-- Jul 2, 1899; Sunday
Pres[ident]. Lorenzo Snow in opening remarks: The Lord has shown me most clearly and distinctly that this is what I should say to you to-day. The Lord testified to me while we were in St. George [Utah], before the conference there, that this is what we should talk to the people. We did not know what we went to St. George for, only we felt it was our duty to go there; but when we got there the Lord showed to me most plainly what we were in St. George for, and we told the people just what they were to do, and
we tell it to you now. All through "Dixie" we found everything dying out. The stock were dying by hundreds; we could see them as we travelled along, many of them being nothing but skin and bones, and many lying down never, I suppose, to get up again. Well, I do not pretend to say why this was so. Then there is a great deal of trouble in other directions. Our enemies calculate to get the next Congress to make a change in the Constitution and wipe us out, so far as voting is concerned, that we may have nothing to do with putting in officers to govern and control us. And the whole nation is aroused against us. Well, we have found in our experience that when we kept the commandments of God we could rely upon His promises. He has said that He will preserve us, and this shall be a land of Zion unto us, if we will observe this law.
Elder Rudg[e]r Clawson: Now, the debts of the Church and the embarrassments that have come upon it through the situation we have been in and the Government taking our property, I think are of secondary importance. This law of tithing was never revealed and made binding upon the Church, merely because of the debts of the Church or of anybody else. It is a law of God, given to this people, and we are required to observe it in order that this may be the land of Zion unto us (1)
This being the regular fast day of the Church, and the day set apart by the First Presidency for a Solemn Assembly of the Holy Priesthood at the Salt Lake Temple, meetings were held there accordingly, beginning at 10 a.m., and extending through the day. There were present: The First Presidency, the Apostles, the First Council of the Seventies, the Patriarch, the Presiding Bishopric, Stake Presidencies, Ward Bishops, and some other brethren, specially invited. President Lorenzo Snow presided, and various speakers addressed the assembly, all dwelling upon the subject of the law of tithing, the presentation of which to the Priesthood, and the insistence of a stricter observance of the same by the Latter-day Saints, were the purposes of the gathering. A full report of the proceedings, taken by Church reporter Arthur Winter, will be found as an appendix to the Journal of the President's Office, kept by Secretary George F. Gibbs; and a duplicate copy of the same will be found among the records of the Temple. (1)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Lorenzo Snow, Jul 1, 1899; Saturday
-- Jul 1, 1899; Saturday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith were at the office, and there met several of the brethren who had come from a distance to attend the Solemn Assembly, to be held tomorrow at the Temple.
President George Q. Cannon came to the office at 5:55 p.m., having just arrived from New York. President Snow had a short talk with him on the business of the Union Light and Power Company, but before receiving a full explanation from President Cannon, he dismissed the subject, and conversed with him about the purpose and objects of to-morrow's gathering. (1)
-- Sunday, Jul 2, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and warm. This being the day for the Solemn Assembly called by the First Presidency, a large number of brethren were admitted to temple at 10 o'clock and were seated in the Celestial and Terrestrial Rooms. There were about 700 present, as follows, the First Presidency, Twelve, First Seven Presidents of Seventies, Presiding Patriarch, Presiding Bishopric, presidency of stakes, the bishops of wards, stake presidencies of Y.M.M.I.A., Y.L.M.I.A., Relief Society, and Sunday Schools, and a few others. Meeting was called to order by President Lorenzo Snow.
Pres. Snow said, it may seem strange, your being called together, but when you understand the object of the meeting you will understand the importance of it. Read Section 104 and a portion of Section 85, D.&C. Said that if the brethren present lived 10, 15, or 20 years, or perhaps less, they would go back to Jackson County. The time for returning to Jackson County is much nearer than many suppose and it is the faithful that would be selected to go and they will be required to accept the United Order. Read of the troubles and curses that are visited upon apostates. Said he would tell us what the Lord requires of us today. Read Section 119, D.[&]C. Talked upon the subject of tithing. If the people, he said, had paid an honest tithing for the past year, we would have received $1,000,000.00 more than we did receive, and if a full tithing had been paid for the past 12 years, we would have received $10,000,000.00 more than we did receive. Bp. Preston says, and the books prove it,
that only about a 50% tithing is paid. A half tithing or a third tithing is no tithing at all, but simply an offering. If we do not observe this law, we have no promise that we shall remain in this land an hour. Said that while visiting in St. George on his recent trip, the Lord revealed to him what counsel he should impart to the people, and the word of the Lord was that the Saints should pay their tithing. Trouble has come upon the people. In the south stock is dying off and crops are drying up, and in the north crops were partially destroyed by frost. An effort is being made to influence the Government to disfranchise the Latter-day Saints by a constitutional amendment. How far this is due to the disobedience of our people in observing the law of tithing, I do not know, but the saints are certainly under condemnation.
Bp. Preston followed. So far as he could ascertain, he said, there is about one-fourth of the saints that pay no tithing at all, while the average tithing paid by those that do pay is not more than 50%, and many fall below that percentage.
The following brethren spoke briefly but strongly upon the subject of tithing: Apostles A. O. Woodruff, F. D. Richards, B. Young, Jr., R. Clawson, M. W. Merrill, A. H. Lund, and H. J. Grant.
President Snow read Sec. 86, Book of D.&C. Said, we are the sons and daughters of God, and descendants of the prophets and apostles. Said, the Lord has forgiven us for our carelessness in paying our tithing in the past, but he will forgive us no longer—and if we do not obey this law, we will be scattered as were the saints in Jackson County, and this by reason of the knowledge we have attained to. What I say is as true as God lives. We must teach the people this law of tithing—first by paying tithing ourselves. Just as sure as we live, if we do not honor the law of tithing, we will never possess the land of Jackson County, except it be by the shedding of blood, but it will not be by the shedding of blood because you will listen to my voice and the voice of my brethren. We are the sons of the prophets and the sons of God. The Lord will not send hornets to drive the people out of Jackson County, as he promised to drive the people out of the land of promise before the
children of Israel, but he will send cyclones, earthquakes, and pestilences.
Apostle M. F. Cowley made brief remarks upon the law of tithing.
Recess. Lunch was served in assembly room on the upper floor, and consisted of ham sandwiches, cheese, buns, and cakes. In view of the long fast, the lunch seemed to be greatly relished by all.
At about 5 o'clock meeting was resumed in the Celestial and Terrestrial Rooms. Instructive remarks were made by the following brethren upon the law of tithing: LeRoi Snow, Apostle Geo. Teasdale and Pres. Jos. F. Smith. The latter, in speaking of tithing, said, the books should record not only what we do, but what we ought to have done and did not do. A man is in a poor business as president or bishop of a ward who says to the people, do as you ought to do, not as I do. The poor of a ward—widows and orphans—all should pay their tithing. Pres. Smith was followed by Apostles Smith and Lyman, who also dwelt upon the law of tithing.
Pres. Geo. Q. Cannon also spoke upon the law of tithing. Among other things [he] said, "there are those in this audience who are descendants of the old 12 Apostles and, shall I say it, yes, descendants of the Savior himself. His seed is represented in this body of men."
Pres. Snow made closing remarks. Said he hoped the brethren would take the spirit of these meetings home with them and impart the same to the people. A resolution to the effect that the brethren present would accept the law of tithing, obey it themselves, and teach it to the people was adopted by a rising vote with uplifted hands. Pres. Snow then led in the Sacred Shout, and the meeting came to a close.
After the meeting Bp. Carl Jensen, Chas. Kelly, and myself went down to one of the restaurants on Main St. and took supper, after which the brethren took train for their homes. (2)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Presidents Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith were at the office, and there met several of the brethren who had come from a distance to attend the Solemn Assembly, to be held tomorrow at the Temple.
President George Q. Cannon came to the office at 5:55 p.m., having just arrived from New York. President Snow had a short talk with him on the business of the Union Light and Power Company, but before receiving a full explanation from President Cannon, he dismissed the subject, and conversed with him about the purpose and objects of to-morrow's gathering. (1)
-- Sunday, Jul 2, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and warm. This being the day for the Solemn Assembly called by the First Presidency, a large number of brethren were admitted to temple at 10 o'clock and were seated in the Celestial and Terrestrial Rooms. There were about 700 present, as follows, the First Presidency, Twelve, First Seven Presidents of Seventies, Presiding Patriarch, Presiding Bishopric, presidency of stakes, the bishops of wards, stake presidencies of Y.M.M.I.A., Y.L.M.I.A., Relief Society, and Sunday Schools, and a few others. Meeting was called to order by President Lorenzo Snow.
Pres. Snow said, it may seem strange, your being called together, but when you understand the object of the meeting you will understand the importance of it. Read Section 104 and a portion of Section 85, D.&C. Said that if the brethren present lived 10, 15, or 20 years, or perhaps less, they would go back to Jackson County. The time for returning to Jackson County is much nearer than many suppose and it is the faithful that would be selected to go and they will be required to accept the United Order. Read of the troubles and curses that are visited upon apostates. Said he would tell us what the Lord requires of us today. Read Section 119, D.[&]C. Talked upon the subject of tithing. If the people, he said, had paid an honest tithing for the past year, we would have received $1,000,000.00 more than we did receive, and if a full tithing had been paid for the past 12 years, we would have received $10,000,000.00 more than we did receive. Bp. Preston says, and the books prove it,
that only about a 50% tithing is paid. A half tithing or a third tithing is no tithing at all, but simply an offering. If we do not observe this law, we have no promise that we shall remain in this land an hour. Said that while visiting in St. George on his recent trip, the Lord revealed to him what counsel he should impart to the people, and the word of the Lord was that the Saints should pay their tithing. Trouble has come upon the people. In the south stock is dying off and crops are drying up, and in the north crops were partially destroyed by frost. An effort is being made to influence the Government to disfranchise the Latter-day Saints by a constitutional amendment. How far this is due to the disobedience of our people in observing the law of tithing, I do not know, but the saints are certainly under condemnation.
Bp. Preston followed. So far as he could ascertain, he said, there is about one-fourth of the saints that pay no tithing at all, while the average tithing paid by those that do pay is not more than 50%, and many fall below that percentage.
The following brethren spoke briefly but strongly upon the subject of tithing: Apostles A. O. Woodruff, F. D. Richards, B. Young, Jr., R. Clawson, M. W. Merrill, A. H. Lund, and H. J. Grant.
President Snow read Sec. 86, Book of D.&C. Said, we are the sons and daughters of God, and descendants of the prophets and apostles. Said, the Lord has forgiven us for our carelessness in paying our tithing in the past, but he will forgive us no longer—and if we do not obey this law, we will be scattered as were the saints in Jackson County, and this by reason of the knowledge we have attained to. What I say is as true as God lives. We must teach the people this law of tithing—first by paying tithing ourselves. Just as sure as we live, if we do not honor the law of tithing, we will never possess the land of Jackson County, except it be by the shedding of blood, but it will not be by the shedding of blood because you will listen to my voice and the voice of my brethren. We are the sons of the prophets and the sons of God. The Lord will not send hornets to drive the people out of Jackson County, as he promised to drive the people out of the land of promise before the
children of Israel, but he will send cyclones, earthquakes, and pestilences.
Apostle M. F. Cowley made brief remarks upon the law of tithing.
Recess. Lunch was served in assembly room on the upper floor, and consisted of ham sandwiches, cheese, buns, and cakes. In view of the long fast, the lunch seemed to be greatly relished by all.
At about 5 o'clock meeting was resumed in the Celestial and Terrestrial Rooms. Instructive remarks were made by the following brethren upon the law of tithing: LeRoi Snow, Apostle Geo. Teasdale and Pres. Jos. F. Smith. The latter, in speaking of tithing, said, the books should record not only what we do, but what we ought to have done and did not do. A man is in a poor business as president or bishop of a ward who says to the people, do as you ought to do, not as I do. The poor of a ward—widows and orphans—all should pay their tithing. Pres. Smith was followed by Apostles Smith and Lyman, who also dwelt upon the law of tithing.
Pres. Geo. Q. Cannon also spoke upon the law of tithing. Among other things [he] said, "there are those in this audience who are descendants of the old 12 Apostles and, shall I say it, yes, descendants of the Savior himself. His seed is represented in this body of men."
Pres. Snow made closing remarks. Said he hoped the brethren would take the spirit of these meetings home with them and impart the same to the people. A resolution to the effect that the brethren present would accept the law of tithing, obey it themselves, and teach it to the people was adopted by a rising vote with uplifted hands. Pres. Snow then led in the Sacred Shout, and the meeting came to a close.
After the meeting Bp. Carl Jensen, Chas. Kelly, and myself went down to one of the restaurants on Main St. and took supper, after which the brethren took train for their homes. (2)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Lorenzo Snow, Jun 29, 1899; Thursday
-- Jun 29, 1899; Thursday
The following telegram, dated last night, at Providence, Rhode Island, and signed LeGrand Young and R[obert]. S. Campbell, was received by Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith in the Office at 10 o'clock this morning: "Modified agreement between English parties and ourselves, to-wit: In place of English parties getting eleven hundred thirty three bonds, they get ten hundred eighty-three. In place of Pioneer having eleven hundred, they have ten hundred and fifty, thus
reducing each one proportionately, so as to leave some in treasury for absolute construction needs. Second, in place of our getting eight hundred and eight thousand five hundred preferred stock, we get nine hundred and eight thousand five hundred. In place of English holders getting one million one hundred and ninety-one thousand five hundred preferred stock, they get one hundred thousand dollars less. Next, the settlement with the Banigan people, subject to your approval, to-wit: First, we give then the ten hundred and fifty bonds, four percent above mentioned. Second, give them two hundred and fifty thousand preferred stock, also twenty-five thousand dollars cash within thirty days, also Trustee-in-trust's secured note for two hundred thousand dollars, payable in one year, with five percent interest, the two hundred and fifty thousand preferred stock to be guaranteed earn two percent per annum for ten years, accruing from January 1, 1901. Banigans to surrender original guarantee. Think company will earn the two per cent on preferred stock guaranteed. This then leaves you six hundred and fifty-eight thousand five hundred of the company's preferred stock, which is now worth at least twenty-five cents on dollar. Again, to offset liability, of old one hundred and ninety thousand obligation, already paid or assumed by you, you get eighty thousand dollars in new four percent bonds and eighty thousand dollars in preferred stock, retaining the thirty nine thousand prior lien bonds you now hold. We know this is best settlement obtainable. English parties must have answer early to-morrow (Thursday) in order to publish prospectus in London [England] before July 1st. Wire care Imperial Hotel, New York".
