John Taylor and George A. Smith, dwelling upon the duties and responsibilities of those holding the Priesthood.
Elder George A. Smith announced the adjourned meeting of the convention, to meet on Monday next, at 10 a. m., and invited the delegates from the country to be present.
A priesthood meeting was held in the evening, at which addresses were delivered by Bishop Hunter, and Elders Levi W. Hancock,
John Taylor and George A. Smith, dwelling upon the duties and responsibilities of those holding the Priesthood.
Elder George A. Smith announced the adjourned meeting of the convention, to meet on Monday next, at 10 a. m., and invited the delegates from the country to be present.
Friday 7, 10 a. m.
The meeting was opened by singing.
Elder Ezra T. Benson offered prayer.
The Choir sung, "All you that love Immanuel's name."
The meeting was opened by singing.
Elder Ezra T. Benson offered prayer.
The Choir sung, "All you that love Immanuel's name."
Elder Wm. W. Phelps
made a few remarks touching his experience and early association with the Prophet Joseph, and bore testimony to the truth.
made a few remarks touching his experience and early association with the Prophet Joseph, and bore testimony to the truth.
Elder Lorenzo Snow
made some encouraging remarks upon the greatest gift of God—eternal life. In speaking of the temporal blessings bestowed upon the Latter-day Saints, he observed that the plan of salvation revealed to us was calculated to bring the thousands of poor Saints that are now scattered among the nations to places where they can make themselves comfortable and happy in the things of this life, and increase in the knowledge and blessings of eternal life. Reasoned upon the opposition and temptations the Saints have to encounter, all which he showed was for a wise purpose to prepare the chosen of the Lord for the positions of honor, influence and power which they are destined to occupy when the kingdom of God shall extend from the rivers to the ends of the earth.
made some encouraging remarks upon the greatest gift of God—eternal life. In speaking of the temporal blessings bestowed upon the Latter-day Saints, he observed that the plan of salvation revealed to us was calculated to bring the thousands of poor Saints that are now scattered among the nations to places where they can make themselves comfortable and happy in the things of this life, and increase in the knowledge and blessings of eternal life. Reasoned upon the opposition and temptations the Saints have to encounter, all which he showed was for a wise purpose to prepare the chosen of the Lord for the positions of honor, influence and power which they are destined to occupy when the kingdom of God shall extend from the rivers to the ends of the earth.
President Brigham Young
delivered a short and instructive address on speculators and merchants, and pointed out the gross impositions that are being constantly practiced upon this community, especially by those who profess to be the friends of the people. The capitalists will not bring into the Territory any of the machinery that is wanted for the benefit of the people; they want to make a fortune in a year, and care nothing for anybody but themselves. He had brought nearly all the machinery into the Territory that had been brought in, and he could not persuade the speculators to take any part in bringing what the people really need.
Choir sung "O Lord, responsive to thy call."
Benediction by Elder Franklin D. Richards.
delivered a short and instructive address on speculators and merchants, and pointed out the gross impositions that are being constantly practiced upon this community, especially by those who profess to be the friends of the people. The capitalists will not bring into the Territory any of the machinery that is wanted for the benefit of the people; they want to make a fortune in a year, and care nothing for anybody but themselves. He had brought nearly all the machinery into the Territory that had been brought in, and he could not persuade the speculators to take any part in bringing what the people really need.
Choir sung "O Lord, responsive to thy call."
Benediction by Elder Franklin D. Richards.
Afternoon.
Choir sung "Hark! the song of Jubilee."
Prayer by Elder Edward L. Sloan.
Choir sung "Happy the man that finds the grace."
Choir sung "Hark! the song of Jubilee."
Prayer by Elder Edward L. Sloan.
Choir sung "Happy the man that finds the grace."
Elder George A. Smith
gave an historical review of the introduction of the gospel by Joseph Smith, describing in a vivid manner the opposition of wicked men and devils that was brought to bear upon the Prophet and his followers.—He also spoke of the present war-like condition of and the extensive preparations for war in the civilized nations, alluding to their striving to excel each other in bringing to light new engines of destruction, and while all nations are thus preparing for war, the Saints, under the instructions of the Almighty, are preparing for peace and a happy reign of righteousness. Reasoned upon the advantages to be derived from the introduction of machinery into this Territory. Argued the necessity of our making iron, all kinds of woolen and cotton fabrics, etc., that Zion may be independent, and prepared to go back to Jackson county to lay the foundation of the most magnificent city the world ever saw.
gave an historical review of the introduction of the gospel by Joseph Smith, describing in a vivid manner the opposition of wicked men and devils that was brought to bear upon the Prophet and his followers.—He also spoke of the present war-like condition of and the extensive preparations for war in the civilized nations, alluding to their striving to excel each other in bringing to light new engines of destruction, and while all nations are thus preparing for war, the Saints, under the instructions of the Almighty, are preparing for peace and a happy reign of righteousness. Reasoned upon the advantages to be derived from the introduction of machinery into this Territory. Argued the necessity of our making iron, all kinds of woolen and cotton fabrics, etc., that Zion may be independent, and prepared to go back to Jackson county to lay the foundation of the most magnificent city the world ever saw.
Elder John Taylor
spoke of the goodly land that we inherit in these peaceful valleys, and of the advantages we possess in having as good mechanics as there are in the world, which give us facilities that new countries seldom enjoy, for the manufacture of almost everything we need within ourselves. This self-sustaining policy and extensive manufacturing were the great secret of the wealth of England and France.—Traced the history of the development of the mechanical arts in the United States, and pointed out the great difficulties the people labored under in the introduction of mechanics from England to the States, it being the policy of British capitalists to prevent the emigration of skillful workmen, desiring to keep the business in their own hands as much as possible.
Choir sung "Arise, O glorious Zion."
Elder George Q. Cannon dismissed the conference till Saturday morning, at 10 o'clock.
spoke of the goodly land that we inherit in these peaceful valleys, and of the advantages we possess in having as good mechanics as there are in the world, which give us facilities that new countries seldom enjoy, for the manufacture of almost everything we need within ourselves. This self-sustaining policy and extensive manufacturing were the great secret of the wealth of England and France.—Traced the history of the development of the mechanical arts in the United States, and pointed out the great difficulties the people labored under in the introduction of mechanics from England to the States, it being the policy of British capitalists to prevent the emigration of skillful workmen, desiring to keep the business in their own hands as much as possible.
Choir sung "Arise, O glorious Zion."
Elder George Q. Cannon dismissed the conference till Saturday morning, at 10 o'clock.
Saturday, 10 a. m.
The Choir sung a Hymn.
Prayer was offered by Elder Orson Hyde.
Choir sung "Come all ye saints who dwell on earth."
The Choir sung a Hymn.
Prayer was offered by Elder Orson Hyde.
