October 1887
The Deseret News. "An Epistle to the Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints." October 12, 1887: pg. 616-617, 624.
The Deseret News. "General Conference." October 12, 1887: pg. 612-613, 620-621.
GENERAL CONFERENCE
Elder Jacob Gates
Apostle John Henry Smith
Elder Milo Andrus
First Day. Afternoon Session
Elder Hugh S. Gowans
Elder Abram H. Cannon
Elder Elias Morris
Elder F. A. Hammond
Second Day. Morning Session, Oct. 7th.
Apostle John W. Taylor
Elder George Goddard
Afternoon Session
Elder William Budge
Bishop William M. Bromley
Elder Angus M. Cannon
Third Day. Morning Session, Oct. 8th, 10 a. m.
Apostle Erastus Snow
Afternoon Session. 2 p. m.
An Epistle To the Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Morning Session. Sunday, Oct. 9th, 12 a. m.
The General Authorities of the Church were presented
Elder John T. Caine
Apostle Lorenzo Snow
Afternoon Session
President Wilford Woodruff
Apostle H. J. Grant
Elder John Nicholson
Bishop O. F. Whitney
Apostle F. D. Richards
The Deseret News. "General Conference." October 12, 1887: pg. 612-613, 620-621.
GENERAL CONFERENCE
Elder Jacob Gates
Apostle John Henry Smith
Elder Milo Andrus
First Day. Afternoon Session
Elder Hugh S. Gowans
Elder Abram H. Cannon
Elder Elias Morris
Elder F. A. Hammond
Second Day. Morning Session, Oct. 7th.
Apostle John W. Taylor
Elder George Goddard
Afternoon Session
Elder William Budge
Bishop William M. Bromley
Elder Angus M. Cannon
Third Day. Morning Session, Oct. 8th, 10 a. m.
Apostle Erastus Snow
Afternoon Session. 2 p. m.
An Epistle To the Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Morning Session. Sunday, Oct. 9th, 12 a. m.
The General Authorities of the Church were presented
Elder John T. Caine
Apostle Lorenzo Snow
Afternoon Session
President Wilford Woodruff
Apostle H. J. Grant
Elder John Nicholson
Bishop O. F. Whitney
Apostle F. D. Richards
GENERAL CONFERENCE
The Fifty-eighth Semi-annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints convened in the Tabernacle, Salt Lake City, at 10 a. m., October 6th, 1887, Apostle Lorenzo Snow presiding.
There were on the stand, of the Quorum of the Twelve: Apostles Lorenzo Snow, Franklin D. Richards, John Henry Smith and Heber J. Grant; Patriarch John Smith; of the Presiding Council of the Seventies; Horace S. Eldredge, Jacob Gates, Abram H. Cannon, Seymour B. Young; of the Presiding Bishopric: John R. Winder. There were also present a large number of Presidents of Stakes and other leading brethren from various parts of this region where the Church is established.
Conference was called to order by Apostle Lorenzo Snow.
The choir sang:
Come all ye sons of Zion,
And let us praise the Lord,
His ransomed are returning,
According to His word.
The opening prayer was offered by Apostle Franklin D. Richards.
Singing by the choir:
I know that my Redeemer lives;
What comfort this sweet sentence gives!
He lives, He lives, who once was dead,
He lives, my ever living head.
The Fifty-eighth Semi-annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints convened in the Tabernacle, Salt Lake City, at 10 a. m., October 6th, 1887, Apostle Lorenzo Snow presiding.
There were on the stand, of the Quorum of the Twelve: Apostles Lorenzo Snow, Franklin D. Richards, John Henry Smith and Heber J. Grant; Patriarch John Smith; of the Presiding Council of the Seventies; Horace S. Eldredge, Jacob Gates, Abram H. Cannon, Seymour B. Young; of the Presiding Bishopric: John R. Winder. There were also present a large number of Presidents of Stakes and other leading brethren from various parts of this region where the Church is established.
Conference was called to order by Apostle Lorenzo Snow.
The choir sang:
Come all ye sons of Zion,
And let us praise the Lord,
His ransomed are returning,
According to His word.
The opening prayer was offered by Apostle Franklin D. Richards.
Singing by the choir:
I know that my Redeemer lives;
What comfort this sweet sentence gives!
He lives, He lives, who once was dead,
He lives, my ever living head.
Elder Jacob Gates
addressed the conference. He rejoiced in the opportunity of meeting with the Saints in general conference. It was the first time in several years that such a privilege had been enjoyed in this building. He was reminded by what we had been singing that God lives. This is the last time the Lord purposed to prune His vineyard prior to His coming as a mighty conqueror, when every knee would bow and confess that Jesus is the Christ. It will also be acknowledged that Joseph Smith is a Prophet, and that his successors are among the chosen of God.
During the 57 years of the existence of the Church in this dispensation, the Saints had gained experience, and the Lord required that they should have more faith as a consequence. The speaker knew that every phase through which the Church had passed had been overruled for the benefit of the faithful, whose feet had been thus placed upon a higher plane. Brother Gates then dwelt upon the principle of revelation as applied to the calling of men to be ministers for God. To this sphere men must be called of God, as was Aaron, who was selected by the voice of the Lord, fresh from the divine fountain. This system of truth with which the Saints are identified had also been revealed in this way, it inculcated the same doctrines as preached by the Savior and his ancient disciples who dwelt in mortality contemporaneously with Himself. The prediction by John the Revelator in reference to the restoration in the latter times of the fulness of the Gospel was referred to and the speaker held that the very fact of such an event being predicted showed that there was to be a falling away from the true order of the Gospel. If such were not the case a restoration would be superfluous.
It was the greatest blessing that could be enjoyed by mortals to know that God lives. The speaker here gave a relation of the first experience of the Prophet Joseph Smith, when he was visited and instructed by the Father and the Son and when he was chosen as an instrument to inaugurate the marvelous work of the latter times. He could testify to the world that God lives, because his eyes had seen and his ears heard.
The present was a time of trial, and men suffered imprisonment and other inconveniences and hardships for conscience sake. The day would come, however, when freedom would spread over this goodly land, which had been dedicated to liberty. Notwithstanding the forbidding appearance of things on the surface, the speaker considered this a bright day, because it immediately preceded the breaking through of the light of liberty and truth in greater brilliancy than ever. The righteous had nothing to fear, but the wicked had great reason to do so, as the Lord had said through His prophet that he would visit the latter with swift and terrible judgments. The Saints should renew their faithfulness and keep out of their hearts every feeling of animosity toward their enemies.
addressed the conference. He rejoiced in the opportunity of meeting with the Saints in general conference. It was the first time in several years that such a privilege had been enjoyed in this building. He was reminded by what we had been singing that God lives. This is the last time the Lord purposed to prune His vineyard prior to His coming as a mighty conqueror, when every knee would bow and confess that Jesus is the Christ. It will also be acknowledged that Joseph Smith is a Prophet, and that his successors are among the chosen of God.
During the 57 years of the existence of the Church in this dispensation, the Saints had gained experience, and the Lord required that they should have more faith as a consequence. The speaker knew that every phase through which the Church had passed had been overruled for the benefit of the faithful, whose feet had been thus placed upon a higher plane. Brother Gates then dwelt upon the principle of revelation as applied to the calling of men to be ministers for God. To this sphere men must be called of God, as was Aaron, who was selected by the voice of the Lord, fresh from the divine fountain. This system of truth with which the Saints are identified had also been revealed in this way, it inculcated the same doctrines as preached by the Savior and his ancient disciples who dwelt in mortality contemporaneously with Himself. The prediction by John the Revelator in reference to the restoration in the latter times of the fulness of the Gospel was referred to and the speaker held that the very fact of such an event being predicted showed that there was to be a falling away from the true order of the Gospel. If such were not the case a restoration would be superfluous.
It was the greatest blessing that could be enjoyed by mortals to know that God lives. The speaker here gave a relation of the first experience of the Prophet Joseph Smith, when he was visited and instructed by the Father and the Son and when he was chosen as an instrument to inaugurate the marvelous work of the latter times. He could testify to the world that God lives, because his eyes had seen and his ears heard.
The present was a time of trial, and men suffered imprisonment and other inconveniences and hardships for conscience sake. The day would come, however, when freedom would spread over this goodly land, which had been dedicated to liberty. Notwithstanding the forbidding appearance of things on the surface, the speaker considered this a bright day, because it immediately preceded the breaking through of the light of liberty and truth in greater brilliancy than ever. The righteous had nothing to fear, but the wicked had great reason to do so, as the Lord had said through His prophet that he would visit the latter with swift and terrible judgments. The Saints should renew their faithfulness and keep out of their hearts every feeling of animosity toward their enemies.
Apostle John Henry Smith.
It was ever a matter of pleasure to mingle with the Saints in Conference, and speak of the goodness of God. It had been the happy lot of the speaker not to suffer much tribulation. He had grown to manhood since the arrival of the Saints in this part of the world. He had been taught in the principles of the Gospel from infancy and they had become part of his life. The Lord had done him the honor to give him a witness of their correctness and he had looked upon them as above price. When hearing his brethren speak upon them they awakened glorious reflections in his mind. They had been revealed for the benefit of mankind, that they might have an assurance concerning themselves and their approval by their heavenly Father. It was a matter of surprise that so few people understood them. We have, indeed, cause for rejoicing that our minds have been ready to accept of those truths and to direct our minds in accordance with them. The speaker had never been taught by the Elders any principle but had been sustained by the Scripture and by natural laws. If we fully obey them there is no need of offense against any one. They teach love, forbearance and kindness to all, and the good we can do to our fellows will result in good to us. This is the character of the Gospel. In the heat of controversy we may not be as considerate in relation to the views of others as we should be, but this was no part of the Gospel. When the Elders were sent out they were instructed to be as conservative of the religions of others as possible, and to confine themselves to the declaration of the pure principles of truth as revealed in the system they had espoused. Perhaps this teaching had not been adhered to as closely as it should have been. It was not good to create in the breasts of those to whom we preach the Gospel a feeling of combativeness. There has been no necessity for the Elders to assume a spirit of aggressiveness, but rather to carry the spirit of conciliation and kindness. The faith of the Gospel should be declared in simplicity; faith in God, in His Son Jesus Christ, in baptism by immersion for the remission of sins, and the laying on of hands for the reception or imparting of the Holy Ghost.
Many people had been deceived concerning us. They saw us standing alone, as it were, and many forces operating against us, yet we go on our way unmoved, and they wondered at the spectacle, not knowing whether to attribute the phenomenon to the power of God or some other cause.
Faith was a great governing principle and should actuate us as a people. It should enable the Saints to rely upon the promise of God that if they would keep His commandments He would open a way for them out of every difficulty. We cannot claim as a people that we have been altogether free from the improper feelings that have been exhibited toward us. We have acted sometimes without due consideration for the rights and prerogatives of others. Yet we have been fairly consistent. The Lord had promised that if we took a proper course He would soften the hearts of those who had felt all-disposed toward us, and thus we would be able to accomplish our mission of salvation in benefiting our fellow-beings. It is to be hoped that this will be the case and that many misunderstandings that have existed will, by the light of calm reason, be dissipated.
The speaker not only rejoiced in the ordinances of the Gospel, but also in the moral law, which made personal purity imperative. There had grown up much laxity in the world in reference to the latter requirement. It was required by the Lord, however, that we walk in the light of moral purity. If we fail to remember the obligations of the Lord in this respect, our condemnation will be the result. The world had drifted from purity of life, and the Lord was calling us back to pioneer the road to a better condition. We should ever keep before us our individual responsibility; by our record shall we be judged. The speaker, in conclusion, bore testimony that Jesus is the Christ, and that the Gospel as revealed anew in this age is true.
It was ever a matter of pleasure to mingle with the Saints in Conference, and speak of the goodness of God. It had been the happy lot of the speaker not to suffer much tribulation. He had grown to manhood since the arrival of the Saints in this part of the world. He had been taught in the principles of the Gospel from infancy and they had become part of his life. The Lord had done him the honor to give him a witness of their correctness and he had looked upon them as above price. When hearing his brethren speak upon them they awakened glorious reflections in his mind. They had been revealed for the benefit of mankind, that they might have an assurance concerning themselves and their approval by their heavenly Father. It was a matter of surprise that so few people understood them. We have, indeed, cause for rejoicing that our minds have been ready to accept of those truths and to direct our minds in accordance with them. The speaker had never been taught by the Elders any principle but had been sustained by the Scripture and by natural laws. If we fully obey them there is no need of offense against any one. They teach love, forbearance and kindness to all, and the good we can do to our fellows will result in good to us. This is the character of the Gospel. In the heat of controversy we may not be as considerate in relation to the views of others as we should be, but this was no part of the Gospel. When the Elders were sent out they were instructed to be as conservative of the religions of others as possible, and to confine themselves to the declaration of the pure principles of truth as revealed in the system they had espoused. Perhaps this teaching had not been adhered to as closely as it should have been. It was not good to create in the breasts of those to whom we preach the Gospel a feeling of combativeness. There has been no necessity for the Elders to assume a spirit of aggressiveness, but rather to carry the spirit of conciliation and kindness. The faith of the Gospel should be declared in simplicity; faith in God, in His Son Jesus Christ, in baptism by immersion for the remission of sins, and the laying on of hands for the reception or imparting of the Holy Ghost.
Many people had been deceived concerning us. They saw us standing alone, as it were, and many forces operating against us, yet we go on our way unmoved, and they wondered at the spectacle, not knowing whether to attribute the phenomenon to the power of God or some other cause.
Faith was a great governing principle and should actuate us as a people. It should enable the Saints to rely upon the promise of God that if they would keep His commandments He would open a way for them out of every difficulty. We cannot claim as a people that we have been altogether free from the improper feelings that have been exhibited toward us. We have acted sometimes without due consideration for the rights and prerogatives of others. Yet we have been fairly consistent. The Lord had promised that if we took a proper course He would soften the hearts of those who had felt all-disposed toward us, and thus we would be able to accomplish our mission of salvation in benefiting our fellow-beings. It is to be hoped that this will be the case and that many misunderstandings that have existed will, by the light of calm reason, be dissipated.
The speaker not only rejoiced in the ordinances of the Gospel, but also in the moral law, which made personal purity imperative. There had grown up much laxity in the world in reference to the latter requirement. It was required by the Lord, however, that we walk in the light of moral purity. If we fail to remember the obligations of the Lord in this respect, our condemnation will be the result. The world had drifted from purity of life, and the Lord was calling us back to pioneer the road to a better condition. We should ever keep before us our individual responsibility; by our record shall we be judged. The speaker, in conclusion, bore testimony that Jesus is the Christ, and that the Gospel as revealed anew in this age is true.
Elder Milo Andrus
addressed the Conference. He expressed gratitude to God that he was still alive and had the privilege of taking part in the progress of the work in which the Saints were all interested. He dwelt upon prominent periods of our history. To the speaker the history of the Church for the last 56 years had been of deep interest. He had the same aspirations and desires as formerly to bequeath to his generations after him the legacy of a sound faith in the principles of truth. A study of the operations of truth on the earth afforded great joy. In the study of those principles and of the history of men we can draw lessons of wisdom. We can observe what results have occurred from given effects in the past. There is a great lesson given us in the experience of Job, who was loved of God. He was blessed exceedingly with wealth and prosperity. The enemy of righteousness wished to have an opportunity to test him, with the hope that he might deny God and fall. The terrible trials to which he was subjected are a matter of record. The effect upon Job of his fearful afflictions will be remembered, yet he remained true to His God. When tempted by his wife, he replied that she talked like one of the silly women. Perhaps there may be some parallels in these times to that incident. Was there not some talk of this silly quality when men were persecuted and afflicted? Finally the man of faith and patience exclaimed that in the latter days he would stand on the earth and see his Redeemer. Many men had been tried during the progress of the work of God in these days. Some had been unable to stand the troubles with which they had been surrounded. Others had maintained their integrity, and after their tribulation they had been greatly multiplied and blessed, as in the case of Job. The speaker next directed the attention of the congregation to the experience of Jonah. Although he did not fully regard the word of the Lord, he was not cast off. It would not be proper, on this account that his example of disregard should be followed by the Elders. We have no time to rest from our labors until our last breath is drawn. In the fifty-six years of his experience in the Church the speaker had never heard the Prophet, Apostles and Elders teach any one to sin. He could say to all the world that Jesus is the Christ. He had seen the heavens manifest their treasures in the glorious gifts of the Gospel. He concluded with a strong exhortation to faithfulness.
An anthem—Sing to the Lord in joyful strains was sung by the choir.
Benediction by Elder Elias Morris.
addressed the Conference. He expressed gratitude to God that he was still alive and had the privilege of taking part in the progress of the work in which the Saints were all interested. He dwelt upon prominent periods of our history. To the speaker the history of the Church for the last 56 years had been of deep interest. He had the same aspirations and desires as formerly to bequeath to his generations after him the legacy of a sound faith in the principles of truth. A study of the operations of truth on the earth afforded great joy. In the study of those principles and of the history of men we can draw lessons of wisdom. We can observe what results have occurred from given effects in the past. There is a great lesson given us in the experience of Job, who was loved of God. He was blessed exceedingly with wealth and prosperity. The enemy of righteousness wished to have an opportunity to test him, with the hope that he might deny God and fall. The terrible trials to which he was subjected are a matter of record. The effect upon Job of his fearful afflictions will be remembered, yet he remained true to His God. When tempted by his wife, he replied that she talked like one of the silly women. Perhaps there may be some parallels in these times to that incident. Was there not some talk of this silly quality when men were persecuted and afflicted? Finally the man of faith and patience exclaimed that in the latter days he would stand on the earth and see his Redeemer. Many men had been tried during the progress of the work of God in these days. Some had been unable to stand the troubles with which they had been surrounded. Others had maintained their integrity, and after their tribulation they had been greatly multiplied and blessed, as in the case of Job. The speaker next directed the attention of the congregation to the experience of Jonah. Although he did not fully regard the word of the Lord, he was not cast off. It would not be proper, on this account that his example of disregard should be followed by the Elders. We have no time to rest from our labors until our last breath is drawn. In the fifty-six years of his experience in the Church the speaker had never heard the Prophet, Apostles and Elders teach any one to sin. He could say to all the world that Jesus is the Christ. He had seen the heavens manifest their treasures in the glorious gifts of the Gospel. He concluded with a strong exhortation to faithfulness.
An anthem—Sing to the Lord in joyful strains was sung by the choir.
Benediction by Elder Elias Morris.
First Day. Afternoon Session.
Singing by the choir:
Awake, ye Saints of God, awake!
Call on the Lord in mighty prayer,
That He will Zion’s bondage break,
And bring to naught the fowler’s snare.
Prayer by Bishop Samuel A. Woolley.
The choir sang:
The time is nigh, that happy time,
That great expected, blessed day,
When countless thousands of our race
Shall dwell with Christ and Him obey.
Singing by the choir:
Awake, ye Saints of God, awake!
Call on the Lord in mighty prayer,
That He will Zion’s bondage break,
And bring to naught the fowler’s snare.
Prayer by Bishop Samuel A. Woolley.
The choir sang:
The time is nigh, that happy time,
That great expected, blessed day,
When countless thousands of our race
Shall dwell with Christ and Him obey.
Elder Hugh S. Gowans, President of Tooele Stake, was called to address the assemblage.
Notwithstanding the diffidence he felt in undertaking this duty, he felt a pleasure in lifting up his voice in behalf of the cause of truth. He could unite with his brethren in gratitude to God for the deliverances that have been wrought out for the people. It was a great privilege to associate in our present capacity of a general Conference in peace, to be instructed in our duties. We are here in this life to learn the way in which we should walk to enable us to return to our Father in heaven. That we may take the right path we should and must possess the Holy Spirit. To possess that influence it is necessary that our lives be righteous. If Satan can fill our minds with doubt in reference to this Church and its destiny, he will do so. There are many inducements to lead the unwary astray. The design of the Lord, however, was to lead this people to a higher plane and sphere, above the things of the world. We should rise above everything in opposition to the Gospel. If the spirit of God is in our hearts we will clearly discern the good from the evil. By measuring our lives with what God has revealed for our acceptance we will be in a position to know whether our course is acceptable to Him or not. Self-examination will enable us to understand whether or not we are traveling toward that high standard to which the Lord desires we should be attracted. We must be prayerful in spirit, and exercise faith in Him. We should keep the Sabbath day, attend our meetings in our wards and quorums. It is questionable whether these things have been fully attended to. There is more delight to Saints in attending to these things than to spend our time in excursions and other similar ways of seeking pleasure. We should cheerfully pay our tithes and keep the laws of life, that health may abound and that our lives may be prolonged in usefulness. God has revealed a Priesthood and principles by which we can rise above the petty jealousies of life. If we would have faith we must attend our fast meetings and tender our offerings for the benefit and sustenance of the poor. If we do those things we will have faith to administer to our families and rebuke from them the encroachments of the destroyer.
There is nothing in our theology but tends to morality and to spiritual and physical life. We have our religion and our business mixed up, and the former is sometimes allowed to settle to the bottom, causing it to require to be stirred up, that it may come to the top. Some men have so little faith that when propositions are made for the benefit of the work of God they hesitate to accept and act upon them. This is unfortunate, as all should be ready to operate for the general weal. This should not as the condition of any man who holds the Priesthood and has taken upon him the name of Christ. The speaker hoped that the light of the Spirit might dwell in his heart to enable him to participate in any movement of a beneficial character. He hoped this would also be the condition of all the brethren.
Notwithstanding the diffidence he felt in undertaking this duty, he felt a pleasure in lifting up his voice in behalf of the cause of truth. He could unite with his brethren in gratitude to God for the deliverances that have been wrought out for the people. It was a great privilege to associate in our present capacity of a general Conference in peace, to be instructed in our duties. We are here in this life to learn the way in which we should walk to enable us to return to our Father in heaven. That we may take the right path we should and must possess the Holy Spirit. To possess that influence it is necessary that our lives be righteous. If Satan can fill our minds with doubt in reference to this Church and its destiny, he will do so. There are many inducements to lead the unwary astray. The design of the Lord, however, was to lead this people to a higher plane and sphere, above the things of the world. We should rise above everything in opposition to the Gospel. If the spirit of God is in our hearts we will clearly discern the good from the evil. By measuring our lives with what God has revealed for our acceptance we will be in a position to know whether our course is acceptable to Him or not. Self-examination will enable us to understand whether or not we are traveling toward that high standard to which the Lord desires we should be attracted. We must be prayerful in spirit, and exercise faith in Him. We should keep the Sabbath day, attend our meetings in our wards and quorums. It is questionable whether these things have been fully attended to. There is more delight to Saints in attending to these things than to spend our time in excursions and other similar ways of seeking pleasure. We should cheerfully pay our tithes and keep the laws of life, that health may abound and that our lives may be prolonged in usefulness. God has revealed a Priesthood and principles by which we can rise above the petty jealousies of life. If we would have faith we must attend our fast meetings and tender our offerings for the benefit and sustenance of the poor. If we do those things we will have faith to administer to our families and rebuke from them the encroachments of the destroyer.
There is nothing in our theology but tends to morality and to spiritual and physical life. We have our religion and our business mixed up, and the former is sometimes allowed to settle to the bottom, causing it to require to be stirred up, that it may come to the top. Some men have so little faith that when propositions are made for the benefit of the work of God they hesitate to accept and act upon them. This is unfortunate, as all should be ready to operate for the general weal. This should not as the condition of any man who holds the Priesthood and has taken upon him the name of Christ. The speaker hoped that the light of the Spirit might dwell in his heart to enable him to participate in any movement of a beneficial character. He hoped this would also be the condition of all the brethren.
Elder Abram H. Cannon, of the Presiding Council of the Seventies, was the next speaker.
The truths to which we had listened would save and exalt us if we adopted them. What this people have accomplished under the blessing of God is marvelous. The Lord is ready to bless the Saints still further if they are ready to accept of what he has to proffer. We have to grapple with spiritual and temporal questions.
We witness disunion growing among the nations. There is an increasing element and disposition toward a disruption of organized society. The spirit of destruction is abroad, and bitter disputes between labor and capital are multiplying. We have been led to expect such things. There are duties in a temporal capacity devolving upon us. We have not been visited by the evils rife elsewhere, but unless we are careful we may be confronted by them. In this country we may expect that greater differences than have heretofore existed will make their appearance. We must be prepared to meet and cure them. The Lord has said it was not given that one man should be above another. He has told the Saints that if they were not united in temporal things, they could not attain to spiritual excellence. We have been paying too much attention to the accumulation of wealth, and not so much as was needful to duties that are higher. The speaker then dwelt for some time upon those revelations contained in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants in reference to the temporal affairs of the Saints. The principles they inculcate were of a nature to exalt the poor and humble the rich, and produce other equitable results. He expected to see these laws and principles established among the Saints and he understood that the Zion of God would be built by that divine system.
The work of God requires the whole-hearted devotion of its adherents. It involves the sacrifice of all things deemed valuable in this life, if necessary. If we are divided against ourselves, we cannot, according to a principle enunciated by the Savior, stand, but must fall. If we are united however, we cannot be moved. We have looked to human aid for a way to escape from present troubles. It would, however, be provided by the power of God. If we rely upon human help we will be disappointed. In God lies our only refuge and hope. If we trust in him every cloud will disappear, and the Saints will return to Zion where the Temple, upon which the glory of God is to rest will be reared. The Saints should be governed by the law of God, written upon their hearts. That law will not and does not conflict with the principles of the glorious Constitution of our common country.
The truths to which we had listened would save and exalt us if we adopted them. What this people have accomplished under the blessing of God is marvelous. The Lord is ready to bless the Saints still further if they are ready to accept of what he has to proffer. We have to grapple with spiritual and temporal questions.
We witness disunion growing among the nations. There is an increasing element and disposition toward a disruption of organized society. The spirit of destruction is abroad, and bitter disputes between labor and capital are multiplying. We have been led to expect such things. There are duties in a temporal capacity devolving upon us. We have not been visited by the evils rife elsewhere, but unless we are careful we may be confronted by them. In this country we may expect that greater differences than have heretofore existed will make their appearance. We must be prepared to meet and cure them. The Lord has said it was not given that one man should be above another. He has told the Saints that if they were not united in temporal things, they could not attain to spiritual excellence. We have been paying too much attention to the accumulation of wealth, and not so much as was needful to duties that are higher. The speaker then dwelt for some time upon those revelations contained in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants in reference to the temporal affairs of the Saints. The principles they inculcate were of a nature to exalt the poor and humble the rich, and produce other equitable results. He expected to see these laws and principles established among the Saints and he understood that the Zion of God would be built by that divine system.
The work of God requires the whole-hearted devotion of its adherents. It involves the sacrifice of all things deemed valuable in this life, if necessary. If we are divided against ourselves, we cannot, according to a principle enunciated by the Savior, stand, but must fall. If we are united however, we cannot be moved. We have looked to human aid for a way to escape from present troubles. It would, however, be provided by the power of God. If we rely upon human help we will be disappointed. In God lies our only refuge and hope. If we trust in him every cloud will disappear, and the Saints will return to Zion where the Temple, upon which the glory of God is to rest will be reared. The Saints should be governed by the law of God, written upon their hearts. That law will not and does not conflict with the principles of the glorious Constitution of our common country.