The foregoing is the message that has been expected. Soon after its arrival President F[ranklin]. D. Richards and Apostle H[eber]. J. Grant came to the office, and President Snow decided to have the brethren of the Twelve meet there in council, instead of at the Temple, as usual on this day. The following named brethren assembled accordingly in the office: Franklin D. Richards, Brigham Young [Jr.], George Teasdale, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff, Rudger Clawson, William B. Preston, Franklin S. Richards and Robert R. Anderson. After considering the subject matter of the telegram from the East for an hour, the following answer was determined on, and on motion of President Joseph F. Smith, seconded by Bishop Preston, was voted upon unanimously: "Cannon, Young and Campbell, Imperial Hotel, New York City, N[ew]. Y[ork]. I understand from your telegram that the Church guarantee and all its existing liabilities will be surrendered and released; that twenty-five thousand dollars cash must be paid in thirty days, and the Trustee-in-trust give secured note for two hundred thousand dollars, payable in one year, with five percent interest, also guarantee two percent per annum on two hundred and fifty thousand dollars preferred stock for ten years from January 1, 1901, and that no guarantee is required on the new bond and no liability whatever is involved on the part of the Church, except as above specified. I also understand that the Pioneer people are to keep majority of stock and have the majority of directors. With this
understanding I sanction the settlement, but will not assume any further liability than herein stated. Lorenzo Snow". ...
Prof[essor]. Evan Stephens, leader of the Tabernacle choir, who had been waiting for some time, now appeared before the meeting and stated a proposition made to him by a Mr. Higbee, to take a hundred and fifty members of the choir on a tour of the Eastern States, that gentleman guaranteeing everything and making himself good for the entire expense, and then sharing equally with the choir the profits, after the expenses had been taken out. Out of this half of the profits--should there be any--Brother Stephens proposed to make special arrangements with soloists and instrumentalists. President Snow asked Brother Stephens if he were to receive anything for his services. He answered that that would be an after consideration, to be arranged with the choir. If this tour should prove a success, the same gentlemen proposed to take the same body of singers to Europe, including the World's Fair at Paris [France].
President Snow asked for the sense of the meeting upon the subject. All present expressed themselves unequivocally as in favor of it, and Brother Stephens was authorized to go ahead and perfect arrangements. (1)
-- Jun 30, 1899; Friday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith, at the Office, received the following telegram from LeGrand Young and Robert S. Campbell, dated at New York, last night (President [George Q.] Cannon being at Chicago [Illinois] on his way home)[:]
"Trustee-in-trust will have to pay $25,000 in thirty days; give its secured note for $200,000, due in one year, drawing 5 percent per annum; guarantee two percent interest on $250,000 of stock for ten years after January 1, 1901. You are not to guarantee the one million bonds. This settlement with Banigans has nothing to do with balance that may yet be due from Trustee-in-trust of the $180,000 heretofore borrowed in Salt Lake City to pay past interest. Answer quick".
President Snow, recognizing that this telegram virtually reiterated the conclusions arrived at yesterday by himself and the brethren in council, was ready to approve the settlement. He sent for Attorney F[ranklin]. S. Richards, who came and confirmed the President's view; as did Brother Heber J. Grant, who came in soon afterwards, and as did Brothers F[ranklin]. D. Richards, Brigham Young [Jr.] and Rudger Clawson, who came in and were apprised of it subsequently. All felt thankful that matters were no worse than they appeared to be. With this understanding the following telegram was sent, addressed to LeGrand Young and Robert S. Campbell, New York City: "Your telegram of yesterday is satisfactory. I approve of settlement. (Signed) Lorenzo Snow".
President Smith came to the office at noon. He was shown the received telegram and the answer thereto, and gave his concurrence.
Sister Emily S. Richards, wife of Attorney F[ranklin]. S. Richards, called, accompanied by Mrs. O. J. Salisbury, a non-
Mormon lady resident of Salt Lake City, who is interested in the culture of silk in Utah. The object of the call was to enlist the aid of the Presidency in that direction. Mrs. Salisbury stated that a market had been secured here for all the silk that might be raised here. Presidents Snow and Smith assured the ladies that they would be ready to do all they possibly could to aid in this matter.
Elder Theodore B. Lewis, the veteran educator, now residing in Ogden, called upon the Presidency. He is about to go to Boston for the purpose of being operated upon for the disorder known as hernia.
The sum of $365.60 in Church scrip was appropriated in favor of Orson Merrill, as payment for a quarter section of land situated in Portage, Boxelder [Utah] Stake, and to be added to the Indian farm at that place. (1)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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The following telegram, dated last night, at Providence, Rhode Island, and signed LeGrand Young and R[obert]. S. Campbell, was received by Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith in the Office at 10 o'clock this morning: "Modified agreement between English parties and ourselves, to-wit: In place of English parties getting eleven hundred thirty three bonds, they get ten hundred eighty-three. In place of Pioneer having eleven hundred, they have ten hundred and fifty, thus
reducing each one proportionately, so as to leave some in treasury for absolute construction needs. Second, in place of our getting eight hundred and eight thousand five hundred preferred stock, we get nine hundred and eight thousand five hundred. In place of English holders getting one million one hundred and ninety-one thousand five hundred preferred stock, they get one hundred thousand dollars less. Next, the settlement with the Banigan people, subject to your approval, to-wit: First, we give then the ten hundred and fifty bonds, four percent above mentioned. Second, give them two hundred and fifty thousand preferred stock, also twenty-five thousand dollars cash within thirty days, also Trustee-in-trust's secured note for two hundred thousand dollars, payable in one year, with five percent interest, the two hundred and fifty thousand preferred stock to be guaranteed earn two percent per annum for ten years, accruing from January 1, 1901. Banigans to surrender original guarantee. Think company will earn the two per cent on preferred stock guaranteed. This then leaves you six hundred and fifty-eight thousand five hundred of the company's preferred stock, which is now worth at least twenty-five cents on dollar. Again, to offset liability, of old one hundred and ninety thousand obligation, already paid or assumed by you, you get eighty thousand dollars in new four percent bonds and eighty thousand dollars in preferred stock, retaining the thirty nine thousand prior lien bonds you now hold. We know this is best settlement obtainable. English parties must have answer early to-morrow (Thursday) in order to publish prospectus in London [England] before July 1st. Wire care Imperial Hotel, New York".
The foregoing is the message that has been expected. Soon after its arrival President F[ranklin]. D. Richards and Apostle H[eber]. J. Grant came to the office, and President Snow decided to have the brethren of the Twelve meet there in council, instead of at the Temple, as usual on this day. The following named brethren assembled accordingly in the office: Franklin D. Richards, Brigham Young [Jr.], George Teasdale, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff, Rudger Clawson, William B. Preston, Franklin S. Richards and Robert R. Anderson. After considering the subject matter of the telegram from the East for an hour, the following answer was determined on, and on motion of President Joseph F. Smith, seconded by Bishop Preston, was voted upon unanimously: "Cannon, Young and Campbell, Imperial Hotel, New York City, N[ew]. Y[ork]. I understand from your telegram that the Church guarantee and all its existing liabilities will be surrendered and released; that twenty-five thousand dollars cash must be paid in thirty days, and the Trustee-in-trust give secured note for two hundred thousand dollars, payable in one year, with five percent interest, also guarantee two percent per annum on two hundred and fifty thousand dollars preferred stock for ten years from January 1, 1901, and that no guarantee is required on the new bond and no liability whatever is involved on the part of the Church, except as above specified. I also understand that the Pioneer people are to keep majority of stock and have the majority of directors. With this
understanding I sanction the settlement, but will not assume any further liability than herein stated. Lorenzo Snow". ...
Prof[essor]. Evan Stephens, leader of the Tabernacle choir, who had been waiting for some time, now appeared before the meeting and stated a proposition made to him by a Mr. Higbee, to take a hundred and fifty members of the choir on a tour of the Eastern States, that gentleman guaranteeing everything and making himself good for the entire expense, and then sharing equally with the choir the profits, after the expenses had been taken out. Out of this half of the profits--should there be any--Brother Stephens proposed to make special arrangements with soloists and instrumentalists. President Snow asked Brother Stephens if he were to receive anything for his services. He answered that that would be an after consideration, to be arranged with the choir. If this tour should prove a success, the same gentlemen proposed to take the same body of singers to Europe, including the World's Fair at Paris [France].
President Snow asked for the sense of the meeting upon the subject. All present expressed themselves unequivocally as in favor of it, and Brother Stephens was authorized to go ahead and perfect arrangements. (1)
-- Jun 30, 1899; Friday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith, at the Office, received the following telegram from LeGrand Young and Robert S. Campbell, dated at New York, last night (President [George Q.] Cannon being at Chicago [Illinois] on his way home)[:]
"Trustee-in-trust will have to pay $25,000 in thirty days; give its secured note for $200,000, due in one year, drawing 5 percent per annum; guarantee two percent interest on $250,000 of stock for ten years after January 1, 1901. You are not to guarantee the one million bonds. This settlement with Banigans has nothing to do with balance that may yet be due from Trustee-in-trust of the $180,000 heretofore borrowed in Salt Lake City to pay past interest. Answer quick".
President Snow, recognizing that this telegram virtually reiterated the conclusions arrived at yesterday by himself and the brethren in council, was ready to approve the settlement. He sent for Attorney F[ranklin]. S. Richards, who came and confirmed the President's view; as did Brother Heber J. Grant, who came in soon afterwards, and as did Brothers F[ranklin]. D. Richards, Brigham Young [Jr.] and Rudger Clawson, who came in and were apprised of it subsequently. All felt thankful that matters were no worse than they appeared to be. With this understanding the following telegram was sent, addressed to LeGrand Young and Robert S. Campbell, New York City: "Your telegram of yesterday is satisfactory. I approve of settlement. (Signed) Lorenzo Snow".
President Smith came to the office at noon. He was shown the received telegram and the answer thereto, and gave his concurrence.
Sister Emily S. Richards, wife of Attorney F[ranklin]. S. Richards, called, accompanied by Mrs. O. J. Salisbury, a non-
Mormon lady resident of Salt Lake City, who is interested in the culture of silk in Utah. The object of the call was to enlist the aid of the Presidency in that direction. Mrs. Salisbury stated that a market had been secured here for all the silk that might be raised here. Presidents Snow and Smith assured the ladies that they would be ready to do all they possibly could to aid in this matter.
Elder Theodore B. Lewis, the veteran educator, now residing in Ogden, called upon the Presidency. He is about to go to Boston for the purpose of being operated upon for the disorder known as hernia.
The sum of $365.60 in Church scrip was appropriated in favor of Orson Merrill, as payment for a quarter section of land situated in Portage, Boxelder [Utah] Stake, and to be added to the Indian farm at that place. (1)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Lorenzo Snow, Jun 26, 1899; Monday
-- Jun 26, 1899; Monday
President [Lorenzo] Snow was at the Office. In anticipation of an answer from President [George Q.] Cannon to the effect that under the proposed changes in the Union Light and Power Company's affairs, the liability of the Church would be increased, telegrams were sent to the following named Apostles, requesting them to be here to-morrow morning, as important business would then be considered: Brigham Young [Jr.], at Rexburg [Idaho], M[atthias]. F. Cowley, at Eagle Rock; George Teasdale, at Nephi [Utah]; A[nthon]. H. Lund, at Coalville [Utah]; M[arriner]. W[ood]. Merrill, at Richmond [Utah]; and A[braham]. O[wen]. Woodruff, at Spring Lake.
At 12:30 P.M. the following telegram, signed by President Cannon, and in answer to the one sent to him on Saturday, "Will answer your inquiry as to liability when we get Banigan's reply".
The following telegram was received from Elder Joseph S. Horne, of the Sevier [Utah] Stake Presidency: "William S. Riley was cut off several years ago; we don't know whether former blessings have been conferred. Is it right and proper to bury him in Endowment clothes?" The understanding had concerning this matter was that the deceased was in full fellowship when he died, but it was not known for sure that his former blessings, those given prior to his excommunication, had been reconferred upon him at the time of his return to the Church. The following answer was sent: "It would be proper to clothe body in Temple clothes (Signed) Lorenzo Snow". (1)
-- Jun 26, 1899
[Temple] [Lorenzo Snow to John D. T. McAllister, June 26, 1899] Yours of the 24th enclosing a circular issued by the Cache Knitting Works, advertising their knitted garment, and informing the public that the garment had been approved by the First Presidency of the Church, is received. You now desire to know if it be true that the approval of the First Presidency has been given as stated. In answer I will say that I understand that the pattern of the garment referred to did receive the approval of the First Presidency in the lifetime of President [Wilford] Woodruff. (2)
-- Jun 27, 1899; Tuesday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith were at the Office; also the following named brethren, in response to the call of the President: Franklin D. Richards, George Teasdale, Heber J. Grant, Matthias F. Cowley, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff, Rudger Clawson, Franklin S. Richards and Robert R. Anderson. They remained for some time, talking over the business in which President [George Q.] Cannon is engaged in New York. Attorney F[ranklin]. S. Richards gave, by request, his opinion as to the legality of the guarantee given by the First Presidency on the so-called Banigan bonds. He was inclined to believe that the guarantee could not be held to be a legal instrument, in view of the fact that the Presidency, in giving it,
had gone outside the scope of their authority as Church men, illustrating his point by supposing the case of a superintendent of a mercantile institution going into the banking business, outside the line of the duties it would be fair to assume were the ones required of him. In such a case his banking business would not be held as legal. The attorney was strengthened in his opinion when informed that the guarantee given was a secret paper, not formally approved by the Church.