Choir sung "Come all ye saints who dwell on earth."
President Brigham Young
told the brethren not to be alarmed on account of the lateness of the spring, for the present year would be as fruitful as any that we had been blessed with in these valleys. Advised the families who live on the low lands to prepare to move to the mountains, or to some secure place, as he was apprehensive of a flood the coming summer. Spoke of the necessity of teaching the people how to produce the necessaries of life, to plant orchards and vineyards in order that they may become self-sustaining. He had a revelation to give concerning the lawyers that counsel for lucre and for gain, and that lead men into litigation for the purpose of aggrandizing themselves, which was that they would lose the spirit of the gospel and go to hell for their conduct in the midst of Latter-day Saints, in stirring up trouble and striving to clear the guilty for the sake of reward.
told the brethren not to be alarmed on account of the lateness of the spring, for the present year would be as fruitful as any that we had been blessed with in these valleys. Advised the families who live on the low lands to prepare to move to the mountains, or to some secure place, as he was apprehensive of a flood the coming summer. Spoke of the necessity of teaching the people how to produce the necessaries of life, to plant orchards and vineyards in order that they may become self-sustaining. He had a revelation to give concerning the lawyers that counsel for lucre and for gain, and that lead men into litigation for the purpose of aggrandizing themselves, which was that they would lose the spirit of the gospel and go to hell for their conduct in the midst of Latter-day Saints, in stirring up trouble and striving to clear the guilty for the sake of reward.
President Heber C. Kimball
said that all the Saints would be brought to give an account of their treatment to the Prophets and Apostles.—In speaking of the merchants who profess to be members of the Church, he stated that they had become hardened and careless in their feelings towards the interests of this community, looking after their own gain instead of the general welfare of Israel. Every man will have to pay the penalty consequent upon their crimes committed in the flesh.—Counseled the saints to be humble and obedient in every position they may be called to occupy.
President Kimball also gave some excellent instruction on the principle of individual sanctification, and the promised inheritances of the Saints.
The Choir sung "Sons of Michael, He approacheth."
Elder W. W. Phelps dismissed the meeting.
said that all the Saints would be brought to give an account of their treatment to the Prophets and Apostles.—In speaking of the merchants who profess to be members of the Church, he stated that they had become hardened and careless in their feelings towards the interests of this community, looking after their own gain instead of the general welfare of Israel. Every man will have to pay the penalty consequent upon their crimes committed in the flesh.—Counseled the saints to be humble and obedient in every position they may be called to occupy.
President Kimball also gave some excellent instruction on the principle of individual sanctification, and the promised inheritances of the Saints.
The Choir sung "Sons of Michael, He approacheth."
Elder W. W. Phelps dismissed the meeting.
Afternoon.
Singing.
Prayer by Elder George Q. Cannon.
Choir Sung, "O my Father, thou that dwellest."
Singing.
Prayer by Elder George Q. Cannon.
Choir Sung, "O my Father, thou that dwellest."
Elder George Q. Cannon presented the authorities of the Church, each Quorum of whom was unanimously sustained by the vote of the conference in the following order:
Brigham Young, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Heber C. Kimball his first, and Daniel H. Wells his second counselor.
Orson Hyde, 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, Charles C. Rich, Lorenzo Snow, Erastus Snow, Franklin D. Richards and George Q. Cannon, members of said Quorum.
John Smith, Patriarch of the Church.
Daniel Spencer, President of this Stake of Zion, and David Fullmer and George B, Wallace, his counselors.
William Eddington, John V. Long, John L. Blythe, John T. Caine, Joseph W. Young, Howard O. Spencer, Claudius V. Spencer, John Squires, William H. Folsom, Emanuel M. Murphy, Thomas E. Jeremy, George W. Thatcher, 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 Harriman, Albert P. Rockwood, Horace S. Eldredge, Jacob Gates and John Van Cott, members of the first seven Presidents of the Seventies.
William Squire, President of the Elder's Quorum; James Smith and Peter Latter, his counselors.
Edward Hunter, Presiding Bishop; Leonard W. Hardy and Jesse C. Little, his counselors.
Adam Spiers, President of the Teacher's Quorum; Henry I. Doremus and Martin Lenzi, his counselors.
John S. Carpenter, President of the Deacon's Quorum; Samuel G. Ladd and Warren Hardie, his counselors.
Brigham Young, Trustee in Trust for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Daniel H. Wells, Superintendent of Public Works; John Sharp, his assistant.
William H. Folsom, Architect for the Church.
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.
Brigham Young, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Heber C. Kimball his first, and Daniel H. Wells his second counselor.
Orson Hyde, 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, Charles C. Rich, Lorenzo Snow, Erastus Snow, Franklin D. Richards and George Q. Cannon, members of said Quorum.
John Smith, Patriarch of the Church.
Daniel Spencer, President of this Stake of Zion, and David Fullmer and George B, Wallace, his counselors.
William Eddington, John V. Long, John L. Blythe, John T. Caine, Joseph W. Young, Howard O. Spencer, Claudius V. Spencer, John Squires, William H. Folsom, Emanuel M. Murphy, Thomas E. Jeremy, George W. Thatcher, 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 Harriman, Albert P. Rockwood, Horace S. Eldredge, Jacob Gates and John Van Cott, members of the first seven Presidents of the Seventies.
William Squire, President of the Elder's Quorum; James Smith and Peter Latter, his counselors.
Edward Hunter, Presiding Bishop; Leonard W. Hardy and Jesse C. Little, his counselors.
Adam Spiers, President of the Teacher's Quorum; Henry I. Doremus and Martin Lenzi, his counselors.
John S. Carpenter, President of the Deacon's Quorum; Samuel G. Ladd and Warren Hardie, his counselors.
Brigham Young, Trustee in Trust for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Daniel H. Wells, Superintendent of Public Works; John Sharp, his assistant.
William H. Folsom, Architect for the Church.
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.
Elder Charles C. Rich
spoke upon the benefits to be derived from being obedient to the counsel of the living priesthood. Dwelt chiefly upon the practical duties of the Saints, and the way to prepare for the triumph of the kingdom of God over all its earthly enemies.—It is the duty of every saint to think of and act upon the requirements made by the holy priesthood. If the saints would remove evil out of their way and adopt good principles, there would be no danger of a falling away from grace.
spoke upon the benefits to be derived from being obedient to the counsel of the living priesthood. Dwelt chiefly upon the practical duties of the Saints, and the way to prepare for the triumph of the kingdom of God over all its earthly enemies.—It is the duty of every saint to think of and act upon the requirements made by the holy priesthood. If the saints would remove evil out of their way and adopt good principles, there would be no danger of a falling away from grace.