Elder Elias Morris
addressed the assemblage. He expressed himself as delighted with what he had heard. It had been accompanied by the Spirit of the Gospel. Charity and good feeling had been expressed toward all men. This disposition ought to be cultivated. The Gospel we have received—many of us in distant lands from this—embodies life and salvation. It has been revealed in our own day, and has not been picked up by the wisdom of men. It was not known in our day—notwithstanding that there were many honest and devoted to God—until revealed in this generation. This system had not been discovered by the wisdom of men. It was the same that had been hidden up in Christ. If the Bible were not in existence it would make no difference to the Gospel as revealed anew. But if we had not this record, the various sects would have no foundation for their religions. It is questionable whether Joseph Smith, when first called of God, knew much of the principles contained in the Scriptures. Nevertheless between what is contained in the good book and that revealed through the latter-day Prophet there was a most beautiful harmony. The system was revealed to him line upon line and precept upon precept.
There is something here that testifies to the truth of the scriptural saying—“No man knoweth the things of God, except by the Spirit of God.” For ages men, by their own wisdom have searched, and searched in vain for a knowledge of the true principles of the Gospel. An unlearned youth, by the power and Spirit of God, had discovered them by that gift in their fullness.
We are called a peculiar people. When we heard the first sound of the Gospel, there was an echo from our hearts. We could not explain it, but it was there. We knew the testimony of the servants of God was true. Many of us were prepared for the message of heaven by dreams and visions, and we have known the Elders, recognizing them on sight as God’s servants although we had never before met them. As soon as we received the Gospel in different lands we were imbued with a powerful desire to gather with the body of the Church. It was irresistible, and we found no rest, day or night, until we obeyed its promptings. These things show how we are a peculiar people. They were manifestations of the fact that God is in this work.
It has been imagined that forces could be brought to bear upon the Saints to eliminate from their hearts the love of the work with which they are identified. This can never be done. It is impossible. It is everything to the people and they will be found willing to suffer all things for its sake. Victory will perch upon the banners of Zion, for this is the promise of the Lord to His people. We may, however, be called to pass through many trials before that condition shall arrive. But every ordeal will redound to our good, and prepare us for that which lies in the bosom of the future.
addressed the assemblage. He expressed himself as delighted with what he had heard. It had been accompanied by the Spirit of the Gospel. Charity and good feeling had been expressed toward all men. This disposition ought to be cultivated. The Gospel we have received—many of us in distant lands from this—embodies life and salvation. It has been revealed in our own day, and has not been picked up by the wisdom of men. It was not known in our day—notwithstanding that there were many honest and devoted to God—until revealed in this generation. This system had not been discovered by the wisdom of men. It was the same that had been hidden up in Christ. If the Bible were not in existence it would make no difference to the Gospel as revealed anew. But if we had not this record, the various sects would have no foundation for their religions. It is questionable whether Joseph Smith, when first called of God, knew much of the principles contained in the Scriptures. Nevertheless between what is contained in the good book and that revealed through the latter-day Prophet there was a most beautiful harmony. The system was revealed to him line upon line and precept upon precept.
There is something here that testifies to the truth of the scriptural saying—“No man knoweth the things of God, except by the Spirit of God.” For ages men, by their own wisdom have searched, and searched in vain for a knowledge of the true principles of the Gospel. An unlearned youth, by the power and Spirit of God, had discovered them by that gift in their fullness.
We are called a peculiar people. When we heard the first sound of the Gospel, there was an echo from our hearts. We could not explain it, but it was there. We knew the testimony of the servants of God was true. Many of us were prepared for the message of heaven by dreams and visions, and we have known the Elders, recognizing them on sight as God’s servants although we had never before met them. As soon as we received the Gospel in different lands we were imbued with a powerful desire to gather with the body of the Church. It was irresistible, and we found no rest, day or night, until we obeyed its promptings. These things show how we are a peculiar people. They were manifestations of the fact that God is in this work.
It has been imagined that forces could be brought to bear upon the Saints to eliminate from their hearts the love of the work with which they are identified. This can never be done. It is impossible. It is everything to the people and they will be found willing to suffer all things for its sake. Victory will perch upon the banners of Zion, for this is the promise of the Lord to His people. We may, however, be called to pass through many trials before that condition shall arrive. But every ordeal will redound to our good, and prepare us for that which lies in the bosom of the future.
Elder F. A. Hammond, President of San Juan Stake, addressed the congregation.
He felt repaid for his labor and effort in getting here to attend Conference. He had been laboring for about two years in San Juan County, in the southeastern portion of Utah. He had had no desire to return until it was time to come to Conference. He referred to a mission he performed to the Sandwich Islands. The Elders were on one occasion engaged in blessing each other. A prominent Elder promised him then that he would be a blessing and consolation to those among whom he labored. He hoped to fulfill this prediction. As he entered the city recently and beheld the beautiful Temple rearing its walls and turrets to heaven, he was impelled to exclaim, “What hath God wrought!” This feeling was intensified by his recollection of the earliest settlement of this valley. The transformation is most wonderful. God would never forsake His people but would bless, multiply and increase them. The speaker said he embraced the Gospel in San Francisco in 1847, he being then a full grown man. From his experience he was impressed with a feeling of charity for people whom we sometimes call Gentiles. He then related some incidents concerning two Elders who visited his native village in the Eastern States, when he was about 11 years, on which occasion he heard the first gospel sermon preached by Latter-day Saints. His next meeting with the brethren was in San Francisco, as before stated. His next meeting with the brethren was in San Francisco, as before stated. He gave an account of his early experience in the Church, the discovery of gold in California and other matters of historical interest.
The choir sang: Jerusalem, my glorious home!
Benediction by Apostle Heber J. Grant.
He felt repaid for his labor and effort in getting here to attend Conference. He had been laboring for about two years in San Juan County, in the southeastern portion of Utah. He had had no desire to return until it was time to come to Conference. He referred to a mission he performed to the Sandwich Islands. The Elders were on one occasion engaged in blessing each other. A prominent Elder promised him then that he would be a blessing and consolation to those among whom he labored. He hoped to fulfill this prediction. As he entered the city recently and beheld the beautiful Temple rearing its walls and turrets to heaven, he was impelled to exclaim, “What hath God wrought!” This feeling was intensified by his recollection of the earliest settlement of this valley. The transformation is most wonderful. God would never forsake His people but would bless, multiply and increase them. The speaker said he embraced the Gospel in San Francisco in 1847, he being then a full grown man. From his experience he was impressed with a feeling of charity for people whom we sometimes call Gentiles. He then related some incidents concerning two Elders who visited his native village in the Eastern States, when he was about 11 years, on which occasion he heard the first gospel sermon preached by Latter-day Saints. His next meeting with the brethren was in San Francisco, as before stated. His next meeting with the brethren was in San Francisco, as before stated. He gave an account of his early experience in the Church, the discovery of gold in California and other matters of historical interest.
The choir sang: Jerusalem, my glorious home!
Benediction by Apostle Heber J. Grant.
Second Day. Morning Session, Oct. 7th.
Conference opened at 10 a.m.
Glorious things of thee are spoken,
Zion, city of our God!
He whose word can not be broken,
Chose thee for His own abode,
was sung by the choir.
Prayer by Elder Joseph B. Noble.
Singing:
Zion stands with hills surrounded--
Zion, kept by power divine;
All her foes shall be confounded,
Though the world in arms combine,
Happy Zion What a favored lot is thine!
Conference opened at 10 a.m.
Glorious things of thee are spoken,
Zion, city of our God!
He whose word can not be broken,
Chose thee for His own abode,
was sung by the choir.
Prayer by Elder Joseph B. Noble.
Singing:
Zion stands with hills surrounded--
Zion, kept by power divine;
All her foes shall be confounded,
Though the world in arms combine,
Happy Zion What a favored lot is thine!
Apostle John W. Taylor
said, in substance: He was gratified for the privilege of meeting with the Saints in Conference. He desired the presence of the Holy Spirit. Many changes have taken place since we last assembled in this building in a similar capacity to this. They had seriously tried many of the people. We are living in a day when each individual member of the Church should be in possession of the Holy Spirit. It is a time when we need comfort, and instruction such as cannot be given by man. The Savior informed His ancient disciples that they must tarry at Jerusalem until they should be endowed with power. He promised to send upon them the Spirit of Truth. Those who know its operations are aware that it imparts comfort and knowledge. The greatest desire of the speaker was that he might enjoy the presence of that Spirit. He thought of this more especially when he partook of the sacrament of the Lord’s supper. When it was taken unworthily such action was followed by condemnation. Some of the Saints asked where they could go to seek counsel. All who had the Holy Spirit could receive it in every time of need from God. It is said by some that the Saints are poor and illiterate. There may be some truth in this, but it is not entirely true. A few of them were wealthy when they embraced the Gospel, but the bulk had been poor. This verifies the statement of the Savior, who thanked the father that He had given Him the weak things as pertaining to the world that by them the things that are powerful might be overturned. There are many churches here who claim to have been established among us to redeem us from bondage and sin. The facts will show that the Latter-day Saints will compare favorably on the plane of morality and religion with their professed regenerators. Examine all the denominations and it will be found that they claim to enjoy the Holy Ghost. The chief office of that spirit is to guide the possessors into all truth. If they have it why is it that they walk in so many ways diverse from each other? There is a method by which it can be ascertained whether people possess the Comforter. The presence of that Spirit is attainable by all. When John was banished upon the Isle of Patmos, and was in bondage for the testimony of Jesus, he was about to fall down and worship an angel who appeared to him. He was told not to do so, as that holy being was one of his fellow-servants the prophets. The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy, consequently those who possess it have the prophetic spirit. Paul proclaimed that no man could say that Jesus is the Christ, save by the Holy Ghost; therefore it is the Holy Spirit that imparts the testimony of Jesus. It is of infinite importance that the Saints understand these things for themselves. The same ancient Apostle exhorted the people in his day to contend earnestly for the best gifts. He also enumerated the various miraculous gifts conferred by the Holy Ghost. The Comforter was to show the disciples things to come, and lead them into all truth; consequently all upon whom it rests are to a greater or less extent prophets. An understanding of things yet future is the prophetic gift. It was by the power of the Holy Ghost that all the ancient prophets were enabled to foretell events that still lay in the bosom of the future. The speaker illustrated his remarks by scriptural references, and various Biblical incident. He also explained that even the prophets possessed this power in different degrees. The Savior is said to have possessed it without measure, while it was given to others more sparingly. An incident was related wherein Moses was led to express a desire that all Israel should be prophets. When a people are thus blessed disunion disappears, as truth could not conflict with truth and that which comes from the Lord could not be untrue. It is common to charge the Latter-day Saints with being led by one man power. When a people are led by the voice of the Holy Ghost through an authorized servant of the Lord they are led by the power of Jehovah. If all the professing Christians in the world possessed the Holy Ghost they would enjoy the testimony of Jesus and would understand things to come by the gift of prophecy.
Brother Taylor exhorted the Saints to seek earnestly the best gifts, and also invited any who might be present who had not yet obeyed the Gospel to come forward and test its truth as revealed in this age. If they conformed to the principles it incorporated they would receive an individual witness of its divine origin. The secret of the unity of the Latter-day Saints is because of the Holy Spirit they possess. In reference to the operations of the Spirit, it is not that which is seen which is the most potent, but rather that which is invisible. As for instance the body of a mortal is visible, but the spirit which inhabits it is not, to the natural eye; yet when the spirit leaves the body it is dead, the more powerful and quickening part having departed.
The speaker asked the question whether the young people listening to him had a testimony of the work of the Lord for themselves. The reply would probably be that they could not see it. It is not tangible, so we cannot behold it. Your spirit is an entity, yet you cannot see that; nevertheless it exists. The speaker further illustrated this part of his remarks by incidents in point. An electric current cannot be seen, yet it not only exists but is a most powerful agent, and produces wonderful effects. So with the Spirit of God. It may not be seen with the natural eye of man, yet it is powerful and sharp as a two-edged sword, and a searcher and discoverer of secrets. The day will come when the potency of that Spirit will be exercised in the world, when it is filled with corruption, anarchy and confusion. Examples of exhibitions of this power, manifested in sacred history, were cited and dwelt upon, and still more wonderful phenomena from the same cause, to be developed in the future, were quoted. he desired that all might repent and enjoy the presence and effects of the Holy Spirit and be prepared for the coming of the Lord.
said, in substance: He was gratified for the privilege of meeting with the Saints in Conference. He desired the presence of the Holy Spirit. Many changes have taken place since we last assembled in this building in a similar capacity to this. They had seriously tried many of the people. We are living in a day when each individual member of the Church should be in possession of the Holy Spirit. It is a time when we need comfort, and instruction such as cannot be given by man. The Savior informed His ancient disciples that they must tarry at Jerusalem until they should be endowed with power. He promised to send upon them the Spirit of Truth. Those who know its operations are aware that it imparts comfort and knowledge. The greatest desire of the speaker was that he might enjoy the presence of that Spirit. He thought of this more especially when he partook of the sacrament of the Lord’s supper. When it was taken unworthily such action was followed by condemnation. Some of the Saints asked where they could go to seek counsel. All who had the Holy Spirit could receive it in every time of need from God. It is said by some that the Saints are poor and illiterate. There may be some truth in this, but it is not entirely true. A few of them were wealthy when they embraced the Gospel, but the bulk had been poor. This verifies the statement of the Savior, who thanked the father that He had given Him the weak things as pertaining to the world that by them the things that are powerful might be overturned. There are many churches here who claim to have been established among us to redeem us from bondage and sin. The facts will show that the Latter-day Saints will compare favorably on the plane of morality and religion with their professed regenerators. Examine all the denominations and it will be found that they claim to enjoy the Holy Ghost. The chief office of that spirit is to guide the possessors into all truth. If they have it why is it that they walk in so many ways diverse from each other? There is a method by which it can be ascertained whether people possess the Comforter. The presence of that Spirit is attainable by all. When John was banished upon the Isle of Patmos, and was in bondage for the testimony of Jesus, he was about to fall down and worship an angel who appeared to him. He was told not to do so, as that holy being was one of his fellow-servants the prophets. The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy, consequently those who possess it have the prophetic spirit. Paul proclaimed that no man could say that Jesus is the Christ, save by the Holy Ghost; therefore it is the Holy Spirit that imparts the testimony of Jesus. It is of infinite importance that the Saints understand these things for themselves. The same ancient Apostle exhorted the people in his day to contend earnestly for the best gifts. He also enumerated the various miraculous gifts conferred by the Holy Ghost. The Comforter was to show the disciples things to come, and lead them into all truth; consequently all upon whom it rests are to a greater or less extent prophets. An understanding of things yet future is the prophetic gift. It was by the power of the Holy Ghost that all the ancient prophets were enabled to foretell events that still lay in the bosom of the future. The speaker illustrated his remarks by scriptural references, and various Biblical incident. He also explained that even the prophets possessed this power in different degrees. The Savior is said to have possessed it without measure, while it was given to others more sparingly. An incident was related wherein Moses was led to express a desire that all Israel should be prophets. When a people are thus blessed disunion disappears, as truth could not conflict with truth and that which comes from the Lord could not be untrue. It is common to charge the Latter-day Saints with being led by one man power. When a people are led by the voice of the Holy Ghost through an authorized servant of the Lord they are led by the power of Jehovah. If all the professing Christians in the world possessed the Holy Ghost they would enjoy the testimony of Jesus and would understand things to come by the gift of prophecy.
Brother Taylor exhorted the Saints to seek earnestly the best gifts, and also invited any who might be present who had not yet obeyed the Gospel to come forward and test its truth as revealed in this age. If they conformed to the principles it incorporated they would receive an individual witness of its divine origin. The secret of the unity of the Latter-day Saints is because of the Holy Spirit they possess. In reference to the operations of the Spirit, it is not that which is seen which is the most potent, but rather that which is invisible. As for instance the body of a mortal is visible, but the spirit which inhabits it is not, to the natural eye; yet when the spirit leaves the body it is dead, the more powerful and quickening part having departed.
The speaker asked the question whether the young people listening to him had a testimony of the work of the Lord for themselves. The reply would probably be that they could not see it. It is not tangible, so we cannot behold it. Your spirit is an entity, yet you cannot see that; nevertheless it exists. The speaker further illustrated this part of his remarks by incidents in point. An electric current cannot be seen, yet it not only exists but is a most powerful agent, and produces wonderful effects. So with the Spirit of God. It may not be seen with the natural eye of man, yet it is powerful and sharp as a two-edged sword, and a searcher and discoverer of secrets. The day will come when the potency of that Spirit will be exercised in the world, when it is filled with corruption, anarchy and confusion. Examples of exhibitions of this power, manifested in sacred history, were cited and dwelt upon, and still more wonderful phenomena from the same cause, to be developed in the future, were quoted. he desired that all might repent and enjoy the presence and effects of the Holy Spirit and be prepared for the coming of the Lord.
Elder George Goddard
made some remarks. There are thousands present from great distances to be renewed in their spiritual strength. The preceding speaker has been dwelling upon some things that are visible and other things that cannot be seen. Religious principles cannot be seen only as they are observed in the practice of their devotees. To one and all he would say that if any have neglected to conform to the principles that have been enunciated by the speakers, such should repent. The only way in which the benefits of truth can be enjoyed is by their practical adoption. If any have erred in feelings and judgment upon any point, whether it be in relation to the law of tithing or any other principle, let such repent, and the speaker called upon that class to do so. They should resolve to honor those requirements in future. Hundreds and thousands will go home from this conference with a stronger determination in the future to live as Latter-day Saints in very deed.
The choir sang an anthem.
Benediction by Patriarch John Smith.
made some remarks. There are thousands present from great distances to be renewed in their spiritual strength. The preceding speaker has been dwelling upon some things that are visible and other things that cannot be seen. Religious principles cannot be seen only as they are observed in the practice of their devotees. To one and all he would say that if any have neglected to conform to the principles that have been enunciated by the speakers, such should repent. The only way in which the benefits of truth can be enjoyed is by their practical adoption. If any have erred in feelings and judgment upon any point, whether it be in relation to the law of tithing or any other principle, let such repent, and the speaker called upon that class to do so. They should resolve to honor those requirements in future. Hundreds and thousands will go home from this conference with a stronger determination in the future to live as Latter-day Saints in very deed.
The choir sang an anthem.
Benediction by Patriarch John Smith.
Afternoon Session.
Opened with singing: O Jesus! the giver Of all we enjoy, Our lives to thy honor We wish to employ.
Prayer by Apostle John Henry Smith.
Singing: Glorious things are sung of Zion Enoch’s city seen of old, Where the righteous, being perfect, Walked with God in streets of gold.
Opened with singing: O Jesus! the giver Of all we enjoy, Our lives to thy honor We wish to employ.
Prayer by Apostle John Henry Smith.
Singing: Glorious things are sung of Zion Enoch’s city seen of old, Where the righteous, being perfect, Walked with God in streets of gold.
Elder William Budge, President of Bear Lake Stake, was the opening speaker this afternoon.
He was deeply impressed with the importance of the occasion, in consequence of the excellent instruction already given and those we might anticipate receiving before we adjourn. The spirit of the speakers and their efforts have led the minds of the Saints to contemplate true doctrine and the every-day duties devolving upon them. Many matter engage our attention. Nothing is so profitable as instruction pertaining to practical duties. We cannot keep God’s commandments except we understand them. We must serve Him intelligently to do so acceptably. We have the Priesthood in our midst to teach us, and therefore if we fail we are inexcusable. The circumstances through which the Saints have passed have conduced to make them a thoughtful and intelligent people. The conditions under which the Gospel was offered to us in the first place were not such as to induce us to accept of it aside from the fact of its correctness. It was an unpopular faith. But as its truthfulness was unfolded the desire to receive it increased. We were impelled, on account of the worldly disadvantages involved, to give the divine message the closest scrutiny. We became satisfied that it inculcated the power of salvation. Since then vicissitudes and troubles have tended to try the temper of our faith. If the blessing of God had not been enjoyed the Saints could not have withstood the storm of adversity that has existed around them. Present circumstances have the same tendency upon this people. They cause further examination of the situation and a closer adherence to the Gospel. There is an apparently easy way out of trouble, but the truth is more precious than immunity from difficulties and hardships. Thus are the Saints educated in the Gospel of Christ. This is a glorious day for Zion, because it is a good time for the education, by experience, of the the Latter-day Saints. God is near and laboring in our midst through His servants and by the whisperings of the Holy Spirit. It is desired by those who teach us that we keep the commandments of God. This should be the chief object of our lives. We should be able to say: “O Lord we have striven to keep Thy commandments. We have failed somewhat through weakness; nevertheless wilt thou strengthen us.” If we serve God we have a right to His blessing. We should abolish every evil from our thoughts and practice, that the Spirit’s influence may be able to do good in the midst of Israel. The liberty which the reception and practice of the Gospel of Christ brings is so great as to be beyond expression. If men are ignorant of those things which God reveals there is an absence of faith, but when those things are comprehended there is light and liberty. The speaker testified that this is the work of God, established by His power. He had been long conscious of this fact. The work will grow and spread abroad until the words of the Lord in reference to it shall be fulfilled to the letter. It is not the hearing of that which is true that will benefit us, but that which is understood and intelligently acted upon. We are accused by our opponents of thinking but very little. It is said that when we are told to go we go, and when directed to come we come. This is in part true, when we recognize the fact that it is God who directs us. He concluded by praying for the blessing of the Lord upon all.
He was deeply impressed with the importance of the occasion, in consequence of the excellent instruction already given and those we might anticipate receiving before we adjourn. The spirit of the speakers and their efforts have led the minds of the Saints to contemplate true doctrine and the every-day duties devolving upon them. Many matter engage our attention. Nothing is so profitable as instruction pertaining to practical duties. We cannot keep God’s commandments except we understand them. We must serve Him intelligently to do so acceptably. We have the Priesthood in our midst to teach us, and therefore if we fail we are inexcusable. The circumstances through which the Saints have passed have conduced to make them a thoughtful and intelligent people. The conditions under which the Gospel was offered to us in the first place were not such as to induce us to accept of it aside from the fact of its correctness. It was an unpopular faith. But as its truthfulness was unfolded the desire to receive it increased. We were impelled, on account of the worldly disadvantages involved, to give the divine message the closest scrutiny. We became satisfied that it inculcated the power of salvation. Since then vicissitudes and troubles have tended to try the temper of our faith. If the blessing of God had not been enjoyed the Saints could not have withstood the storm of adversity that has existed around them. Present circumstances have the same tendency upon this people. They cause further examination of the situation and a closer adherence to the Gospel. There is an apparently easy way out of trouble, but the truth is more precious than immunity from difficulties and hardships. Thus are the Saints educated in the Gospel of Christ. This is a glorious day for Zion, because it is a good time for the education, by experience, of the the Latter-day Saints. God is near and laboring in our midst through His servants and by the whisperings of the Holy Spirit. It is desired by those who teach us that we keep the commandments of God. This should be the chief object of our lives. We should be able to say: “O Lord we have striven to keep Thy commandments. We have failed somewhat through weakness; nevertheless wilt thou strengthen us.” If we serve God we have a right to His blessing. We should abolish every evil from our thoughts and practice, that the Spirit’s influence may be able to do good in the midst of Israel. The liberty which the reception and practice of the Gospel of Christ brings is so great as to be beyond expression. If men are ignorant of those things which God reveals there is an absence of faith, but when those things are comprehended there is light and liberty. The speaker testified that this is the work of God, established by His power. He had been long conscious of this fact. The work will grow and spread abroad until the words of the Lord in reference to it shall be fulfilled to the letter. It is not the hearing of that which is true that will benefit us, but that which is understood and intelligently acted upon. We are accused by our opponents of thinking but very little. It is said that when we are told to go we go, and when directed to come we come. This is in part true, when we recognize the fact that it is God who directs us. He concluded by praying for the blessing of the Lord upon all.
Bishop William M. Bromley
felt pleasure in being able to say that the greatest wish of his heart was to have the fellowship of the Holy Spirit and of the faithful. The hand of God had been over this people. It was but seventy years since Joseph Smith, an illiterate youth, declared that the Father and Son, in form and shape like unto man had appeared unto him and announced that no denomination was worshipping aright. This was an assertion to the effect that the religions of the world were not worshipping that being who made heaven and earth. Since then thousands of people had gathered in one in obedience to the command of the Almighty. The Gospel as delivered to the great prophet of the 19th century, unfolded great and comforting truths. We learned from it that all the endorsing family has formed here would be renewed in eternity. We should be a happy people. We had to pass through trouble. What of that? The object of which we were in pursuit would compensate for all. We had seen Brother Snow, who now presides over this Conference, in prison, and never heard him complain of his lot. He was always cheerful, and his words were wise and instructive. Those who go to prison for the Gospel’s sake are sustained by the spirit of the Lord. He came to Utah when a boy. There were not, at the time, the conditions to offend the moral sense that exist now. These corruptions and allurements had not been introduced by the Latter-day Saints. The principles they have espoused are opposed to evil of every shape. Intelligence and virtue form the groundwork of exaltation in the presence of God. It is the principles incorporated in the Church of Christ which had brought the thousands of people who throng this building together with one common impulse. The speaker showed the necessity of the Saints sustaining their friends in preference to giving support to their enemies. Next to his religion he prized the Constitution and institutions of the government of this country. His religion taught him to venerate them. The power of the Latter-day Saints is not waning. There are many thousands who have not bowed the knee to Baal, and never would. He testified that the Church had been established by divine revelation and commandment.
felt pleasure in being able to say that the greatest wish of his heart was to have the fellowship of the Holy Spirit and of the faithful. The hand of God had been over this people. It was but seventy years since Joseph Smith, an illiterate youth, declared that the Father and Son, in form and shape like unto man had appeared unto him and announced that no denomination was worshipping aright. This was an assertion to the effect that the religions of the world were not worshipping that being who made heaven and earth. Since then thousands of people had gathered in one in obedience to the command of the Almighty. The Gospel as delivered to the great prophet of the 19th century, unfolded great and comforting truths. We learned from it that all the endorsing family has formed here would be renewed in eternity. We should be a happy people. We had to pass through trouble. What of that? The object of which we were in pursuit would compensate for all. We had seen Brother Snow, who now presides over this Conference, in prison, and never heard him complain of his lot. He was always cheerful, and his words were wise and instructive. Those who go to prison for the Gospel’s sake are sustained by the spirit of the Lord. He came to Utah when a boy. There were not, at the time, the conditions to offend the moral sense that exist now. These corruptions and allurements had not been introduced by the Latter-day Saints. The principles they have espoused are opposed to evil of every shape. Intelligence and virtue form the groundwork of exaltation in the presence of God. It is the principles incorporated in the Church of Christ which had brought the thousands of people who throng this building together with one common impulse. The speaker showed the necessity of the Saints sustaining their friends in preference to giving support to their enemies. Next to his religion he prized the Constitution and institutions of the government of this country. His religion taught him to venerate them. The power of the Latter-day Saints is not waning. There are many thousands who have not bowed the knee to Baal, and never would. He testified that the Church had been established by divine revelation and commandment.