President Snow agreed with Brother Richards in this view of the matter, and while he would not think of repudiating the guarantee, if it should be found illegal he might feel justified in making the most of that fact as a defense, should he be crowded and oppressed by the parties holding it. This talk was entirely informal. The hour of ten a.m. having arrived, with no word from President Cannon, an adjournment was taken until 2 P.M., at which time the brethren met again, but nothing was done, as no word had yet come from President Cannon.
An appropriation of two hundred dollars, payable in grain, merchandise and perishable produce, was made to the Rigby Ward meetinghouse; and an appropriation of one hundred dollars, payable in potatoes, hay and grain, was made to LaBelle Ward. Both these Wards are in Bingham Stake, Idaho. (1)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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President [Lorenzo] Snow was at the Office. In anticipation of an answer from President [George Q.] Cannon to the effect that under the proposed changes in the Union Light and Power Company's affairs, the liability of the Church would be increased, telegrams were sent to the following named Apostles, requesting them to be here to-morrow morning, as important business would then be considered: Brigham Young [Jr.], at Rexburg [Idaho], M[atthias]. F. Cowley, at Eagle Rock; George Teasdale, at Nephi [Utah]; A[nthon]. H. Lund, at Coalville [Utah]; M[arriner]. W[ood]. Merrill, at Richmond [Utah]; and A[braham]. O[wen]. Woodruff, at Spring Lake.
At 12:30 P.M. the following telegram, signed by President Cannon, and in answer to the one sent to him on Saturday, "Will answer your inquiry as to liability when we get Banigan's reply".
The following telegram was received from Elder Joseph S. Horne, of the Sevier [Utah] Stake Presidency: "William S. Riley was cut off several years ago; we don't know whether former blessings have been conferred. Is it right and proper to bury him in Endowment clothes?" The understanding had concerning this matter was that the deceased was in full fellowship when he died, but it was not known for sure that his former blessings, those given prior to his excommunication, had been reconferred upon him at the time of his return to the Church. The following answer was sent: "It would be proper to clothe body in Temple clothes (Signed) Lorenzo Snow". (1)
-- Jun 26, 1899
[Temple] [Lorenzo Snow to John D. T. McAllister, June 26, 1899] Yours of the 24th enclosing a circular issued by the Cache Knitting Works, advertising their knitted garment, and informing the public that the garment had been approved by the First Presidency of the Church, is received. You now desire to know if it be true that the approval of the First Presidency has been given as stated. In answer I will say that I understand that the pattern of the garment referred to did receive the approval of the First Presidency in the lifetime of President [Wilford] Woodruff. (2)
-- Jun 27, 1899; Tuesday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith were at the Office; also the following named brethren, in response to the call of the President: Franklin D. Richards, George Teasdale, Heber J. Grant, Matthias F. Cowley, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff, Rudger Clawson, Franklin S. Richards and Robert R. Anderson. They remained for some time, talking over the business in which President [George Q.] Cannon is engaged in New York. Attorney F[ranklin]. S. Richards gave, by request, his opinion as to the legality of the guarantee given by the First Presidency on the so-called Banigan bonds. He was inclined to believe that the guarantee could not be held to be a legal instrument, in view of the fact that the Presidency, in giving it,
had gone outside the scope of their authority as Church men, illustrating his point by supposing the case of a superintendent of a mercantile institution going into the banking business, outside the line of the duties it would be fair to assume were the ones required of him. In such a case his banking business would not be held as legal. The attorney was strengthened in his opinion when informed that the guarantee given was a secret paper, not formally approved by the Church.
President Snow agreed with Brother Richards in this view of the matter, and while he would not think of repudiating the guarantee, if it should be found illegal he might feel justified in making the most of that fact as a defense, should he be crowded and oppressed by the parties holding it. This talk was entirely informal. The hour of ten a.m. having arrived, with no word from President Cannon, an adjournment was taken until 2 P.M., at which time the brethren met again, but nothing was done, as no word had yet come from President Cannon.
An appropriation of two hundred dollars, payable in grain, merchandise and perishable produce, was made to the Rigby Ward meetinghouse; and an appropriation of one hundred dollars, payable in potatoes, hay and grain, was made to LaBelle Ward. Both these Wards are in Bingham Stake, Idaho. (1)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Lorenzo Snow, Jun 23, 1899; Friday
-- Jun 23, 1899; Friday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith were at the office. ...
Elder B. H. Roberts called, having just returned from Alberta, Canada. He expressed himself as exceedingly well pleased
with the prospective settlements in that part, but stated that some dissatisfaction was felt by the engineer in charge of the canal work as to the ability of those who up to that time had come to fill the contract made by the Church with the canal company.
A Brother Nielson, of Cache Valley [Utah], called. He represented the cause of a Brother Hansen, who claims to have advanced to President W[illiam]. W. Cluff, while the latter was presiding over the Scandinavian Mission, one thousand rikdalers, for the purpose of emigrating worthy Saints, which means was used for that purpose. The claim was investigated by the Presidency of Cache Stake, it having been referred to them by the First Presidency in the time of President [Wilford] Woodruff; and Brother Cluff and Brother Hansen were both present at the investigation. The Stake Presidency, after the investigation, wrote to the First Presidency, stating that Brother Hansen was entitled to this means, with interest; and Brother George F. Gibbs, the President's Secretary, now explained that some time after receiving this report, he wrote to Brother Hansen at Logan [Utah], to know if he would be satisfied with the principal, and could use a produce order as payment thereof, but no answer was received. Brother Nielson there explained that Brother Hansen moved to Snake River, and the probability was that he never received the letter. President Smith then stated that President Cluff had told him that Brother Hansen gave this money as a donation, for the purpose for which it was used, and that the people thus assisted gave their notes to the P[erpetual]. E[migration]. Fund Company; that after that President Cluff, in order to satisfy Brother Hansen, went to Receiver Dyer, who had in charge the P[erpetual]. E[migration]. Funds and papers, and procured from him the notes of persons whom he thought were assisted by this means, and sent them to Brother Hansen in payment of his loan. Brother Gibbs remarked that Brother Cluff had told him this in part, his statement being that he had procured certain notes of parties whom he thought were the ones assisted, but was not certain, and that these notes did not fully satisfy the claim, or would not satisfy it, even if Brother Hansen succeeded in finding the parties and collecting from them. Brother Nielsen explained that the notes sent to Brother Hansen had partial payments endorsed on the back of them by the P[erpetual]. E[migration]. Fund clerk, and that the face of the notes was pretty well paid up, leaving quite an amount of interest due, and that said notes had been returned by Brother Hansen as valueless. Brother Gibbs added that he had the report of the investigating committee on his desk for quite a long time, and that he had tried many times to find it, but had failed.
President Snow felt that Brother Hansen, who is a poor man, should be paid, especially if he would accept the principal as payment in full, and a produce order in lieu of money in settlement of the claim. The interview closed with the understanding that Brother Nielson would correspond with Brother Hansen upon this point and call again. (1)
-- Jun 24, 1899; Saturday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith, at the Office, received the following telegram: signed by George Q. Cannon, LeGrand Young and R[obert]. S. Campbell, and dated yesterday at New York: ["]Have had daily sessions for five days, and have agreed to following terms, being the very best obtainable. Have not yet seen Banigans; will see them to-morrow. We now give you basis of proposed agreement. Retain present Union organization; issue three million four percent bonds; retire Union Consolidated bonds, amounting to two million and sixty thousand dollars, and in lieu of these deliver to Consolidated bond holders $1,133,000 of new bonds; retire also Pioneer bonds, amounting to $,500,000, [sic] and in lieu of these deliver Pioneer people $1,100,000. This will leave seven hundred and sixty-seven thousand of new issue of $3,000,000, out of which $750,000 will be used to redeem existing prior lien Union bonds. Second, the common stock to be left as it now exists, but there is to be an issue of two million preferred stock, which it is proposed to divide as follows: Give the Pioneer eight hundred and eight thousand five hundred shares, and the Consolidated bond holders one million one hundred and ninety-one thousand five hundred shares. The Pioneer people to keep the majority of common stock and have the majority of directors. Under the present conditions the company can pay the interest on the new issue of three million dollars of bonds, and after this year one percent on preferred stock, which can be increased from earnings, say, one percent per annum each year till eight percent per annum is reached, besides putting the company's affairs on stable and safe basis. This preferred stock being preferable to and in nature of an income bond. We send this proposed agreement for you to consider, as it is most important you decide on acceptance or non-acceptance at once. We will be guided by your decision".
Presidents Snow and Smith considered the contents of this telegram this forenoon and until 2 P.M., when the latter was excused to attend a funeral, leaving President Snow and Bishop [John R.] Winder to further consider the matter. Brother F[ranklin]. S. Richards was also sent for to join them in their deliberations, which continued until 4:45 p.m. Soon after President Smith left, it was decided to send the following reply telegram, which reflected his views upon the subject: "We understand proposition as directly affecting us, to be briefly this: Church will now only be responsible for seven hundred thousand Banigan bonds, and $46,000 yearly. This being so, we of course concur. Lorenzo Snow."
Before sending this telegram the question of liability was further considered, and the thought suggested itself to President Snow that this new deal would certainly affect present conditions, and it looked to him as if the liability of the Church would be increased. He therefore determined to be informed on this point before sending the prepared telegram. Accordingly another one was prepared and sent, addressed to Brothers Cannon, Young and Campbell, and reading as follows: "Will proposed changes increase
liability of the Church? Waiting answer. Lorenzo Snow".
This being done, it was decided to meet to-morrow at 4 p.m., to formulate an answer to the message, which it was presumed would be received in the morning. It was also decided that if the character of that message demanded it, President [Franklin D.] Richards and as many of the Apostles as could be reached would be got together, to join with the Presidency in any proposed increase of the Church's liability. President Smith had arranged to go to Bear Lake [Idaho], but President Snow thought it best for him to remain at home, in case the answer expected from President Cannon in the morning should make it necessary to call a council of the Apostles. Bishop Winder left, promising to return at 4 P.M. to-morrow, and he was asked to invite Bishop Preston to come also. (1)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith were at the office. ...
Elder B. H. Roberts called, having just returned from Alberta, Canada. He expressed himself as exceedingly well pleased
with the prospective settlements in that part, but stated that some dissatisfaction was felt by the engineer in charge of the canal work as to the ability of those who up to that time had come to fill the contract made by the Church with the canal company.
A Brother Nielson, of Cache Valley [Utah], called. He represented the cause of a Brother Hansen, who claims to have advanced to President W[illiam]. W. Cluff, while the latter was presiding over the Scandinavian Mission, one thousand rikdalers, for the purpose of emigrating worthy Saints, which means was used for that purpose. The claim was investigated by the Presidency of Cache Stake, it having been referred to them by the First Presidency in the time of President [Wilford] Woodruff; and Brother Cluff and Brother Hansen were both present at the investigation. The Stake Presidency, after the investigation, wrote to the First Presidency, stating that Brother Hansen was entitled to this means, with interest; and Brother George F. Gibbs, the President's Secretary, now explained that some time after receiving this report, he wrote to Brother Hansen at Logan [Utah], to know if he would be satisfied with the principal, and could use a produce order as payment thereof, but no answer was received. Brother Nielson there explained that Brother Hansen moved to Snake River, and the probability was that he never received the letter. President Smith then stated that President Cluff had told him that Brother Hansen gave this money as a donation, for the purpose for which it was used, and that the people thus assisted gave their notes to the P[erpetual]. E[migration]. Fund Company; that after that President Cluff, in order to satisfy Brother Hansen, went to Receiver Dyer, who had in charge the P[erpetual]. E[migration]. Funds and papers, and procured from him the notes of persons whom he thought were assisted by this means, and sent them to Brother Hansen in payment of his loan. Brother Gibbs remarked that Brother Cluff had told him this in part, his statement being that he had procured certain notes of parties whom he thought were the ones assisted, but was not certain, and that these notes did not fully satisfy the claim, or would not satisfy it, even if Brother Hansen succeeded in finding the parties and collecting from them. Brother Nielsen explained that the notes sent to Brother Hansen had partial payments endorsed on the back of them by the P[erpetual]. E[migration]. Fund clerk, and that the face of the notes was pretty well paid up, leaving quite an amount of interest due, and that said notes had been returned by Brother Hansen as valueless. Brother Gibbs added that he had the report of the investigating committee on his desk for quite a long time, and that he had tried many times to find it, but had failed.
President Snow felt that Brother Hansen, who is a poor man, should be paid, especially if he would accept the principal as payment in full, and a produce order in lieu of money in settlement of the claim. The interview closed with the understanding that Brother Nielson would correspond with Brother Hansen upon this point and call again. (1)
-- Jun 24, 1899; Saturday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith, at the Office, received the following telegram: signed by George Q. Cannon, LeGrand Young and R[obert]. S. Campbell, and dated yesterday at New York: ["]Have had daily sessions for five days, and have agreed to following terms, being the very best obtainable. Have not yet seen Banigans; will see them to-morrow. We now give you basis of proposed agreement. Retain present Union organization; issue three million four percent bonds; retire Union Consolidated bonds, amounting to two million and sixty thousand dollars, and in lieu of these deliver to Consolidated bond holders $1,133,000 of new bonds; retire also Pioneer bonds, amounting to $,500,000, [sic] and in lieu of these deliver Pioneer people $1,100,000. This will leave seven hundred and sixty-seven thousand of new issue of $3,000,000, out of which $750,000 will be used to redeem existing prior lien Union bonds. Second, the common stock to be left as it now exists, but there is to be an issue of two million preferred stock, which it is proposed to divide as follows: Give the Pioneer eight hundred and eight thousand five hundred shares, and the Consolidated bond holders one million one hundred and ninety-one thousand five hundred shares. The Pioneer people to keep the majority of common stock and have the majority of directors. Under the present conditions the company can pay the interest on the new issue of three million dollars of bonds, and after this year one percent on preferred stock, which can be increased from earnings, say, one percent per annum each year till eight percent per annum is reached, besides putting the company's affairs on stable and safe basis. This preferred stock being preferable to and in nature of an income bond. We send this proposed agreement for you to consider, as it is most important you decide on acceptance or non-acceptance at once. We will be guided by your decision".