President Brigham Young
said he would give the mind and will of the Lord concerning the Latter-day Saints in their temporal life, which was that they should manufacture their own clothing, just as fast as they possibly can.—If the Saints must trade and speculate, why not those who do it gather enough together to keep the trade under control. Referred to the history and practices of the Jews as traders in jewelry and clothing. In reference to their conversion, he said they never will believe until Jesus comes again, and preaching will have no more effect upon them than it will upon the color of the descendants of Cain. When all the rest of Adam's posterity shall be redeemed, then, and not till then will the children of Cain receive the promised blessing of the restoration. In speaking of the degeneracy of mankind, and their departure from the truth in various ages of the world, he said the world had never been without the spirit of the Lord, but the human family had many times been left without the legal means of learning the fulness of the gospel and the ordinances thereof. Stated that some time ago he wanted our merchants to bring goods into this market, and sell them at such prices as to keep out wicked enemies, but the reply was if he would give them his means and influence they would do as he wanted them. Notwithstanding all the temptations and trials that lie in the way of the Saints, he was pleased to know that they were advancing and increasing in their obedience and in the knowledge of God.—The time is not far distant when the Lord will make this people the richest and most independent of all people upon the face of the earth.
The Choir sung a hymn.
Elder F. D. Richards pronounced the benediction.
said he would give the mind and will of the Lord concerning the Latter-day Saints in their temporal life, which was that they should manufacture their own clothing, just as fast as they possibly can.—If the Saints must trade and speculate, why not those who do it gather enough together to keep the trade under control. Referred to the history and practices of the Jews as traders in jewelry and clothing. In reference to their conversion, he said they never will believe until Jesus comes again, and preaching will have no more effect upon them than it will upon the color of the descendants of Cain. When all the rest of Adam's posterity shall be redeemed, then, and not till then will the children of Cain receive the promised blessing of the restoration. In speaking of the degeneracy of mankind, and their departure from the truth in various ages of the world, he said the world had never been without the spirit of the Lord, but the human family had many times been left without the legal means of learning the fulness of the gospel and the ordinances thereof. Stated that some time ago he wanted our merchants to bring goods into this market, and sell them at such prices as to keep out wicked enemies, but the reply was if he would give them his means and influence they would do as he wanted them. Notwithstanding all the temptations and trials that lie in the way of the Saints, he was pleased to know that they were advancing and increasing in their obedience and in the knowledge of God.—The time is not far distant when the Lord will make this people the richest and most independent of all people upon the face of the earth.
The Choir sung a hymn.
Elder F. D. Richards pronounced the benediction.
Sunday, 10 a. m.
Singing by the Choir.
Prayer by Elder George A. Smith.
Singing.
Singing by the Choir.
Prayer by Elder George A. Smith.
Singing.
Elder Amasa M. Lyman
addressed the conference. His experience had taught him that the saints learn very slowly, yet he was pleased to see them improving and progressing in the knowledge of the truth. He reasoned upon the impossibility of our realizing our wishes and desires, unless the labors and duties that devolve upon us are first understood by ourselves. The development of knowledge in the people must follow that which is manifested in their teachers. If we comprehend and entertain a correct appreciation of the value of the counsel that has been given in relation to our temporal salvation, our actions will doubtless be different to what they have been in the past. That which will constitute a Saint is a knowledge of what we should do, and then an undivided and unreserved attention to the purpose of those duties. There was no person in the Church of Christ so low and meek but the fountains of knowledge were open to him or her; and in the development of light there will be an increase of that perfection of action which is necessary for the perfect development of the creature.
Development of the Understanding Necessary
Remarks by Elder Amasa M. Lyman, delivered in the Bowery, in Great Salt Lake City, General Conference, Oct. 9. 1865.
Reported by David W. Evans.
I am happy to meet with you, my brethren and sisters, this morning, and I simply give expression to my feelings, in repeating what has been expressed by others, that this Conference has been to me one of interest—richly instructive and edifying.
In the admonitions that have been imparted we have been led to see, what in us is weak, dark, and should be improved. And in addition to that, the instructions have been rich in suggestions as to the ways and means by which we can secure to ourselves the blessings of that much needed improvement. While I have listened, the inquiry has risen in my mind as to how we, the people of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, could substantially and profitably pursue the labors devolving upon us and honestly continue the struggle to become what we are denominated—Saints.
In the admonition that has been imparted we were truthfully told, that we were as yet only in part what we should be as Saints; that with all our labors and experience, with all the advantages for acquiring knowledge that have characterized our history thus far, we have yet much to learn. This truth, it appears to me, should be impressed upon the minds of all who think and reflect. It is one that is evinced in our conduct and actions as a people. There is no one feature in our history that is rendered more distinct or plain to be read and comprehended by the reflecting mind than this—that we, in all our learning, learn but slowly, and have as yet learned comparatively little of that large amount that may be learned, and that we yet manifest in our lives but a small degree of that perfection that should characterize us as the children of God, as the people of the Saints of the Most High, who are blessed with the light of the Gospel, ministered to them continually in simplicity and in truth. All our meetings, like the present, where there is congregated together the largest representation of the people of God to be met with in any one place, still continue to be characterized by instruction and teaching on those principles that it has ever been the object of our heavenly Father, and of his servants, to impress upon the minds of the Saints.
Now, how shall we, as the servants and ministers of God, expect to see in ourselves, and in the people to whom our ministrations extend, a permanent and progressive improvement, as the fruits of our labors, unless we, to some extent, justly and truthfully comprehend the principles that are involved in the work that is devolved upon us? It appears to me, as but consistent and truthful, that the enlightenment of the people and the development in them of the knowledge necessary for their blessing and exaltation, should legitimately follow the development of knowledge and a just comprehension of truth in those who minister to them.
Well, we are almost all teachers and preachers; in some relationship in life, in some position in the community, we all put on the character of teachers; and when we take into account the sum of the evils that exist as barriers between us and the enjoyment of a fulness of happiness, when we consider what these are, to remove, conquer, and overcome them should be our labor. And if the knowledge of God, of truth, and of the principles of the Gospel is necessary to the accomplishment of this work, it should be our business, as servants of God and of the people, to learn this lesson ourselves; for it is evident to my mind that our attention and devotion to the truth and to such a course of action as the knowledge of the truth would suggest to us, is that which should regulate us in life, and the extent of our devotion to this is always marked and determined by our appreciation of its value.
If we, as a people, were capable of appreciating, and had justly estimated the counsels that have been imparted to us continually in relation to what is denominated our temporal salvation, our devotion to the advice would have produced far different results. There would not have been, as there is today, a feeling to expostulate with the people on the necessity of laying up and securing to themselves bread against a time of want. There would not be the empty granaries and the comparative lack of that which should exist in abundance among the people.