Elder Angus M. Cannon, President of Salt Lake Stake, next addressed the assembly.
His heart had been filled with delight at listening to the inspired words of his brethren. Considering the professions we make we are led to ask whether we are justified by our practice. We are approaching a time when the Lord will appear to judgment. The speaker was anxious to know how his own record would appear when that should take place. Christ taught that our conversation should be yea, yea or nay nay. Anything more or less came of evil. There was to be no hypocrisy or deceit. We are the ministers of God, and therefore should be careful of our acts. What about our speculations to popularize ourselves with the world? These things remind us of the saying of Malachi—“Who shall abide the day of His coming.” When we think of the Messiah whose authority we have used and reflect that we have sought sometimes to glorify ourselves rather than to magnify our Master, any effort to seek the praise of men should be laid aside. Evils are growing up in our midst. Men amongst us build and rent houses for the most degrading and infamous purposes. How will the record of such workers and producers of iniquity appear in the time of giving an account? Men holding positions in the Priesthood were engaged in occupations that are productive of evil, the excuse being that they must have sustenance. This does not constitute a proper or consistent apology under the Gospel. Some making profession of better things had, to gratify a disposition to tattle, circulated untruthful reports that had brought their brethren into trouble and jeopardized their liberties. This is most reprehensible.
It had been cast as a reproach upon men who had gone to prison for conscience’ sake, that wives were separated from husbands, and fathers from children, etc. Mothers who, in consequence of hardships, entailed by persecution, were bereaved of their children, would receive them again. The Prophet Joseph told a sister who had lost a child by death that she would again receive her infant by the power of the resurrection. It would nestle in her bosom to grow to the full stature, it would have reached had it attained maturity in mortality. When we are separated from relatives by adhering to duty and principle we are situated similarly in that respect to the Son of Man, with whom there was never any symptom of compromise.
In regard to the spirit of revelation of which Elder Taylor had spoken, it is the privilege of every head of a family to possess it in that capacity. To those whom the Lord gave him he was a patriarch, and he had a right if he was faithful, to the light of revelation to enable him to teach and direct them in righteousness.
The speaker related an incident involving a terrible encounter between several men, some of whom lost their lives and another was on crutches in this city, through having been shot. He signified his idea as to who was responsible for these things in order to show how carefully the results of men’s acts should be scanned beforehand, that they may hesitate to do things entailing serious consequences.
In response to the command of God to come out of Babylon, the Saints had gathered out of the world under formidable difficulties, many of them never reaching their destination, being buried by the wayside. Instead of recognizing this sacrifice, many among us were selling their inheritances, thus entailing the risk of placing a corrupt neighbor along side of their brother’s family. If such a thing should occur and the children of the Saints be thus led astray, the responsibility of the evil would largely lie at the door of the person who was instrumental in introducing the canker of iniquity. The speaker desired it to be understood that he did not wish any of this to apply to these who came honestly among us to develop the resources of the country and act with probity and uprightness. He dwelt for some time upon the depth and breadth of the results of the actions of professing Latter-day Saints when they elected to do wrong. These effects were not only immediate but also consequential, leading from one stage to another, until they were overwhelming.
The choir sang the thanksgiving anthem: Praise waiteth for the Lord.
Benediction by Elder Seymour B. Young.
His heart had been filled with delight at listening to the inspired words of his brethren. Considering the professions we make we are led to ask whether we are justified by our practice. We are approaching a time when the Lord will appear to judgment. The speaker was anxious to know how his own record would appear when that should take place. Christ taught that our conversation should be yea, yea or nay nay. Anything more or less came of evil. There was to be no hypocrisy or deceit. We are the ministers of God, and therefore should be careful of our acts. What about our speculations to popularize ourselves with the world? These things remind us of the saying of Malachi—“Who shall abide the day of His coming.” When we think of the Messiah whose authority we have used and reflect that we have sought sometimes to glorify ourselves rather than to magnify our Master, any effort to seek the praise of men should be laid aside. Evils are growing up in our midst. Men amongst us build and rent houses for the most degrading and infamous purposes. How will the record of such workers and producers of iniquity appear in the time of giving an account? Men holding positions in the Priesthood were engaged in occupations that are productive of evil, the excuse being that they must have sustenance. This does not constitute a proper or consistent apology under the Gospel. Some making profession of better things had, to gratify a disposition to tattle, circulated untruthful reports that had brought their brethren into trouble and jeopardized their liberties. This is most reprehensible.
It had been cast as a reproach upon men who had gone to prison for conscience’ sake, that wives were separated from husbands, and fathers from children, etc. Mothers who, in consequence of hardships, entailed by persecution, were bereaved of their children, would receive them again. The Prophet Joseph told a sister who had lost a child by death that she would again receive her infant by the power of the resurrection. It would nestle in her bosom to grow to the full stature, it would have reached had it attained maturity in mortality. When we are separated from relatives by adhering to duty and principle we are situated similarly in that respect to the Son of Man, with whom there was never any symptom of compromise.
In regard to the spirit of revelation of which Elder Taylor had spoken, it is the privilege of every head of a family to possess it in that capacity. To those whom the Lord gave him he was a patriarch, and he had a right if he was faithful, to the light of revelation to enable him to teach and direct them in righteousness.
The speaker related an incident involving a terrible encounter between several men, some of whom lost their lives and another was on crutches in this city, through having been shot. He signified his idea as to who was responsible for these things in order to show how carefully the results of men’s acts should be scanned beforehand, that they may hesitate to do things entailing serious consequences.
In response to the command of God to come out of Babylon, the Saints had gathered out of the world under formidable difficulties, many of them never reaching their destination, being buried by the wayside. Instead of recognizing this sacrifice, many among us were selling their inheritances, thus entailing the risk of placing a corrupt neighbor along side of their brother’s family. If such a thing should occur and the children of the Saints be thus led astray, the responsibility of the evil would largely lie at the door of the person who was instrumental in introducing the canker of iniquity. The speaker desired it to be understood that he did not wish any of this to apply to these who came honestly among us to develop the resources of the country and act with probity and uprightness. He dwelt for some time upon the depth and breadth of the results of the actions of professing Latter-day Saints when they elected to do wrong. These effects were not only immediate but also consequential, leading from one stage to another, until they were overwhelming.
The choir sang the thanksgiving anthem: Praise waiteth for the Lord.
Benediction by Elder Seymour B. Young.
Third Day. Morning Session, Oct. 8th, 10 a. m.
The choir sang:
Great is the Lord! ‘tis good to praise His high and holy name;
Well may the Saints in latter days His wondrous love proclaim.
Prayer by Bishop Orson F. Whitney.
Singing:
Earth, with her ten thousand flowers,
Air, with all its beams and showers,
Heavens infinite expanse,
Sea’s resplendent countenance,
All around and all above,
Bear this record, God is love.
The choir sang:
Great is the Lord! ‘tis good to praise His high and holy name;
Well may the Saints in latter days His wondrous love proclaim.
Prayer by Bishop Orson F. Whitney.
Singing:
Earth, with her ten thousand flowers,
Air, with all its beams and showers,
Heavens infinite expanse,
Sea’s resplendent countenance,
All around and all above,
Bear this record, God is love.
Apostle Erastus Snow
was the first speaker this morning. It was a long time since he had had the privilege of speaking from this stand. He called the attention of the congregation to the preaching of the Gospel and ministering in behalf of the dead. He read that portion of the Epistle of Paul to the Corinthians in reference to the resurrection in which the figure of the sowing and production of grain is used; also the different degrees of glory, telestial, terrestrial and celestial, typified of the stars, moon and sun. Everybody will be quickened by the spirit that has controlled it. Those that are Christ’s will be the first fruits of the resurrection, while others will be His at His coming. All will be raised in their order. We have always been taught that there is a time appointed when He shall come and free those who have been bound and have served out their terms of imprisonment. There is to be a restoration of all things, and there are some whose sins are not to be wiped out until the day of redemption shall come. Among this class are those who have been accessories or have consented to the shedding of innocent blood, but not actual participators in the deed. Among those were that class of Jews whom Peter exhorted to repent and be converted that they might be saved when the times of refreshing should come forth from the presence of the Lord. Thus the hope was conditionally held on to them that they might be redeemed at the time of the restitution of all things. The Prophet Joseph spoke upon this subject in Nauvoo and gave a more clear interpretation of the words of Peter. The Apostle wished to distinguish between those who sinned ignorantly and those who acted with their eyes open.
This brings us to the salvation of the dead by the preaching of the Gospel to them. Paul exclaimed “Else what shall they do that are baptized for the dead if the dead rise not at all; why then are they baptized for the dead?” This was thrown into the argument in connection with the reasoning upon the resurrection. Baptism or the burial of the body and raising it out of that element is a simile of death and the resurrection. As the Apostle says, “we are buried with Christ by baptism unto death” and rise in the likeness of His resurrection. It is in view of this great fundamental principle of Christianity—the atonement-that men are required to follow that type. Paul was arguing in favor of the literal resurrection of the dead when he spoke as he did in reference to the vicarious administration of baptism. The speaker also read from the epistle of Peter, that part which points to the preaching of the Gospel to the dead and the reason therefor, and also where the Apostle declares that Christ during the time pending between his death and resurrection, being quickened in the spirit, went and preached to the spirits in prison. The Prophet Joseph also explained this passage more fully than it appears in the common English translation. As many of the dead to whom the Gospel is preached in the spirit and live according to godliness, may be officiated for in the outward ordinances by their friends or heirs in the flesh. This explains the reason for Paul’s remark in reference to baptism for the dead.
This doctrine is a bold one. Its introduction and practice are the result of the bestowal of the keys upon Joseph Smith by Elijah, by which the hearts of the fathers were to be turned to the children and the children to the fathers. These keys were given to the Prophet in Kirtland Temple. Moses also appeared to him on the same occasion and gave the keys to bring about the return to their own land of the House of Israel and their redemption. The work in behalf of the dead is brought about by the building of Temples in which sacred ordinances are performed in behalf of the departed. The Prophet Joseph explained that the font in which baptisms for the dead are attended to must be under the level of ground occupied by the living that the simile and connection between the living and the dead may be complete. Those who are commissioned by proper authority in the spirit world are organized to carry on the work of preaching the Gospel to the fathers. A prison in a spiritual sense may be very extensive, being simply a place around which bounds are set beyond which those who are confined cannot pass. We may, for instance, be considered as being comparatively in prison while in mortality. The spirits of the antediluvians who are referred to by Peter were unable to rise to the presence of the Eternal Father. To this class the Savior went and preached, and doubtless among them organized the work of the ministry and thus prepared the way for the opening of the prison doors to a class of spirits ready to advance to a higher sphere.
When the Prophet Joseph preached those principles and established their practice among the Saints and committed the keys he held to his brethren, he informed the Twelve Apostles that he had given to them all he had received. He told them the work of carrying on the labor for the living and the dead in this life would devolve upon them and their brethren. He announced that God would allow him to rest. He passed behind the veil and there organized the work among the spirits, that it might be conducted there.
The speaker at this point mentioned a vision which had been experienced by one of the brethren, who appeared to have been transported on a visit to the spirit world, where he met with many brethren whom he recognized. He inquired where Joseph was, and was informed that he had gone away to some distant place to make preparation for the resurrection.
All things are governed by law. The house of the Lord is a house of order, and the decrees of heaven will be carried out in their own times and their own order. Those who are Christ’s shall have their time, and then those who are Christ’s at His coming, and so on. This is the work of those who have received and humored the Priesthood. When they pass behind the vail they are not idle. They rest from their labors but their works do follow them. Intelligence cannot be idle. Rest is simply, in this sense, a change. Inactivity is not rest. The Prophet Joseph and all the faithful have rested from their labors because they have been acting in a new species of work.
These are not new principles to the generality of the Saints, but these scriptures quoted may not be clearly understood by the rising generation. Strangers may also not be familiar with our faith and practice in this direction. Some may consider this doctrine inconsistent with reason. It may be esteemed to be absurd to believe that one person can do something in behalf of another. A little reflection should dispel such doubts, as the atonement of Christ itself was a vicarious act, and this is the scale of Christianity. The words of Christ when John the Baptist demurred to baptizing the Savior, “thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness” were quoted. Thus the greater came to the lesser, and the Redeemer was buried in water and arose out of it, typical of his own death and resurrection. When Jesus selected his Apostles he empowered them to be his agents, and directed them how to act, even to the words they should use. Hence the saving went forth that Christ himself did not baptize, but His disciples did. The Apostles said we pray you in Christ’s stead. The labor of the ministry in the earth is itself a vicarious work throughout.
The building of temples is engaged in that the living may labor therein in behalf of the dead. Since the introduction of these principles genealogical societies had been organized, and families had traced their progenitors back for long, periods, and published books giving valuable information. They have been moved upon by the Lord to perform this work to forward the interests of the dead. We feel to bless those who have engaged in that labor.
The Saints have been commanded to pay tithes and offerings to aid in this great work, that temples may be built and those who officiate therein sustained. Since the completion of the Temple at St. George and that at Logan hundreds of thousands of the dead have been acted for, and blessings extended behind the vail. The Lord will not accept a work at the hands of the covetous. Hence the recommends given to those who wish to labor for their dead should specify that they have not failed in the payment of their tithes and offerings. The time will come when the whole House of Israel who have perished will be quickened into life, when the vison of Ezekiel in reference to the resurrection shall be fulfilled. The hope in the dead is being revived. The Elders of Israel are engaged in the work of salvation. The attention of the fathers is directed towards the children. Shall the children be less attentive to this great subject than they? The Temple at Manti is nearly completed. It is finished in beautiful style, and the furniture is needed. The speaker had been requested by President Woodruff to announce that the way is opened to all the people to contribute to that object. It will require from $6,000 to $12,000 to completely furnish the house, and the quality of the furnishings will depend largely upon the liberality of the people in contributing of their substance. Those who are disposed to contribute while now in the city, can take their offerings to the Presiding Bishop’s office, or to James Jack, or send them to President Woodruff. Those who do so will receive due credit and their names will be enrolled in the record of the Temple of God. Presidents of Stakes, Bishops and other leading officers of the Church, should lay the matter before the people; that contributions from 25 cents up to hundreds of dollars, from those able to give so much, may be banded in for so worthy a purpose. The speaker concluded by praying that the blessing of the Lord might rest upon all who desired that truth and salvation should be established.
The anthem: Who can stand against the works of the Lord, was sung by the choir.
Benediction by Counselor Daniel H. Wells.
was the first speaker this morning. It was a long time since he had had the privilege of speaking from this stand. He called the attention of the congregation to the preaching of the Gospel and ministering in behalf of the dead. He read that portion of the Epistle of Paul to the Corinthians in reference to the resurrection in which the figure of the sowing and production of grain is used; also the different degrees of glory, telestial, terrestrial and celestial, typified of the stars, moon and sun. Everybody will be quickened by the spirit that has controlled it. Those that are Christ’s will be the first fruits of the resurrection, while others will be His at His coming. All will be raised in their order. We have always been taught that there is a time appointed when He shall come and free those who have been bound and have served out their terms of imprisonment. There is to be a restoration of all things, and there are some whose sins are not to be wiped out until the day of redemption shall come. Among this class are those who have been accessories or have consented to the shedding of innocent blood, but not actual participators in the deed. Among those were that class of Jews whom Peter exhorted to repent and be converted that they might be saved when the times of refreshing should come forth from the presence of the Lord. Thus the hope was conditionally held on to them that they might be redeemed at the time of the restitution of all things. The Prophet Joseph spoke upon this subject in Nauvoo and gave a more clear interpretation of the words of Peter. The Apostle wished to distinguish between those who sinned ignorantly and those who acted with their eyes open.
This brings us to the salvation of the dead by the preaching of the Gospel to them. Paul exclaimed “Else what shall they do that are baptized for the dead if the dead rise not at all; why then are they baptized for the dead?” This was thrown into the argument in connection with the reasoning upon the resurrection. Baptism or the burial of the body and raising it out of that element is a simile of death and the resurrection. As the Apostle says, “we are buried with Christ by baptism unto death” and rise in the likeness of His resurrection. It is in view of this great fundamental principle of Christianity—the atonement-that men are required to follow that type. Paul was arguing in favor of the literal resurrection of the dead when he spoke as he did in reference to the vicarious administration of baptism. The speaker also read from the epistle of Peter, that part which points to the preaching of the Gospel to the dead and the reason therefor, and also where the Apostle declares that Christ during the time pending between his death and resurrection, being quickened in the spirit, went and preached to the spirits in prison. The Prophet Joseph also explained this passage more fully than it appears in the common English translation. As many of the dead to whom the Gospel is preached in the spirit and live according to godliness, may be officiated for in the outward ordinances by their friends or heirs in the flesh. This explains the reason for Paul’s remark in reference to baptism for the dead.
This doctrine is a bold one. Its introduction and practice are the result of the bestowal of the keys upon Joseph Smith by Elijah, by which the hearts of the fathers were to be turned to the children and the children to the fathers. These keys were given to the Prophet in Kirtland Temple. Moses also appeared to him on the same occasion and gave the keys to bring about the return to their own land of the House of Israel and their redemption. The work in behalf of the dead is brought about by the building of Temples in which sacred ordinances are performed in behalf of the departed. The Prophet Joseph explained that the font in which baptisms for the dead are attended to must be under the level of ground occupied by the living that the simile and connection between the living and the dead may be complete. Those who are commissioned by proper authority in the spirit world are organized to carry on the work of preaching the Gospel to the fathers. A prison in a spiritual sense may be very extensive, being simply a place around which bounds are set beyond which those who are confined cannot pass. We may, for instance, be considered as being comparatively in prison while in mortality. The spirits of the antediluvians who are referred to by Peter were unable to rise to the presence of the Eternal Father. To this class the Savior went and preached, and doubtless among them organized the work of the ministry and thus prepared the way for the opening of the prison doors to a class of spirits ready to advance to a higher sphere.
When the Prophet Joseph preached those principles and established their practice among the Saints and committed the keys he held to his brethren, he informed the Twelve Apostles that he had given to them all he had received. He told them the work of carrying on the labor for the living and the dead in this life would devolve upon them and their brethren. He announced that God would allow him to rest. He passed behind the veil and there organized the work among the spirits, that it might be conducted there.
The speaker at this point mentioned a vision which had been experienced by one of the brethren, who appeared to have been transported on a visit to the spirit world, where he met with many brethren whom he recognized. He inquired where Joseph was, and was informed that he had gone away to some distant place to make preparation for the resurrection.
All things are governed by law. The house of the Lord is a house of order, and the decrees of heaven will be carried out in their own times and their own order. Those who are Christ’s shall have their time, and then those who are Christ’s at His coming, and so on. This is the work of those who have received and humored the Priesthood. When they pass behind the vail they are not idle. They rest from their labors but their works do follow them. Intelligence cannot be idle. Rest is simply, in this sense, a change. Inactivity is not rest. The Prophet Joseph and all the faithful have rested from their labors because they have been acting in a new species of work.
These are not new principles to the generality of the Saints, but these scriptures quoted may not be clearly understood by the rising generation. Strangers may also not be familiar with our faith and practice in this direction. Some may consider this doctrine inconsistent with reason. It may be esteemed to be absurd to believe that one person can do something in behalf of another. A little reflection should dispel such doubts, as the atonement of Christ itself was a vicarious act, and this is the scale of Christianity. The words of Christ when John the Baptist demurred to baptizing the Savior, “thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness” were quoted. Thus the greater came to the lesser, and the Redeemer was buried in water and arose out of it, typical of his own death and resurrection. When Jesus selected his Apostles he empowered them to be his agents, and directed them how to act, even to the words they should use. Hence the saving went forth that Christ himself did not baptize, but His disciples did. The Apostles said we pray you in Christ’s stead. The labor of the ministry in the earth is itself a vicarious work throughout.
The building of temples is engaged in that the living may labor therein in behalf of the dead. Since the introduction of these principles genealogical societies had been organized, and families had traced their progenitors back for long, periods, and published books giving valuable information. They have been moved upon by the Lord to perform this work to forward the interests of the dead. We feel to bless those who have engaged in that labor.
The Saints have been commanded to pay tithes and offerings to aid in this great work, that temples may be built and those who officiate therein sustained. Since the completion of the Temple at St. George and that at Logan hundreds of thousands of the dead have been acted for, and blessings extended behind the vail. The Lord will not accept a work at the hands of the covetous. Hence the recommends given to those who wish to labor for their dead should specify that they have not failed in the payment of their tithes and offerings. The time will come when the whole House of Israel who have perished will be quickened into life, when the vison of Ezekiel in reference to the resurrection shall be fulfilled. The hope in the dead is being revived. The Elders of Israel are engaged in the work of salvation. The attention of the fathers is directed towards the children. Shall the children be less attentive to this great subject than they? The Temple at Manti is nearly completed. It is finished in beautiful style, and the furniture is needed. The speaker had been requested by President Woodruff to announce that the way is opened to all the people to contribute to that object. It will require from $6,000 to $12,000 to completely furnish the house, and the quality of the furnishings will depend largely upon the liberality of the people in contributing of their substance. Those who are disposed to contribute while now in the city, can take their offerings to the Presiding Bishop’s office, or to James Jack, or send them to President Woodruff. Those who do so will receive due credit and their names will be enrolled in the record of the Temple of God. Presidents of Stakes, Bishops and other leading officers of the Church, should lay the matter before the people; that contributions from 25 cents up to hundreds of dollars, from those able to give so much, may be banded in for so worthy a purpose. The speaker concluded by praying that the blessing of the Lord might rest upon all who desired that truth and salvation should be established.
The anthem: Who can stand against the works of the Lord, was sung by the choir.
Benediction by Counselor Daniel H. Wells.
Afternoon Session. 2 p. m.
Singing by the choir:
We’re not ashamed to own our Lord,
And worship Him on earth;
We love to learn His holy word,
And know what souls are worth.
Prayer by Elder John Nicholson.
Singing:
Though deep’ning trials throng your way,
Press on, press on, ye Saints of God!
Ere long the resurrection day
Will spread its light and truth abroad.
Singing by the choir:
We’re not ashamed to own our Lord,
And worship Him on earth;
We love to learn His holy word,
And know what souls are worth.
Prayer by Elder John Nicholson.
Singing:
Though deep’ning trials throng your way,
Press on, press on, ye Saints of God!
Ere long the resurrection day
Will spread its light and truth abroad.
An Epistle from President Wilford Woodruff, in behalf of the Twelve Apostles, was read by Bishop Orson F. Whitney.
It will be found in full in this issue of the News.
An Epistle To the Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Introductory.
Dear Brethren and Sisters:
It appears proper, at this Fifty-eighth Semi-annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, that an Epistle should be addressed to the members of the Church, in conformity with the custom which has been observed at the past five General Conferences.
Death of President Taylor.
As some of the Apostles are prevented, by circumstances well known to the Saints, from appearing in public, the church will naturally look for some expression from them concerning their feelings and hopes respecting the work of our God. Espeically at the present time is deep interest felt in the utterances of the Apostles, because of the loss which the Church has sustained in the death of President John Taylor. Twice before has the Church mourned the death of its President, and each time the event has produced a profound impression upon its members. In this instance the sad event is invested with more significance than it would have been had it occurred in the ordinary way. President Taylor died in exile. For about two years and a half he had been compelled to live in seclusion, and to refrain from all public association with the people whom he loved more than he did life.
Through his decease the Church is called the third time to mourn the departure of the man who has stood as its President and as the Prophet, Seer and Revelator to this generation. The experience which the Saints have gained in passing through these trials has been of exceeding value to them. They have learned that God can take care of his own work, and that they need not worry nor yield to anxiety or doubt concerning its management.
After the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph there were pretenders who asserted that they had the right to take his place at the head of the Church. Some were deceived by their pretensions, not being familiar with the order of the Priesthood.
The Responsibility of the Apostles.
For some time before his death the Prophet Joseph was inspired of the Lord to anticipate his own departure from earthly scenes. This was shown in various ways; but especially in the great anxiety which he displayed to bestow upon the Twelve Apostles all the keys and authority of the Holy Priesthood which he had received. He declared in private and in public that they were equipped and fully qualified, and that he had rolled the kingdom of God on to the shoulders of the Twelve Apostles.
President Woodruff’s Personal Testimony.
I, Wilford Woodruff, being the last man living in the flesh who was present upon that occasion feel it a duty I owe to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, to the House of Israel, and to the whole world to bear this my last testimony to all nations, that in the winter of 1843-4, Joseph Smith, the Prophet of God, called the Twelve Apostles together in the City of Nauvoo, and spent many days with us giving us our endowments, and teaching us those glorious principles which God had revealed to him. And upon one occasion he stood upon his feet in our midst for nearly three hours declaring unto us the great and last dispensation which God had set His hand to perform upon the earth in these last days. The room was filled as if with consuming fire; the Prophet was clothed upon with much of the power of God, and his face shone and was transparently clear, and he closed that speech, never-to-be-forgotten in time or in eternity, with the following language:
“Brethren, I have had great sorrow of heart for fear that I might be taken from the earth with the keys of the Kingdom of God upon me, without sealing them upon the heads of other men. God has sealed upon my head all the keys of the Kingdom of God necessary for organizing and building up of the Church, Zion, and Kingdom of God upon the earth, and to prepare the Saints for the coming of the Son of Man. Now, brethren, I thank God I have lived to see the day that I have been enabled to give you your endowments, and I have now sealed upon your heads all the powers of the Aaronic and Melchesidek Priesthoods and Apostleship, with all the keys and powers thereof, which God has sealed upon me; and I now roll off all the labor, burden and care of this Church and Kingdom of God upon your shoulders, and I now command you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to round up your shoulders, and bear off this Church and Kingdom of God before heaven and earth, and before God, angels and men; and if you don’t do it you will be damned.”
And the same spirit that filled the room at that time burns in my bosom while I record this testimony, and the Prophet of God appointed no one else but the Twelve Apostles to stand at the head of the Church and direct its affairs.
The Presidency in the Apostles.
When the Prophet Joseph had passed away by foul assassination, those who possessed the Spirit of God and were living in close communion with it, knew the voice of the true shepherd and were not deceived by the claims of men who pretended to have authority. The body of the Church followed the leader of those whom God had chosen, and whom His servant Joseph had been instructed to prepare for this great responsibility. The Twelve Apostles, with President Brigham Young as their head, became the presiding council of the church.