Presidents Snow and Smith considered the contents of this telegram this forenoon and until 2 P.M., when the latter was excused to attend a funeral, leaving President Snow and Bishop [John R.] Winder to further consider the matter. Brother F[ranklin]. S. Richards was also sent for to join them in their deliberations, which continued until 4:45 p.m. Soon after President Smith left, it was decided to send the following reply telegram, which reflected his views upon the subject: "We understand proposition as directly affecting us, to be briefly this: Church will now only be responsible for seven hundred thousand Banigan bonds, and $46,000 yearly. This being so, we of course concur. Lorenzo Snow."
Before sending this telegram the question of liability was further considered, and the thought suggested itself to President Snow that this new deal would certainly affect present conditions, and it looked to him as if the liability of the Church would be increased. He therefore determined to be informed on this point before sending the prepared telegram. Accordingly another one was prepared and sent, addressed to Brothers Cannon, Young and Campbell, and reading as follows: "Will proposed changes increase
liability of the Church? Waiting answer. Lorenzo Snow".
This being done, it was decided to meet to-morrow at 4 p.m., to formulate an answer to the message, which it was presumed would be received in the morning. It was also decided that if the character of that message demanded it, President [Franklin D.] Richards and as many of the Apostles as could be reached would be got together, to join with the Presidency in any proposed increase of the Church's liability. President Smith had arranged to go to Bear Lake [Idaho], but President Snow thought it best for him to remain at home, in case the answer expected from President Cannon in the morning should make it necessary to call a council of the Apostles. Bishop Winder left, promising to return at 4 P.M. to-morrow, and he was asked to invite Bishop Preston to come also. (1)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Lorenzo Snow, Jun 22, 1899; Thursday
-- Jun 22, 1899; Thursday
Present: Presidents Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith and Franklin D. Richards; Apostles Brigham Young [Jr.], John Henry Smith, George Teasdale, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff and Rudger Clawson.
A communication signed by a number of persons residing in the Second Ward, Salt Lake City, was read, setting forth that a Brother Christian Steffensen, of whom they had bought real estate, had jeopardized their tithes through defective transactions, and they asked that he be released from his mission in Scandanavia, to come home and perfect those titles. The matter was referred to Apostle Anthon H. Lund. ...
Brother Clawson remarked that the tithing accounts in the Presiding Bishop's Office were very well kept, but the Bishops appeared to be too busy to visit the Stakes on tithing affairs. This was a defect, he thought, that should be remedied in some way. ... (1)
-- Jun 22, 1899
Present: Presidents Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith and Franklin D. Richards; Apostles Brigham Young [Jr.], John Henry Smith, George Teasdale, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff and Rudger Clawson.
A communication signed by a number of persons residing in the Second Ward, Salt Lake City, was read, setting forth that a Brother Christian Steffensen, of whom they had bought real estate, had jeopardized their tithes through defective transactions, and they asked that he be released from his mission in Scandanavia, to come home and perfect those titles. The matter was referred to Apostle Anthon H. Lund. ...
Brother Clawson remarked that the tithing accounts in the Presiding Bishop's Office were very well kept, but the Bishops appeared to be too busy to visit the Stakes on tithing affairs. This was a defect, he thought, that should be remedied in some way. ...
Attended our weekly meeting in the Temple. ... Had a conversation with Matthias F. Cowley in the Temple to-day regarding some important matters. (2)
-- Friday, Jun 23, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and warm. The following is a copy [of] a letter addressed to me, the meeting to be held in the Salt Lake Temple, July 2nd, 1899:
Salt Lake City
June 22nd, 1899
A Call by the First Presidency
Pres. Rudger Clawson and Counselors,
Box Elder Stake of Zion,
Dear Brethren:
A Solemn Assembly of the Holy Priesthood, consisting of [the] First Presidency, [Apostles,] First Seven Presidents of Seventies, Presiding Patriarch, Presiding Bishopric, presidents of stakes and their counselors, and bishops of wards will convene in the Salt Lake Temple next fast day, July 2nd, at 10 o'clock a.m.
Please notify the bishops of your stake of this meeting and send us the names, as soon as possible, of those who will attend, including those of yourselves.
Your brethren,
Lorenzo Snow,
Geo. Q. Cannon,
Jos. F. Smith. (3)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Journal History; Abraham Owen Woodruff, Diary
3 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Present: Presidents Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith and Franklin D. Richards; Apostles Brigham Young [Jr.], John Henry Smith, George Teasdale, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff and Rudger Clawson.
A communication signed by a number of persons residing in the Second Ward, Salt Lake City, was read, setting forth that a Brother Christian Steffensen, of whom they had bought real estate, had jeopardized their tithes through defective transactions, and they asked that he be released from his mission in Scandanavia, to come home and perfect those titles. The matter was referred to Apostle Anthon H. Lund. ...
Brother Clawson remarked that the tithing accounts in the Presiding Bishop's Office were very well kept, but the Bishops appeared to be too busy to visit the Stakes on tithing affairs. This was a defect, he thought, that should be remedied in some way. ... (1)
-- Jun 22, 1899
Present: Presidents Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith and Franklin D. Richards; Apostles Brigham Young [Jr.], John Henry Smith, George Teasdale, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff and Rudger Clawson.
A communication signed by a number of persons residing in the Second Ward, Salt Lake City, was read, setting forth that a Brother Christian Steffensen, of whom they had bought real estate, had jeopardized their tithes through defective transactions, and they asked that he be released from his mission in Scandanavia, to come home and perfect those titles. The matter was referred to Apostle Anthon H. Lund. ...
Brother Clawson remarked that the tithing accounts in the Presiding Bishop's Office were very well kept, but the Bishops appeared to be too busy to visit the Stakes on tithing affairs. This was a defect, he thought, that should be remedied in some way. ...
Attended our weekly meeting in the Temple. ... Had a conversation with Matthias F. Cowley in the Temple to-day regarding some important matters. (2)
-- Friday, Jun 23, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and warm. The following is a copy [of] a letter addressed to me, the meeting to be held in the Salt Lake Temple, July 2nd, 1899:
Salt Lake City
June 22nd, 1899
A Call by the First Presidency
Pres. Rudger Clawson and Counselors,
Box Elder Stake of Zion,
Dear Brethren:
A Solemn Assembly of the Holy Priesthood, consisting of [the] First Presidency, [Apostles,] First Seven Presidents of Seventies, Presiding Patriarch, Presiding Bishopric, presidents of stakes and their counselors, and bishops of wards will convene in the Salt Lake Temple next fast day, July 2nd, at 10 o'clock a.m.
Please notify the bishops of your stake of this meeting and send us the names, as soon as possible, of those who will attend, including those of yourselves.
Your brethren,
Lorenzo Snow,
Geo. Q. Cannon,
Jos. F. Smith. (3)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Journal History; Abraham Owen Woodruff, Diary
3 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Lorenzo Snow, Jun 21, 1899; Wednesday
-- Jun 21, 1899; Wednesday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith gave an interview to Apostle Brigham Young [Jr.]; Bishop [William B.] Preston also being present. Brother Young had concluded to go into a business enterprise with his son-in-law, Charles Kraft. They had acquired, or were about to acquire, the State right of a new process for coking coal, and proposed to manipulate the coal near Cedar City [Utah], in which the Church is interested, with a view to testing the coking quantities.
President Snow, after hearing Brother Young's statement, told him that he very much questioned the right of an Apostle to go into business in such a way as to tie himself up, so that he would not be free to attend to the duties of the Apostleship; especially in view of the fact that he is so well remunerated for his services. Moreover, the President questioned the wisdom of Brother Young's doing as he proposed, since he would have to borrow money.
Brother Young reminded President Snow that nearly all the Apostles were engaged in some kind of business, and he, being an exception to the rule, was desirous of doing something too.
President Snow reminded Brother Young that brethren of the Twelve had gone into business and deplorably failed, and that the Church had to come to their rescue at great expense. It was time, he thought, that the Church should protect itself against a repetition of such things. Finally, in order to accede to Brother
Young's wishes, the President told him that if he must go into business, to avoid going into debt. In answer to a question from Brother Young, the Presidency said that if he should carry out his purpose and demonstrate that the Cedar coal could be coked, they thought it would pay him to get the State right to use the patent for coking bituminous coal.
Brother Young intimated that he might go to Chicago [Illinois] on this business, paying his own expenses.
Apostle John Henry Smith obtained permission from President Snow for Elder Ben E. Rich, President of the Southern States Mission, to draw the allowance made for the support of his family, at Chattanooga [Tennessee], as they were going to live with him there.
President Snow also consented to the use of a portion of the tithing of a branch of the Church in Kentucky, to recompense a local Elder for work done on its meetinghouse.
The following telegram, dated to-day at Hammondsport, New York, was received: "Elder H. R. Hamson, of Oxford, accidentally drowned yesterday while bathing in Keuka Lake. Advise what disposition of body parents desire, and whether I shall meet all expenses for them, or you. If body shall be shipped, wire transportation for it. John Hyde released to accompany, unless you have other advice. Wire full instructions."
Charles W. Leah, of Spanish Fork [Utah], sent to President Snow to-day Church bond, No. 140, as a free will offering, to assist the Trustee-in-trust in paying off the Church indebtedness. (1)
-- Thursday, Jun 22, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and cool. 11 a.m. Meeting of the brethren at the temple. Present: Presidents L. Snow and Jos. F. Smith, and Apostles B. Young, Jr., J. H. Smith, Geo. Teasdale, A. H. Lund, M. F. Cowley, A[braham] O. Woodruff, R. Clawson, and G. F. Gibbs, clerk.
A communication from certain members of the 2nd Wd., [Salt Lake] City, was read. It represented that they had purchased some lots [in] Steffensen's Division from one Chas. [Christian] Steffensen, who is now on a mission in Scandinavia, and that he had sold some of the lots twice, which would doubtless lead to trouble. They asked that Elder Steffensen be released to come home and fix up the matter. Upon vote the matter was referred to Apostle Lund to investigate.
After some discussion in reference to reorganizing the bishopric of the 2nd Ward, City, it was moved that Heber C. Iverson be appointed bishop. Carried.
Apostle J. H. Smith suggested that some attention should be given to a number of the presidents of stakes, who are getting old and are, therefore, not so active and progressive as they should be. He named the following stakes as needing a change: Bannock, Cassia, Wasatch, San Pete, Malad, Beaver, Morgan, and San Juan. Pres. Snow said he would be in favor of a change if we could supply their places with men who are devoted and ambitious. Benediction by Pres. Lorenzo Snow. (2)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith gave an interview to Apostle Brigham Young [Jr.]; Bishop [William B.] Preston also being present. Brother Young had concluded to go into a business enterprise with his son-in-law, Charles Kraft. They had acquired, or were about to acquire, the State right of a new process for coking coal, and proposed to manipulate the coal near Cedar City [Utah], in which the Church is interested, with a view to testing the coking quantities.
President Snow, after hearing Brother Young's statement, told him that he very much questioned the right of an Apostle to go into business in such a way as to tie himself up, so that he would not be free to attend to the duties of the Apostleship; especially in view of the fact that he is so well remunerated for his services. Moreover, the President questioned the wisdom of Brother Young's doing as he proposed, since he would have to borrow money.
Brother Young reminded President Snow that nearly all the Apostles were engaged in some kind of business, and he, being an exception to the rule, was desirous of doing something too.
President Snow reminded Brother Young that brethren of the Twelve had gone into business and deplorably failed, and that the Church had to come to their rescue at great expense. It was time, he thought, that the Church should protect itself against a repetition of such things. Finally, in order to accede to Brother
Young's wishes, the President told him that if he must go into business, to avoid going into debt. In answer to a question from Brother Young, the Presidency said that if he should carry out his purpose and demonstrate that the Cedar coal could be coked, they thought it would pay him to get the State right to use the patent for coking bituminous coal.
Brother Young intimated that he might go to Chicago [Illinois] on this business, paying his own expenses.
Apostle John Henry Smith obtained permission from President Snow for Elder Ben E. Rich, President of the Southern States Mission, to draw the allowance made for the support of his family, at Chattanooga [Tennessee], as they were going to live with him there.
President Snow also consented to the use of a portion of the tithing of a branch of the Church in Kentucky, to recompense a local Elder for work done on its meetinghouse.
The following telegram, dated to-day at Hammondsport, New York, was received: "Elder H. R. Hamson, of Oxford, accidentally drowned yesterday while bathing in Keuka Lake. Advise what disposition of body parents desire, and whether I shall meet all expenses for them, or you. If body shall be shipped, wire transportation for it. John Hyde released to accompany, unless you have other advice. Wire full instructions."
Charles W. Leah, of Spanish Fork [Utah], sent to President Snow to-day Church bond, No. 140, as a free will offering, to assist the Trustee-in-trust in paying off the Church indebtedness. (1)
-- Thursday, Jun 22, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and cool. 11 a.m. Meeting of the brethren at the temple. Present: Presidents L. Snow and Jos. F. Smith, and Apostles B. Young, Jr., J. H. Smith, Geo. Teasdale, A. H. Lund, M. F. Cowley, A[braham] O. Woodruff, R. Clawson, and G. F. Gibbs, clerk.