I do not know what name men may give to the causes that have induced this condition of things. In my mind there exists but one general reason—our lack of comprehending the truth in relation to the nature of the work in which we are engaged; and that with all our opportunities of acquiring knowledge and getting understanding we are, as has been truthfully told us in the fatherly admonitions imparted to us during this Conference, only just beginning to be Saints—only just entering on that work, the consummation of which will make of us that kind of a people for whom the Lord says it is his business to provide.
Now, perhaps, we may have been to some extent presuming too much upon the kindness, charity, and goodness of our heavenly Father. We may have fancied, perchance, that he is pledged to preserve us irrespective of the course that we pursue, simply because we have supposed that we are Saints, because we have been baptized into the Church. But this truth cannot be too forcibly impressed on our minds—that if it is the business of the Lord to provide for his Saints, it is our business exclusively so to live that the Lord may have Saints for whom to care and provide, whom He may protect, and who may securely rest beneath the shadow of His wings, enjoying the blessings of His protection against evil.
But what is it that will constitute us Saints? A knowledge of the work we have to perform, and then a faithful, humble, undivided, and unreserved devotion to its accomplishment. That will constitute us Saints; that will constitute us teachers in the midst of the people; that will constitute us a people to whom the ministrations of the Priesthood will extend as a fountain of blessings.
The attainment of this knowledge, the possession of this rich understanding, is that to which you and I must reach ere we are established in the truth beyond a chance of becoming unsettled. This is the way it appears to me. My paths may be crooked, and my efforts to attain to this position and condition may be feeble, and not only feeble, but they may be characterized by a corresponding amount of improprieties and inconsistencies; but this is what appears to me to be the great object that is before me, that invites my exertions, induces me to labor and struggle—not till I am worn out, but until I find the realization of my brightest hopes in the possession of that which I seek.
As the Gospel presents itself to me, as the work of God is spread out before my mind, so I judge of it, so I appreciate it, so I talk about it, so I recommend it to you, my brethren and sisters.
“Well,” says one, “when will we learn?” That depends altogether upon ourselves. “Why,” says one, “will not the Lord have something to do with it?” The Lord has to do with it; and if we would be more careful about what we should do, instead of troubling ourselves about what the Lord should do, it might perhaps result in bringing us to the enjoyment of greater and richer blessings. Why, the Lord knows what to do, and He has no need of our instruction. The Lord is supposed, by me at any rate, to be fully up to all that devolves upon Him in relation to ourselves. The Lord is waiting for us to come along; He is only waiting for us to come up to that which it is our privilege to enjoy.
Some people may suppose, perchance, that the channels of knowledge are not open to all the people, as they are to the few. Some may cherish the idea that position, or place in the Church and kingdom of God may make a vast difference in the attainment of the blessings requisite to our happiness, and to our acceptance with God, and to our progress as Saints in the way of life. Position may make vast differences, perchance; but I do not know of an individual so low, I do not know of an individual so poor, but what the fountains of knowledge are as accessible to him as to the highest, as well to the last as to the first. It is not from the fact that the fountain of knowledge is only open to the teachers among the people, that they occupy their position. The teachers in the midst of the people are something like what we see in our schools. You go into our schools, and if the teacher has a large number of pupils in charge, he very likely will have recourse to this bit of policy—he takes some of his most advanced scholars and gives them the position of teachers amongst their schoolfellows and associates. Well, does this exalt them above the character or capacity of pupils? No! They are still learners in the school, and it is just as necessary for them to continue their labor for the acquisition of knowledge as before. This is the character of the teachers in Israel; that is, as I view it. This is the way I view myself as a teacher in the midst of Israel—as one upon whom has devolved the duty of extending the principles of salvation to those around me. When I labor to teach or instruct, I do not feel that they whom I am instructing need instruction any more than I do myself. I feel that all the necessity that may exist for any increase of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding in reference to the humblest soul in the kingdom of God, exists in all its force for me.
Well, with this feeling I look upon the work of God, I think of it, I study about it, and then I make my efforts for the accomplishment of the duties that seem to devolve upon me. And when I get to know more and become wiser with that increase of wisdom, I shall not need to tell anybody, it will be evinced in increased propriety of action to the accomplishment of what I seek to accomplish. What duty, then, devolves upon us as the ministers of God—the Priesthood dispersed and living among the people? Why, we should seek for the development in ourselves of that knowledge without which we tell the people that neither they nor we can be exalted to glory and greatness.
“But,” says my brother, “we must tell the people they should be correct in the duties of life in its multiplied details.” Yes, this is good; this must be; but what is it that will correct all these matters? My neighbor kindly takes me by the hand today and says, “Brother Lyman, you can walk in this, that, or the other direction, it is safe.” It may be ground that I have not explored and do not understand, and I feel that his direction and instruction are a blessing to me. So is that a blessing which shall lead and guide the people until the “day shall dawn, and the day star shall arise in their hearts,” whether it be the kindly instruction of teachers who live in their midst, and with whom they meet and associate from time to time, or whether it be the suggestions of the written history of those who have long since passed away, it makes no difference. The history or record contained in the Bible presents an example of the right, and it is suggestive of right to those who read it, and upon the same principle that what could be said to you by the living teacher is suggestive of the truth.
Now, this appears to be what we need; we want to have understanding developed within us. Well, what is it? Perhaps if I were to describe my notions and views of things, it would not be the same as if described by some other man. One of the ancient apostles spoke of understanding in such a way that we can judge something of what his views were in regard to it. Said he, “We know that Jesus has come.” It was a great question in New Testament times among the immediate successors of Jesus—“Has Jesus come, or has he not?” “Has Jesus been and died, or is it an impostor?” the same as it is about the Saints now—“Is this the work of God or is it an impostor?” Well, now, says the apostle, “When that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding to determine between those that serve God and those who do not.” This is what we want; we want understanding, that we may know for ourselves that this is the work of God. Why? Until this is developed within us there is a chance for uncertainty to hang around and cling to us, and a possibility that our feet may be moved from the path of rectitude and truth. We may be like men whom I have seen that have traveled for a score of years with, and have labored in the Church, and have suffered—that is, about as far as men have suffered who have not died—and then, after the expiration of this time, we find them floating off to the east and to the west, to the north and to the south. “Why, good brother, what is the matter? I did not believe you would ever have left the Church.” “Ah!” said he, “I have not found it what it was said to be.” Such individuals have not understanding developed within them; they do not know that this is the work of God. The apostle in ancient times knew that Jesus had come, because of the gift of understanding by which he was able to determine for himself. It is this understanding that, when developed in the mind or soul of a man, sets aside all uncertainty and silences all doubt. Uncertainty departs from the mind at once, and the soul settles in unbroken, undisturbed tranquility and repose, so far as the nature of the work in which it is engaged is concerned, and the language of that soul is, “I know that this is the work of God.”