The lessons which the Church then learned in regard to the Priesthood, have never been forgotten. When President Young was taken from us, there was no jar nor division of sentiment among the Apostles; and among the people there was scarcely a question as to where the right of Presidency tested. President John Taylor took the position which belonged to him, and the work of God moved forward without interruption, and with a union and harmony on the part of all connected with it, most delightful to witness. He has stood at our head for nearly ten years, and during that period he has possessed the gifts and qualifications which belonged to his high office and calling. His entire career is one that can be contemplated with the utmost satisfaction and pleasure by all who love the truth and admire integrity in those who are called to be servants of God. From the time that he was baptized a member of the Church until his spirit took its flight from earth, he never wavered in his advocacy and defense of the principles of righteousness. Under all the varied circumstances through which he and the people of God were called to pass, in the midst of the deepest trials and afflictions, his voice was always raised in tones of encouragement and hope; and when the storms were the fiercest, he rose to the occasion and always displayed undaunted courage and unflinching devotion to the Zion of God. In the providence of God it fell to his lot to be with the Prophet Joseph and Patriarch Hyrum when they were martyred for the truth, and he mingled his own blood with theirs. Though severely wounded on that occasion, he miraculously escaped death. He was a man whom the Lord loved. The evidence of this is to be found in the fact that He chose him to preside over His Church at the departure of His servant Brigham. We feel thankful to God our Eternal Father that we have been permitted to live with and enjoy the society of President John Taylor and be his fellow-laborers. Our association with him and the Presidents and Apostles who have gone before him into the spirit world, we esteem as a great honor. We take delight in anticipating the rejoicing that we shall have when we shall be permitted to mingle in their society.
Once more, the responsibility of presiding over the Church has fallen upon the Council of the Twelve Apostles. The Counselors of President Taylor, Brothers George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith, being members of the Council of the Twelve Apostles at the time they were chosen to be members of the First Presidency, have, since his death, taken their places again as members of that Council.
Fifty-seven years and a half have elapsed since the Church was organized. In looking around among those with whom we associate to-day, how few there are left of those who, under the Lord, helped to lay the foundation of this work and were the companions of the Prophet in the early labors connected therewith! To-day there is but one Apostle left of those who belonged to the Council of the Apostles during the lifetime of the Prophet Joseph, or, indeed, at the time these valleys were first settled. The other faithful Apostles who were ordained under the direction of the Prophet Joseph have all passed behind the vail. Since the death of President Young four have joined him in the other world, and in the same period six have been ordained as members of the Council of the Twelve Apostles. This gives some idea of the changes which are occurring, and how rapidly a new generation is taking an active part in the building up of Zion.
The Labors of the Apostles.
Those of us who have been at liberty to travel, have devoted our time to visiting the various Stakes, and in meeting with them at their Quarterly Conferences. Some of us have been laboring in Mexico, others in Arizona, besides visiting the Stakes in Idaho and in Utah. These Quarterly Conferences are attended with excellent results. The people come together and receive instructions and counsel upon leading topics, and much good is derived therefrom. Though it involves considerable labor for the Apostles to visit them, yet we are encouraged in doing so by the advantages which those visits bring to the people in keeping them informed concerning general movements and counsel. In these labors we have had much joy and satisfaction, especially in witnessing the increase of faithfulness on the part of the Saints.
The Patience of the Saints.
Though many of the leading men have been compelled to be absent, some of them having been incarcerated in prison, the people have, nevertheless, been steadfast, and have sought with increased diligence to perform their duties. The persecution to which they have been subjected has led the people to think and act for themselves, and not to depend so much upon others for guidance. This can not fail to be attended with good results. It is necessary that all the members of the Church should exercise their powers of reason and reflection and thoroughly understand why they take the course which God points out. Intelligent obedience on the part of His Saints is desired by our Father in heaven. He has given us our agency to think and act for ourselves, on our own volition, to obtain a testimony for ourselves from Him concerning the truth of the principles which He teachers, and then be firm and unshaken in the performance of all which is necessary for salvation.
We have felt great satisfaction in witnessing the dignity and courage which the Saints have exhibited through the trials of the past three years. Their conduct has been admirable. They have displayed great qualities. The forbearance, patience and fortitude which they have exhibited are proofs that God has been with them. Outrages which would have goaded any other people into acts of violence have been of frequent occurrence. In other communities men and women would be desperate under such treatment. But the Lord has given His people power to control themselves and peace has been maintained. Riots and bloodshed have been avoided, and even under strong provocation, when blood was shed, the community restrained itself. Prejudice may prevent our nation and its rulers from acknowledging, at the present, how noble the demeanor of the people has been under these trying circumstances, and with the strong provocations which they have had to indulge in outbreaks; yet the time will come when all this will receive its proper recognition and due credit will be accorded the Latter-day Saints for the magnanimity and self-control throughout this entire persecution.
Primary Associations, Etc.
In the organizations which have been established among our people in all our settlements in these mountains, the advancement and training and benefit of all classes are amply provided for. Among no people of whom we know anything have such provisions been made for the salvation and care of the members of society of all ages as among the Latter-day Saints. If we and our children do not progress in intelligence and in the knowledge of all principles pertaining to life here and life hereafter, it is because we do not avail ourselves of those facilities which are placed within our reach. We have the Primary Associations provided for the benefit of the young children of our Church, and their instruction in those simple principles which they can understand. We also have Sunday schools for the training and education of those of larger growth. In them they can learn the doctrines of salvation and the history of the work of God, and be prepared for greater progress. Then we have the Young Mens’ and Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Associations, which have been organized, as their names imply, for the development of the young people of both sexes and their advancement in every thing that will qualify them for lives of usefulness and honor. But besides these organizations we have the various councils of the Priesthood, to some office in which every young man who is worthy can be ordained. The young women, as they increase in years, can also find a sphere of usefulness in the Relief Societies which have been organized for the purpose of assisting the Bishops and Counselors and Teachers of the Wards in caring for the poor and relieving the wants of the suffering and distressed. So that by means of these organizations, which are of vast interest to us as a people, every one from early childhood to maturity, can be led forward step by step, from one degree of knowledge to another until fully qualified to discharge all the duties of perfected and honorable manhood and womanhood.
So far as we know the sisters who have charge of the Primary Associations are doing a most commendable work in arousing interest in the little ones and in teaching them in simple style those lessons which are adapted to their understandings. We hope that in all our settlements these associations will receive the constant care and attention of our wise and judicious sisters. The seed sown in the hearts of the children by the instructions imparted there will produce in years to come an abundant harvest that will gladden the hearts of the Saints who witness it.
Our Sunday Schools, Etc.
The progress of the Sunday School cause in Zion continues satisfactory, though undoubtedly somewhat retarded by the enforced absence from its labors and associations of so many brethren and sisters who have in former years taken an active interest in its welfare. We notice, with pleasure, the constantly increasing number of schools, teachers and scholars reported by the officers of the Union and the evident care taken by the presiding local authorities in our settlements to have a Sunday School as one of the first institutions established. We are also gratified to learn that in most of the foreign missions of the Church Sunday Schools and Improvement Associations are being organized wherever practicable. In Great Britain, in Continental Europe, in New Zealand, and in the Sandwich Islands, as also in the branches scattered throughout the missions in the United States, these institutions are found contributing their influence in instructing and forming the character of the children of the Latter-day Saints.
The Mutual Improvement Societies are also accomplishing great good throughout our settlements. In connection with them and the Sunday Schools, we desire to remind our brethren and sisters who are engaged in the praiseworthy labor of fostering these institutions, that the original design in organizing Sunday Schools and Improvement Societies among us was, that the children and youth of the Saints should be made wise in the principles of the Gospel and their faith be developed in the revelations of God. This the officers and teachers should keep constantly in mind. The books used should be almost without exception, the revelations of God as contained in ancient and modern Scripture, together with the other works of the Church. The teachings, while direct, brief and simple, should be such as will increase the faith, develop the veneration and love, and draw out the intelligence of the youthful bearers toward the divine principles of which by God’s grace, we have been made the custodians. All attempts, however slight, to secularize these institutions and to charge them so that they will not accomplish the ends sought for in their creation, should be discountenanced. The spirit and teachings of the Gospel should hold undivided control in all our ministration connected with this cause. In the theological and other classes all discussions should be avoided as much as possible on subjects which God in His wisdom has not yet fully revealed. We know there are many persons who appear to take more delight in dwelling upon questions which are mysterious and cannot very well, in our present state of knowledge, be answered than they do upon those subjects which are plain and simple and essential to present progress. But the Lord has revealed so much that we can understand and that we ought to learn in order to be useful in the labors devolving upon us here, that we need not enter into discussions on subjects which in no way affect our happiness here or eternal salvation hereafter. In our theological classes, quorum meetings and other assemblies, therefore, these debatable questions need not be discussed or be dwelt upon to occupy the time of the members, to the exclusion of more profitable topics. In the Primary Associations, the Sunday schools and the Mutual Improvement Associations, singing should receive a large share of attention. Singing exercises can be made a great attraction and also a valuable addition to the education of the young. The interest that is now taken among us in vocal and instrumental music is the marked feature of the times, and this taste finds increasing opportunities for its development in the facilities which are now being furnished to all who desire its cultivation. Instead of having a select few acts as choirs in these institutions to do the singing for the whole, the voices of all should be united in harmonious melody in giving utterance to the feelings of their hearts in hymns and songs. This will increase the pleasure of the meetings, and make all feel that they have an equal interest in worship and rejoicing.
The Relief Societies.
The mission of the Relief Societies as organized among us, is truly grand and beneficent. There is no limit to their labors and usefulness while suffering and want exist in our midst. To aid the needy by feeding the hungry and clothing the destitute is distinctively and peculiarly their mission. In the energetic performance of their duty human sympathy and divine mercy are beautifully harmonized. In the energetic performance of their duty human sympathy and divine mercy are beautifully harmonized. In extending relief to the poor, the love of God and of our fellows is clearly manifest. It is more praiseworthy for a relief society to be able to say “There are none in our Ward in need of food, raiment or shelter,” than to report thousands of dollars in hand, while the needs of the poor are unsupplied.
These societies have done a vast amount of good among us, and the members have been of great service in assisting the Priesthood in the wards in caring for the destitute and in supplying the wants of those who have been in need of help. In these labors we desire to give them every encouragement and to invoke the blessing of heaven upon them, and all their exertions for the benefit of suffering humanity.
The Care of the Poor.
As the winter season is approaching, it is proper that each Bishop and his Counselors should take the necessary steps to properly care for the poor who live in their wards. They should call the Relief Societies to their aid in this labor. The reasonable wants of the poor should be supplied and the pangs of poverty and destitution should be averted. God has greatly blessed us in the fruits of our fields and gardens, in our flocks and herds, and in giving us comfortable habitations and means to sustain ourselves, and we should always remember the words of the Apostle James: “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”
While it has always been the policy of our people to encourage industry and to repress idleness in every form, and to expect all persons to contribute, according to their ability, to their own support; still there are many cases where the aged and the infirm, or the unfortunate, cannot, with the utmost exertion and economy, obtain through their own labors sufficient to sustain themselves. It would be a great evil among us to encourage any class in living upon the benevolence of the community. No system of begging should be permitted. Those able to work should be furnished employment. Persons who are properly disposed will be glad to obtain it in preference to being fed with the bread of charity; and all should be encouraged to labor according to their strength. This policy, if wisely pursued will prevent pauperism, develop self-exertion and confidence, and produce self-respect. It is a case of great pleasure to think that beggary is unknown throughout our settlements. There is no need for anyone, however destitute, to publicly solicit alms. But while this is the case, the sensitive and those who shrink from asking aid, who conceal, in some instances, their poverty, should be carefully looked after by the Relief Societies under the direction of the Bishops of the wards, so that there may be no individual in any of our wards suffering for the want of food or any other article necessary to sustain or preserve life. The community whose hearts are open to the cries of distress, who are ready to administer of the substance which the Lord gives them to relieve their fellow creatures, may always depend upon the favor of the Lord, for he loves those who are kind to their fellow-men, and who administer to their necessities, whose hearts are tender, and who readily respond to applications of this character which are made upon them, or who anticipate them by giving freely to the destitute.
Fast Offerings.
In some of our wards there is not proper care taken in the collection of the fast offerings of the people. The first Thursday in the month has been set apart in the Church as a day of fasting and prayer. That day should be strictly observed. Fast offering should be brought with a liberal hand to the Bishop of each ward, that he may be prepared to supply those who are dependent upon the ward for sustenance. Some wards require considerable aid from the Church to help sustain their poor, because their own fast offerings do not supply them; while sometimes in the same Stake there are other wards where there are few, if any, dependent poor. Presidents of Stakes should make arrangements with the Bishops of the last named wards to transfer their fast offerings to the Bishop of some contiguous ward which has more poor within its borders than its own fast offerings will supply. In this way all the people can have an equal opportunity of doing their duty to the poor.
The Lessons of Liberality.
Experience has abundantly proved that those who are attentive to those and all other duties required by the Lord receive His blessing. God does bless those who devote themselves with singleness of purpose to His work. If proof of this were needed, one has only to notice the condition of Elders in the various settlements who have spent their lives upon missions. Though their home affairs may have been left to the care of their wives and children, they are not distinguished by their poverty from their fellow-servants who have remained at home.
We have only to look around us to satisfy ourselves also, that those who are generous in contributing to God’s work are favored of the Lord. This was the experience of ancient Israel, and it is our experience. Yet in regard to voluntary donations there is too much carelessness, notwithstanding all the precious promises connected therewith. The Saints should be reminded of the obligation which rests upon them. Our children, also, should be taught this duty, that it may become a fixed habit with them to punctually attend to these matters. Those who have strictly observed these requirements can testify to the great pleasure and many rewards they have received from their observance.
This law of liberality appears to be one of the safeguards which the Lord has adopted to avert from his people the evil consequences which follow the possession of wealth. He has told us that the riches of the earth are His to give; but He has warned us to beware of pride, lest we become as the Nephites of old. We know the rule it wrought for them, and we should spare no precaution to prevent wealth having a disastrous effect upon us. Many can endure poverty and be humble and live near the Lord who cannot bear riches. They become lifted up in pride and become covetous, and forget their God. Those, however, who remember constantly the teachings of the Lord concerning the earth and its inhabitants, and who contribute of the means which the Lord gives them to assist the poor and help carry forward the work of God, exercise a check upon themselves and give Satan less power to lead them astray. Under the present system of affairs, those who accumulate wealth and are able to supply themselves and their families with luxuries and advantages that are denied their neighbors, are in danger of becoming separated from the bulk of the people and forming a distinct class. But the day will come when a more perfect order will be introduced. Then it will be said there are no poor and no rich in Zion—that is, we shall not be divided into classes, but shall all possess everything of this character necessary for our comfort and happiness. But until then, if we wish our families and ourselves to remain Latter-day Saints, we must be especially careful to guard against the deceitfulness of riches.
The Duties of the Saints.
The great labor which devolves upon us, as members of the Church, is to build up Zion. God has founded Zion, and we should seek to extend its benefits and blessings unto all mankind. It should be our constant care to do nothing that will weaken its influence or power or retard its growth in the earth. This we should constantly impress also, upon our children, that they may grow up filled with an abiding love for the work of God.
There has been too much neglect on this point. Many have pursued a short-sighted, selfish policy; and have worked to that which they believed was their own individual advantage without regard to the effect their action would have upon the work of God. Their eyes have not been single to His glory. Such a disposition has proved a snare to those who have indulged in it; they have wrought injury to themselves, not to mention the effect their conduct has had upon Zion.
The Encouragement of Marriage.
The Lord has informed us that marriage is ordained of God unto man. The institution of marriage, in some communities of which we read, is falling almost into disrepute. It is alleged that there is a growing tendency in this direction among us. The cause is doubtless, traceable to the increase of wealth and the disinclination of young men to take upon them the burdens of a wife and family. As we depart from the simplicity of early days, we may naturally expect that this tendency will increase as young men may be restrained from offering marriage to young ladies unless they can give them something like as comfortable a home as they enjoy under their parents’ roof. Extravagant or luxuriant habits or training on the part of the girls will also have the effect to deter young men from marrying. Care should be taken by every person of influence to counteract this tendency, and to set before the rising generation the advantages which follow well-arranged marriages. No community can prosper and maintain a high standard of morality where there is a large percentage of unmarried young men and young women. We should deplore the increase of such a class among us, and all honorable means should be used to prevent its existence. The young of both sexes should be taught that it is not necessary to happiness in marriage to be in the possession of wealth. In this country an industrious, economical married couple can soon surround themselves with all the conveniences and comforts essential to life and happiness. The satisfaction each will have in after years in the enjoyment of the fruits of their joint industry and thrift will amply repay them for any inconveniences or privations they may have been subjected to in the early days of their married life. The comforts thus accumulated will be doubly sweetened unto them by the recollection of their exertions in common to procure them. No rightly constituted and educated young woman will refuse an offer of marriage from a worthy, industrious young man for no other reason than that he is not able to surround her at first with the comforts which she may think she ought to have. Young men, who have a due share of the qualities which women esteem in a husband, need not be afraid that girls of that kind will refuse them, because they may not be well endowed with this world’s goods. They will cheerfully bear their part of the burdens of life without repining when confident of the love and supporting and guiding hand of the husbands.
Against Incurring Debt.
We feel led to caution the Latter-day Saints against forming the bad habit of incurring debt and taking upon themselves obligations which frequently burden them heavier than they can bear, and lead to the loss of their homes and other possessions. We know it is the fashion of the age to use credit to the utmost limit, and it is customary for nations, states, counties and cities to borrow money, issue bonds and thus load themselves with taxes to such an extent that large numbers of the people are prevented from owning land or even the houses which they occupy. Thus the masses become tenants and have to pay rent for land and shelter. This is a great evil and one that we, as a people and as individuals, should carefully shun. Our business should be done, as much as possible, on the principle of paying for that which we purchase, and our needs should be brought within the limit of our resources. The disposition to speculate and to take chances upon ventures of one kind and another should be repressed. There are many people who have been rendered homeless in our Territory by the neglect of this precaution. To raise funds to invest in some scheme which has appeared promising they have mortgaged their homes, only too often, to be disappointed and to find themselves without a place of shelter for themselves and their families. All this is wrong. If the penalty for such unwisdom fall upon the one through whose acts and influence it is brought about, the consequences would not be so deplorable; but very frequently families suffer and the bad results are widely felt. We, therefore, repeat our counsel to the Latter-day Saints to shun debt. Be content with moderate gains, and be not misled by illusory hopes of acquiring wealth. Remember the saying of the wise man: “But he that hasteth to get rich shall not be innocent.” Let our children also be taught habits of economy, and not to indulge in tastes which they cannot gratify without running in debt.
Zion Shall Not be Removed.
We have been favored, as no other people have, with wise counsels. Their extent and variety are immeasurable. They cover every department of human life. So far as we have observed them, prosperity and happiness have been the results. Whatever difficulties we may have to contend with to-day are due, if not wholly, at least in great part, to our disregard of them. Is not this the experience and testimony of all the faithful Saints who have watched the progress of events among us? Had we observed these counsels, how many of the evils from which we now suffer would never have been known among us! Our neglect of them has brought its punishment, and the faithful can see it. But shall we not profit by the experience of the past and act more wisely in the future? As the Lord has said (Doctrine and Covenants, sec. 90, ver. 36, 37),
“But verily I say unto you, that I, the Lord, will contend with Zion, and plead with her strong ones, and chasten her until she overcomes and is clean before me: For she shall not be removed out of her place, I, the Lord, have spoken it.”
We should begin to understand that God’s ways are infinitely superior to our ways, and that His counsels, though they may seem to call for sacrifice, are always the best and the safest for us to adopt and carry out. Thousands among us can testify to the truth of this from individual experience. These thousands should combine and create a public opinion in favor of obedience to the counsel of heaven that will have its proper effect upon our children and the inexperienced among us.
The Glory Will Be the Lord’s.
We also should learn this great truth, that God will have all the glory and honor for the establishment of His Church and Kingdom on the earth. Man cannot claim it in this or any other age of the world. Nothing but the power of God could have brought forth the fullness of the Gospel, organized the Church, gathered His people to Zion in fulfillment of revelation and performed the work which has been accomplished. Therefore, as Latter-day Saints, we are obliged to acknowledge the hand of God in all the blessings we enjoy.
The Conduct of Our Lives.
It should be the aim of all the members of the Church to carry out practically in their lives the principles of the Gospel. In no way can we better convince the world of their truth than in showing in our acts and dealings with one another and with mankind the elevating effect they have upon us. We make high professions, and there should be such a high standard of purity of life among us as to correspond with these professions. Our children should be impressed with this, and be taught that the name of Saint is so holy that they only who are pure in heart can claim it.
If our religion does not lead us to love our God and our fellow man and to deal justly and uprightly with all men, then our profession of it is vain. The Apostle says:
“If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother, whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?”
We can best exemplify our love for our God by living our religion. It is vain to profess a love for God while speaking evil of or doing wrong to His children. The sacred covenants we have made with Him strictly impose upon us the duties we owe to one another; and the great office of religion is to teach us how to perform those duties so as to produce the greatest happiness for ourselves and for our fellow-beings. When the obligations of our religion are observed, no words are spoken or acts are committed that would injure a neighbor. If the Latter-day Saints lived as they should do, and as their religion teaches them to do, there would be no feeling in any breast but that of brotherly and sisterly affection and love. Backbiting and evil-speaking would have no existence among us; but peace and love and good will would reign in all our hearts and habitations and settlements. We would be the happiest people on the face of the earth, and the blessing, and peace of Heaven would rest upon us and upon all that belongs to us.
If there be unhappiness and heart-burnings and quarrelings and hatreds among us, they exist because we do not observe the religion which we profess. They are not its fruits. Where these evils exist there is a crying necessity for repentance. If any feel injured by the words or acts of their brethren or sisters, the Gospel points out and furnishes the way by which this injury may be repaired. Instead of talking about this to others they should go to the person or persons who have done the wrong and make their feelings known. If satisfaction is then made, that ought to end the matter; but if not, it can be reported to the proper officers of the Church for them to take the necessary steps to terminate the difficulties. In this way animosities and disunion can be prevented and confidence be maintained.
Partaking of the Sacrament.
As Latter-day Saints, it is our general custom to partake of the sacrament once a week. If the teachings of our Lord, in remembrance of whom we observe this sacred ordinance, be regarded, no one who has trespassed can be permitted to share in it until he has made reconciliation. It is the express commandment of the Lord Jesus that no one shall be permitted to partake of His flesh and blood unworthily. A more perfect system to prevent the existence of improper feelings and wrongs among brethren and sisters can not be imagined. If the Saints do their duty, difficulties do not remain unsettled beyond the Lord’s day when they assemble to eat and drink in remembrance of Him.
Temple Work.
Notwithstanding the difficulties that the Saints have had to contend with of late, they have pursued their labors in every direction with unabated zeal. This is particularly noticeable in their attendance at the Temples. The wish to avail themselves of the opportunities for attending to the ordinances for themselves and their deceased friends has, if anything, increased, and those employed in these sacred buildings have their time fully occupied in performing their duties there. It is evident that the Latter-day Saints appreciate the blessings to be obtained through this Temple work. When we reflect that we have two buildings of this character already completed, furnishing abundant facilities for all who choose to go there to obtain the ordinances of God’s house for themselves and for those in whose salvation they take so deep an interest, and that we have another Temple at Manti nearing completion, and one in Salt Lake City, which we hope to see finished before long, our hearts are filled with gladness and we cannot refrain from praising our God for His goodness unto his people in permitting them, notwithstanding the opposition and many difficulties they have had to contend with, to erect such structures and to dedicate them, according to the pattern He has given for these sacred uses.
No right feeling Latter-day Saint can think upon this subject without being thrilled with heavenly joy for what God has done for us in our generation, furnishing us, as He has done, with every facility to prepare us, our posterity and our ancestors for that eternal world which lies beyond the present life. The Latter-day Saints are, in truth, a highly favored people, and praise to God should ascend from every heart and habitation in our land for the great mercy and goodness which He has shown unto us. He has made us promises of the most precious character, and he has fulfilled them up to the present time. We would be the most ungrateful and unworthy people that ever lived if, after receiving such wonderful manifestations of His goodness, we slackened in our diligence or failed in our obedience and devotion to Him and His great cause.
Foreign Missions.
The treatment which the Elders have received in preaching the Gospel throughout the Southern States, as we are informed by President John Morgan, has been much better of late than it has been at some other periods. The Elders are listened to with more patience and do not meet with so much of the spirit of mobocracy and unreasoning hate. Additions are being made to the Church, and those who emigrate from that region have generally settled in San Luis Valley, Colorado.
The Elders in the North Western States under the direction of President W. M. Palmer, pursue their labors with undiminished zeal and with moderate success in bringing people into the Church. These fields of labor have furnished opportunities for numbers of our young men to gain experience in missionary efforts, and those who have this privilege return home, in the most of instances, better qualified to assist the local authorities where they reside in the labors of the ministry.
In Great Britain the Elders meet with considerable opposition in places, principally, however, from apostates. They find that field a much more difficult one than it was in former years. The hearts of the people seem to have become hardened, and great indifference prevails in regard to religion. Still we learn from President George Teasdale, who presides at the present time over the European Mission, that the Elders who zealously enter into the labors of the ministry find abundant cause for rejoicing in the success which attends their exertions. Throughout the Swiss and German Mission presided over by Elder Frederick Schoenfeld, and the Scandinavian Mission presided over by Elder N. C. Flygare, the Elders are laboring also with commendable zeal and with gratifying results. An effort is being made at the present time to preach to Gospel in Turkey, where Elders Jacob Spori, J. M. Tanner and F. F. Hintze have been, and are laboring, and even the land of Palestine has been visited, and in the late company of emigrants which reached this City from Europe, nine persons were gathered who had received the Gospel in that land, a land hallowed to us as the earthly home of our Redeemer, and the soil of which his sacred feet trod.
One the Sandwich Islands the Elders are laboring faithfully under the direction of President William King, and everything is being done to improve the condition of that people and to save them from the destruction which threatens the extinction of the race. The plantation at Laie is still maintained, and the Elders who have labored and who are still laboring there enter with spirit into the management of that property in a way to benefit as much as possible the native Saints. The attention of the Elders there is directed at present to the Navigator Islands, where some few years ago two native Elders from the Sandwich Islands were successful in baptizing a large number of natives and organizing them into branches. These Islands have not been visited by any of the white Elders, but it is probably that some of our Elders on the Sandwich Islands may in the near future make a visit there.
The letters which we received from New Zealand where President William Paxman presides, continue to bring us gratifying intelligence concerning the condition and progress of the work there. The Elders are very successful among the Maories. Many of the white brethren have succeeded in acquiring the language of that race, which is cognate to that of the Sandwich Islands, and two of them, Elders Ezra T. Richards and Sondra Sanders, Jr., are now engaged, as we are informed, in translating the Book of Mormon into the Maori language. In Australia the Elders are also laboring, but it is a much harder field than among the natives of New Zealand.
Home Manufactures.
Frequent reference has been made in past teachings and in former Epistles to the subject of home manufactures, it has been, and we feel it still ought to be, a theme of inexhaustible interest to Zion; yet there remains an immense amount to be done in developing our resources and furnishing facilities for the employment of the people. It is pleasing to note the progress which is being made in some directions. Our woolen manufactures are gaining credit for their excellence in other communities as well as our own. But we export considerable wool even after all our factories are well supplied. If this could be manufactured at home, it would add greatly to the wealth of our community, not only in the profits which would accrue from the use of machinery, but in the employment which it would furnish to many of our citizens. Besides the manufacture of woolen cloths, there is considerable home-made hosiery of excellent quality which is placed on the market.