A communication from certain members of the 2nd Wd., [Salt Lake] City, was read. It represented that they had purchased some lots [in] Steffensen's Division from one Chas. [Christian] Steffensen, who is now on a mission in Scandinavia, and that he had sold some of the lots twice, which would doubtless lead to trouble. They asked that Elder Steffensen be released to come home and fix up the matter. Upon vote the matter was referred to Apostle Lund to investigate.
After some discussion in reference to reorganizing the bishopric of the 2nd Ward, City, it was moved that Heber C. Iverson be appointed bishop. Carried.
Apostle J. H. Smith suggested that some attention should be given to a number of the presidents of stakes, who are getting old and are, therefore, not so active and progressive as they should be. He named the following stakes as needing a change: Bannock, Cassia, Wasatch, San Pete, Malad, Beaver, Morgan, and San Juan. Pres. Snow said he would be in favor of a change if we could supply their places with men who are devoted and ambitious. Benediction by Pres. Lorenzo Snow. (2)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Lorenzo Snow, Jun 15, 1899
-- Jun 15, 1899
Special Solemn Assembly in Salt Lake Temple-- Salt Lake City.
This was the official call by the First Presidency of a "Solemn Assembly of the Holy Priesthood" for July 2, 1899 to sustain the revelation on tithing which had been received by President Snow in May, 1899.
Some measure of the importance in which the First Presidency held the revelation on tithing is to be found in the fact that this special "Solemn Assembly" and Fast Day was called to ratify or sustain it. The fact that this was done rather than waiting to have it sustained by vote of the General Conference in October is not without significance.
A CALL by the First Presidency.
Office of The First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Salt Lake City, Utah, June 15th, 1899.
Prests. Simpson M. Molen and Isaac Smith, Logan.
DEAR BRETHREN:
A Solemn Assembly of the Holy Priesthood, consisting of the First Presidency, Apostles, First Seven Presidents of Seventies, Presiding Patriarch, Presiding Bishopric, Presidents of Stakes and their Counselors, and Bishops of Wards will convene in the Salt Lake Temple next Fast Day, July 2nd, at 10 o'clock a.m.
Please notify the Bishops of our Stake of this meeting, and send us the names as soon as possible, of those who will attend, including those of yourselves.
Your Brethren, LORENZO SNOW, GEORGE Q. CANNON, JOSEPH F. SMITH.
P. S. A special rate will be made by the railroads. {1899-June 15-Circular letter, Church Historian's Library,} (1)
Apostle John Henry Smith writes: "The President, Lorenzo Snow, gave my son George A[lbert Smith -- later president of the church] and wife Lucy E. W. their second Endowments today. I laid hands on with him." (2)
-- Friday, Jun 16, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City
I paid Dr. R. B. Pratt $2.50 for two pair of glasses.
President Lorenzo Snow has called a solemn Assembly of the Apostles, Presiding Patriarch, and Seven Presidents of the Seventies, Presidency of Stake and Bishops of the Church to meet on July 2nd.
Bp. Scanlan and Father Youman of the Catholic Church called upon President Snow. (3)
Endnotes:
1 - Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)
2 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
3 - Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Special Solemn Assembly in Salt Lake Temple-- Salt Lake City.
This was the official call by the First Presidency of a "Solemn Assembly of the Holy Priesthood" for July 2, 1899 to sustain the revelation on tithing which had been received by President Snow in May, 1899.
Some measure of the importance in which the First Presidency held the revelation on tithing is to be found in the fact that this special "Solemn Assembly" and Fast Day was called to ratify or sustain it. The fact that this was done rather than waiting to have it sustained by vote of the General Conference in October is not without significance.
A CALL by the First Presidency.
Office of The First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Salt Lake City, Utah, June 15th, 1899.
Prests. Simpson M. Molen and Isaac Smith, Logan.
DEAR BRETHREN:
A Solemn Assembly of the Holy Priesthood, consisting of the First Presidency, Apostles, First Seven Presidents of Seventies, Presiding Patriarch, Presiding Bishopric, Presidents of Stakes and their Counselors, and Bishops of Wards will convene in the Salt Lake Temple next Fast Day, July 2nd, at 10 o'clock a.m.
Please notify the Bishops of our Stake of this meeting, and send us the names as soon as possible, of those who will attend, including those of yourselves.
Your Brethren, LORENZO SNOW, GEORGE Q. CANNON, JOSEPH F. SMITH.
P. S. A special rate will be made by the railroads. {1899-June 15-Circular letter, Church Historian's Library,} (1)
Apostle John Henry Smith writes: "The President, Lorenzo Snow, gave my son George A[lbert Smith -- later president of the church] and wife Lucy E. W. their second Endowments today. I laid hands on with him." (2)
-- Friday, Jun 16, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City
I paid Dr. R. B. Pratt $2.50 for two pair of glasses.
President Lorenzo Snow has called a solemn Assembly of the Apostles, Presiding Patriarch, and Seven Presidents of the Seventies, Presidency of Stake and Bishops of the Church to meet on July 2nd.
Bp. Scanlan and Father Youman of the Catholic Church called upon President Snow. (3)
Endnotes:
1 - Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)
2 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
3 - Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Lorenzo Snow, Thursday, Jun 15, 1899
-- Thursday, Jun 15, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and warm. 11 a.m. Meeting of the brethren at the temple. Present: Presidents Snow and Smith, Apostles J. H. Smith, Geo. Teasdale, A. H. Lund, A. O. Woodruff, F. D. Richards, R. Clawson, and Geo. F. Gibbs, clk., [and Matthias F. Cowley].
Pres. Snow said that he had been impressed to call the presidents of stakes and bishops of wards throughout Zion to meet in the temple, fast day, July 2nd, 1899, and there present to them the law of tithing. He wished to know, he said, how the brethren felt in relation to the matter. Apostles J. H. Smith, Geo. Teasdale, A. H. Lund, M. F. Cowley, and myself made remarks favoring the idea. It was moved by myself that the meeting be held, July 2nd, in accordance with Pres. Snow's suggestion, and that the following authorities be invited to attend: First Presidency, Twelve, First Seven Presidents, Patriarch, presidents of stakes and counselors, and bishops of wards. Carried.
A letter from Wm. H. Seegmiller, pres. Juab [Sevier] Stake, was read. He stated that the stake tabernacle, recently destroyed by fire, would soon be ready for dedication and expressed the hope that the First Presidency and Twelve would favor them with their presence upon that occasion, the President to designate who should offer the dedicatory prayer. Invitation accepted.
Apostle J. H. Smith asked if there would be any objection to Elder Ben E. Rich, president of the Southern States Mission, having his wife live with him in the mission, as it was thought she would make a very efficient missionary. President Snow said there would be no objection to it.
Singing. Benediction by Apostle Geo. Teasdale.
In the afternoon had F. G. Holden, the electrician, come to the 18th Ward house and get out a bid for wiring same. He told me it would cost $27.50, and I instructed him to go ahead. (1)
-- Jun 15, 1899; Thursday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith proceeded from the Office to the Temple, to meet with the Apostles at 11 A.M. Present: Presidents Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith and Franklin D. Richards; Apostles John Henry Smith, Matthias F. Cowley, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff and Rudger Clawson. The rest of the Apostles were absent on various important errands.
President Snow remarked to those present that he had concluded, and was perfectly satisfied that it was the proper thing to do, to call a meeting of the Presidents of Stakes and as many of the Bishops as could attend, to be held in the Salt Lake Temple, for the purpose of laying before them the law of tithing and the importance of strict obedience thereto. He had spoken to President Smith about it, and he agreed with him that it was the right thing to do. He went on to say that the Lord was pouring out upon this nation evidence of his wrath, and that the Saints have no promise that they shall be preserved, unless they observe strictly the law of tithing. He felt it burning in his bones to have the Saints understand this, and that it is their bounden duty to obey this law. He also said that he felt that members of the Church should not be recommended to the Temple for sacred ordinances who were not tithepayers.
The brethren present expressed themselves as in favor of this proposed gathering, this solemn assembly of the Priesthood, and they felt nothing could be done that would tend so much to impress the presiding Priesthood with the importance of the instruction to
be given, as to call them together within the walls of the Temple.
After some further discussion of the matter it was decided to invite not only the Presidents of Stakes and Bishops, but also the counselors to the former; this being the necessary limit on account of the accommodations.
The following motion was then formulated by the Secretary, and it became the sense of the meeting: "That a solemn assembly, consisting of two meetings, be held on the next fast day, July 2nd; and that there be invited to attend it, the Presidents of Stakes and counselors, and as many of their Bishops as may be able to come; also the Presiding Bishopric, the First Seven Presidents of Seventies, the Patriarch, and such others as the First Presidency may see so fit to invite." ... (2)
Endnotes:
1 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
2 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and warm. 11 a.m. Meeting of the brethren at the temple. Present: Presidents Snow and Smith, Apostles J. H. Smith, Geo. Teasdale, A. H. Lund, A. O. Woodruff, F. D. Richards, R. Clawson, and Geo. F. Gibbs, clk., [and Matthias F. Cowley].
Pres. Snow said that he had been impressed to call the presidents of stakes and bishops of wards throughout Zion to meet in the temple, fast day, July 2nd, 1899, and there present to them the law of tithing. He wished to know, he said, how the brethren felt in relation to the matter. Apostles J. H. Smith, Geo. Teasdale, A. H. Lund, M. F. Cowley, and myself made remarks favoring the idea. It was moved by myself that the meeting be held, July 2nd, in accordance with Pres. Snow's suggestion, and that the following authorities be invited to attend: First Presidency, Twelve, First Seven Presidents, Patriarch, presidents of stakes and counselors, and bishops of wards. Carried.
A letter from Wm. H. Seegmiller, pres. Juab [Sevier] Stake, was read. He stated that the stake tabernacle, recently destroyed by fire, would soon be ready for dedication and expressed the hope that the First Presidency and Twelve would favor them with their presence upon that occasion, the President to designate who should offer the dedicatory prayer. Invitation accepted.
Apostle J. H. Smith asked if there would be any objection to Elder Ben E. Rich, president of the Southern States Mission, having his wife live with him in the mission, as it was thought she would make a very efficient missionary. President Snow said there would be no objection to it.
Singing. Benediction by Apostle Geo. Teasdale.
In the afternoon had F. G. Holden, the electrician, come to the 18th Ward house and get out a bid for wiring same. He told me it would cost $27.50, and I instructed him to go ahead. (1)
-- Jun 15, 1899; Thursday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith proceeded from the Office to the Temple, to meet with the Apostles at 11 A.M. Present: Presidents Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith and Franklin D. Richards; Apostles John Henry Smith, Matthias F. Cowley, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff and Rudger Clawson. The rest of the Apostles were absent on various important errands.
President Snow remarked to those present that he had concluded, and was perfectly satisfied that it was the proper thing to do, to call a meeting of the Presidents of Stakes and as many of the Bishops as could attend, to be held in the Salt Lake Temple, for the purpose of laying before them the law of tithing and the importance of strict obedience thereto. He had spoken to President Smith about it, and he agreed with him that it was the right thing to do. He went on to say that the Lord was pouring out upon this nation evidence of his wrath, and that the Saints have no promise that they shall be preserved, unless they observe strictly the law of tithing. He felt it burning in his bones to have the Saints understand this, and that it is their bounden duty to obey this law. He also said that he felt that members of the Church should not be recommended to the Temple for sacred ordinances who were not tithepayers.
The brethren present expressed themselves as in favor of this proposed gathering, this solemn assembly of the Priesthood, and they felt nothing could be done that would tend so much to impress the presiding Priesthood with the importance of the instruction to
be given, as to call them together within the walls of the Temple.
After some further discussion of the matter it was decided to invite not only the Presidents of Stakes and Bishops, but also the counselors to the former; this being the necessary limit on account of the accommodations.
The following motion was then formulated by the Secretary, and it became the sense of the meeting: "That a solemn assembly, consisting of two meetings, be held on the next fast day, July 2nd; and that there be invited to attend it, the Presidents of Stakes and counselors, and as many of their Bishops as may be able to come; also the Presiding Bishopric, the First Seven Presidents of Seventies, the Patriarch, and such others as the First Presidency may see so fit to invite." ... (2)
Endnotes:
1 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
2 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Lorenzo Snow, Jun 9, 1899; Friday
-- Jun 9, 1899; Friday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith were at the Office. Sister Zina D. H. Young called, accompanied by Sisters Bathsheba W. Smith, Clara Cannon, Minnie J. Snow and Phoebe Y. Beatie. They propounded this question: Shall non-members of the Church be permitted to become members of our Relief Society? Sister Zina stated that she had answered the question in the negative, but in order to satisfy some of the sisters, she had invited the ladies present to hear what the First Presidency had to say about it. The rules of the Relief Society
were then read, one of which gave any person the privilege of becoming a member of the organization. These sisters feared that if non-members of the Church should want to join the Society, they might do so, and in some Wards, where they are numerous, they might out-vote the Church members and take possession of the Society's ward property.
The Presidency took the view that membership in the Relief Society should be confined to members of the Church in good standing, and that the rules should be changed accordingly. It was understood that this would be done.