Now we, as the ministers of God, called from among the people to labor among them, should remember all the time, that it is our first great duty to learn ourselves, to obtain knowledge and understanding ourselves, and then to use all the judgment and understanding with which God may favor and bless us, to enlighten the people and to lead them onward.
But, says one, the people have been taught for years, and they have not yet learned; when will they learn? I will tell you. When they have been taught long enough they will learn. How? Just as you and I when we went to school. We had to study our lessons until we could master them, and then that labor was completed.
I am glad of this continuous principle that seems to mark the character of the work of God. If we do not learn in two, five, ten, twenty, or thirty years the truth that would make us free, still the opportunity is open, still the chance is afforded us to learn and to mend our crooked ways. This is why I love the Gospel; this is what first fixed a deep and abiding regard for it in my affections—the mercy that was in it, the kind forbearance, that seemed to have a life like the life of the Almighty—eternal, that would never die.
Let us be encouraged to hope for such an increase of intelligence among the people—the fruit of the labors and ministrations of the ministry in their midst, as shall develop increasing perfection of action among the people, and by-and-by they will know enough of themselves to adopt such a policy as would enrich and save them temporally.
Well, says one, would they not get spiritually saved if they were not temporally saved? I do not know. I want to be saved, and I would like to be temporally and spiritually saved. If there should be any difference between them, I want them both. This is the salvation before us. If we had that spiritual salvation which, in the language of the Savior, constitutes eternal life—the knowledge of God, an understanding of the principles of salvation, if we had a sufficiency of divine wisdom, in that light would vanish all these dark clouds that exist around us as so many drawbacks to our prosperity and to our progress in the way of life. In that light we would be able to appreciate the value of doing right, above that of doing wrong. This is the way the matter appears to me, and I look forward to the time when the Saints will be all they should be, as Saints. I hope and labor for it, and there is no feeling in my soul but what reaches forward with hopeful confidence to a time when the last dark cloud shall be moved from the minds, not of everybody, but of the Saints with whom our labors in this work begun, and with whom we have been associated the last thirty years of our lives; of the Saints with whom we have endured toil, with whom we have been driven, and in whose fate and fortunes we have shared. We expect it for them, we hope for it for them, and we labor for it for them. Will not you labor with us? We tell you that to know God is eternal life, which is simply repeating the truth declared by the Savior of the world; and while we impress this repeatedly, again and again, on your minds, and bring it to your attention, will not you unite with us in struggling for the acquisition of that knowledge for yourselves? Why, says one, can't you get it for us? No; it is all I can do to get knowledge for myself. Well, but, says one, can't you impart to us? I can do what I am doing this morning—making the best effort in my power, within the compass of my ability, to awaken such trains of thought and reflection in your minds as will lead you to seek after the truth, and seeking, find it. If what I have learned, if the little knowledge I possess should have enlightened any other mind than mine, or could be possessed by any other individual than me, without his action being required for its attainment, things would be different from what they are. Our Father has fixed it so that we might live, and find the elements of happiness and joy for ourselves; and when they were acquired, they would be ours to possess, fixed within, the treasure of our own souls, forever ours, constituting our happiness with all its eternal increase and greatness.
Let us wake up and feel that we are the children of God, and that as God's children, the object of our being here is to find and realize within ourselves that development of our natures that we inherit from our Father and God, that will exalt us till we can be fit associates for Him, that between Him and ourselves there may exist all that wealth of harmony that will constitute the happiness of heaven, the bliss, and glory of the saved and sanctified.
Well, now, to acquire this, what is the labor before us? What is necessary? That we turn from evil. Well, how shall we know evil? Why our evils are pointed out continually, not only by the feeble dawnings of light within us, but by the light of that inspiration that burns in the hearts of the servants of God, making their comprehensions of truth reach incomparably beyond those who have not in such a way devoted themselves to the acquirement of knowledge. In that light our weaknesses and follies are brought to our understanding, that we may see them, and that seeing and comprehending we may go to work and regulate our actions so that when God blesses, aids, and strengthens us, we may acquire that knowledge that will exalt us above the influence of the ignorance that is around us.
Now, my brethren and sisters, having expressed these few thoughts, I hope that we may be able to go away from this Conference to our respective homes to live and labor in the great work of our Father, and that when the half-year shall have passed away, and we are again assembled in this capacity, that we may feel, and not only feel, but that it may be true, that we are a wiser and better people than today; and that we may entertain more truthful conceptions of God and the character of his work, and be acting in a manner better calculated to please Him and to secure His blessings upon us, than today.
That this may be our happy lot, and that God's blessings may attend our every exertion for the development of Zion on the earth, is my prayer, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
addressed the conference. His experience had taught him that the saints learn very slowly, yet he was pleased to see them improving and progressing in the knowledge of the truth. He reasoned upon the impossibility of our realizing our wishes and desires, unless the labors and duties that devolve upon us are first understood by ourselves. The development of knowledge in the people must follow that which is manifested in their teachers. If we comprehend and entertain a correct appreciation of the value of the counsel that has been given in relation to our temporal salvation, our actions will doubtless be different to what they have been in the past. That which will constitute a Saint is a knowledge of what we should do, and then an undivided and unreserved attention to the purpose of those duties. There was no person in the Church of Christ so low and meek but the fountains of knowledge were open to him or her; and in the development of light there will be an increase of that perfection of action which is necessary for the perfect development of the creature.
Development of the Understanding Necessary
Remarks by Elder Amasa M. Lyman, delivered in the Bowery, in Great Salt Lake City, General Conference, Oct. 9. 1865.
Reported by David W. Evans.
I am happy to meet with you, my brethren and sisters, this morning, and I simply give expression to my feelings, in repeating what has been expressed by others, that this Conference has been to me one of interest—richly instructive and edifying.
In the admonitions that have been imparted we have been led to see, what in us is weak, dark, and should be improved. And in addition to that, the instructions have been rich in suggestions as to the ways and means by which we can secure to ourselves the blessings of that much needed improvement. While I have listened, the inquiry has risen in my mind as to how we, the people of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, could substantially and profitably pursue the labors devolving upon us and honestly continue the struggle to become what we are denominated—Saints.
In the admonition that has been imparted we were truthfully told, that we were as yet only in part what we should be as Saints; that with all our labors and experience, with all the advantages for acquiring knowledge that have characterized our history thus far, we have yet much to learn. This truth, it appears to me, should be impressed upon the minds of all who think and reflect. It is one that is evinced in our conduct and actions as a people. There is no one feature in our history that is rendered more distinct or plain to be read and comprehended by the reflecting mind than this—that we, in all our learning, learn but slowly, and have as yet learned comparatively little of that large amount that may be learned, and that we yet manifest in our lives but a small degree of that perfection that should characterize us as the children of God, as the people of the Saints of the Most High, who are blessed with the light of the Gospel, ministered to them continually in simplicity and in truth. All our meetings, like the present, where there is congregated together the largest representation of the people of God to be met with in any one place, still continue to be characterized by instruction and teaching on those principles that it has ever been the object of our heavenly Father, and of his servants, to impress upon the minds of the Saints.