The range of articles which are manufactured in this Territory is gradually increasing; and from the feeling which now prevails we judge that many more branches will soon be added to those already in operation. The manufacture of soaps of various grades has now become a settled and paying business. A fine quality of hats is also made. Boots and shoes and clothing, glass, white lead, lead pipe, native paints, brushes, paper, printing type, starch, pearl barley and oatmeal are all manufactured in the Territory, and many of these articles in sufficient quantities to supply the local demand and to export to some extent. It is an encouraging feature in the most of these enterprises that those engaged in them are seeking to enlarge their facilities with the view to increase their production. We have a large number of children growing up among us who should be furnished with opportunities to acquire skill in mechanism, manufactures, and other pursuits which are necessary for the comfort of man. It is not only incumbent upon parents to seek for avenues of profitable employment for their children, but it should be kept in view by the leading men of the Church in all our settlements. An idle man’s brain, it is said, is the devil’s workshop, and no community can prosper and maintain a high standard of morality that does not furnish employment for its members. Far better to work for low wages than not to work at all. But with proper care, and by putting in use the experience that many individuals in every settlement possess, there need be no want of remunerative employment for the rising generation, and for others who may come in from abroad. It may not always be kept in mind, yet it is a fact, that any percentage of idle persons in a community is a direct less to the whole. It is unfortunate, also, for a community, when the young and enterprising are compelled to leave it and go elsewhere to find employment or room for the exercise of the talent of which they feel themselves possessed. Settlements that are in this situation will languish and go to decay, while others that furnish facilities for employment will become thrifty and prosperous. The combination of capital by means of co-operation would, in many instances, enable settlements to start branches of manufacture and conduct them successfully. Chimerical schemes, however, should not be encouraged, as their failure destroys confidence and makes it more difficult to obtain aid for worthy enterprises which might be made successful. Where co-operation has failed among us, it has not been because the principle is defective, but because of mismanagement, sometimes from ignorance and carelessness, and sometimes, perhaps, from selfishness.
Our country abounds in useful elements. We have a fertile soil, when properly cultivated, and an admirable climate. Grains, fruits, and vegetables, as well as all kinds of stock, can be raised here, and as superior in quality as can be found anywhere on the earth. Care should be taken to raise the very best varieties. Our horses, cattle, sheep, and poultry, as well as our grains, and fruits, and vegetables, should be of the very best kinds, and no pains should be spared to keep them pure. Our system of irrigation does not admit of the cultivation of large areas of land. Our farms are moderate in extend. This being the case, they should be cultivated in the most approved style, and the whole business connected with a farm should be connected with a farm should be conducted in a manner to bring the best results. As facilities for education increase, there undoubtedly will be a marked improvement in the management of all these branches of business.
Practical Education.
It is gratifying to notice the interest that is being taken among us in education; yet there is great room for improvement. As the tast for what may be called book-learning increases, manual labor should not be neglected. The education of the mind and the education of the body should go hand in hand. A skillful brain should be joined with a skillful hand. Manual labor should be dignified among us and always be made honorable. The tendency, which is too common in these days, for young men to get a smattering of education and then think themselves unsuited for mechanical or other laborious pursuits is one that should not be allowed to grow among us. Of course it is necessary as society is now organized, that the professions, as they are termed, should receive attention. But every one should make it a matter of pride to be a producer, and not a consumer alone. Our children should be taught to sustain themselves by their own industry and skill, and not only to do this, but to help sustain others, and that to do this by honest toll is one of the most honorable means which God has furnished to his children here on the earth. The subject of the proper education of the youth of Zion is one of the greatest importance.
President Brigham Young during his lifetime established schools in Provo and Logan, where the principles of the Gospel have been taught in connection with other branches of education, and more recently similar schools have been commenced, and conducted with marked success; in Salt Lake, Beaver and Fillmore Cities.
The good results arising from teaching received in the Provo and Logan Academies are very apparent and pleasing to all who have the interests of the young at heart, and we regret that such institutions are so limited in number.
Through the indefatigable labors of Professors Karl G. Maeser, J. Z. Stewart and their associates, these schools have done, and are now doing, a great work in educational advancement, by instilling a knowledge of the principles of the Gospel of life and salvation into the minds of our children, upon whose shoulders the Kingdom of God must rest in the near future.
We trust it will not be long before schools of this kind will be established in every city and village where the Latter-day Saints reside. In the meantime, however, the Saints should not fail to avail themselves of the privileges that are now offered them in the Provo, Logan, Beaver, Fillmore, and Salt Lake Academies.
The “Church Suits.”
Congress, at its last session as you are aware, passed a law entitled “An Act to amend an Act entitled an Act to amend Section 5352 of the Revised Statues of the United States, in reference to bigamy, and for other purposes,” etc.
Under the 15th and 17th sections of this law the Perpetual Emigrating Fund Company and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are respectively declared dissolved, and in this Act it is made the duty of the Attorney General of the United States to cause proceedings to be taken in the Supreme Court of the Territory of Utah to wind up the affairs of said associations.
Pursuant to the duty thus imposed upon the Attorney General, on the 30th day of July, 1887, proceedings were begun in said court by the United States against the Perpetual Emigrating fund Company and its trustees, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its alleged trustees for the purpose of disposing of the property of the one and winding up the affairs of the others: asking in these suits to escheat to the United States large amounts of property alleged to be held by these two defendants. At the time of this writing nothing has been done in these cases further than to appear and answer the complaints. What the result of these cases will be, we, of course cannot now say. It is proper, however, that we should speak upon this important proceeding and let the Saints know how the cases stand.
The Perpetual Emigrating Fund Company, as all of you well know, was conceived and organized for but one purpose, namely, to aid the poor of our people in their humble efforts to gather with their brethren. It has been for this charitable purpose, the object of the generous bounty of the Latter-day Saints, but at no time in its history has it owned any real estate, or any personal property, save sufficient for its absolute needs each succeeding year. The Church on the other hand has been the owner of property, the gifts and bequests of an earnest, sincere people, made for the purpose of aiding in the propagation of the Gospel of our Savior Jesus Christ. The effort now being made by our government to dissolve or wind up these associations and escheat their property, is the first of the kind in the history of our people, and is believed to be without historical precedent in this country. When we say we shall watch these cases with deep interest, the Saints will readily believe that it is not alone for the property involved in these suits, but also for the principles and rights that are at stake.
Our Settlements in Arizona.
The intelligence which reaches us from our settlements in Arizona is encouraging; and we note with pleasure that the people of the settlements at St. Johns and Woodruff have conquered some of the difficulties with which they had to contend, and which made their position very trying. Indeed, the news from all the Stakes there is gratifying.
In Idaho.
In Idaho, though our people pay taxes and support the schools, everyone of our faith is denied the privilege of acting in the capacity of a school trustee or teacher, and no one with our belief can take the test oath that has been prescribed by the Legislature. The situation of the people there is one that excites great sympathy. They are practically denied the rights of American citizens through the infamous test oath law which was enacted by the Legislature. It is very trying to their patience and bears heavily upon them. But the day must come when they will be relieved from the operation of this infamous law.
In Colorado.
In San Luis Valley, Colorado, the efforts of our people to open and cultivate farms, and to surround themselves with the necessaries and comforts of life, are meeting with gratifying success. This is the more noteworthy because of the fact that the great bulk of settlers there have moved from a warm climate and have not had experience in battling with the difficulties that have to be met in the building up of new settlements in an untried soil and climate. Like the Saints in Wyoming, those who reside in Colorado have always received fair treatment and encouragement and kind consideration from their neighbors and the officials of the State.
In Mexico.
Our settlements in Mexico are progressing favorably and are gradually being strengthened, both at Diaz and Juarez. At the places named and in the Sierra Madre Mountains near the latter, we have nearly one hundred and fifty thousand acres of grazing, timber and agricultural lands.
The country is well adapted to stock-raising, as the grasses are of good quality and great variety, while the climate is uniform, the temperature is seldom reaching higher than 85 degrees or lower than an approach to the freezing point. The facilities for making comfortable homes there are excellent, the land, water and timber being good. A fine steam saw, shingle and lath mill, and a planer and moulder, are in operation, affording building material within easy reach of Juarez.
The treatment of our people by the national and state officials in Mexico and her citizens generally, has been cordial and hospitable. By word and act they have encouraged colonization in the Republic. The settlements in Chihuahua afford abundance of room for several hundred families and they could live there in peace, and by ordinary habits of industry would soon make themselves prosperous and happy.
The Mexican Mission was opened in 1879, and the Church now has quite a large following of native Saints, mainly located in and about the national capital. The Book of Mormon, Voice of Warning, and numerous pamphlets have been published in the Spanish language are being distributed according to the ancient predictions. Thus the truth is being spread abroad among the seed of Israel through the means of the record of their fathers, as well as by the preaching of the Elders.
The Alberta Colony.
Recent letters from President Charles O. Card, in charge of our colony in Canada, contain information of a gratifying nature. The soil upon which they are located is said to be very productive, and the grain and vegetables produced are of excellent quality, and range for stock is abundant and nutritious. The colony is preparing for winter, and the families composing it will soon have their houses completed. They have opened a fine vein of coal within three miles of their settlement, which is one Lees Creek, Alberta, Canada.
The treatment accorded the Saints there, by officials and people, has been considerate and kind, and the prospects for improvements and prosperity are good. Brother Card would be glad to have any of the Saints, contemplating a change of location, to join him in that land, and we will gladly approve efforts in that direction.
We may be led, hereafter, to call some of the brethren to go there with their families, to aid him in developing the resources of that goodly land.
Conclusion.
We cannot refrain from expressing to you our own feelings of thankfulness that we live in such an age, and that God has bestowed upon us His Holy Priesthood and has permitted us to take part in His great work. We are thankful that we are associated with this people called Latter-day Saints; that we live in a day when Prophets and Apostles have been raised up in the Church of Christ; and that God has stretched forth His hand to fulfill His great and marvelous purposes which have been predicted by the mouths of the holy prophets since the world began. We testify in the name of our Lord and Master, Jesus, that this is the great work of which the prophets have spoken, that God is the founder of it, and that it will stand forever, and accomplish all that has been predicted concerning it. Zion is established and will be redeemed. And it is our continual desire unto God that His people may be faithful in keeping His commandments and doing His will, so that they may be accounted worthy to stand, and their children after them, and inherit the great blessings which He has to bestow upon the faithful. The day is not far distant when our Lord and Savior will be revealed from the heavens, and we should live in constant expectation of this great event, and seek, with all the energy and power that we can exercise and obtain, to prepare ourselves, our households, and, as far as we have influence, the inhabitants of the earth, for His glorious appearing.
Your Brother,
Wilford Woodruff,
In behalf of the Council of the Twelve Apostles.
On Saturday afternoon, Oct. 8th, at the conclusion of the reading of the General Epistle, the choir sang an anthem: The Lord be praised.
Benediction was pronounced by Elder Lorenzo D. Young.
It will be found in full in this issue of the News.
An Epistle To the Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Introductory.
Dear Brethren and Sisters:
It appears proper, at this Fifty-eighth Semi-annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, that an Epistle should be addressed to the members of the Church, in conformity with the custom which has been observed at the past five General Conferences.
Death of President Taylor.
As some of the Apostles are prevented, by circumstances well known to the Saints, from appearing in public, the church will naturally look for some expression from them concerning their feelings and hopes respecting the work of our God. Espeically at the present time is deep interest felt in the utterances of the Apostles, because of the loss which the Church has sustained in the death of President John Taylor. Twice before has the Church mourned the death of its President, and each time the event has produced a profound impression upon its members. In this instance the sad event is invested with more significance than it would have been had it occurred in the ordinary way. President Taylor died in exile. For about two years and a half he had been compelled to live in seclusion, and to refrain from all public association with the people whom he loved more than he did life.
Through his decease the Church is called the third time to mourn the departure of the man who has stood as its President and as the Prophet, Seer and Revelator to this generation. The experience which the Saints have gained in passing through these trials has been of exceeding value to them. They have learned that God can take care of his own work, and that they need not worry nor yield to anxiety or doubt concerning its management.
After the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph there were pretenders who asserted that they had the right to take his place at the head of the Church. Some were deceived by their pretensions, not being familiar with the order of the Priesthood.
The Responsibility of the Apostles.
For some time before his death the Prophet Joseph was inspired of the Lord to anticipate his own departure from earthly scenes. This was shown in various ways; but especially in the great anxiety which he displayed to bestow upon the Twelve Apostles all the keys and authority of the Holy Priesthood which he had received. He declared in private and in public that they were equipped and fully qualified, and that he had rolled the kingdom of God on to the shoulders of the Twelve Apostles.
President Woodruff’s Personal Testimony.
I, Wilford Woodruff, being the last man living in the flesh who was present upon that occasion feel it a duty I owe to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, to the House of Israel, and to the whole world to bear this my last testimony to all nations, that in the winter of 1843-4, Joseph Smith, the Prophet of God, called the Twelve Apostles together in the City of Nauvoo, and spent many days with us giving us our endowments, and teaching us those glorious principles which God had revealed to him. And upon one occasion he stood upon his feet in our midst for nearly three hours declaring unto us the great and last dispensation which God had set His hand to perform upon the earth in these last days. The room was filled as if with consuming fire; the Prophet was clothed upon with much of the power of God, and his face shone and was transparently clear, and he closed that speech, never-to-be-forgotten in time or in eternity, with the following language:
“Brethren, I have had great sorrow of heart for fear that I might be taken from the earth with the keys of the Kingdom of God upon me, without sealing them upon the heads of other men. God has sealed upon my head all the keys of the Kingdom of God necessary for organizing and building up of the Church, Zion, and Kingdom of God upon the earth, and to prepare the Saints for the coming of the Son of Man. Now, brethren, I thank God I have lived to see the day that I have been enabled to give you your endowments, and I have now sealed upon your heads all the powers of the Aaronic and Melchesidek Priesthoods and Apostleship, with all the keys and powers thereof, which God has sealed upon me; and I now roll off all the labor, burden and care of this Church and Kingdom of God upon your shoulders, and I now command you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to round up your shoulders, and bear off this Church and Kingdom of God before heaven and earth, and before God, angels and men; and if you don’t do it you will be damned.”
And the same spirit that filled the room at that time burns in my bosom while I record this testimony, and the Prophet of God appointed no one else but the Twelve Apostles to stand at the head of the Church and direct its affairs.
The Presidency in the Apostles.
When the Prophet Joseph had passed away by foul assassination, those who possessed the Spirit of God and were living in close communion with it, knew the voice of the true shepherd and were not deceived by the claims of men who pretended to have authority. The body of the Church followed the leader of those whom God had chosen, and whom His servant Joseph had been instructed to prepare for this great responsibility. The Twelve Apostles, with President Brigham Young as their head, became the presiding council of the church.
The lessons which the Church then learned in regard to the Priesthood, have never been forgotten. When President Young was taken from us, there was no jar nor division of sentiment among the Apostles; and among the people there was scarcely a question as to where the right of Presidency tested. President John Taylor took the position which belonged to him, and the work of God moved forward without interruption, and with a union and harmony on the part of all connected with it, most delightful to witness. He has stood at our head for nearly ten years, and during that period he has possessed the gifts and qualifications which belonged to his high office and calling. His entire career is one that can be contemplated with the utmost satisfaction and pleasure by all who love the truth and admire integrity in those who are called to be servants of God. From the time that he was baptized a member of the Church until his spirit took its flight from earth, he never wavered in his advocacy and defense of the principles of righteousness. Under all the varied circumstances through which he and the people of God were called to pass, in the midst of the deepest trials and afflictions, his voice was always raised in tones of encouragement and hope; and when the storms were the fiercest, he rose to the occasion and always displayed undaunted courage and unflinching devotion to the Zion of God. In the providence of God it fell to his lot to be with the Prophet Joseph and Patriarch Hyrum when they were martyred for the truth, and he mingled his own blood with theirs. Though severely wounded on that occasion, he miraculously escaped death. He was a man whom the Lord loved. The evidence of this is to be found in the fact that He chose him to preside over His Church at the departure of His servant Brigham. We feel thankful to God our Eternal Father that we have been permitted to live with and enjoy the society of President John Taylor and be his fellow-laborers. Our association with him and the Presidents and Apostles who have gone before him into the spirit world, we esteem as a great honor. We take delight in anticipating the rejoicing that we shall have when we shall be permitted to mingle in their society.
Once more, the responsibility of presiding over the Church has fallen upon the Council of the Twelve Apostles. The Counselors of President Taylor, Brothers George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith, being members of the Council of the Twelve Apostles at the time they were chosen to be members of the First Presidency, have, since his death, taken their places again as members of that Council.
Fifty-seven years and a half have elapsed since the Church was organized. In looking around among those with whom we associate to-day, how few there are left of those who, under the Lord, helped to lay the foundation of this work and were the companions of the Prophet in the early labors connected therewith! To-day there is but one Apostle left of those who belonged to the Council of the Apostles during the lifetime of the Prophet Joseph, or, indeed, at the time these valleys were first settled. The other faithful Apostles who were ordained under the direction of the Prophet Joseph have all passed behind the vail. Since the death of President Young four have joined him in the other world, and in the same period six have been ordained as members of the Council of the Twelve Apostles. This gives some idea of the changes which are occurring, and how rapidly a new generation is taking an active part in the building up of Zion.
The Labors of the Apostles.
Those of us who have been at liberty to travel, have devoted our time to visiting the various Stakes, and in meeting with them at their Quarterly Conferences. Some of us have been laboring in Mexico, others in Arizona, besides visiting the Stakes in Idaho and in Utah. These Quarterly Conferences are attended with excellent results. The people come together and receive instructions and counsel upon leading topics, and much good is derived therefrom. Though it involves considerable labor for the Apostles to visit them, yet we are encouraged in doing so by the advantages which those visits bring to the people in keeping them informed concerning general movements and counsel. In these labors we have had much joy and satisfaction, especially in witnessing the increase of faithfulness on the part of the Saints.
The Patience of the Saints.
Though many of the leading men have been compelled to be absent, some of them having been incarcerated in prison, the people have, nevertheless, been steadfast, and have sought with increased diligence to perform their duties. The persecution to which they have been subjected has led the people to think and act for themselves, and not to depend so much upon others for guidance. This can not fail to be attended with good results. It is necessary that all the members of the Church should exercise their powers of reason and reflection and thoroughly understand why they take the course which God points out. Intelligent obedience on the part of His Saints is desired by our Father in heaven. He has given us our agency to think and act for ourselves, on our own volition, to obtain a testimony for ourselves from Him concerning the truth of the principles which He teachers, and then be firm and unshaken in the performance of all which is necessary for salvation.
We have felt great satisfaction in witnessing the dignity and courage which the Saints have exhibited through the trials of the past three years. Their conduct has been admirable. They have displayed great qualities. The forbearance, patience and fortitude which they have exhibited are proofs that God has been with them. Outrages which would have goaded any other people into acts of violence have been of frequent occurrence. In other communities men and women would be desperate under such treatment. But the Lord has given His people power to control themselves and peace has been maintained. Riots and bloodshed have been avoided, and even under strong provocation, when blood was shed, the community restrained itself. Prejudice may prevent our nation and its rulers from acknowledging, at the present, how noble the demeanor of the people has been under these trying circumstances, and with the strong provocations which they have had to indulge in outbreaks; yet the time will come when all this will receive its proper recognition and due credit will be accorded the Latter-day Saints for the magnanimity and self-control throughout this entire persecution.
Primary Associations, Etc.
In the organizations which have been established among our people in all our settlements in these mountains, the advancement and training and benefit of all classes are amply provided for. Among no people of whom we know anything have such provisions been made for the salvation and care of the members of society of all ages as among the Latter-day Saints. If we and our children do not progress in intelligence and in the knowledge of all principles pertaining to life here and life hereafter, it is because we do not avail ourselves of those facilities which are placed within our reach. We have the Primary Associations provided for the benefit of the young children of our Church, and their instruction in those simple principles which they can understand. We also have Sunday schools for the training and education of those of larger growth. In them they can learn the doctrines of salvation and the history of the work of God, and be prepared for greater progress. Then we have the Young Mens’ and Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Associations, which have been organized, as their names imply, for the development of the young people of both sexes and their advancement in every thing that will qualify them for lives of usefulness and honor. But besides these organizations we have the various councils of the Priesthood, to some office in which every young man who is worthy can be ordained. The young women, as they increase in years, can also find a sphere of usefulness in the Relief Societies which have been organized for the purpose of assisting the Bishops and Counselors and Teachers of the Wards in caring for the poor and relieving the wants of the suffering and distressed. So that by means of these organizations, which are of vast interest to us as a people, every one from early childhood to maturity, can be led forward step by step, from one degree of knowledge to another until fully qualified to discharge all the duties of perfected and honorable manhood and womanhood.
So far as we know the sisters who have charge of the Primary Associations are doing a most commendable work in arousing interest in the little ones and in teaching them in simple style those lessons which are adapted to their understandings. We hope that in all our settlements these associations will receive the constant care and attention of our wise and judicious sisters. The seed sown in the hearts of the children by the instructions imparted there will produce in years to come an abundant harvest that will gladden the hearts of the Saints who witness it.
Our Sunday Schools, Etc.
The progress of the Sunday School cause in Zion continues satisfactory, though undoubtedly somewhat retarded by the enforced absence from its labors and associations of so many brethren and sisters who have in former years taken an active interest in its welfare. We notice, with pleasure, the constantly increasing number of schools, teachers and scholars reported by the officers of the Union and the evident care taken by the presiding local authorities in our settlements to have a Sunday School as one of the first institutions established. We are also gratified to learn that in most of the foreign missions of the Church Sunday Schools and Improvement Associations are being organized wherever practicable. In Great Britain, in Continental Europe, in New Zealand, and in the Sandwich Islands, as also in the branches scattered throughout the missions in the United States, these institutions are found contributing their influence in instructing and forming the character of the children of the Latter-day Saints.
The Mutual Improvement Societies are also accomplishing great good throughout our settlements. In connection with them and the Sunday Schools, we desire to remind our brethren and sisters who are engaged in the praiseworthy labor of fostering these institutions, that the original design in organizing Sunday Schools and Improvement Societies among us was, that the children and youth of the Saints should be made wise in the principles of the Gospel and their faith be developed in the revelations of God. This the officers and teachers should keep constantly in mind. The books used should be almost without exception, the revelations of God as contained in ancient and modern Scripture, together with the other works of the Church. The teachings, while direct, brief and simple, should be such as will increase the faith, develop the veneration and love, and draw out the intelligence of the youthful bearers toward the divine principles of which by God’s grace, we have been made the custodians. All attempts, however slight, to secularize these institutions and to charge them so that they will not accomplish the ends sought for in their creation, should be discountenanced. The spirit and teachings of the Gospel should hold undivided control in all our ministration connected with this cause. In the theological and other classes all discussions should be avoided as much as possible on subjects which God in His wisdom has not yet fully revealed. We know there are many persons who appear to take more delight in dwelling upon questions which are mysterious and cannot very well, in our present state of knowledge, be answered than they do upon those subjects which are plain and simple and essential to present progress. But the Lord has revealed so much that we can understand and that we ought to learn in order to be useful in the labors devolving upon us here, that we need not enter into discussions on subjects which in no way affect our happiness here or eternal salvation hereafter. In our theological classes, quorum meetings and other assemblies, therefore, these debatable questions need not be discussed or be dwelt upon to occupy the time of the members, to the exclusion of more profitable topics. In the Primary Associations, the Sunday schools and the Mutual Improvement Associations, singing should receive a large share of attention. Singing exercises can be made a great attraction and also a valuable addition to the education of the young. The interest that is now taken among us in vocal and instrumental music is the marked feature of the times, and this taste finds increasing opportunities for its development in the facilities which are now being furnished to all who desire its cultivation. Instead of having a select few acts as choirs in these institutions to do the singing for the whole, the voices of all should be united in harmonious melody in giving utterance to the feelings of their hearts in hymns and songs. This will increase the pleasure of the meetings, and make all feel that they have an equal interest in worship and rejoicing.
The Relief Societies.
The mission of the Relief Societies as organized among us, is truly grand and beneficent. There is no limit to their labors and usefulness while suffering and want exist in our midst. To aid the needy by feeding the hungry and clothing the destitute is distinctively and peculiarly their mission. In the energetic performance of their duty human sympathy and divine mercy are beautifully harmonized. In the energetic performance of their duty human sympathy and divine mercy are beautifully harmonized. In extending relief to the poor, the love of God and of our fellows is clearly manifest. It is more praiseworthy for a relief society to be able to say “There are none in our Ward in need of food, raiment or shelter,” than to report thousands of dollars in hand, while the needs of the poor are unsupplied.
These societies have done a vast amount of good among us, and the members have been of great service in assisting the Priesthood in the wards in caring for the destitute and in supplying the wants of those who have been in need of help. In these labors we desire to give them every encouragement and to invoke the blessing of heaven upon them, and all their exertions for the benefit of suffering humanity.
The Care of the Poor.
As the winter season is approaching, it is proper that each Bishop and his Counselors should take the necessary steps to properly care for the poor who live in their wards. They should call the Relief Societies to their aid in this labor. The reasonable wants of the poor should be supplied and the pangs of poverty and destitution should be averted. God has greatly blessed us in the fruits of our fields and gardens, in our flocks and herds, and in giving us comfortable habitations and means to sustain ourselves, and we should always remember the words of the Apostle James: “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”
While it has always been the policy of our people to encourage industry and to repress idleness in every form, and to expect all persons to contribute, according to their ability, to their own support; still there are many cases where the aged and the infirm, or the unfortunate, cannot, with the utmost exertion and economy, obtain through their own labors sufficient to sustain themselves. It would be a great evil among us to encourage any class in living upon the benevolence of the community. No system of begging should be permitted. Those able to work should be furnished employment. Persons who are properly disposed will be glad to obtain it in preference to being fed with the bread of charity; and all should be encouraged to labor according to their strength. This policy, if wisely pursued will prevent pauperism, develop self-exertion and confidence, and produce self-respect. It is a case of great pleasure to think that beggary is unknown throughout our settlements. There is no need for anyone, however destitute, to publicly solicit alms. But while this is the case, the sensitive and those who shrink from asking aid, who conceal, in some instances, their poverty, should be carefully looked after by the Relief Societies under the direction of the Bishops of the wards, so that there may be no individual in any of our wards suffering for the want of food or any other article necessary to sustain or preserve life. The community whose hearts are open to the cries of distress, who are ready to administer of the substance which the Lord gives them to relieve their fellow creatures, may always depend upon the favor of the Lord, for he loves those who are kind to their fellow-men, and who administer to their necessities, whose hearts are tender, and who readily respond to applications of this character which are made upon them, or who anticipate them by giving freely to the destitute.
Fast Offerings.