These sisters also asked the question--Is the Relief Society required to pay tithing? President Smith took the ground that it was not required to do so, as the Society's means was already Church means and subject to the authority of the First Presidency. President Snow took the same view. Apostle Brigham Young [Jr.] and Elder Angus M. Cannon were also present, and took part in this hearing. (1)
-- Jun 14, 1899; Wednesday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith at the Office. President Snow granted a private interview to Elder Edward Partridge, President of Utah Stake, and a Brother McCullough, of Provo [Utah], in relation to a case of adultery; the names of the offending parties not given for record in this journal. It was a case of long standing, and the offense unknown to any one else excepting Brother Partridge, to whom the confession had been made. (1)
-- Thursday, Jun 15, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City
The President, Lorenzo Snow, gave my son George A. and wife Lucy E. W. their second Endowments today. I laid hands on with him. (2)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith were at the Office. Sister Zina D. H. Young called, accompanied by Sisters Bathsheba W. Smith, Clara Cannon, Minnie J. Snow and Phoebe Y. Beatie. They propounded this question: Shall non-members of the Church be permitted to become members of our Relief Society? Sister Zina stated that she had answered the question in the negative, but in order to satisfy some of the sisters, she had invited the ladies present to hear what the First Presidency had to say about it. The rules of the Relief Society
were then read, one of which gave any person the privilege of becoming a member of the organization. These sisters feared that if non-members of the Church should want to join the Society, they might do so, and in some Wards, where they are numerous, they might out-vote the Church members and take possession of the Society's ward property.
The Presidency took the view that membership in the Relief Society should be confined to members of the Church in good standing, and that the rules should be changed accordingly. It was understood that this would be done.
These sisters also asked the question--Is the Relief Society required to pay tithing? President Smith took the ground that it was not required to do so, as the Society's means was already Church means and subject to the authority of the First Presidency. President Snow took the same view. Apostle Brigham Young [Jr.] and Elder Angus M. Cannon were also present, and took part in this hearing. (1)
-- Jun 14, 1899; Wednesday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith at the Office. President Snow granted a private interview to Elder Edward Partridge, President of Utah Stake, and a Brother McCullough, of Provo [Utah], in relation to a case of adultery; the names of the offending parties not given for record in this journal. It was a case of long standing, and the offense unknown to any one else excepting Brother Partridge, to whom the confession had been made. (1)
-- Thursday, Jun 15, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City
The President, Lorenzo Snow, gave my son George A. and wife Lucy E. W. their second Endowments today. I laid hands on with him. (2)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Lorenzo Snow, May 31, 1899; Wednesday
-- May 31, 1899; Wednesday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith were at the Office; President [George Q.] Cannon still in the East.
Sister Margaret Caine was blessed to-day by President Snow, prior to her departure for England to attend the International Council of Women. She will represent the Utah Silk industry and speak upon that subject at the Council.
An order was issued for $450, divided into sums of $300 and $150, the former in favor of Elder Lewis W. Shurtliff and the latter in favor of Elder Charles F. Middleton of the Weber [Utah] Stake Presidency. (1)
-- Jun 2, 1899; Friday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith at the office. President Snow as trustee-in-trust subscribed ten thousand dollars towards securing the old city hall corner and presenting it to the government, free, as a site for the proposed Federal building, in lieu of the site recently decided upon by the officials at Washington [D.C.]. This amount was the proportion of the expenses assessed against President Snow in the endeavor to locate the building.
President Smith received President Snow's consent to accept
from Kaelohanui Niau $400 worth of stock in the Josepa Colony [Utah], giving in payment for the same a credit of $150 as a Temple donation, and $250 worth of lumber.
President Snow granted a request from Elder Seymour B. Young of the First Council of Seventy to increase his monthly compensation for services from $100 to $150; the appropriation made for this purpose to cover the rest of the current year. ... (1)
-- Jun 8, 1899; Thursday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith at the Office. President Smith offered prayer this morning at the commencement exercises of the State University, held in the Salt Lake Theatre.
A letter was received from Mr. David Evans, Jun[ior]., of Berlin, Wisconsin, a gentleman who has subscribed quite liberally to the Church bond issue, enclosing a clipping from a Wisconsin paper, containing a map of the United States, showing an octopus, with its tentacles reaching out from Utah to the States of Wisconsin and Illinois. The tentacles were also upon the States and Territories surrounding Utah. The part of the paper in which this map appears is called plate matter, prepared by certain organizations and published in papers circulating in Wisconsin and Illinois, for the purpose of creating prejudice against our Elders preaching in those States as well as against the Mormon people generally. Mr. Evans suggested that articles be written by us and published as plate matter in the same papers.
Salt Lake Temple, 11 A.M. Present: Presidents Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith and Franklin D. Richards; Apostles Brigham Young [Jr.], George Teasdale, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley and Rudger Clawson. Also, Apostles J[ohn]. H[enry]. Smith and A[braham]. O[wen]. Woodruff.
The following letter was read from Elder Orson Smith, President of Cache [Utah] Stake, dated May 8th, 1899, and mailed at Seattle, State of Washington:
President Lorenzo Snow:
Dear Brother: --
During the past two years I have been engaged in buying and selling grain and other produce. The past year has been disastrous to me, and I have become greatly involved. I have some small interests in Alaska, where I am now going, to see what I can do with them, in the hope I may meet my obligations by a disposition of them. I did not know when I reached San Francisco but that I should return within ten days, otherwise I should have written you sooner. I do not know how long I shall be gone, and knowing the importance of the work of the Cache Stake, my position as President of the Stake is in your hands to do as you may think best.
With kindest regards, I remain,
Your brother,
Orson Smith
No action was taken.
A letter from C. W. Wilson, an attorney of Los Angeles, California, was read. It also bore the date of May 8th (ultimo) and was written at that place. The writer, after describing the pitiful situation of the Yuma Indians, in consequence of the dealings of the Roman Catholic Church with them, suggests that if the Mormon Church were to take hold of them they could be settled upon government land, to be taken up by the Indians themselves. Mr. Wilson offered to do the legal work, attend to the land interests, etc., without pay, out of pure sympathy for the Yuma people. The letter was addressed to President Franklin D. Richards, whom the writer met last winter at Los Angeles.
In the discussion that followed, Brother John Henry Smith expressed his appreciation of the spirit in which the letter was written. He thought it a question meriting careful consideration, as it was one reaching down to the Yaqui Indians, and took in the Papagos, some fifteen hundred of whom were already members of the Church.
Brother Woodruff remarked that while in the South recently he accompanied Brother H. C. Rogers and the Indian interpreter Vanasula, and with them met with the Papagos and the Maricopas. He spoke of them as industrious, honest and willing to be led and counseled, and said also that the children of these Indians, who had been educated by the Government, remained true to the teachings of the Gospel. Brother [Ammon] Tenney, he added, was anxious to know if any move would be made in behalf of the Yaqui people.
Brother Young said that he felt obligated to go among the Yaquis, having promised them, while in their country, that he would return and bring the Book of Mormon and labor among them. This promise was made, he said, in keeping with an appointment given him by this council. During his last trip to the South an attempt was made to find a valley which Brother Tenney undertook to locate near Chuichupa, the object being to settle some of the Papago Indians in that region and have them write back to their tribe and induce them to follow and join with them in settling the valley. But the attempt failed, owing to the inability of Brother Tenney to locate the valley. Brother Young said that he felt that his duty called him to this work, and he would be ready to start out upon this mission in the near future.
President Richards spoke of the writer of the letter, Mr. Wilson, as a man who had impressed him very favorably.
On motion of Brother John Henry Smith the whole business was referred to Brother Brigham Young.
Brother John Henry Smith briefly reported the visit of Brother Cowley and himself to Tennessee. They found the Elders in that region industrious and feeling encouraged. The winter had been exceedingly severe for that part, and the spring season had opened very hot, resulting in the taking down of many of the Elders with malaria. In a fast meeting which they attended with
the Elders and Saints the gifts of the Spirit were exercised, such as speaking in tongues and prophesying. They held public meetings in Chattanooga, but they were poorly attended. Dr. Iliff of Salt Lake City had been there and advised that the Mormons be let severely alone, and it looked as if the people of that place had determined to follow his advice. The newspapers treated them very fairly. President Smart, of the Eastern States Mission, sent a young man named Burton to study the way in which the Southern States Mission was carried on. In some of the Eastern States there was a law forbidding any body to ask alms, and making it a misdemeanor, not only on the part of the person asking, but also on the part of the person asked, if he should fail to report the case. In the South, some of the Elders were found suffering, not only from malaria, but also yellow fever. Five hundred Elders were now laboring in that Mission, with room for more, at the rate of fifty a month. Brother Smith was of the opinion that five hundred Elders were enough to do the work of the Mission. Baptisms continue at about the same rate as when Brother Elias Kimball presided, averaging about three to each missionary. The speaker learned from some of the Elders that they might be able to endure the southern climate three winters and two summers, but to undertake to live out three summers was too much for them.
President Snow here interposed, saying that he was of the opinion that the work of the Southern States Mission would be cut short, and that whatever was going to be done should be done soon.
Brother Smith, continuing his report, said that a brother named Condie had proposed the location and had offered to assist in locating some of our Southern States people on lands where they could be together and work together; but he, the speaker, was of the opinion that if an attempt of that character were made, it would incite the spirit of mobocracy, and he therefore advised against it. He referred to the commissary department established by Brother Kimball while presiding there, and notwithstanding a prejudicial feeling against it, he felt that it was one of the wisest things that had been done in that mission. He mentioned it now for the purpose of correcting prejudice that might still exist, and with a view that the department might be approved by the Missionary Committee of the apostles. He also stated that the Josephites were selling the Book of Mormon in the Southern States at fifty cents a copy, and that our Elders could not compete with them, on account of having to pay higher prices to the publishers. He had advised Elder Ben E. Rich, now presiding in the South, to communicate with the Liverpool [England] office, and try to get the Book of Mormon cheaper than it could be got here. He mentioned the incident of a number of persons having been baptized into the Church who did not know that we believed in the divine calling of Joseph Smith; due no doubt to the fact that Brother Kimball had deemed it wise at one time for the Elders not to mention the name of the Prophet, but to preach the first principles of the Gospel as contained in the scriptures, and let that suffice for the time being. The result was, since the Elders had been reinstructed to bear testimony to his divine calling, that some of these new
members had left the Church. The speaker had heard, however, that a number of the backsliders had been rebaptized.
Brother Cowley, upon the subject of the Book of Mormon, referred to the words of the Prophet Joseph [Smith] in regard to the reading of that book by a non-Mormon; that is, the good effect it would have on the minds of all honest people who read it. He alluded also to the words of the Angel Moroni to the Prophet, charging him against entertaining any mercenary feeling respecting the golden plates. The speaker felt that the spirit of this admonition should be strictly adhered to in the sale of the Book of Mormon. He said that a firm in Chicago [Illinois] had offered to publish it for twenty-seven cents a copy, and that another firm in Chattanooga had offered to publish it for twenty-seven and a half cents. Brother Cowley also reported a visit to the Pocatello [Idaho] Conference last Sunday, when he had a good time preaching on the law of tithing; in fact, he never had enjoyed the spirit of the Lord so much as when speaking on this occasion.
President Snow, upon the subject of printing the Book of Mormon and other Church works with a view to selling them as cheaply as possible, said that this was a thing which the Church ought to do; and his suggestion upon that point, on motion of President Franklin D. Richards, seconded by Apostle John Henry Smith, became the sense of the Council.
Speaking upon the same subject, President Smith said that while in Honolulu [Hawaii] he learned that the Josephites were circulating their literature quite extensively in that land; that the Book of Mormon and the Book of Doctrine and Covenants were published in the Kanaka language, as well as a great number of tracts, and a monthly paper. We publish nothing at all in that language. The speaker thought that this matter should also be considered, and he endorsed the remarks of Brother Cowley, to the effect that the work of publishing should all be done as cheaply as possible.
President Snow remarked that the Lord was anxious to come to the earth to see what we were doing, and it seemed to him that we should adopt every means possible to convert the people to the principles of the Gospel. For this purpose money was needed. He believed that if half the means used for business enterprises in which the Church was interested, had been used in circulating our printed word, a mighty work might have been accomplished. But we were in debt and without money. In reference to the law of tithing he felt that we should make it a requirement from this time forth that the members of the Church pay their tithing, or be forbidden entrance to the Temple. He believed that the Lord was displeased with us for borrowing or going into debt to the extent of nearly two millions of dollars for business enterprises.
Brother Cowley asked the question whether, if it should be found that the Book of Mormon could be published cheaper abroad than at home, the Presidents of Missions might be free to publish it at the reduced prices.
President Snow answered that he certainly would have it published as cheaply as possible; he felt it to be our duty to do
this.
The question of a committee to attend to the matter was then considered, resulting in the appointment of apostles John Henry Smith and Matthias F. Cowley.
Brother Woodruff now stated that the President of Woodruff [Wyoming/Utah] Stake had called his attention to the fact that a million and a half acres of land had been thrown open for entry, and large valleys were ready to be occupied. There were people in what is called Lucerne Valley who had been visited by an Apostle since the occupation of that place; and the people settled in the Big Horn Country were also eagerly looking forward to the visit of an Apostle. He thought these people should be visited and the country looked over.
President Snow thought Brother Woodruff had better arrange to visit those places and look over the land. ...
Before adjournment, President Snow inquired if the members of the Council would favor his inviting the First Seven Presidents of Seventies to meet and partake of the Sacrament with them next time; whereupon Brother John Henry Smith suggested that the Patriarch of the Church be added, which suggestion was adopted. It was understood that this was only to be for one occasion. The arrangement, on motion of Brother John Henry Smith, was acquiesced in by the Council, which then adjourned.
The sum of $1,000 was appropriated to be placed in the hands of Presiding Bishop [William B.] Preston, to pay the fares of people to Canada; the parties to whom this money is advanced to sign obligations for the same, with the understanding that it be refunded out of their wages for work done on the Alberta Canal.
It is learned that Brother Frank Armstrong, ex-Mayor of Salt Lake City, and at present one of the Commissioners of Salt Lake County, who has been ailing for some time past, is in a very low condition. Presidents Snow and Smith drove to his residence this afternoon to administer to him.