Now, how shall we, as the servants and ministers of God, expect to see in ourselves, and in the people to whom our ministrations extend, a permanent and progressive improvement, as the fruits of our labors, unless we, to some extent, justly and truthfully comprehend the principles that are involved in the work that is devolved upon us? It appears to me, as but consistent and truthful, that the enlightenment of the people and the development in them of the knowledge necessary for their blessing and exaltation, should legitimately follow the development of knowledge and a just comprehension of truth in those who minister to them.
Well, we are almost all teachers and preachers; in some relationship in life, in some position in the community, we all put on the character of teachers; and when we take into account the sum of the evils that exist as barriers between us and the enjoyment of a fulness of happiness, when we consider what these are, to remove, conquer, and overcome them should be our labor. And if the knowledge of God, of truth, and of the principles of the Gospel is necessary to the accomplishment of this work, it should be our business, as servants of God and of the people, to learn this lesson ourselves; for it is evident to my mind that our attention and devotion to the truth and to such a course of action as the knowledge of the truth would suggest to us, is that which should regulate us in life, and the extent of our devotion to this is always marked and determined by our appreciation of its value.
If we, as a people, were capable of appreciating, and had justly estimated the counsels that have been imparted to us continually in relation to what is denominated our temporal salvation, our devotion to the advice would have produced far different results. There would not have been, as there is today, a feeling to expostulate with the people on the necessity of laying up and securing to themselves bread against a time of want. There would not be the empty granaries and the comparative lack of that which should exist in abundance among the people.
I do not know what name men may give to the causes that have induced this condition of things. In my mind there exists but one general reason—our lack of comprehending the truth in relation to the nature of the work in which we are engaged; and that with all our opportunities of acquiring knowledge and getting understanding we are, as has been truthfully told us in the fatherly admonitions imparted to us during this Conference, only just beginning to be Saints—only just entering on that work, the consummation of which will make of us that kind of a people for whom the Lord says it is his business to provide.
Now, perhaps, we may have been to some extent presuming too much upon the kindness, charity, and goodness of our heavenly Father. We may have fancied, perchance, that he is pledged to preserve us irrespective of the course that we pursue, simply because we have supposed that we are Saints, because we have been baptized into the Church. But this truth cannot be too forcibly impressed on our minds—that if it is the business of the Lord to provide for his Saints, it is our business exclusively so to live that the Lord may have Saints for whom to care and provide, whom He may protect, and who may securely rest beneath the shadow of His wings, enjoying the blessings of His protection against evil.
But what is it that will constitute us Saints? A knowledge of the work we have to perform, and then a faithful, humble, undivided, and unreserved devotion to its accomplishment. That will constitute us Saints; that will constitute us teachers in the midst of the people; that will constitute us a people to whom the ministrations of the Priesthood will extend as a fountain of blessings.
The attainment of this knowledge, the possession of this rich understanding, is that to which you and I must reach ere we are established in the truth beyond a chance of becoming unsettled. This is the way it appears to me. My paths may be crooked, and my efforts to attain to this position and condition may be feeble, and not only feeble, but they may be characterized by a corresponding amount of improprieties and inconsistencies; but this is what appears to me to be the great object that is before me, that invites my exertions, induces me to labor and struggle—not till I am worn out, but until I find the realization of my brightest hopes in the possession of that which I seek.
As the Gospel presents itself to me, as the work of God is spread out before my mind, so I judge of it, so I appreciate it, so I talk about it, so I recommend it to you, my brethren and sisters.
“Well,” says one, “when will we learn?” That depends altogether upon ourselves. “Why,” says one, “will not the Lord have something to do with it?” The Lord has to do with it; and if we would be more careful about what we should do, instead of troubling ourselves about what the Lord should do, it might perhaps result in bringing us to the enjoyment of greater and richer blessings. Why, the Lord knows what to do, and He has no need of our instruction. The Lord is supposed, by me at any rate, to be fully up to all that devolves upon Him in relation to ourselves. The Lord is waiting for us to come along; He is only waiting for us to come up to that which it is our privilege to enjoy.
Some people may suppose, perchance, that the channels of knowledge are not open to all the people, as they are to the few. Some may cherish the idea that position, or place in the Church and kingdom of God may make a vast difference in the attainment of the blessings requisite to our happiness, and to our acceptance with God, and to our progress as Saints in the way of life. Position may make vast differences, perchance; but I do not know of an individual so low, I do not know of an individual so poor, but what the fountains of knowledge are as accessible to him as to the highest, as well to the last as to the first. It is not from the fact that the fountain of knowledge is only open to the teachers among the people, that they occupy their position. The teachers in the midst of the people are something like what we see in our schools. You go into our schools, and if the teacher has a large number of pupils in charge, he very likely will have recourse to this bit of policy—he takes some of his most advanced scholars and gives them the position of teachers amongst their schoolfellows and associates. Well, does this exalt them above the character or capacity of pupils? No! They are still learners in the school, and it is just as necessary for them to continue their labor for the acquisition of knowledge as before. This is the character of the teachers in Israel; that is, as I view it. This is the way I view myself as a teacher in the midst of Israel—as one upon whom has devolved the duty of extending the principles of salvation to those around me. When I labor to teach or instruct, I do not feel that they whom I am instructing need instruction any more than I do myself. I feel that all the necessity that may exist for any increase of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding in reference to the humblest soul in the kingdom of God, exists in all its force for me.
Well, with this feeling I look upon the work of God, I think of it, I study about it, and then I make my efforts for the accomplishment of the duties that seem to devolve upon me. And when I get to know more and become wiser with that increase of wisdom, I shall not need to tell anybody, it will be evinced in increased propriety of action to the accomplishment of what I seek to accomplish. What duty, then, devolves upon us as the ministers of God—the Priesthood dispersed and living among the people? Why, we should seek for the development in ourselves of that knowledge without which we tell the people that neither they nor we can be exalted to glory and greatness.
“But,” says my brother, “we must tell the people they should be correct in the duties of life in its multiplied details.” Yes, this is good; this must be; but what is it that will correct all these matters? My neighbor kindly takes me by the hand today and says, “Brother Lyman, you can walk in this, that, or the other direction, it is safe.” It may be ground that I have not explored and do not understand, and I feel that his direction and instruction are a blessing to me. So is that a blessing which shall lead and guide the people until the “day shall dawn, and the day star shall arise in their hearts,” whether it be the kindly instruction of teachers who live in their midst, and with whom they meet and associate from time to time, or whether it be the suggestions of the written history of those who have long since passed away, it makes no difference. The history or record contained in the Bible presents an example of the right, and it is suggestive of right to those who read it, and upon the same principle that what could be said to you by the living teacher is suggestive of the truth.