In some of our wards there is not proper care taken in the collection of the fast offerings of the people. The first Thursday in the month has been set apart in the Church as a day of fasting and prayer. That day should be strictly observed. Fast offering should be brought with a liberal hand to the Bishop of each ward, that he may be prepared to supply those who are dependent upon the ward for sustenance. Some wards require considerable aid from the Church to help sustain their poor, because their own fast offerings do not supply them; while sometimes in the same Stake there are other wards where there are few, if any, dependent poor. Presidents of Stakes should make arrangements with the Bishops of the last named wards to transfer their fast offerings to the Bishop of some contiguous ward which has more poor within its borders than its own fast offerings will supply. In this way all the people can have an equal opportunity of doing their duty to the poor.
The Lessons of Liberality.
Experience has abundantly proved that those who are attentive to those and all other duties required by the Lord receive His blessing. God does bless those who devote themselves with singleness of purpose to His work. If proof of this were needed, one has only to notice the condition of Elders in the various settlements who have spent their lives upon missions. Though their home affairs may have been left to the care of their wives and children, they are not distinguished by their poverty from their fellow-servants who have remained at home.
We have only to look around us to satisfy ourselves also, that those who are generous in contributing to God’s work are favored of the Lord. This was the experience of ancient Israel, and it is our experience. Yet in regard to voluntary donations there is too much carelessness, notwithstanding all the precious promises connected therewith. The Saints should be reminded of the obligation which rests upon them. Our children, also, should be taught this duty, that it may become a fixed habit with them to punctually attend to these matters. Those who have strictly observed these requirements can testify to the great pleasure and many rewards they have received from their observance.
This law of liberality appears to be one of the safeguards which the Lord has adopted to avert from his people the evil consequences which follow the possession of wealth. He has told us that the riches of the earth are His to give; but He has warned us to beware of pride, lest we become as the Nephites of old. We know the rule it wrought for them, and we should spare no precaution to prevent wealth having a disastrous effect upon us. Many can endure poverty and be humble and live near the Lord who cannot bear riches. They become lifted up in pride and become covetous, and forget their God. Those, however, who remember constantly the teachings of the Lord concerning the earth and its inhabitants, and who contribute of the means which the Lord gives them to assist the poor and help carry forward the work of God, exercise a check upon themselves and give Satan less power to lead them astray. Under the present system of affairs, those who accumulate wealth and are able to supply themselves and their families with luxuries and advantages that are denied their neighbors, are in danger of becoming separated from the bulk of the people and forming a distinct class. But the day will come when a more perfect order will be introduced. Then it will be said there are no poor and no rich in Zion—that is, we shall not be divided into classes, but shall all possess everything of this character necessary for our comfort and happiness. But until then, if we wish our families and ourselves to remain Latter-day Saints, we must be especially careful to guard against the deceitfulness of riches.
The Duties of the Saints.
The great labor which devolves upon us, as members of the Church, is to build up Zion. God has founded Zion, and we should seek to extend its benefits and blessings unto all mankind. It should be our constant care to do nothing that will weaken its influence or power or retard its growth in the earth. This we should constantly impress also, upon our children, that they may grow up filled with an abiding love for the work of God.
There has been too much neglect on this point. Many have pursued a short-sighted, selfish policy; and have worked to that which they believed was their own individual advantage without regard to the effect their action would have upon the work of God. Their eyes have not been single to His glory. Such a disposition has proved a snare to those who have indulged in it; they have wrought injury to themselves, not to mention the effect their conduct has had upon Zion.
The Encouragement of Marriage.
The Lord has informed us that marriage is ordained of God unto man. The institution of marriage, in some communities of which we read, is falling almost into disrepute. It is alleged that there is a growing tendency in this direction among us. The cause is doubtless, traceable to the increase of wealth and the disinclination of young men to take upon them the burdens of a wife and family. As we depart from the simplicity of early days, we may naturally expect that this tendency will increase as young men may be restrained from offering marriage to young ladies unless they can give them something like as comfortable a home as they enjoy under their parents’ roof. Extravagant or luxuriant habits or training on the part of the girls will also have the effect to deter young men from marrying. Care should be taken by every person of influence to counteract this tendency, and to set before the rising generation the advantages which follow well-arranged marriages. No community can prosper and maintain a high standard of morality where there is a large percentage of unmarried young men and young women. We should deplore the increase of such a class among us, and all honorable means should be used to prevent its existence. The young of both sexes should be taught that it is not necessary to happiness in marriage to be in the possession of wealth. In this country an industrious, economical married couple can soon surround themselves with all the conveniences and comforts essential to life and happiness. The satisfaction each will have in after years in the enjoyment of the fruits of their joint industry and thrift will amply repay them for any inconveniences or privations they may have been subjected to in the early days of their married life. The comforts thus accumulated will be doubly sweetened unto them by the recollection of their exertions in common to procure them. No rightly constituted and educated young woman will refuse an offer of marriage from a worthy, industrious young man for no other reason than that he is not able to surround her at first with the comforts which she may think she ought to have. Young men, who have a due share of the qualities which women esteem in a husband, need not be afraid that girls of that kind will refuse them, because they may not be well endowed with this world’s goods. They will cheerfully bear their part of the burdens of life without repining when confident of the love and supporting and guiding hand of the husbands.
Against Incurring Debt.
We feel led to caution the Latter-day Saints against forming the bad habit of incurring debt and taking upon themselves obligations which frequently burden them heavier than they can bear, and lead to the loss of their homes and other possessions. We know it is the fashion of the age to use credit to the utmost limit, and it is customary for nations, states, counties and cities to borrow money, issue bonds and thus load themselves with taxes to such an extent that large numbers of the people are prevented from owning land or even the houses which they occupy. Thus the masses become tenants and have to pay rent for land and shelter. This is a great evil and one that we, as a people and as individuals, should carefully shun. Our business should be done, as much as possible, on the principle of paying for that which we purchase, and our needs should be brought within the limit of our resources. The disposition to speculate and to take chances upon ventures of one kind and another should be repressed. There are many people who have been rendered homeless in our Territory by the neglect of this precaution. To raise funds to invest in some scheme which has appeared promising they have mortgaged their homes, only too often, to be disappointed and to find themselves without a place of shelter for themselves and their families. All this is wrong. If the penalty for such unwisdom fall upon the one through whose acts and influence it is brought about, the consequences would not be so deplorable; but very frequently families suffer and the bad results are widely felt. We, therefore, repeat our counsel to the Latter-day Saints to shun debt. Be content with moderate gains, and be not misled by illusory hopes of acquiring wealth. Remember the saying of the wise man: “But he that hasteth to get rich shall not be innocent.” Let our children also be taught habits of economy, and not to indulge in tastes which they cannot gratify without running in debt.
Zion Shall Not be Removed.
We have been favored, as no other people have, with wise counsels. Their extent and variety are immeasurable. They cover every department of human life. So far as we have observed them, prosperity and happiness have been the results. Whatever difficulties we may have to contend with to-day are due, if not wholly, at least in great part, to our disregard of them. Is not this the experience and testimony of all the faithful Saints who have watched the progress of events among us? Had we observed these counsels, how many of the evils from which we now suffer would never have been known among us! Our neglect of them has brought its punishment, and the faithful can see it. But shall we not profit by the experience of the past and act more wisely in the future? As the Lord has said (Doctrine and Covenants, sec. 90, ver. 36, 37),
“But verily I say unto you, that I, the Lord, will contend with Zion, and plead with her strong ones, and chasten her until she overcomes and is clean before me: For she shall not be removed out of her place, I, the Lord, have spoken it.”
We should begin to understand that God’s ways are infinitely superior to our ways, and that His counsels, though they may seem to call for sacrifice, are always the best and the safest for us to adopt and carry out. Thousands among us can testify to the truth of this from individual experience. These thousands should combine and create a public opinion in favor of obedience to the counsel of heaven that will have its proper effect upon our children and the inexperienced among us.
The Glory Will Be the Lord’s.
We also should learn this great truth, that God will have all the glory and honor for the establishment of His Church and Kingdom on the earth. Man cannot claim it in this or any other age of the world. Nothing but the power of God could have brought forth the fullness of the Gospel, organized the Church, gathered His people to Zion in fulfillment of revelation and performed the work which has been accomplished. Therefore, as Latter-day Saints, we are obliged to acknowledge the hand of God in all the blessings we enjoy.
The Conduct of Our Lives.
It should be the aim of all the members of the Church to carry out practically in their lives the principles of the Gospel. In no way can we better convince the world of their truth than in showing in our acts and dealings with one another and with mankind the elevating effect they have upon us. We make high professions, and there should be such a high standard of purity of life among us as to correspond with these professions. Our children should be impressed with this, and be taught that the name of Saint is so holy that they only who are pure in heart can claim it.
If our religion does not lead us to love our God and our fellow man and to deal justly and uprightly with all men, then our profession of it is vain. The Apostle says:
“If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother, whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?”
We can best exemplify our love for our God by living our religion. It is vain to profess a love for God while speaking evil of or doing wrong to His children. The sacred covenants we have made with Him strictly impose upon us the duties we owe to one another; and the great office of religion is to teach us how to perform those duties so as to produce the greatest happiness for ourselves and for our fellow-beings. When the obligations of our religion are observed, no words are spoken or acts are committed that would injure a neighbor. If the Latter-day Saints lived as they should do, and as their religion teaches them to do, there would be no feeling in any breast but that of brotherly and sisterly affection and love. Backbiting and evil-speaking would have no existence among us; but peace and love and good will would reign in all our hearts and habitations and settlements. We would be the happiest people on the face of the earth, and the blessing, and peace of Heaven would rest upon us and upon all that belongs to us.
If there be unhappiness and heart-burnings and quarrelings and hatreds among us, they exist because we do not observe the religion which we profess. They are not its fruits. Where these evils exist there is a crying necessity for repentance. If any feel injured by the words or acts of their brethren or sisters, the Gospel points out and furnishes the way by which this injury may be repaired. Instead of talking about this to others they should go to the person or persons who have done the wrong and make their feelings known. If satisfaction is then made, that ought to end the matter; but if not, it can be reported to the proper officers of the Church for them to take the necessary steps to terminate the difficulties. In this way animosities and disunion can be prevented and confidence be maintained.
Partaking of the Sacrament.
As Latter-day Saints, it is our general custom to partake of the sacrament once a week. If the teachings of our Lord, in remembrance of whom we observe this sacred ordinance, be regarded, no one who has trespassed can be permitted to share in it until he has made reconciliation. It is the express commandment of the Lord Jesus that no one shall be permitted to partake of His flesh and blood unworthily. A more perfect system to prevent the existence of improper feelings and wrongs among brethren and sisters can not be imagined. If the Saints do their duty, difficulties do not remain unsettled beyond the Lord’s day when they assemble to eat and drink in remembrance of Him.
Temple Work.
Notwithstanding the difficulties that the Saints have had to contend with of late, they have pursued their labors in every direction with unabated zeal. This is particularly noticeable in their attendance at the Temples. The wish to avail themselves of the opportunities for attending to the ordinances for themselves and their deceased friends has, if anything, increased, and those employed in these sacred buildings have their time fully occupied in performing their duties there. It is evident that the Latter-day Saints appreciate the blessings to be obtained through this Temple work. When we reflect that we have two buildings of this character already completed, furnishing abundant facilities for all who choose to go there to obtain the ordinances of God’s house for themselves and for those in whose salvation they take so deep an interest, and that we have another Temple at Manti nearing completion, and one in Salt Lake City, which we hope to see finished before long, our hearts are filled with gladness and we cannot refrain from praising our God for His goodness unto his people in permitting them, notwithstanding the opposition and many difficulties they have had to contend with, to erect such structures and to dedicate them, according to the pattern He has given for these sacred uses.
No right feeling Latter-day Saint can think upon this subject without being thrilled with heavenly joy for what God has done for us in our generation, furnishing us, as He has done, with every facility to prepare us, our posterity and our ancestors for that eternal world which lies beyond the present life. The Latter-day Saints are, in truth, a highly favored people, and praise to God should ascend from every heart and habitation in our land for the great mercy and goodness which He has shown unto us. He has made us promises of the most precious character, and he has fulfilled them up to the present time. We would be the most ungrateful and unworthy people that ever lived if, after receiving such wonderful manifestations of His goodness, we slackened in our diligence or failed in our obedience and devotion to Him and His great cause.
Foreign Missions.
The treatment which the Elders have received in preaching the Gospel throughout the Southern States, as we are informed by President John Morgan, has been much better of late than it has been at some other periods. The Elders are listened to with more patience and do not meet with so much of the spirit of mobocracy and unreasoning hate. Additions are being made to the Church, and those who emigrate from that region have generally settled in San Luis Valley, Colorado.
The Elders in the North Western States under the direction of President W. M. Palmer, pursue their labors with undiminished zeal and with moderate success in bringing people into the Church. These fields of labor have furnished opportunities for numbers of our young men to gain experience in missionary efforts, and those who have this privilege return home, in the most of instances, better qualified to assist the local authorities where they reside in the labors of the ministry.
In Great Britain the Elders meet with considerable opposition in places, principally, however, from apostates. They find that field a much more difficult one than it was in former years. The hearts of the people seem to have become hardened, and great indifference prevails in regard to religion. Still we learn from President George Teasdale, who presides at the present time over the European Mission, that the Elders who zealously enter into the labors of the ministry find abundant cause for rejoicing in the success which attends their exertions. Throughout the Swiss and German Mission presided over by Elder Frederick Schoenfeld, and the Scandinavian Mission presided over by Elder N. C. Flygare, the Elders are laboring also with commendable zeal and with gratifying results. An effort is being made at the present time to preach to Gospel in Turkey, where Elders Jacob Spori, J. M. Tanner and F. F. Hintze have been, and are laboring, and even the land of Palestine has been visited, and in the late company of emigrants which reached this City from Europe, nine persons were gathered who had received the Gospel in that land, a land hallowed to us as the earthly home of our Redeemer, and the soil of which his sacred feet trod.
One the Sandwich Islands the Elders are laboring faithfully under the direction of President William King, and everything is being done to improve the condition of that people and to save them from the destruction which threatens the extinction of the race. The plantation at Laie is still maintained, and the Elders who have labored and who are still laboring there enter with spirit into the management of that property in a way to benefit as much as possible the native Saints. The attention of the Elders there is directed at present to the Navigator Islands, where some few years ago two native Elders from the Sandwich Islands were successful in baptizing a large number of natives and organizing them into branches. These Islands have not been visited by any of the white Elders, but it is probably that some of our Elders on the Sandwich Islands may in the near future make a visit there.
The letters which we received from New Zealand where President William Paxman presides, continue to bring us gratifying intelligence concerning the condition and progress of the work there. The Elders are very successful among the Maories. Many of the white brethren have succeeded in acquiring the language of that race, which is cognate to that of the Sandwich Islands, and two of them, Elders Ezra T. Richards and Sondra Sanders, Jr., are now engaged, as we are informed, in translating the Book of Mormon into the Maori language. In Australia the Elders are also laboring, but it is a much harder field than among the natives of New Zealand.
Home Manufactures.
Frequent reference has been made in past teachings and in former Epistles to the subject of home manufactures, it has been, and we feel it still ought to be, a theme of inexhaustible interest to Zion; yet there remains an immense amount to be done in developing our resources and furnishing facilities for the employment of the people. It is pleasing to note the progress which is being made in some directions. Our woolen manufactures are gaining credit for their excellence in other communities as well as our own. But we export considerable wool even after all our factories are well supplied. If this could be manufactured at home, it would add greatly to the wealth of our community, not only in the profits which would accrue from the use of machinery, but in the employment which it would furnish to many of our citizens. Besides the manufacture of woolen cloths, there is considerable home-made hosiery of excellent quality which is placed on the market.
The range of articles which are manufactured in this Territory is gradually increasing; and from the feeling which now prevails we judge that many more branches will soon be added to those already in operation. The manufacture of soaps of various grades has now become a settled and paying business. A fine quality of hats is also made. Boots and shoes and clothing, glass, white lead, lead pipe, native paints, brushes, paper, printing type, starch, pearl barley and oatmeal are all manufactured in the Territory, and many of these articles in sufficient quantities to supply the local demand and to export to some extent. It is an encouraging feature in the most of these enterprises that those engaged in them are seeking to enlarge their facilities with the view to increase their production. We have a large number of children growing up among us who should be furnished with opportunities to acquire skill in mechanism, manufactures, and other pursuits which are necessary for the comfort of man. It is not only incumbent upon parents to seek for avenues of profitable employment for their children, but it should be kept in view by the leading men of the Church in all our settlements. An idle man’s brain, it is said, is the devil’s workshop, and no community can prosper and maintain a high standard of morality that does not furnish employment for its members. Far better to work for low wages than not to work at all. But with proper care, and by putting in use the experience that many individuals in every settlement possess, there need be no want of remunerative employment for the rising generation, and for others who may come in from abroad. It may not always be kept in mind, yet it is a fact, that any percentage of idle persons in a community is a direct less to the whole. It is unfortunate, also, for a community, when the young and enterprising are compelled to leave it and go elsewhere to find employment or room for the exercise of the talent of which they feel themselves possessed. Settlements that are in this situation will languish and go to decay, while others that furnish facilities for employment will become thrifty and prosperous. The combination of capital by means of co-operation would, in many instances, enable settlements to start branches of manufacture and conduct them successfully. Chimerical schemes, however, should not be encouraged, as their failure destroys confidence and makes it more difficult to obtain aid for worthy enterprises which might be made successful. Where co-operation has failed among us, it has not been because the principle is defective, but because of mismanagement, sometimes from ignorance and carelessness, and sometimes, perhaps, from selfishness.
Our country abounds in useful elements. We have a fertile soil, when properly cultivated, and an admirable climate. Grains, fruits, and vegetables, as well as all kinds of stock, can be raised here, and as superior in quality as can be found anywhere on the earth. Care should be taken to raise the very best varieties. Our horses, cattle, sheep, and poultry, as well as our grains, and fruits, and vegetables, should be of the very best kinds, and no pains should be spared to keep them pure. Our system of irrigation does not admit of the cultivation of large areas of land. Our farms are moderate in extend. This being the case, they should be cultivated in the most approved style, and the whole business connected with a farm should be connected with a farm should be conducted in a manner to bring the best results. As facilities for education increase, there undoubtedly will be a marked improvement in the management of all these branches of business.
Practical Education.
It is gratifying to notice the interest that is being taken among us in education; yet there is great room for improvement. As the tast for what may be called book-learning increases, manual labor should not be neglected. The education of the mind and the education of the body should go hand in hand. A skillful brain should be joined with a skillful hand. Manual labor should be dignified among us and always be made honorable. The tendency, which is too common in these days, for young men to get a smattering of education and then think themselves unsuited for mechanical or other laborious pursuits is one that should not be allowed to grow among us. Of course it is necessary as society is now organized, that the professions, as they are termed, should receive attention. But every one should make it a matter of pride to be a producer, and not a consumer alone. Our children should be taught to sustain themselves by their own industry and skill, and not only to do this, but to help sustain others, and that to do this by honest toll is one of the most honorable means which God has furnished to his children here on the earth. The subject of the proper education of the youth of Zion is one of the greatest importance.
President Brigham Young during his lifetime established schools in Provo and Logan, where the principles of the Gospel have been taught in connection with other branches of education, and more recently similar schools have been commenced, and conducted with marked success; in Salt Lake, Beaver and Fillmore Cities.
The good results arising from teaching received in the Provo and Logan Academies are very apparent and pleasing to all who have the interests of the young at heart, and we regret that such institutions are so limited in number.
Through the indefatigable labors of Professors Karl G. Maeser, J. Z. Stewart and their associates, these schools have done, and are now doing, a great work in educational advancement, by instilling a knowledge of the principles of the Gospel of life and salvation into the minds of our children, upon whose shoulders the Kingdom of God must rest in the near future.
We trust it will not be long before schools of this kind will be established in every city and village where the Latter-day Saints reside. In the meantime, however, the Saints should not fail to avail themselves of the privileges that are now offered them in the Provo, Logan, Beaver, Fillmore, and Salt Lake Academies.
The “Church Suits.”
Congress, at its last session as you are aware, passed a law entitled “An Act to amend an Act entitled an Act to amend Section 5352 of the Revised Statues of the United States, in reference to bigamy, and for other purposes,” etc.
Under the 15th and 17th sections of this law the Perpetual Emigrating Fund Company and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are respectively declared dissolved, and in this Act it is made the duty of the Attorney General of the United States to cause proceedings to be taken in the Supreme Court of the Territory of Utah to wind up the affairs of said associations.
Pursuant to the duty thus imposed upon the Attorney General, on the 30th day of July, 1887, proceedings were begun in said court by the United States against the Perpetual Emigrating fund Company and its trustees, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its alleged trustees for the purpose of disposing of the property of the one and winding up the affairs of the others: asking in these suits to escheat to the United States large amounts of property alleged to be held by these two defendants. At the time of this writing nothing has been done in these cases further than to appear and answer the complaints. What the result of these cases will be, we, of course cannot now say. It is proper, however, that we should speak upon this important proceeding and let the Saints know how the cases stand.
The Perpetual Emigrating Fund Company, as all of you well know, was conceived and organized for but one purpose, namely, to aid the poor of our people in their humble efforts to gather with their brethren. It has been for this charitable purpose, the object of the generous bounty of the Latter-day Saints, but at no time in its history has it owned any real estate, or any personal property, save sufficient for its absolute needs each succeeding year. The Church on the other hand has been the owner of property, the gifts and bequests of an earnest, sincere people, made for the purpose of aiding in the propagation of the Gospel of our Savior Jesus Christ. The effort now being made by our government to dissolve or wind up these associations and escheat their property, is the first of the kind in the history of our people, and is believed to be without historical precedent in this country. When we say we shall watch these cases with deep interest, the Saints will readily believe that it is not alone for the property involved in these suits, but also for the principles and rights that are at stake.
Our Settlements in Arizona.
The intelligence which reaches us from our settlements in Arizona is encouraging; and we note with pleasure that the people of the settlements at St. Johns and Woodruff have conquered some of the difficulties with which they had to contend, and which made their position very trying. Indeed, the news from all the Stakes there is gratifying.
In Idaho.
In Idaho, though our people pay taxes and support the schools, everyone of our faith is denied the privilege of acting in the capacity of a school trustee or teacher, and no one with our belief can take the test oath that has been prescribed by the Legislature. The situation of the people there is one that excites great sympathy. They are practically denied the rights of American citizens through the infamous test oath law which was enacted by the Legislature. It is very trying to their patience and bears heavily upon them. But the day must come when they will be relieved from the operation of this infamous law.
In Colorado.
In San Luis Valley, Colorado, the efforts of our people to open and cultivate farms, and to surround themselves with the necessaries and comforts of life, are meeting with gratifying success. This is the more noteworthy because of the fact that the great bulk of settlers there have moved from a warm climate and have not had experience in battling with the difficulties that have to be met in the building up of new settlements in an untried soil and climate. Like the Saints in Wyoming, those who reside in Colorado have always received fair treatment and encouragement and kind consideration from their neighbors and the officials of the State.
In Mexico.
Our settlements in Mexico are progressing favorably and are gradually being strengthened, both at Diaz and Juarez. At the places named and in the Sierra Madre Mountains near the latter, we have nearly one hundred and fifty thousand acres of grazing, timber and agricultural lands.
The country is well adapted to stock-raising, as the grasses are of good quality and great variety, while the climate is uniform, the temperature is seldom reaching higher than 85 degrees or lower than an approach to the freezing point. The facilities for making comfortable homes there are excellent, the land, water and timber being good. A fine steam saw, shingle and lath mill, and a planer and moulder, are in operation, affording building material within easy reach of Juarez.
The treatment of our people by the national and state officials in Mexico and her citizens generally, has been cordial and hospitable. By word and act they have encouraged colonization in the Republic. The settlements in Chihuahua afford abundance of room for several hundred families and they could live there in peace, and by ordinary habits of industry would soon make themselves prosperous and happy.
The Mexican Mission was opened in 1879, and the Church now has quite a large following of native Saints, mainly located in and about the national capital. The Book of Mormon, Voice of Warning, and numerous pamphlets have been published in the Spanish language are being distributed according to the ancient predictions. Thus the truth is being spread abroad among the seed of Israel through the means of the record of their fathers, as well as by the preaching of the Elders.
The Alberta Colony.
Recent letters from President Charles O. Card, in charge of our colony in Canada, contain information of a gratifying nature. The soil upon which they are located is said to be very productive, and the grain and vegetables produced are of excellent quality, and range for stock is abundant and nutritious. The colony is preparing for winter, and the families composing it will soon have their houses completed. They have opened a fine vein of coal within three miles of their settlement, which is one Lees Creek, Alberta, Canada.
The treatment accorded the Saints there, by officials and people, has been considerate and kind, and the prospects for improvements and prosperity are good. Brother Card would be glad to have any of the Saints, contemplating a change of location, to join him in that land, and we will gladly approve efforts in that direction.
We may be led, hereafter, to call some of the brethren to go there with their families, to aid him in developing the resources of that goodly land.
Conclusion.
We cannot refrain from expressing to you our own feelings of thankfulness that we live in such an age, and that God has bestowed upon us His Holy Priesthood and has permitted us to take part in His great work. We are thankful that we are associated with this people called Latter-day Saints; that we live in a day when Prophets and Apostles have been raised up in the Church of Christ; and that God has stretched forth His hand to fulfill His great and marvelous purposes which have been predicted by the mouths of the holy prophets since the world began. We testify in the name of our Lord and Master, Jesus, that this is the great work of which the prophets have spoken, that God is the founder of it, and that it will stand forever, and accomplish all that has been predicted concerning it. Zion is established and will be redeemed. And it is our continual desire unto God that His people may be faithful in keeping His commandments and doing His will, so that they may be accounted worthy to stand, and their children after them, and inherit the great blessings which He has to bestow upon the faithful. The day is not far distant when our Lord and Savior will be revealed from the heavens, and we should live in constant expectation of this great event, and seek, with all the energy and power that we can exercise and obtain, to prepare ourselves, our households, and, as far as we have influence, the inhabitants of the earth, for His glorious appearing.
Your Brother,
Wilford Woodruff,
In behalf of the Council of the Twelve Apostles.
On Saturday afternoon, Oct. 8th, at the conclusion of the reading of the General Epistle, the choir sang an anthem: The Lord be praised.
Benediction was pronounced by Elder Lorenzo D. Young.
Morning Session. Sunday, Oct. 9th, 12 a. m.
Singing by the choir:
How are thy Servants blessed, O Lord!
How sure is their defense!
Eternal wisdom is their guide Their help Omnipotence.
Prayer by Apostle Heber J. Grant.
Singing:
The Seer, the Seer, Joseph the Seer!
I’ll sing of the Prophet ever dear,
His equal now cannot be found,
By searching the wide world around.
Singing by the choir:
How are thy Servants blessed, O Lord!
How sure is their defense!
Eternal wisdom is their guide Their help Omnipotence.
Prayer by Apostle Heber J. Grant.
Singing:
The Seer, the Seer, Joseph the Seer!
I’ll sing of the Prophet ever dear,
His equal now cannot be found,
By searching the wide world around.