President William Budge of Bear Lake [Idaho/Utah] Stake, and his son Alfred called at the Office, the father having been sent for to come to the city again, in connection with the case between him and Brother Wilcox, whose complaint was heard about three weeks ago; he now claiming that Brother Budge had not complied with the decision of the committee who investigated the matter. At to-day's meeting that committee decided that the matter was now between Brother Wilcox and Brother Budge, and it was for them to adjust the difficult themselves. (1)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith were at the Office; President [George Q.] Cannon still in the East.
Sister Margaret Caine was blessed to-day by President Snow, prior to her departure for England to attend the International Council of Women. She will represent the Utah Silk industry and speak upon that subject at the Council.
An order was issued for $450, divided into sums of $300 and $150, the former in favor of Elder Lewis W. Shurtliff and the latter in favor of Elder Charles F. Middleton of the Weber [Utah] Stake Presidency. (1)
-- Jun 2, 1899; Friday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith at the office. President Snow as trustee-in-trust subscribed ten thousand dollars towards securing the old city hall corner and presenting it to the government, free, as a site for the proposed Federal building, in lieu of the site recently decided upon by the officials at Washington [D.C.]. This amount was the proportion of the expenses assessed against President Snow in the endeavor to locate the building.
President Smith received President Snow's consent to accept
from Kaelohanui Niau $400 worth of stock in the Josepa Colony [Utah], giving in payment for the same a credit of $150 as a Temple donation, and $250 worth of lumber.
President Snow granted a request from Elder Seymour B. Young of the First Council of Seventy to increase his monthly compensation for services from $100 to $150; the appropriation made for this purpose to cover the rest of the current year. ... (1)
-- Jun 8, 1899; Thursday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith at the Office. President Smith offered prayer this morning at the commencement exercises of the State University, held in the Salt Lake Theatre.
A letter was received from Mr. David Evans, Jun[ior]., of Berlin, Wisconsin, a gentleman who has subscribed quite liberally to the Church bond issue, enclosing a clipping from a Wisconsin paper, containing a map of the United States, showing an octopus, with its tentacles reaching out from Utah to the States of Wisconsin and Illinois. The tentacles were also upon the States and Territories surrounding Utah. The part of the paper in which this map appears is called plate matter, prepared by certain organizations and published in papers circulating in Wisconsin and Illinois, for the purpose of creating prejudice against our Elders preaching in those States as well as against the Mormon people generally. Mr. Evans suggested that articles be written by us and published as plate matter in the same papers.
Salt Lake Temple, 11 A.M. Present: Presidents Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith and Franklin D. Richards; Apostles Brigham Young [Jr.], George Teasdale, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley and Rudger Clawson. Also, Apostles J[ohn]. H[enry]. Smith and A[braham]. O[wen]. Woodruff.
The following letter was read from Elder Orson Smith, President of Cache [Utah] Stake, dated May 8th, 1899, and mailed at Seattle, State of Washington:
President Lorenzo Snow:
Dear Brother: --
During the past two years I have been engaged in buying and selling grain and other produce. The past year has been disastrous to me, and I have become greatly involved. I have some small interests in Alaska, where I am now going, to see what I can do with them, in the hope I may meet my obligations by a disposition of them. I did not know when I reached San Francisco but that I should return within ten days, otherwise I should have written you sooner. I do not know how long I shall be gone, and knowing the importance of the work of the Cache Stake, my position as President of the Stake is in your hands to do as you may think best.
With kindest regards, I remain,
Your brother,
Orson Smith
No action was taken.
A letter from C. W. Wilson, an attorney of Los Angeles, California, was read. It also bore the date of May 8th (ultimo) and was written at that place. The writer, after describing the pitiful situation of the Yuma Indians, in consequence of the dealings of the Roman Catholic Church with them, suggests that if the Mormon Church were to take hold of them they could be settled upon government land, to be taken up by the Indians themselves. Mr. Wilson offered to do the legal work, attend to the land interests, etc., without pay, out of pure sympathy for the Yuma people. The letter was addressed to President Franklin D. Richards, whom the writer met last winter at Los Angeles.
In the discussion that followed, Brother John Henry Smith expressed his appreciation of the spirit in which the letter was written. He thought it a question meriting careful consideration, as it was one reaching down to the Yaqui Indians, and took in the Papagos, some fifteen hundred of whom were already members of the Church.
Brother Woodruff remarked that while in the South recently he accompanied Brother H. C. Rogers and the Indian interpreter Vanasula, and with them met with the Papagos and the Maricopas. He spoke of them as industrious, honest and willing to be led and counseled, and said also that the children of these Indians, who had been educated by the Government, remained true to the teachings of the Gospel. Brother [Ammon] Tenney, he added, was anxious to know if any move would be made in behalf of the Yaqui people.
Brother Young said that he felt obligated to go among the Yaquis, having promised them, while in their country, that he would return and bring the Book of Mormon and labor among them. This promise was made, he said, in keeping with an appointment given him by this council. During his last trip to the South an attempt was made to find a valley which Brother Tenney undertook to locate near Chuichupa, the object being to settle some of the Papago Indians in that region and have them write back to their tribe and induce them to follow and join with them in settling the valley. But the attempt failed, owing to the inability of Brother Tenney to locate the valley. Brother Young said that he felt that his duty called him to this work, and he would be ready to start out upon this mission in the near future.
President Richards spoke of the writer of the letter, Mr. Wilson, as a man who had impressed him very favorably.
On motion of Brother John Henry Smith the whole business was referred to Brother Brigham Young.
Brother John Henry Smith briefly reported the visit of Brother Cowley and himself to Tennessee. They found the Elders in that region industrious and feeling encouraged. The winter had been exceedingly severe for that part, and the spring season had opened very hot, resulting in the taking down of many of the Elders with malaria. In a fast meeting which they attended with
the Elders and Saints the gifts of the Spirit were exercised, such as speaking in tongues and prophesying. They held public meetings in Chattanooga, but they were poorly attended. Dr. Iliff of Salt Lake City had been there and advised that the Mormons be let severely alone, and it looked as if the people of that place had determined to follow his advice. The newspapers treated them very fairly. President Smart, of the Eastern States Mission, sent a young man named Burton to study the way in which the Southern States Mission was carried on. In some of the Eastern States there was a law forbidding any body to ask alms, and making it a misdemeanor, not only on the part of the person asking, but also on the part of the person asked, if he should fail to report the case. In the South, some of the Elders were found suffering, not only from malaria, but also yellow fever. Five hundred Elders were now laboring in that Mission, with room for more, at the rate of fifty a month. Brother Smith was of the opinion that five hundred Elders were enough to do the work of the Mission. Baptisms continue at about the same rate as when Brother Elias Kimball presided, averaging about three to each missionary. The speaker learned from some of the Elders that they might be able to endure the southern climate three winters and two summers, but to undertake to live out three summers was too much for them.
President Snow here interposed, saying that he was of the opinion that the work of the Southern States Mission would be cut short, and that whatever was going to be done should be done soon.
Brother Smith, continuing his report, said that a brother named Condie had proposed the location and had offered to assist in locating some of our Southern States people on lands where they could be together and work together; but he, the speaker, was of the opinion that if an attempt of that character were made, it would incite the spirit of mobocracy, and he therefore advised against it. He referred to the commissary department established by Brother Kimball while presiding there, and notwithstanding a prejudicial feeling against it, he felt that it was one of the wisest things that had been done in that mission. He mentioned it now for the purpose of correcting prejudice that might still exist, and with a view that the department might be approved by the Missionary Committee of the apostles. He also stated that the Josephites were selling the Book of Mormon in the Southern States at fifty cents a copy, and that our Elders could not compete with them, on account of having to pay higher prices to the publishers. He had advised Elder Ben E. Rich, now presiding in the South, to communicate with the Liverpool [England] office, and try to get the Book of Mormon cheaper than it could be got here. He mentioned the incident of a number of persons having been baptized into the Church who did not know that we believed in the divine calling of Joseph Smith; due no doubt to the fact that Brother Kimball had deemed it wise at one time for the Elders not to mention the name of the Prophet, but to preach the first principles of the Gospel as contained in the scriptures, and let that suffice for the time being. The result was, since the Elders had been reinstructed to bear testimony to his divine calling, that some of these new
members had left the Church. The speaker had heard, however, that a number of the backsliders had been rebaptized.
Brother Cowley, upon the subject of the Book of Mormon, referred to the words of the Prophet Joseph [Smith] in regard to the reading of that book by a non-Mormon; that is, the good effect it would have on the minds of all honest people who read it. He alluded also to the words of the Angel Moroni to the Prophet, charging him against entertaining any mercenary feeling respecting the golden plates. The speaker felt that the spirit of this admonition should be strictly adhered to in the sale of the Book of Mormon. He said that a firm in Chicago [Illinois] had offered to publish it for twenty-seven cents a copy, and that another firm in Chattanooga had offered to publish it for twenty-seven and a half cents. Brother Cowley also reported a visit to the Pocatello [Idaho] Conference last Sunday, when he had a good time preaching on the law of tithing; in fact, he never had enjoyed the spirit of the Lord so much as when speaking on this occasion.
President Snow, upon the subject of printing the Book of Mormon and other Church works with a view to selling them as cheaply as possible, said that this was a thing which the Church ought to do; and his suggestion upon that point, on motion of President Franklin D. Richards, seconded by Apostle John Henry Smith, became the sense of the Council.
Speaking upon the same subject, President Smith said that while in Honolulu [Hawaii] he learned that the Josephites were circulating their literature quite extensively in that land; that the Book of Mormon and the Book of Doctrine and Covenants were published in the Kanaka language, as well as a great number of tracts, and a monthly paper. We publish nothing at all in that language. The speaker thought that this matter should also be considered, and he endorsed the remarks of Brother Cowley, to the effect that the work of publishing should all be done as cheaply as possible.
President Snow remarked that the Lord was anxious to come to the earth to see what we were doing, and it seemed to him that we should adopt every means possible to convert the people to the principles of the Gospel. For this purpose money was needed. He believed that if half the means used for business enterprises in which the Church was interested, had been used in circulating our printed word, a mighty work might have been accomplished. But we were in debt and without money. In reference to the law of tithing he felt that we should make it a requirement from this time forth that the members of the Church pay their tithing, or be forbidden entrance to the Temple. He believed that the Lord was displeased with us for borrowing or going into debt to the extent of nearly two millions of dollars for business enterprises.
Brother Cowley asked the question whether, if it should be found that the Book of Mormon could be published cheaper abroad than at home, the Presidents of Missions might be free to publish it at the reduced prices.
President Snow answered that he certainly would have it published as cheaply as possible; he felt it to be our duty to do
this.
The question of a committee to attend to the matter was then considered, resulting in the appointment of apostles John Henry Smith and Matthias F. Cowley.
Brother Woodruff now stated that the President of Woodruff [Wyoming/Utah] Stake had called his attention to the fact that a million and a half acres of land had been thrown open for entry, and large valleys were ready to be occupied. There were people in what is called Lucerne Valley who had been visited by an Apostle since the occupation of that place; and the people settled in the Big Horn Country were also eagerly looking forward to the visit of an Apostle. He thought these people should be visited and the country looked over.
President Snow thought Brother Woodruff had better arrange to visit those places and look over the land. ...
Before adjournment, President Snow inquired if the members of the Council would favor his inviting the First Seven Presidents of Seventies to meet and partake of the Sacrament with them next time; whereupon Brother John Henry Smith suggested that the Patriarch of the Church be added, which suggestion was adopted. It was understood that this was only to be for one occasion. The arrangement, on motion of Brother John Henry Smith, was acquiesced in by the Council, which then adjourned.
The sum of $1,000 was appropriated to be placed in the hands of Presiding Bishop [William B.] Preston, to pay the fares of people to Canada; the parties to whom this money is advanced to sign obligations for the same, with the understanding that it be refunded out of their wages for work done on the Alberta Canal.
It is learned that Brother Frank Armstrong, ex-Mayor of Salt Lake City, and at present one of the Commissioners of Salt Lake County, who has been ailing for some time past, is in a very low condition. Presidents Snow and Smith drove to his residence this afternoon to administer to him.
President William Budge of Bear Lake [Idaho/Utah] Stake, and his son Alfred called at the Office, the father having been sent for to come to the city again, in connection with the case between him and Brother Wilcox, whose complaint was heard about three weeks ago; he now claiming that Brother Budge had not complied with the decision of the committee who investigated the matter. At to-day's meeting that committee decided that the matter was now between Brother Wilcox and Brother Budge, and it was for them to adjust the difficult themselves. (1)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Lorenzo Snow, Monday, May 29, 1899
-- Monday, May 29, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Brigham City. Cloudy and mild. 6:10 a.m. I took the train for Salt Lake, arriving at 9 a.m.
The great naval hero, W. S. Schley, who was the central figure in the battle of Santiago Harbor when the Spanish fleet under Cevera was destroyed, is in Salt Lake. He came in yesterday morning and received an ovation at the depot and along the streets. In the afternoon he attended services at the tabernacle and made a short speech that was applauded to the echo. In the afternoon he made a short visit to Saltair Beach and seemed to greatly enjoy it. At 9:45 this morning he was accorded a street reception by the school children of Salt Lake City. The children formed in line on the north side of South Temple St. from Main to 10th East. The admiral rode in a carriage with Governor [Heber M.] Wells, drawn by four white horses, preceded by a band. There were many carriages in the line. The children were very enthusiastic and cheered to the echo as the distinguished party passed along.
2 p.m. Afternoon session of officers meeting of Y.M.M.I.A., Pres. Lorenzo Snow presiding. Pres. Lorenzo Snow said, we are going to visit you in your stakes and tell you what the Lord has put in our hearts to tell you. Spoke upon the law of tithing, and said, if we don't obey it, this will not be a land of Zion to us. We don't half obey it. If the saints had paid an honest tithing during the past two years, there would be a million dollars in the treasury of the Church that is not there now. It is a question, he said, whether people who don't pay an honest tithing are entitled to go into the temple and receive blessings there. In conclusion he invoked the blessings of the Lord upon the young men present. (1)
-- May 30, 1899
Doctrine of Tithing adopted by vote-- As stated in the notes to the Discourse by President Snow of May 8, 1899, the announcement of this new revelation on tithing in St. George, Utah was repeated in different words but with the same force and meaning when President Snow returned to Salt Lake City and presided over the sessions of the general conference of the Mutual Improvement Associations of the L.D.S. Church.