Now, this appears to be what we need; we want to have understanding developed within us. Well, what is it? Perhaps if I were to describe my notions and views of things, it would not be the same as if described by some other man. One of the ancient apostles spoke of understanding in such a way that we can judge something of what his views were in regard to it. Said he, “We know that Jesus has come.” It was a great question in New Testament times among the immediate successors of Jesus—“Has Jesus come, or has he not?” “Has Jesus been and died, or is it an impostor?” the same as it is about the Saints now—“Is this the work of God or is it an impostor?” Well, now, says the apostle, “When that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding to determine between those that serve God and those who do not.” This is what we want; we want understanding, that we may know for ourselves that this is the work of God. Why? Until this is developed within us there is a chance for uncertainty to hang around and cling to us, and a possibility that our feet may be moved from the path of rectitude and truth. We may be like men whom I have seen that have traveled for a score of years with, and have labored in the Church, and have suffered—that is, about as far as men have suffered who have not died—and then, after the expiration of this time, we find them floating off to the east and to the west, to the north and to the south. “Why, good brother, what is the matter? I did not believe you would ever have left the Church.” “Ah!” said he, “I have not found it what it was said to be.” Such individuals have not understanding developed within them; they do not know that this is the work of God. The apostle in ancient times knew that Jesus had come, because of the gift of understanding by which he was able to determine for himself. It is this understanding that, when developed in the mind or soul of a man, sets aside all uncertainty and silences all doubt. Uncertainty departs from the mind at once, and the soul settles in unbroken, undisturbed tranquility and repose, so far as the nature of the work in which it is engaged is concerned, and the language of that soul is, “I know that this is the work of God.”
Now we, as the ministers of God, called from among the people to labor among them, should remember all the time, that it is our first great duty to learn ourselves, to obtain knowledge and understanding ourselves, and then to use all the judgment and understanding with which God may favor and bless us, to enlighten the people and to lead them onward.
But, says one, the people have been taught for years, and they have not yet learned; when will they learn? I will tell you. When they have been taught long enough they will learn. How? Just as you and I when we went to school. We had to study our lessons until we could master them, and then that labor was completed.
I am glad of this continuous principle that seems to mark the character of the work of God. If we do not learn in two, five, ten, twenty, or thirty years the truth that would make us free, still the opportunity is open, still the chance is afforded us to learn and to mend our crooked ways. This is why I love the Gospel; this is what first fixed a deep and abiding regard for it in my affections—the mercy that was in it, the kind forbearance, that seemed to have a life like the life of the Almighty—eternal, that would never die.
Let us be encouraged to hope for such an increase of intelligence among the people—the fruit of the labors and ministrations of the ministry in their midst, as shall develop increasing perfection of action among the people, and by-and-by they will know enough of themselves to adopt such a policy as would enrich and save them temporally.
Well, says one, would they not get spiritually saved if they were not temporally saved? I do not know. I want to be saved, and I would like to be temporally and spiritually saved. If there should be any difference between them, I want them both. This is the salvation before us. If we had that spiritual salvation which, in the language of the Savior, constitutes eternal life—the knowledge of God, an understanding of the principles of salvation, if we had a sufficiency of divine wisdom, in that light would vanish all these dark clouds that exist around us as so many drawbacks to our prosperity and to our progress in the way of life. In that light we would be able to appreciate the value of doing right, above that of doing wrong. This is the way the matter appears to me, and I look forward to the time when the Saints will be all they should be, as Saints. I hope and labor for it, and there is no feeling in my soul but what reaches forward with hopeful confidence to a time when the last dark cloud shall be moved from the minds, not of everybody, but of the Saints with whom our labors in this work begun, and with whom we have been associated the last thirty years of our lives; of the Saints with whom we have endured toil, with whom we have been driven, and in whose fate and fortunes we have shared. We expect it for them, we hope for it for them, and we labor for it for them. Will not you labor with us? We tell you that to know God is eternal life, which is simply repeating the truth declared by the Savior of the world; and while we impress this repeatedly, again and again, on your minds, and bring it to your attention, will not you unite with us in struggling for the acquisition of that knowledge for yourselves? Why, says one, can't you get it for us? No; it is all I can do to get knowledge for myself. Well, but, says one, can't you impart to us? I can do what I am doing this morning—making the best effort in my power, within the compass of my ability, to awaken such trains of thought and reflection in your minds as will lead you to seek after the truth, and seeking, find it. If what I have learned, if the little knowledge I possess should have enlightened any other mind than mine, or could be possessed by any other individual than me, without his action being required for its attainment, things would be different from what they are. Our Father has fixed it so that we might live, and find the elements of happiness and joy for ourselves; and when they were acquired, they would be ours to possess, fixed within, the treasure of our own souls, forever ours, constituting our happiness with all its eternal increase and greatness.
Let us wake up and feel that we are the children of God, and that as God's children, the object of our being here is to find and realize within ourselves that development of our natures that we inherit from our Father and God, that will exalt us till we can be fit associates for Him, that between Him and ourselves there may exist all that wealth of harmony that will constitute the happiness of heaven, the bliss, and glory of the saved and sanctified.
Well, now, to acquire this, what is the labor before us? What is necessary? That we turn from evil. Well, how shall we know evil? Why our evils are pointed out continually, not only by the feeble dawnings of light within us, but by the light of that inspiration that burns in the hearts of the servants of God, making their comprehensions of truth reach incomparably beyond those who have not in such a way devoted themselves to the acquirement of knowledge. In that light our weaknesses and follies are brought to our understanding, that we may see them, and that seeing and comprehending we may go to work and regulate our actions so that when God blesses, aids, and strengthens us, we may acquire that knowledge that will exalt us above the influence of the ignorance that is around us.
Now, my brethren and sisters, having expressed these few thoughts, I hope that we may be able to go away from this Conference to our respective homes to live and labor in the great work of our Father, and that when the half-year shall have passed away, and we are again assembled in this capacity, that we may feel, and not only feel, but that it may be true, that we are a wiser and better people than today; and that we may entertain more truthful conceptions of God and the character of his work, and be acting in a manner better calculated to please Him and to secure His blessings upon us, than today.
That this may be our happy lot, and that God's blessings may attend our every exertion for the development of Zion on the earth, is my prayer, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
President Brigham Young
made a few remarks upon sending missionaries to preach the gospel; the object and design of sending the men they had now selected.
made a few remarks upon sending missionaries to preach the gospel; the object and design of sending the men they had now selected.
Elder George Q. Cannon
then read a list of the names of those called to go on missions to Great Britain, Scandinavia and the Sandwich Islands.