The General Authorities of the Church were presented by Apostle Franklin D. Richards, to be voted upon by the Conference, as follows:
Wilford Woodruff as President of the Council of the Twelve Apostles, as one of the Twelve Apostles, and of the Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The Council of the Twelve Apostles: Wilford Woodruff, Lorenzo Snow, Erastus Snow, Franklin D. Richards, George Q. Cannon, Brigham Young, Joseph F. Smith, Moses Thatcher, Francis M. Lyman, John H. Smith, George Teasdale, Heber J. Grant and John W. Taylor.
Counselors of the Twelve Apostles: John W. Young and Daniel H. Wells.
The Twelve Apostles as the Presiding Council and Authority of the Church, and, with their Counselors, as Prophets, Seers and Revelators.
Patriarch to the Church: John Smith.
First Seven Presidents of the Seventies: Henry Herriman, Horace S. Eldredge, Jacob Gates, Abram H. Cannon, Seymour B. Young, C. D. Fjeldsted and John Morgan.
Wm. B. Preston as Presiding Bishop, with Robt. T. Burton as his First and John R. Winder as his Second Counselor.
Wilford Woodruff as Church Historian and General Church Recorder, with Franklin D. Richards as assistant.
Truman O. Angell, General Church Architect, and W. H. Folsom, assistant.
Clerk of Conference: John Nicholson.
Church Reporters: John Irvine and Geo. F. Gibbs.
The following were also presented as the general officers of the Ladies’ Relief Society organization: President, Eliza R. Snow Smith; First Counselor, Zina D. H. Young; Secretary, Sarah M. Kimball; Assistant Secretary, Romania B. Pratt; Treasurer, M. Isabella Horne.
Brother Richards said he had not before him the names of the officers of the Young Men’s and Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Associations and therefore could not present them. He, however, presented the following as the superintendency of the Mutual Improvement organizations: Wilford Woodruff, Joseph F. Smith and Moses Thatcher.
The vote to sustain the authorities was unanimous.
Wilford Woodruff as President of the Council of the Twelve Apostles, as one of the Twelve Apostles, and of the Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The Council of the Twelve Apostles: Wilford Woodruff, Lorenzo Snow, Erastus Snow, Franklin D. Richards, George Q. Cannon, Brigham Young, Joseph F. Smith, Moses Thatcher, Francis M. Lyman, John H. Smith, George Teasdale, Heber J. Grant and John W. Taylor.
Counselors of the Twelve Apostles: John W. Young and Daniel H. Wells.
The Twelve Apostles as the Presiding Council and Authority of the Church, and, with their Counselors, as Prophets, Seers and Revelators.
Patriarch to the Church: John Smith.
First Seven Presidents of the Seventies: Henry Herriman, Horace S. Eldredge, Jacob Gates, Abram H. Cannon, Seymour B. Young, C. D. Fjeldsted and John Morgan.
Wm. B. Preston as Presiding Bishop, with Robt. T. Burton as his First and John R. Winder as his Second Counselor.
Wilford Woodruff as Church Historian and General Church Recorder, with Franklin D. Richards as assistant.
Truman O. Angell, General Church Architect, and W. H. Folsom, assistant.
Clerk of Conference: John Nicholson.
Church Reporters: John Irvine and Geo. F. Gibbs.
The following were also presented as the general officers of the Ladies’ Relief Society organization: President, Eliza R. Snow Smith; First Counselor, Zina D. H. Young; Secretary, Sarah M. Kimball; Assistant Secretary, Romania B. Pratt; Treasurer, M. Isabella Horne.
Brother Richards said he had not before him the names of the officers of the Young Men’s and Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Associations and therefore could not present them. He, however, presented the following as the superintendency of the Mutual Improvement organizations: Wilford Woodruff, Joseph F. Smith and Moses Thatcher.
The vote to sustain the authorities was unanimous.
Elder John T. Caine
addressed the congregation. He had rejoiced in the instructions received during Conference, and was glad that it had convened in Salt Lake City, as there were greater facilities here for the purpose than elsewhere. The work we are engaged in is pressing onward. Although we have been told what would be our experiences in the development of the Church, we could not realize their character until they were upon us. The object for which we gathered should always be kept before us. It was not to better our temporal condition, but to obtain our salvation. Also to prepare a people for the coming of the Savior when he shall appear. The world have formed mistaken opinions regarding this work and its object. They do not understand it to be the revelation of the Gospel of Salvation. Much prejudice exists regarding the Latter-day Saints for this reason. A certain class of men, on account of their ulterior notions, have purposely misrepresented this community. One of those errors is that there exists in Utah a union of Church and State; the leaders have established a polity outside the genius of the government of the United States. This is a grave mistake. The Saints came here as a religious community, led by their spiritual leaders. The latter had, of necessity, in the first settlement of these valleys, also to advise and instruct the people in relation to temporal matters. The exigencies demanded this. The people needed instruction upon the subject of sustaining themselves physically as well as otherwise. The chief men had shown their ability in that direction in guiding them to this place. This is all there is in the idea of Church and State. And even if a man hold an ecclesiastical office and an office in the State as well, it does not follow that there is an amalgamation of the two branches. When they have been selected for those political positions it was because of their fitness and the confidence the people repose in them. This community is not alone in this regard. Because a man becomes a Methodist, a Catholic, or any other kind of religionist, he does not relinquish any of his rights as a citizen of this republic. He still has a right to use his influence in favor of sound politics as well as in religious matters. There never has been a disposition to establish a union of church and state. One of the first leading acts of the people who came here and pioneered the settlement of this great region was to call a convention, send delegates to Washington, the seat of the general government and ask admission into the Union as a state. All the people have ever found fault with here has been the character of the laws passed applicable to them and to the manner in which they have been frequently administered. This has been caused by a belief that they were not compatible with the fundamental principles and institutions of our country. There is no disloyalty in protests of that character. The people who have come here from distant lands have not continued their allegiance to the countries of their nativity. They have identified themselves with this Republic by securing citizenship in it.
This is essentially a democratic community. It may be said you vote all one way. Well, if the people wish to vote all one way they have a right to. They have a right to vote for their friends in preference to their enemies. Although we meet with men who maladminister the laws, yet we love and cling to the principle of this great government, because in them there is liberty. They inculcate the right of local self-government and we must cling to them.
The speaker said he embraced the gospel forty years ago. He had never seen any reason to regret the step he then took. The principles he accepted had initiated him into the Church of Christ. He hoped to continue to adhere to them. He was grateful for the faith and confidence of the people, and felt that he had been sustained by them in the trying position he had occupied, and hoped to still be worthy of such support.
addressed the congregation. He had rejoiced in the instructions received during Conference, and was glad that it had convened in Salt Lake City, as there were greater facilities here for the purpose than elsewhere. The work we are engaged in is pressing onward. Although we have been told what would be our experiences in the development of the Church, we could not realize their character until they were upon us. The object for which we gathered should always be kept before us. It was not to better our temporal condition, but to obtain our salvation. Also to prepare a people for the coming of the Savior when he shall appear. The world have formed mistaken opinions regarding this work and its object. They do not understand it to be the revelation of the Gospel of Salvation. Much prejudice exists regarding the Latter-day Saints for this reason. A certain class of men, on account of their ulterior notions, have purposely misrepresented this community. One of those errors is that there exists in Utah a union of Church and State; the leaders have established a polity outside the genius of the government of the United States. This is a grave mistake. The Saints came here as a religious community, led by their spiritual leaders. The latter had, of necessity, in the first settlement of these valleys, also to advise and instruct the people in relation to temporal matters. The exigencies demanded this. The people needed instruction upon the subject of sustaining themselves physically as well as otherwise. The chief men had shown their ability in that direction in guiding them to this place. This is all there is in the idea of Church and State. And even if a man hold an ecclesiastical office and an office in the State as well, it does not follow that there is an amalgamation of the two branches. When they have been selected for those political positions it was because of their fitness and the confidence the people repose in them. This community is not alone in this regard. Because a man becomes a Methodist, a Catholic, or any other kind of religionist, he does not relinquish any of his rights as a citizen of this republic. He still has a right to use his influence in favor of sound politics as well as in religious matters. There never has been a disposition to establish a union of church and state. One of the first leading acts of the people who came here and pioneered the settlement of this great region was to call a convention, send delegates to Washington, the seat of the general government and ask admission into the Union as a state. All the people have ever found fault with here has been the character of the laws passed applicable to them and to the manner in which they have been frequently administered. This has been caused by a belief that they were not compatible with the fundamental principles and institutions of our country. There is no disloyalty in protests of that character. The people who have come here from distant lands have not continued their allegiance to the countries of their nativity. They have identified themselves with this Republic by securing citizenship in it.
This is essentially a democratic community. It may be said you vote all one way. Well, if the people wish to vote all one way they have a right to. They have a right to vote for their friends in preference to their enemies. Although we meet with men who maladminister the laws, yet we love and cling to the principle of this great government, because in them there is liberty. They inculcate the right of local self-government and we must cling to them.
The speaker said he embraced the gospel forty years ago. He had never seen any reason to regret the step he then took. The principles he accepted had initiated him into the Church of Christ. He hoped to continue to adhere to them. He was grateful for the faith and confidence of the people, and felt that he had been sustained by them in the trying position he had occupied, and hoped to still be worthy of such support.
Apostle Lorenzo Snow
read the 11th verse of the 3rd, and 10th verse of the 4th chapter of Exodus. Asked an interest in the faith and prayers of the Saints. When first called to do that which the Lord required of him, Moses felt his weakness and dependence upon the Lord, and therefore asked, “Who am I that I should be called to do this mighty work?” He felt that it was a labor that he was not equal to, and he besought the Lord to call some other person. One of his pleas was that he was not eloquent, but slow of speech. So it was with the Elders in this day when called to go as missionaries to the various nations. They felt their inability. In looking at what has been accomplished in the valleys of the mountains as well as by the Elders abroad, one must acknowledge that God had assisted his humble followers in their efforts. The Elders as a rule were lacking in scholastic education, but the Lord had made up unto them by the outpouring of His Spirit what they were deficient in that respect. Jeremiah felt likewise humble and inadequate when he was called of the Lord; but he was told that the Lord had known him before he was formed in mortality and had ordained him to be a prophet unto the nations. So it was with Enoch. He became great, but when he was called to be a prophet he felt like a child. The Lord’s plans and doings were very different from those of man. Paul said the Lord had called the weak and foolish things of the world in his day to confound the wise and the mighty. Then, as in the days of Moses and other prophets, the glory and honor of what was accomplished had to be accorded to the Lord, for the instruments chosen could not claim the credit themselves. Looking at the condition of this world’s goods, it was also apparent that the credit for the marvelous change which had come over them since the Gospel found them in poverty scattered throughout the world, was due to the Lord only.
The hopes of the Saints had been extended immeasurably by the light of the Gospel. They know that when they depart this life, if faithful here to what the Lord has revealed to them, their salvation was secure. The Lord was entitled to the credit of this, for this blessing had not come from man. When Elders asked in arising to speak, an interest in the faith and prayers of their hearers, it was not as a matter of form, but from a sense of their weakness and dependence.
The speaker expressed his pleasure with what had been said and done during the Conference thus far. Was assured that the Saints were advancing and becoming more fully established in the principles of life and glory. While there was still much room for improvement it was apparent that advancement had been made. Exhorted the Saints to try and be more faithful, to do unto others as they would have others do unto them. The Saints were the friends of the Lord. They must learn to extend their charity to all mankind. As Brother Caine had said, God demanded of the Saints that they labor in the interest of all mankind. The examples of Joseph of old and the Prophet Daniel illustrated how the Lord blessed those who were true to principle and would do right under all circumstances. They labored for the good of the nation in which they lived. As their influence was finally increased with the people among whom they dwelt as well as with God by their fidelity and disinterestedness, so would that of the Saints. In case of Jonah going to Nineveh and proclaiming the destruction decreed by the Almighty and the result of the repentance of the people, also conveyed a valuable lesson to the Saints. He hoped it might be so with this generation, to whom warning voices of the Saints had extended. He invoked the blessing of the Lord upon the Assembly.
The choir sang the anthem—The Lord will bring again Zion.
Benediction by Elder Horace S. Eldredge.
read the 11th verse of the 3rd, and 10th verse of the 4th chapter of Exodus. Asked an interest in the faith and prayers of the Saints. When first called to do that which the Lord required of him, Moses felt his weakness and dependence upon the Lord, and therefore asked, “Who am I that I should be called to do this mighty work?” He felt that it was a labor that he was not equal to, and he besought the Lord to call some other person. One of his pleas was that he was not eloquent, but slow of speech. So it was with the Elders in this day when called to go as missionaries to the various nations. They felt their inability. In looking at what has been accomplished in the valleys of the mountains as well as by the Elders abroad, one must acknowledge that God had assisted his humble followers in their efforts. The Elders as a rule were lacking in scholastic education, but the Lord had made up unto them by the outpouring of His Spirit what they were deficient in that respect. Jeremiah felt likewise humble and inadequate when he was called of the Lord; but he was told that the Lord had known him before he was formed in mortality and had ordained him to be a prophet unto the nations. So it was with Enoch. He became great, but when he was called to be a prophet he felt like a child. The Lord’s plans and doings were very different from those of man. Paul said the Lord had called the weak and foolish things of the world in his day to confound the wise and the mighty. Then, as in the days of Moses and other prophets, the glory and honor of what was accomplished had to be accorded to the Lord, for the instruments chosen could not claim the credit themselves. Looking at the condition of this world’s goods, it was also apparent that the credit for the marvelous change which had come over them since the Gospel found them in poverty scattered throughout the world, was due to the Lord only.
The hopes of the Saints had been extended immeasurably by the light of the Gospel. They know that when they depart this life, if faithful here to what the Lord has revealed to them, their salvation was secure. The Lord was entitled to the credit of this, for this blessing had not come from man. When Elders asked in arising to speak, an interest in the faith and prayers of their hearers, it was not as a matter of form, but from a sense of their weakness and dependence.
The speaker expressed his pleasure with what had been said and done during the Conference thus far. Was assured that the Saints were advancing and becoming more fully established in the principles of life and glory. While there was still much room for improvement it was apparent that advancement had been made. Exhorted the Saints to try and be more faithful, to do unto others as they would have others do unto them. The Saints were the friends of the Lord. They must learn to extend their charity to all mankind. As Brother Caine had said, God demanded of the Saints that they labor in the interest of all mankind. The examples of Joseph of old and the Prophet Daniel illustrated how the Lord blessed those who were true to principle and would do right under all circumstances. They labored for the good of the nation in which they lived. As their influence was finally increased with the people among whom they dwelt as well as with God by their fidelity and disinterestedness, so would that of the Saints. In case of Jonah going to Nineveh and proclaiming the destruction decreed by the Almighty and the result of the repentance of the people, also conveyed a valuable lesson to the Saints. He hoped it might be so with this generation, to whom warning voices of the Saints had extended. He invoked the blessing of the Lord upon the Assembly.
The choir sang the anthem—The Lord will bring again Zion.
Benediction by Elder Horace S. Eldredge.
Afternoon Session.
At a quarter before 2 o’clock President Wilford Woodruff entered the building, accompanied by Apostles Lorenzo Snow and Franklin D. Richards, and Elder George Reynolds. Brother Woodruff entered the upper stand and facing the immense throng, waved his hand. The people returned the salute by waving of hands and handkerchiefs. Then arose a murmur of applause, which was increasing to a veritable shout of welcome when the venerable Apostle signified his desire, by raising his hand, that the expression of feeling be suppressed, and it subsided.
At 2 p. m. the meeting was called to order and the choir sang:
Come, thou glorious day of promise,
Come and spread thy cheerful ray,
When the scattered sheep of Israel,
Shall no longer go astray;
When hosannas,
With united voice they’ll cry.
Prayer was offered by Apostle John W. Taylor.
Singing:
How sweet communion is on earth
With those who’ve realized the birth
Of water, who the Spirit’s powers
Receive, in general, quick’ning showers.
The sacrament was administered under the direction of the Bishopric of the Twelfth Ward, Salt Lake City.
At a quarter before 2 o’clock President Wilford Woodruff entered the building, accompanied by Apostles Lorenzo Snow and Franklin D. Richards, and Elder George Reynolds. Brother Woodruff entered the upper stand and facing the immense throng, waved his hand. The people returned the salute by waving of hands and handkerchiefs. Then arose a murmur of applause, which was increasing to a veritable shout of welcome when the venerable Apostle signified his desire, by raising his hand, that the expression of feeling be suppressed, and it subsided.
At 2 p. m. the meeting was called to order and the choir sang:
Come, thou glorious day of promise,
Come and spread thy cheerful ray,
When the scattered sheep of Israel,
Shall no longer go astray;
When hosannas,
With united voice they’ll cry.
Prayer was offered by Apostle John W. Taylor.
Singing:
How sweet communion is on earth
With those who’ve realized the birth
Of water, who the Spirit’s powers
Receive, in general, quick’ning showers.
The sacrament was administered under the direction of the Bishopric of the Twelfth Ward, Salt Lake City.
President Wilford Woodruff
delivered the following discourse:
My brethren and sisters and friends: By way of introduction I desire to say that I feel to thank God and all my friends for the blessing I enjoy at this time—for the privilege, once more, of entering this Tabernacle and beholding the faces of the Latter-day Saints. And I feel a good deal as Mark Antony did when he went to bury Caesar. “I come to bury Caesar,” said he, “not to praise him.” I come to see the Latter-day Saints, but not to preach to them. You have plenty of Apostles and Elders to preach the word of the Lord unto you. But I have long desired to again enter this Tabernacle of the Lord and see the Latter-day Saints. It has been some three years, I think, since I have met with the Saints of God in this house; and I will tell you how I felt about coming to Conference. I felt that it would not be doing our great and mighty nation any harm—a nation of sixty millions of people—for two or three old men, seventy-five or eighty years of age, to come into this Tabernacle and look at the Latter-day Saints, and at the faces of their wives and children. I do not know that I have a wife or child here. If I have they will be able to see how old I have grown since we last met. Some of us have tried to keep the law to such an extent that we have almost forgotten how our wives and children look. I feel, however, to say, God bless the Marshal and officers of the government as far as they can exercise mercy, charity and humanity toward the Latter-day Saints in fulfilling their duty as officers of the government. I feel thankful to-day for this privilege, and I feel at peace with all mankind. I am at peace with all my friends. As to my enemies, I do not know that I have any. If I have, I hope that we may be at peace upon the principles of the Gospel of Christ of righteousness and of truth.
Now, with regard to preaching to you, my brethren and sisters, that is a subject I have thought very little about. I have preached this Gospel for some fifty-four years, and have learned by experience a great while ago that it is no use for an Elder in Israel to decide in his mind what he is going to say to the Saints of God. This is the way I feel to-day. And I will say this, that there are times in a man’s life when he cannot help reflecting upon the past. That is my condition to-day. Since I have entered this Tabernacle, and looked upon this congregation, my mind has reverted to my life from the time I became a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and this engenders in my bosom some very solemn reflections. Fifty-four years ago this last spring I traveled a thousand miles with the Prophet Joseph, and his brother Hyrum, Brothers Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, George A. Smith, and a great many other men—some 205 in all—mostly Elders in Israel—for the redemption of our brethren—to assist them in the midst of persecution. Our Prophets and Patriarchs, many of them, have passed away. They are on the other side of the vail. Since we came into these valleys forty years ago the twenty-fourth of last July—I drove President Young into this valley in my carriage, and he was sick at the time—eleven of the Apostles have passed away. They are in the spirit world mingling with the Gods, where they can plead for their brethren. These are reflections that rest upon my mind as I occupy this stand where I have met day after day and year after year with these noble men. President John Taylor, who was our last President and Apostle has also taken his departure. The last time I was in this house I met here with him. His work is finished. He has gone into the spirit world, where we shall all go very soon. Sometimes, in my reflections, I feel somewhat lonesome when I think these matters over. I feel as if I had lived two or three generations since the days of Kirtland and Nauvoo, or since the establishment of this Church and Kingdom with which I have been associated for so many years. I realize myself that I shall not dwell a great while upon the earth. I do not expect to dwell a great while longer with the Latter-day Saints. I have lived to the age of four score years, and when I contemplate the multitude that has passed away since we entered these valleys of the mountains, I can only expect to take my turn with the rest. But I will say this. I rejoice in the Gospel of Jesus Christ; I rejoice in the work of God; I rejoice in the principles of eternal life, light and truth, which have been revealed to the Latter-day Saints.
We have been called as a people to pass through a great deal of affliction in our day and time. But this eternal truth remains on earth and in heaven—that the God of Israel has set His hand to establish His Church and Kingdom upon the earth, and to fulfill the revelations contained within the Holy Bible, the Old and New Testament, as well as other records which have been given concerning the last dispensation and fulness of times.
We are all of us, brethren and sisters, dependent upon God our Heavenly Father for all our blessings, both temporal and spiritual. Indeed, while I contemplate our progress, our advancement, and the signs of the times in which we live, I feel that we, as Latter-day Saints, should try to fully realize and comprehend our responsibility before God, before each other, before the heavens, and before the earth.
I have for a long time had a desire to mingle with the Latter-day Saints, and to take part in their institutions—the Sabbath schools, the Mutual Improvement Associations, and with the various organizations of the Church. But for several years I have been laboring in other portions of the country, and have been deprived of the privilege of meeting with the Saints so far as this portion of the Territory is concerned.
I have desired from my youth up to become acquainted with the truth as contained in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. From my youth up I have had a desire to live and find the people of God on the earth. I have lived to see that day. I have lived to see Prophets, Apostles and inspired men. I have associated with them for many years of my life. This has been a great pleasure to me, and a great satisfaction to my own spirit.
And I desire to say to the Latter-day Saints, that we should remember that we are sent here on a mission; that we have been born in the flesh in this last dispensation of the fulness of times. We have been called to labor in the vineyard of the Lord, called to preach the Gospel, called to warn the nations of the earth, and many of them have been warned. We have traveled by land and by sea; have visited many foreign nations, also almost every part of our own nation, and some of us are drawing our missions to a close.
I have a desire that the Latter-day Saints should try to live their religion, and endeavor to do what is right; that they should have faith in God, and in the revelations of God, and in the principles which have been revealed to the Saints for the salvation of the human family.
We have a great many organizations in the Church and Kingdom of God, and have had almost from the beginning. They are so organized that all men and women, whether young or old, have a place of usefulness. We should try to improve our time, our talents and our opportunities while we are here upon the earth. I realize that this world is not our abiding place. We have an evidence of this every day of our lives. We are called to bury our Prophets, Apostles, Elders, fathers, mothers, wives and children, all of which shows us that we have no lease of life. We should therefore improve our time to-day.
I have felt to give the Latter-day Saints my faith and prayers in all their labors and exertions to build up the kingdom of God. I try to build it up to the best of my ability in accordance with the light and truth and knowledge which God has given me.
This is the first time that I have endeavored to speak in public for a good while. I have not been laboring in the midst of congregations like this. I have just passed through a week of sickness, which laid me prostrate. I feel the effects of it in my lungs, and in my system, yet I feel all right in my spirit. I felt as though I desired to look upon the faces of the Latter-day Saints, and hear the testimonies of my brethren. They have heard my testimony in years past. I have the same testimony to bear to-day. I bear record before God, angels and men, that the fulness of the everlasting Gospel has been revealed in these last days through the Prophets of God; and that Joseph Smith was raised up by the power of God as a Prophet, Seer and Revelator. He laid the foundation of this Church and Kingdom in its perfection, as it is at the present time. He brought forth the record as contained in the Book of Mormon, in fulfilment of the predictions of the Prophets of God; and also the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, which contains those grand and solemn revelations, and those principles of eternal truth, so precious to the Latter-day Saints. These things are true. We should study them; lay them up in our hearts, and practice them in our lives. This is the kingdom of God, and the Church of Jesus Christ. The Lord Almighty has set His hand to carry out the great programme of the last dispensation and fulness of times. If this had not been true Utah to-day would have been in all probability a desert as we found it in 1847, when first we came here. God has been watching over this people, and will continue to watch so long as we keep His commandments, so long will the hand of God be over the Latter-day Saints; Zion will arise; Zion will be clothed upon by the power of God. The Lord is watching over her; the heavens have been watching over this people, and have been from the beginning. We have the blessings of God with us. They are manifest in our temporal and spiritual affairs.
As I said in the beginning of my remarks, I realize that the voices of those we were accustomed to hear in the past are hushed in death. We shall hear them no more. The rest of us will follow in their train. We shall all pass away in our time, and we have a long eternity before us in the world to come. Those that have passed away have closed their work here, and are laboring to-day on the other side of the vail.
You have had laid before you, during this Conference, some things pertaining to the redemption of our dead, and some things in regard to the building of temples. These, brethren and sisters, are important works. They are works which we do for others that they cannot do for themselves. This is what Jesus Christ did when He laid down His life for our redemption, because we could not redeem ourselves. We have fathers and mothers and kindred in the spirit world, and we have a work to perform in their behalf. As an individual I have had a great interest in this work of redeeming the dead, and so have my brethren and sisters. This is a labor we must continue as far as we have opportunity. This principle was taught by the Apostle Paul. He asks, “If the dead rise not at all, why are they then baptized for the dead?” This is a work that rests upon the Latter-day Saints. Do what you can in this respect, so that when you pass to the other side of the vail your fathers, mothers, relatives and friends will bless you for what you have done, and inasmuch as you have been instruments in the hands of God in procuring their redemption, you will be recognized as Saviors upon Mount Zion in fulfillment of prophecy.
I hope that our institutions—those that have been referred to in our Epistle—the Relief Societies, Sunday schools, Mutual Improvement Associations, etc., will continue to do good. They have done a great deal of good, and still have the power to do more. These institutions belong to the organizations of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The brethren and sisters should continue to labor in them in behalf of the rising generation of this people. The Mutual Improvement Associations are good schools in which to prepare our young men for the vineyard of Christ. So also as the various quorums of the priesthood, and we should all labor to the best of our ability to fulfill the duties devolving upon us.
I feel the effect of my sickness; I feel it upon my lungs, and do not think it necessary to continue my remarks. I am glad to see you, and say God bless you, and I pray that God may pour out His Spirit upon you that we may magnify our calling, do our duty, keep the commandments of God, so that when we get through our work we may be satisfied with our history. I feel to bless this congregation, as far as I have the right and privilege to bless, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Latter-day Saints have been trying to do their duty, but there is room for all to improve; let us walk uprightly and labor for the truth, and for the inspiration of Almighty God to assist us in all we endeavor to accomplish. I pray our heavenly Father to uphold and sustain you, to bless you and your families, to bless you as husbands and wives and children and as Latter-day Saints, or any other capacity in which we are called to act. This is my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
delivered the following discourse:
My brethren and sisters and friends: By way of introduction I desire to say that I feel to thank God and all my friends for the blessing I enjoy at this time—for the privilege, once more, of entering this Tabernacle and beholding the faces of the Latter-day Saints. And I feel a good deal as Mark Antony did when he went to bury Caesar. “I come to bury Caesar,” said he, “not to praise him.” I come to see the Latter-day Saints, but not to preach to them. You have plenty of Apostles and Elders to preach the word of the Lord unto you. But I have long desired to again enter this Tabernacle of the Lord and see the Latter-day Saints. It has been some three years, I think, since I have met with the Saints of God in this house; and I will tell you how I felt about coming to Conference. I felt that it would not be doing our great and mighty nation any harm—a nation of sixty millions of people—for two or three old men, seventy-five or eighty years of age, to come into this Tabernacle and look at the Latter-day Saints, and at the faces of their wives and children. I do not know that I have a wife or child here. If I have they will be able to see how old I have grown since we last met. Some of us have tried to keep the law to such an extent that we have almost forgotten how our wives and children look. I feel, however, to say, God bless the Marshal and officers of the government as far as they can exercise mercy, charity and humanity toward the Latter-day Saints in fulfilling their duty as officers of the government. I feel thankful to-day for this privilege, and I feel at peace with all mankind. I am at peace with all my friends. As to my enemies, I do not know that I have any. If I have, I hope that we may be at peace upon the principles of the Gospel of Christ of righteousness and of truth.
Now, with regard to preaching to you, my brethren and sisters, that is a subject I have thought very little about. I have preached this Gospel for some fifty-four years, and have learned by experience a great while ago that it is no use for an Elder in Israel to decide in his mind what he is going to say to the Saints of God. This is the way I feel to-day. And I will say this, that there are times in a man’s life when he cannot help reflecting upon the past. That is my condition to-day. Since I have entered this Tabernacle, and looked upon this congregation, my mind has reverted to my life from the time I became a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and this engenders in my bosom some very solemn reflections. Fifty-four years ago this last spring I traveled a thousand miles with the Prophet Joseph, and his brother Hyrum, Brothers Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, George A. Smith, and a great many other men—some 205 in all—mostly Elders in Israel—for the redemption of our brethren—to assist them in the midst of persecution. Our Prophets and Patriarchs, many of them, have passed away. They are on the other side of the vail. Since we came into these valleys forty years ago the twenty-fourth of last July—I drove President Young into this valley in my carriage, and he was sick at the time—eleven of the Apostles have passed away. They are in the spirit world mingling with the Gods, where they can plead for their brethren. These are reflections that rest upon my mind as I occupy this stand where I have met day after day and year after year with these noble men. President John Taylor, who was our last President and Apostle has also taken his departure. The last time I was in this house I met here with him. His work is finished. He has gone into the spirit world, where we shall all go very soon. Sometimes, in my reflections, I feel somewhat lonesome when I think these matters over. I feel as if I had lived two or three generations since the days of Kirtland and Nauvoo, or since the establishment of this Church and Kingdom with which I have been associated for so many years. I realize myself that I shall not dwell a great while upon the earth. I do not expect to dwell a great while longer with the Latter-day Saints. I have lived to the age of four score years, and when I contemplate the multitude that has passed away since we entered these valleys of the mountains, I can only expect to take my turn with the rest. But I will say this. I rejoice in the Gospel of Jesus Christ; I rejoice in the work of God; I rejoice in the principles of eternal life, light and truth, which have been revealed to the Latter-day Saints.
We have been called as a people to pass through a great deal of affliction in our day and time. But this eternal truth remains on earth and in heaven—that the God of Israel has set His hand to establish His Church and Kingdom upon the earth, and to fulfill the revelations contained within the Holy Bible, the Old and New Testament, as well as other records which have been given concerning the last dispensation and fulness of times.
We are all of us, brethren and sisters, dependent upon God our Heavenly Father for all our blessings, both temporal and spiritual. Indeed, while I contemplate our progress, our advancement, and the signs of the times in which we live, I feel that we, as Latter-day Saints, should try to fully realize and comprehend our responsibility before God, before each other, before the heavens, and before the earth.
I have for a long time had a desire to mingle with the Latter-day Saints, and to take part in their institutions—the Sabbath schools, the Mutual Improvement Associations, and with the various organizations of the Church. But for several years I have been laboring in other portions of the country, and have been deprived of the privilege of meeting with the Saints so far as this portion of the Territory is concerned.
I have desired from my youth up to become acquainted with the truth as contained in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. From my youth up I have had a desire to live and find the people of God on the earth. I have lived to see that day. I have lived to see Prophets, Apostles and inspired men. I have associated with them for many years of my life. This has been a great pleasure to me, and a great satisfaction to my own spirit.
And I desire to say to the Latter-day Saints, that we should remember that we are sent here on a mission; that we have been born in the flesh in this last dispensation of the fulness of times. We have been called to labor in the vineyard of the Lord, called to preach the Gospel, called to warn the nations of the earth, and many of them have been warned. We have traveled by land and by sea; have visited many foreign nations, also almost every part of our own nation, and some of us are drawing our missions to a close.
I have a desire that the Latter-day Saints should try to live their religion, and endeavor to do what is right; that they should have faith in God, and in the revelations of God, and in the principles which have been revealed to the Saints for the salvation of the human family.
We have a great many organizations in the Church and Kingdom of God, and have had almost from the beginning. They are so organized that all men and women, whether young or old, have a place of usefulness. We should try to improve our time, our talents and our opportunities while we are here upon the earth. I realize that this world is not our abiding place. We have an evidence of this every day of our lives. We are called to bury our Prophets, Apostles, Elders, fathers, mothers, wives and children, all of which shows us that we have no lease of life. We should therefore improve our time to-day.
I have felt to give the Latter-day Saints my faith and prayers in all their labors and exertions to build up the kingdom of God. I try to build it up to the best of my ability in accordance with the light and truth and knowledge which God has given me.
This is the first time that I have endeavored to speak in public for a good while. I have not been laboring in the midst of congregations like this. I have just passed through a week of sickness, which laid me prostrate. I feel the effects of it in my lungs, and in my system, yet I feel all right in my spirit. I felt as though I desired to look upon the faces of the Latter-day Saints, and hear the testimonies of my brethren. They have heard my testimony in years past. I have the same testimony to bear to-day. I bear record before God, angels and men, that the fulness of the everlasting Gospel has been revealed in these last days through the Prophets of God; and that Joseph Smith was raised up by the power of God as a Prophet, Seer and Revelator. He laid the foundation of this Church and Kingdom in its perfection, as it is at the present time. He brought forth the record as contained in the Book of Mormon, in fulfilment of the predictions of the Prophets of God; and also the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, which contains those grand and solemn revelations, and those principles of eternal truth, so precious to the Latter-day Saints. These things are true. We should study them; lay them up in our hearts, and practice them in our lives. This is the kingdom of God, and the Church of Jesus Christ. The Lord Almighty has set His hand to carry out the great programme of the last dispensation and fulness of times. If this had not been true Utah to-day would have been in all probability a desert as we found it in 1847, when first we came here. God has been watching over this people, and will continue to watch so long as we keep His commandments, so long will the hand of God be over the Latter-day Saints; Zion will arise; Zion will be clothed upon by the power of God. The Lord is watching over her; the heavens have been watching over this people, and have been from the beginning. We have the blessings of God with us. They are manifest in our temporal and spiritual affairs.
As I said in the beginning of my remarks, I realize that the voices of those we were accustomed to hear in the past are hushed in death. We shall hear them no more. The rest of us will follow in their train. We shall all pass away in our time, and we have a long eternity before us in the world to come. Those that have passed away have closed their work here, and are laboring to-day on the other side of the vail.
You have had laid before you, during this Conference, some things pertaining to the redemption of our dead, and some things in regard to the building of temples. These, brethren and sisters, are important works. They are works which we do for others that they cannot do for themselves. This is what Jesus Christ did when He laid down His life for our redemption, because we could not redeem ourselves. We have fathers and mothers and kindred in the spirit world, and we have a work to perform in their behalf. As an individual I have had a great interest in this work of redeeming the dead, and so have my brethren and sisters. This is a labor we must continue as far as we have opportunity. This principle was taught by the Apostle Paul. He asks, “If the dead rise not at all, why are they then baptized for the dead?” This is a work that rests upon the Latter-day Saints. Do what you can in this respect, so that when you pass to the other side of the vail your fathers, mothers, relatives and friends will bless you for what you have done, and inasmuch as you have been instruments in the hands of God in procuring their redemption, you will be recognized as Saviors upon Mount Zion in fulfillment of prophecy.
I hope that our institutions—those that have been referred to in our Epistle—the Relief Societies, Sunday schools, Mutual Improvement Associations, etc., will continue to do good. They have done a great deal of good, and still have the power to do more. These institutions belong to the organizations of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The brethren and sisters should continue to labor in them in behalf of the rising generation of this people. The Mutual Improvement Associations are good schools in which to prepare our young men for the vineyard of Christ. So also as the various quorums of the priesthood, and we should all labor to the best of our ability to fulfill the duties devolving upon us.
I feel the effect of my sickness; I feel it upon my lungs, and do not think it necessary to continue my remarks. I am glad to see you, and say God bless you, and I pray that God may pour out His Spirit upon you that we may magnify our calling, do our duty, keep the commandments of God, so that when we get through our work we may be satisfied with our history. I feel to bless this congregation, as far as I have the right and privilege to bless, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Latter-day Saints have been trying to do their duty, but there is room for all to improve; let us walk uprightly and labor for the truth, and for the inspiration of Almighty God to assist us in all we endeavor to accomplish. I pray our heavenly Father to uphold and sustain you, to bless you and your families, to bless you as husbands and wives and children and as Latter-day Saints, or any other capacity in which we are called to act. This is my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Apostle H. J. Grant
said it was very gratifying to meet so many of the Latter-day Saints. Rejoiced beyond his powers of expression to hear the voice of President Woodruff. While he was but a youth and had not the privilege of looking upon the face of his own father nor seeing many others of the faithful leaders of the Saints, he rejoiced in the heritage which they had left in their testimony of the truth. Felt to pray always for the preservation of such men. The fleeting pleasures of this life and the honors that men strive for perish, but the truths of the Gospel will live forever. The Saints had received the Gospel of Christ, but if they failed to live up to its light, great would be their condemnation. If they were not virtuous, sober and industrious they were not living up to the light of the Gospel. Besought the Saints to so live that the light of the Spirit might be their constant companion. Testified that no labor that the Saints could engaged in would bring the same joy, peace and happiness as keeping the commandments of the Almighty.
said it was very gratifying to meet so many of the Latter-day Saints. Rejoiced beyond his powers of expression to hear the voice of President Woodruff. While he was but a youth and had not the privilege of looking upon the face of his own father nor seeing many others of the faithful leaders of the Saints, he rejoiced in the heritage which they had left in their testimony of the truth. Felt to pray always for the preservation of such men. The fleeting pleasures of this life and the honors that men strive for perish, but the truths of the Gospel will live forever. The Saints had received the Gospel of Christ, but if they failed to live up to its light, great would be their condemnation. If they were not virtuous, sober and industrious they were not living up to the light of the Gospel. Besought the Saints to so live that the light of the Spirit might be their constant companion. Testified that no labor that the Saints could engaged in would bring the same joy, peace and happiness as keeping the commandments of the Almighty.
Elder John Nicholson
was next called. He said the request to occupy this position was totally unexpected to him. I unite in the sentiment expressed in relation to the gratification afforded to us in beholding the face and listening to the voice of our venerable President. It would not be proper for me, under the circumstances, to occupy your attention for any length of time. It appears to be the desire that testimonies in relation to the truthfulness of this work should be spoken. I have received a testimony of the divinity of the work we are identified with and have, humble though I am, received a portion of the testimony of Jesus, the power of His Spirit. I have rejoiced in the spirit that has pervaded this Conference, and feel that we will go hence with a stronger determination to serve God. One of the subject treated upon has been the necessity for greater union. As I understand it, there are three pre-requisites necessary to produce that result. The first was an understanding of the truth as it is in Christ; the next the moral disposition to conform the life and conduct to the principles comprehended and finally the love of God permeating our beings, exhibited in the affection we bear toward our fellow creatures. When there is disunion it is because of the absence of one or another or all of those conditions. The work before us is therefore to become the embodiment of these fundamental pre-requisites. It is necessary that we follow, as near as practicable, the nature and character of the Lord, who says that it is not the work of God that fails, but the work of men. He “never departeth from that which He saith, and His course is one eternal round.” In reference to temporal matters, dwelt during Conference, they should be handled with due regard to the eternal principles of justice which prevail in heaven. In the early history of the Church, the Lord revealed His heavenly philosophy in relation to temporalities. It was a perfect law revealed to an imperfect people. It will be well for us not to depart too far from it, lest we render the return journey long and tedious. Let us stand by the truth and endeavor in our conduct to follow the nature of God.
was next called. He said the request to occupy this position was totally unexpected to him. I unite in the sentiment expressed in relation to the gratification afforded to us in beholding the face and listening to the voice of our venerable President. It would not be proper for me, under the circumstances, to occupy your attention for any length of time. It appears to be the desire that testimonies in relation to the truthfulness of this work should be spoken. I have received a testimony of the divinity of the work we are identified with and have, humble though I am, received a portion of the testimony of Jesus, the power of His Spirit. I have rejoiced in the spirit that has pervaded this Conference, and feel that we will go hence with a stronger determination to serve God. One of the subject treated upon has been the necessity for greater union. As I understand it, there are three pre-requisites necessary to produce that result. The first was an understanding of the truth as it is in Christ; the next the moral disposition to conform the life and conduct to the principles comprehended and finally the love of God permeating our beings, exhibited in the affection we bear toward our fellow creatures. When there is disunion it is because of the absence of one or another or all of those conditions. The work before us is therefore to become the embodiment of these fundamental pre-requisites. It is necessary that we follow, as near as practicable, the nature and character of the Lord, who says that it is not the work of God that fails, but the work of men. He “never departeth from that which He saith, and His course is one eternal round.” In reference to temporal matters, dwelt during Conference, they should be handled with due regard to the eternal principles of justice which prevail in heaven. In the early history of the Church, the Lord revealed His heavenly philosophy in relation to temporalities. It was a perfect law revealed to an imperfect people. It will be well for us not to depart too far from it, lest we render the return journey long and tedious. Let us stand by the truth and endeavor in our conduct to follow the nature of God.
Bishop O. F. Whitney
was the next speaker. He said: While sensible of the honor conferred on me in being permitted to stand here for a few moments and testify of the truth, I also feel greatly dependent on the Spirit of the Lord and your faith and prayers. I can heartily echo the sentiments expressed here to-day, and the discourse of Bro. Lorenzo Snow now comes to my mind, wherein he showed that when men set forth to perform a duty in the name of the Lord, they must depend on Him. This has been a stumbling block to many. Great men have stumbled on this rock, and been broken in pieces, supposing they could stand alone, and that the kingdom of God depended on them, independently of Him. An Elder was once so imbued with this idea that he said the work of God could not exist without him. I refer to Oliver Cowdery, though I would not say anything of him in an uncharitable spirit, yet his example now comes before me. It is said that he told the Prophet Joseph, “If I leave the Church it will fail and go to pieces.” Joseph said, “Oliver, you try it.” He did try it, but what was the result? Did the ship go down because one of its officers chose to jump overboard? The answer is here before us in the presence of this mighty congregation, representing the Church and kingdom of God, from which Brother Oliver chose to withdraw. The Work survived, but he went to pieces, or would have done so, utterly, had he not humbled himself and come back and repented at the eleventh hour. Thus it is with all men who think the kingdom cannot get along without them. They seem to forget that One who cannot lie has pledged his word that it shall stand forever. Though all nations go to pieces, this work is destined to continue till He comes whose right it is to reign. From time to time the Lord will bring trials and vicissitudes upon His people to sift and purify them as wheat. The chaff will eventually all be blown away and nothing but the wheat remain. In every change that has come, God has had in view the development, growth and purification of His people. The command to gather to Kirtland and consecrate their means to build the Lord’s House was too much for some. The command to gather to Missouri was another test, and many remained in Kirtland, lacking faith to follow the Prophet and Church of God unto the land of Zion. Then came the Missouri persecutions, and many apostatized, unable to endure the fiery ordeal. In Nauvoo, the Saints were again put through the mill, and still others fell away. Then followed the great march of Israel in modern times across the mighty wilderness to these mountain vales, and hundreds and thousands fell back rather than face the prospect of starvation or destruction by wild beasts and savage Indians. Thus has God put forth many tests to make His people humble, pure and faithful. The present time is but another trial to prove their faith and integrity. It is a day to regard what appear to be small things, and not to despise the weak and humble, to set our hearts upon Zion and not be drawn unto the world. God has hid His truths as diamonds in the dust. They lie at the feet of the proud world, which gazes over them to what is supposes to be greater things. Humility is a grand virtue. The world should regard this people in a far different light to what it does, for God will vindicate the words spoken here to-day, and the world will yet see that as in the days of Noah, the few can be right and the many wrong. I testify in the fear of God and in the name of Jesus Christ that this is the kingdom spoken of by Daniel that should stand forever. This may be called the day of weakness, but the day of power is at hand. These are the dark hours that precede the dawn. For fifty-seven years the Church has been kicked about the world as a foot-ball, but as the Lord lives a change will come. God will bring forth His purposes for His own glory and the salvation of those who serve Him and wait for Him. May we endure unto the end, and be saved in His kingdom, through Jesus Christ. Amen.
was the next speaker. He said: While sensible of the honor conferred on me in being permitted to stand here for a few moments and testify of the truth, I also feel greatly dependent on the Spirit of the Lord and your faith and prayers. I can heartily echo the sentiments expressed here to-day, and the discourse of Bro. Lorenzo Snow now comes to my mind, wherein he showed that when men set forth to perform a duty in the name of the Lord, they must depend on Him. This has been a stumbling block to many. Great men have stumbled on this rock, and been broken in pieces, supposing they could stand alone, and that the kingdom of God depended on them, independently of Him. An Elder was once so imbued with this idea that he said the work of God could not exist without him. I refer to Oliver Cowdery, though I would not say anything of him in an uncharitable spirit, yet his example now comes before me. It is said that he told the Prophet Joseph, “If I leave the Church it will fail and go to pieces.” Joseph said, “Oliver, you try it.” He did try it, but what was the result? Did the ship go down because one of its officers chose to jump overboard? The answer is here before us in the presence of this mighty congregation, representing the Church and kingdom of God, from which Brother Oliver chose to withdraw. The Work survived, but he went to pieces, or would have done so, utterly, had he not humbled himself and come back and repented at the eleventh hour. Thus it is with all men who think the kingdom cannot get along without them. They seem to forget that One who cannot lie has pledged his word that it shall stand forever. Though all nations go to pieces, this work is destined to continue till He comes whose right it is to reign. From time to time the Lord will bring trials and vicissitudes upon His people to sift and purify them as wheat. The chaff will eventually all be blown away and nothing but the wheat remain. In every change that has come, God has had in view the development, growth and purification of His people. The command to gather to Kirtland and consecrate their means to build the Lord’s House was too much for some. The command to gather to Missouri was another test, and many remained in Kirtland, lacking faith to follow the Prophet and Church of God unto the land of Zion. Then came the Missouri persecutions, and many apostatized, unable to endure the fiery ordeal. In Nauvoo, the Saints were again put through the mill, and still others fell away. Then followed the great march of Israel in modern times across the mighty wilderness to these mountain vales, and hundreds and thousands fell back rather than face the prospect of starvation or destruction by wild beasts and savage Indians. Thus has God put forth many tests to make His people humble, pure and faithful. The present time is but another trial to prove their faith and integrity. It is a day to regard what appear to be small things, and not to despise the weak and humble, to set our hearts upon Zion and not be drawn unto the world. God has hid His truths as diamonds in the dust. They lie at the feet of the proud world, which gazes over them to what is supposes to be greater things. Humility is a grand virtue. The world should regard this people in a far different light to what it does, for God will vindicate the words spoken here to-day, and the world will yet see that as in the days of Noah, the few can be right and the many wrong. I testify in the fear of God and in the name of Jesus Christ that this is the kingdom spoken of by Daniel that should stand forever. This may be called the day of weakness, but the day of power is at hand. These are the dark hours that precede the dawn. For fifty-seven years the Church has been kicked about the world as a foot-ball, but as the Lord lives a change will come. God will bring forth His purposes for His own glory and the salvation of those who serve Him and wait for Him. May we endure unto the end, and be saved in His kingdom, through Jesus Christ. Amen.
Apostle F. D. Richards
said he deemed it a very distinguished privilege to look upon and address the vast assemblage before him. Without the help of the Lord he felt that his efforts to edify the Saints would be vain. No such sight as that before him—such a number of people of different nationalities unitedly partaking of the sacrament, and worshiping with love toward God and each other could be seen anywhere else. It was a great pleasure to have President Woodruff present. He had intimated that his time to leave us would come in its turn. If the Saints had no hopes other than those which the world had, such an intimation would be saddening in the extreme. Saints who lived their religion had no fear of death. Leaving their kindred here, they reunited with a greater number of them in the life beyond. Their friends who had preceded them in their advent into the spirit world were looking with interest and anxiety for the reunion.
The sacrament of the Lord’s supper had been administered. The Being whose remembrance that ordinance was partaken of should be emulated and honored by the Saints in their lives. The sacrament was instituted for the purpose of keeping his character in mind. The Prophets from Noah down had prophesied of such a personage coming in the future, and it was wonderful how the memory of that prospective event was perpetuated. It was done by the numerous sacrifices that ancient Israel engaged in. An angel once asked Adam why he offered sacrifices, but although he had been in the presence of the Father, he had to acknowledge that he knew not why he thus officiated, except that the Lord had commanded it. He was informed by the angel that it was typical of the great sacrifice of the Son of God which would in the future be made. A faith was thus implanted in the bosom of Adam and he subsequently was taken up by the Spirit of God and immersed in water—baptized in the likeness of the burial of the Savior and afterwards the Holy Ghost descended upon him. Even in that early day a knowledge of the great sacrifice was established and never subsequently forgotten. Noah, whom he had seen the inhabitants of the earth destroyed by flood and only himself and family saved, offered sacrifices. Abraham also offered sacrifices, and the Lord had confidence in him and said He knew that he would also teach his children after him to do the same and to honor Him. The Lord promised him that his children should be blessed and his posterity increased innumerably, and then called upon him to sacrifice his son. The object was to teach him a lesson. What he was required to do was typical of the great sacrifice of the Son of God. And Abraham, through his faith had a view of the future and was shown a vision of what should take place ages after his day, even to the latest generation. In following generations the principle of sacrifice was maintained before the people, the fires of the altar being kept continually burning. Many people had wondered what was the connection between the laws of carnal commandments and the law instituted by the Savior. Paul explained in his day that the former were given as a schoolmaster to bring Israel to Christ.
The Saints had been taught fully in regard to their duties, and the word of the Lord was continually coming to them. Could they say “I know that my Redeemer liveth, and that He shall reign upon the earth at the last day?” The Lord told Joseph Smith during his life that his testimony would be in force before the world from that day. His testimony had been heralded throughout the nations since then, and the Saints had listened to and obeyed it while others had turned a deaf ear to it. Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery had been shown glorious visions and their testimonies and those of others had given the Saints a knowledge of the character of heavenly beings, and they were thus privileged in a manner that the unbelievers throughout the world had no conception of.
Brother Richards concluded by exhorting the Saints to be true to their covenants.
The choir sang the anthem, We will give thanks unto Thee.
The Conference adjourned till April 1888.
The benediction was pronounced by Apostle Franklin D. Richards.
The Conference was largely attended throughout, the numbers continuing to swell at each succeeding meeting. On Sunday the huge Tabernacle was literally packed in every part, including standing room in the aisles, and in the afternoon especially, great numbers of people flocked the entrances, the crowds even extending outward from the building into the surrounding enclosure. The spectacle presented, from the stand, by the assembled heat of a united people was most imposing.
John Nicholson,
Clerk of Conference.
said he deemed it a very distinguished privilege to look upon and address the vast assemblage before him. Without the help of the Lord he felt that his efforts to edify the Saints would be vain. No such sight as that before him—such a number of people of different nationalities unitedly partaking of the sacrament, and worshiping with love toward God and each other could be seen anywhere else. It was a great pleasure to have President Woodruff present. He had intimated that his time to leave us would come in its turn. If the Saints had no hopes other than those which the world had, such an intimation would be saddening in the extreme. Saints who lived their religion had no fear of death. Leaving their kindred here, they reunited with a greater number of them in the life beyond. Their friends who had preceded them in their advent into the spirit world were looking with interest and anxiety for the reunion.
The sacrament of the Lord’s supper had been administered. The Being whose remembrance that ordinance was partaken of should be emulated and honored by the Saints in their lives. The sacrament was instituted for the purpose of keeping his character in mind. The Prophets from Noah down had prophesied of such a personage coming in the future, and it was wonderful how the memory of that prospective event was perpetuated. It was done by the numerous sacrifices that ancient Israel engaged in. An angel once asked Adam why he offered sacrifices, but although he had been in the presence of the Father, he had to acknowledge that he knew not why he thus officiated, except that the Lord had commanded it. He was informed by the angel that it was typical of the great sacrifice of the Son of God which would in the future be made. A faith was thus implanted in the bosom of Adam and he subsequently was taken up by the Spirit of God and immersed in water—baptized in the likeness of the burial of the Savior and afterwards the Holy Ghost descended upon him. Even in that early day a knowledge of the great sacrifice was established and never subsequently forgotten. Noah, whom he had seen the inhabitants of the earth destroyed by flood and only himself and family saved, offered sacrifices. Abraham also offered sacrifices, and the Lord had confidence in him and said He knew that he would also teach his children after him to do the same and to honor Him. The Lord promised him that his children should be blessed and his posterity increased innumerably, and then called upon him to sacrifice his son. The object was to teach him a lesson. What he was required to do was typical of the great sacrifice of the Son of God. And Abraham, through his faith had a view of the future and was shown a vision of what should take place ages after his day, even to the latest generation. In following generations the principle of sacrifice was maintained before the people, the fires of the altar being kept continually burning. Many people had wondered what was the connection between the laws of carnal commandments and the law instituted by the Savior. Paul explained in his day that the former were given as a schoolmaster to bring Israel to Christ.
The Saints had been taught fully in regard to their duties, and the word of the Lord was continually coming to them. Could they say “I know that my Redeemer liveth, and that He shall reign upon the earth at the last day?” The Lord told Joseph Smith during his life that his testimony would be in force before the world from that day. His testimony had been heralded throughout the nations since then, and the Saints had listened to and obeyed it while others had turned a deaf ear to it. Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery had been shown glorious visions and their testimonies and those of others had given the Saints a knowledge of the character of heavenly beings, and they were thus privileged in a manner that the unbelievers throughout the world had no conception of.
Brother Richards concluded by exhorting the Saints to be true to their covenants.
The choir sang the anthem, We will give thanks unto Thee.
The Conference adjourned till April 1888.
The benediction was pronounced by Apostle Franklin D. Richards.
The Conference was largely attended throughout, the numbers continuing to swell at each succeeding meeting. On Sunday the huge Tabernacle was literally packed in every part, including standing room in the aisles, and in the afternoon especially, great numbers of people flocked the entrances, the crowds even extending outward from the building into the surrounding enclosure. The spectacle presented, from the stand, by the assembled heat of a united people was most imposing.
John Nicholson,
Clerk of Conference.