He also read a report, from the Trustee in Trust, of the expenses incurred in gathering the poor since the spring of 1861, amounting in the aggregate to nearly $1,000,000.
then read a list of the names of those called to go on missions to Great Britain, Scandinavia and the Sandwich Islands.
He also read a report, from the Trustee in Trust, of the expenses incurred in gathering the poor since the spring of 1861, amounting in the aggregate to nearly $1,000,000.
Elder Cannon
delivered a highly instructive discourse on the justice, mercy and manifest impartiality of the Almighty.
The Choir sung a hymn.
President Heber C. Kimball closed the meeting with benediction.
delivered a highly instructive discourse on the justice, mercy and manifest impartiality of the Almighty.
The Choir sung a hymn.
President Heber C. Kimball closed the meeting with benediction.
Afternoon.
Singing by the Choir.
Prayer by Elder Wilford Woodruff.
The Choir sung "Arise, my soul arise."
Bishops Hunter, Hardy, Little, David Evans, Raleigh, Kesler and assistants administered the sacrament.
Singing by the Choir.
Prayer by Elder Wilford Woodruff.
The Choir sung "Arise, my soul arise."
Bishops Hunter, Hardy, Little, David Evans, Raleigh, Kesler and assistants administered the sacrament.
President Heber C. Kimball
preached on reproof, correction, and the duties of Saints generally; spoke of the authority of the priesthood to seal on earth, and such sealing beings sanctioned in heaven. Advocated building the new Tabernacle the present season. Made remarks upon the poverty of the people in the cotton country, and stated that the President, himself and others had sent down both men and means, but did not suppose they had received any credit for it, but believed that somebody had the benefit of it. He hoped the brethren would take hold and do something to help the poor in the south.
preached on reproof, correction, and the duties of Saints generally; spoke of the authority of the priesthood to seal on earth, and such sealing beings sanctioned in heaven. Advocated building the new Tabernacle the present season. Made remarks upon the poverty of the people in the cotton country, and stated that the President, himself and others had sent down both men and means, but did not suppose they had received any credit for it, but believed that somebody had the benefit of it. He hoped the brethren would take hold and do something to help the poor in the south.
Elder John Taylor
preached upon the duty of the Saints to root out from their midst all manner of iniquity; to exert ourselves to establish purity and banish everything from our neighborhoods that is wicked or unholy.
preached upon the duty of the Saints to root out from their midst all manner of iniquity; to exert ourselves to establish purity and banish everything from our neighborhoods that is wicked or unholy.
President Brigham Young
bore testimony to the good instructions that had been given during the conference. In speaking of the outsiders that were here, he said there were honorable exceptions; and in relation to grog shops and gambling shops, he was of opinion that if we said we did not want them, the City Council would as soon as convenient cease giving licenses. He wanted the brethren to assist those in the southern part of the Territory, not by donation, but as a loan, and wanted all to pay in labor or otherwise. Made remarks upon the present lamentable and mournful condition of our country.
Speaking of the new tabernacle, he observed that there would be no difficulty about putting up the building, if the lumber can be obtained. Blessed the people in the name of the Lord.
On motion of Elder George A. Smith, the conference adjourned till the 6th day of October next, at 10 a.m.
The Choir sung "Arise O glorious Zion."
bore testimony to the good instructions that had been given during the conference. In speaking of the outsiders that were here, he said there were honorable exceptions; and in relation to grog shops and gambling shops, he was of opinion that if we said we did not want them, the City Council would as soon as convenient cease giving licenses. He wanted the brethren to assist those in the southern part of the Territory, not by donation, but as a loan, and wanted all to pay in labor or otherwise. Made remarks upon the present lamentable and mournful condition of our country.
Speaking of the new tabernacle, he observed that there would be no difficulty about putting up the building, if the lumber can be obtained. Blessed the people in the name of the Lord.
On motion of Elder George A. Smith, the conference adjourned till the 6th day of October next, at 10 a.m.
The Choir sung "Arise O glorious Zion."
Patriarch John Smith
blessed the people and dismissed the conference as follows:
Brethren and sisters, I can truly say that I have been highly edified and instructed by what has been said here during this conference; and I feel to bless you all by virtue of my office and calling, and I ask God to bestow His blessing upon you, that we may live long upon the earth to do good and strive diligently to keep His commandments, that we may be worthy of all the blessings which our Father in heaven has in store for us.
Arise and be dismissed.
We thank thee, our Father, for that portion of thy Holy Spirit which has been manifested in our midst during the sitting of this conference. We pray thee, Heavenly Father, to cause the good instructions imparted to be treasured up in good and honest hearts. Wilt Thou let Thy choicest blessings rest upon Br. Brigham and his Counsel, also upon the Twelve Apostles and every authority in Thy kingdom; and grant, O Lord, to bless all Thy saints and servants as Thou seest they need; give them Thy Holy Spirit that they may proclaim the words of life and salvation unto Thy people, and may the words of Thy servants sink deep into the hearts of the honest; and may the time soon come when the wicked shall fear and tremble. Bless Thy people all over the earth, and hasten the day when the sinner in Zion shall be afraid, fear, tremble and flee away, that we as a people may be blessed and live upon the earth to accomplish the work assigned us.
We pray Thee, Heavenly Father, to go with us to our several places of abode, and eventually save us in Thy kingdom.
These blessings and favors we ask in the name of Jesus, Thy Son. Amen.
J. V. Long,
Clerk of Conference.
blessed the people and dismissed the conference as follows:
Brethren and sisters, I can truly say that I have been highly edified and instructed by what has been said here during this conference; and I feel to bless you all by virtue of my office and calling, and I ask God to bestow His blessing upon you, that we may live long upon the earth to do good and strive diligently to keep His commandments, that we may be worthy of all the blessings which our Father in heaven has in store for us.
Arise and be dismissed.
We thank thee, our Father, for that portion of thy Holy Spirit which has been manifested in our midst during the sitting of this conference. We pray thee, Heavenly Father, to cause the good instructions imparted to be treasured up in good and honest hearts. Wilt Thou let Thy choicest blessings rest upon Br. Brigham and his Counsel, also upon the Twelve Apostles and every authority in Thy kingdom; and grant, O Lord, to bless all Thy saints and servants as Thou seest they need; give them Thy Holy Spirit that they may proclaim the words of life and salvation unto Thy people, and may the words of Thy servants sink deep into the hearts of the honest; and may the time soon come when the wicked shall fear and tremble. Bless Thy people all over the earth, and hasten the day when the sinner in Zion shall be afraid, fear, tremble and flee away, that we as a people may be blessed and live upon the earth to accomplish the work assigned us.
We pray Thee, Heavenly Father, to go with us to our several places of abode, and eventually save us in Thy kingdom.
These blessings and favors we ask in the name of Jesus, Thy Son. Amen.
J. V. Long,
Clerk of Conference.