It was this address, reproduced below, that was adopted by a vote of the conference as "the doctrine of tithing" and as "the present word and will of the Lord unto us."
The resolution presented by B. H. Roberts following President Snow's address was accepted also by a solemn assembly in the Salt Lake Temple on July 2, 1899 as before noted.
For additional information on these two very important documents on the doctrine of tithing and the circumstances which led up to the giving of this revelation to the Church through President Lorenzo Snow see: CHC 6:356-360; RCH 3:253-266. A motion picture, "Windows of Heaven," produced by the B. Y. U. Motion Picture Studio, also tells graphically the story of the giving of this relation.
PRESIDENT SNOW'S ADDRESS
I feel, brethren, that I am addressing an important body of men whom the Lord has blessed with understanding and with wisdom, and with long experience, as many of you have had. You are capable of understanding a proposition when it is presented, and you could talk upon it far better than I could; I understand all this, but there are certain times when the most simple thing is required to be presented to the Latter-day Saints that does not require great education to understand, it requires only the Spirit of the Lord; that, you certainly possess and accompanied with the great advantage of being learned. Some of you are fine speakers, especially in politics, if you will excuse me for saying it. You are men of intelligence and will understand what is required of you.
There are hundreds of thousands of dollars in notes that are coming up now for payment, and we have no reserve at all, but I am just as sure that we will be able to settle our troubles here in regard to the debts of the Church, just as sure as I see you here, hut it will not be done without exertion in reference to the paying of tithing.
President Smith, President Richards, Brother Lyman, Brother Woodruff, Brother Seymour Young and some others, were with me in the south. We talked plainly to the people, and we had the Spirit of the Lord. There was not a difference of opinion among us, as was shown among you today, we all saw the point exactly alike and we talked plainly upon it. We hoped to present it yesterday morning to the young people, but I do not know why it was, we did not have the spirit that we hoped to have. I understand however that there were persons in the meeting who were making sport, and were not united with us.
Now, brethren, we shall visit all the stakes in Zion and we shall see you again in the parts where you reside. We wish you to consult yourselves and the Spirit of the Lord in reference to this principle. People who have never paid a cent tithing go into the temples. This law of tithing is one which if it is not kept, the land shall not be sanctified unto those who disobey it, and it shall not be a land of Zion unto them. This is a plain and simple statement and can be understood by the most ignorant. Here we have been getting into debt to the Lord. Now I will just give you an illustration: A poor woman, or a poor man, has ten dollars. It is hard for her to support her children; she has ten dollars and goes and pays one dollar tithing, which is used for the benefit of the temple, or for other purposes. Here, on the other hand is a man who has thousands of dollars and pays no tithing. There are thousands of people, pretty good people, but they are ignorant and do not understand what they should do, but I do not know why they should not, they pay no tithing but they go into the temples just as the poor woman, and they are given the same privileges as she, they receive the same blessings, her dollar goes to pay the expenses of the temple and they pay nothing toward it. This illustration might be extended. There are thousands and thousands of such cases. Many poor people pay tithing and it goes to support the temples, while the other people who pay no tithing at all are permitted to receive the same blessings. What do you suppose the Lord thinks of this? And how far does this go to sanctify and preserve us here in this land? President Young came here and knelt down and sanctified the land and dedicated it to God, and here come thousands of people and ignore that law, which if kept, will preserve us; and if not observed, we will have to leave here, or some general calamity will come upon us.
Those who went to Jackson County had much more to do than to pay tithing, and because they failed to observe the law which was given them, they were driven from the country. It is wonderful to me how far the Lord has blessed us and the easiness we have had to comply with the laws of God. It is strange to me and wonderful when we look upon this. The Lord has raised you up and fitted you to come to the rescue, and if we fail to get that assistance from you we shall have to-no I shall not say it, for we would not give up, we will remain faithful to the Lord and try to execute his will. I have given myself to this work, and I do not propose to turn away from the Lord, neither shall I neglect my duty even if it is unpleasant to talk about these things, but I hope it is not unpleasant to you.
I was going to suggest, if you had agreed to lay aside a reserve fund, I should have asked you if you would not first set apart one-tenth of it as tithing. The poorest of the poor can pay tithing; the Lord requires it at our hands, to lay this matter plainly before the people, and we are going to do it. It is the temporal salvation of this Church, it depends upon obedience to this law.
If the Young Ladies' Mutual Improvement Association have a fund, I am going to suggest that they pay tithing on it. I do not know whether the Deseret News pay tithing on its profits or not, but if they wish my name at the head of their paper they must do so. Now I suppose some will find fault, but I hope not, and it matters not if they do, we are going to carry this out, the Lord being our helper.
I am surprised that I am in this position. I am not a speaker. I used to, when I was younger, try to take up a text and to talk upon it, but I was not very successful. But I can tell what the Lord wants of me, and I know what my duty is, and although I never desired but one thing, one office in this Church, and that was to be an Elder, and that I received under the direction of Joseph Smith, the Prophet, I have gone along from one thing to another, with much fear, knowing my inability. I devoted myself wholly to discharging my duties and the Lord has helped me through, and he will continue to help me. I have my counselors here and we are one. Of course President Cannon has been away for some time, but he will see eye to eye with me as President Smith does. I can depend upon my counselors and I know they will support this principle, that everybody should pay tithing. This law shall be observed now, and things will go along pretty well, and we will pay our debts. The Lord has told us not to get into debt. In regard to building temples he gave a revelation that they should not go into debt, and it was not proper for the Presidency to go into debt in building temples, and it certainly does not look wise for us to become involved in any enterprise. The brethren are mostly in debt. The Lord has let this go on inasmuch as the people have not paid their tithing and even at the expense of our homes that our families live in; that is bad.
Now brethren, I do not wish to detain you, but I want you to reflect upon this matter. Read the law of tithing in the Doctrine and Covenants and then why it was the people who disobeyed this law in Jackson County were expelled, and see what the whisperings of the Lord to you are. We want to introduce this matter mildly but firmly.
God bless you. I intend in the future to take more interest in your meetings. I have taken an interest in you and prayed for you and for those who have the direction of your affairs. Now that I see what you are doing I feel that you are strong and that you will do as the Lord requires you to do. God bless you.
At the conclusion of President Snow's address the following resolution was presented by Elder B. H. Roberts:
Resolved: That we accept the doctrine of tithing, as now presented by President Snow, as the present word and will of the Lord unto us, and we do accept it with all our hearts; we will ourselves observe it, and we will do all in our power to get the Latter-day Saints to do likewise.
The resolution was unanimously adopted by all present rising to their feet and shouting "Aye."
Apostle Francis M. Lyman then arose and said: "President Snow: I believe this body of men are about as clear upon this law and have about as faithfully met their obligations in regard to tithing as any body of men in the Church. It is a splendid thing, brethren, for us to be always in shape to accept the will of the Lord when it comes."
Visibly affected, the President then arose and said: "Brethren, the God of our fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob bless you. Every man who is here, who has made this promise, will be saved in the Celestial Kingdom. God bless you. Amen." {1898-May 30-Improvement Era 2:792-795 (August, 1899).} (2)
Endnotes:
1 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
2 - Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Brigham City. Cloudy and mild. 6:10 a.m. I took the train for Salt Lake, arriving at 9 a.m.
The great naval hero, W. S. Schley, who was the central figure in the battle of Santiago Harbor when the Spanish fleet under Cevera was destroyed, is in Salt Lake. He came in yesterday morning and received an ovation at the depot and along the streets. In the afternoon he attended services at the tabernacle and made a short speech that was applauded to the echo. In the afternoon he made a short visit to Saltair Beach and seemed to greatly enjoy it. At 9:45 this morning he was accorded a street reception by the school children of Salt Lake City. The children formed in line on the north side of South Temple St. from Main to 10th East. The admiral rode in a carriage with Governor [Heber M.] Wells, drawn by four white horses, preceded by a band. There were many carriages in the line. The children were very enthusiastic and cheered to the echo as the distinguished party passed along.
2 p.m. Afternoon session of officers meeting of Y.M.M.I.A., Pres. Lorenzo Snow presiding. Pres. Lorenzo Snow said, we are going to visit you in your stakes and tell you what the Lord has put in our hearts to tell you. Spoke upon the law of tithing, and said, if we don't obey it, this will not be a land of Zion to us. We don't half obey it. If the saints had paid an honest tithing during the past two years, there would be a million dollars in the treasury of the Church that is not there now. It is a question, he said, whether people who don't pay an honest tithing are entitled to go into the temple and receive blessings there. In conclusion he invoked the blessings of the Lord upon the young men present. (1)
-- May 30, 1899
Doctrine of Tithing adopted by vote-- As stated in the notes to the Discourse by President Snow of May 8, 1899, the announcement of this new revelation on tithing in St. George, Utah was repeated in different words but with the same force and meaning when President Snow returned to Salt Lake City and presided over the sessions of the general conference of the Mutual Improvement Associations of the L.D.S. Church.
It was this address, reproduced below, that was adopted by a vote of the conference as "the doctrine of tithing" and as "the present word and will of the Lord unto us."
The resolution presented by B. H. Roberts following President Snow's address was accepted also by a solemn assembly in the Salt Lake Temple on July 2, 1899 as before noted.
For additional information on these two very important documents on the doctrine of tithing and the circumstances which led up to the giving of this revelation to the Church through President Lorenzo Snow see: CHC 6:356-360; RCH 3:253-266. A motion picture, "Windows of Heaven," produced by the B. Y. U. Motion Picture Studio, also tells graphically the story of the giving of this relation.
PRESIDENT SNOW'S ADDRESS
I feel, brethren, that I am addressing an important body of men whom the Lord has blessed with understanding and with wisdom, and with long experience, as many of you have had. You are capable of understanding a proposition when it is presented, and you could talk upon it far better than I could; I understand all this, but there are certain times when the most simple thing is required to be presented to the Latter-day Saints that does not require great education to understand, it requires only the Spirit of the Lord; that, you certainly possess and accompanied with the great advantage of being learned. Some of you are fine speakers, especially in politics, if you will excuse me for saying it. You are men of intelligence and will understand what is required of you.
There are hundreds of thousands of dollars in notes that are coming up now for payment, and we have no reserve at all, but I am just as sure that we will be able to settle our troubles here in regard to the debts of the Church, just as sure as I see you here, hut it will not be done without exertion in reference to the paying of tithing.
President Smith, President Richards, Brother Lyman, Brother Woodruff, Brother Seymour Young and some others, were with me in the south. We talked plainly to the people, and we had the Spirit of the Lord. There was not a difference of opinion among us, as was shown among you today, we all saw the point exactly alike and we talked plainly upon it. We hoped to present it yesterday morning to the young people, but I do not know why it was, we did not have the spirit that we hoped to have. I understand however that there were persons in the meeting who were making sport, and were not united with us.
Now, brethren, we shall visit all the stakes in Zion and we shall see you again in the parts where you reside. We wish you to consult yourselves and the Spirit of the Lord in reference to this principle. People who have never paid a cent tithing go into the temples. This law of tithing is one which if it is not kept, the land shall not be sanctified unto those who disobey it, and it shall not be a land of Zion unto them. This is a plain and simple statement and can be understood by the most ignorant. Here we have been getting into debt to the Lord. Now I will just give you an illustration: A poor woman, or a poor man, has ten dollars. It is hard for her to support her children; she has ten dollars and goes and pays one dollar tithing, which is used for the benefit of the temple, or for other purposes. Here, on the other hand is a man who has thousands of dollars and pays no tithing. There are thousands of people, pretty good people, but they are ignorant and do not understand what they should do, but I do not know why they should not, they pay no tithing but they go into the temples just as the poor woman, and they are given the same privileges as she, they receive the same blessings, her dollar goes to pay the expenses of the temple and they pay nothing toward it. This illustration might be extended. There are thousands and thousands of such cases. Many poor people pay tithing and it goes to support the temples, while the other people who pay no tithing at all are permitted to receive the same blessings. What do you suppose the Lord thinks of this? And how far does this go to sanctify and preserve us here in this land? President Young came here and knelt down and sanctified the land and dedicated it to God, and here come thousands of people and ignore that law, which if kept, will preserve us; and if not observed, we will have to leave here, or some general calamity will come upon us.
Those who went to Jackson County had much more to do than to pay tithing, and because they failed to observe the law which was given them, they were driven from the country. It is wonderful to me how far the Lord has blessed us and the easiness we have had to comply with the laws of God. It is strange to me and wonderful when we look upon this. The Lord has raised you up and fitted you to come to the rescue, and if we fail to get that assistance from you we shall have to-no I shall not say it, for we would not give up, we will remain faithful to the Lord and try to execute his will. I have given myself to this work, and I do not propose to turn away from the Lord, neither shall I neglect my duty even if it is unpleasant to talk about these things, but I hope it is not unpleasant to you.
I was going to suggest, if you had agreed to lay aside a reserve fund, I should have asked you if you would not first set apart one-tenth of it as tithing. The poorest of the poor can pay tithing; the Lord requires it at our hands, to lay this matter plainly before the people, and we are going to do it. It is the temporal salvation of this Church, it depends upon obedience to this law.
If the Young Ladies' Mutual Improvement Association have a fund, I am going to suggest that they pay tithing on it. I do not know whether the Deseret News pay tithing on its profits or not, but if they wish my name at the head of their paper they must do so. Now I suppose some will find fault, but I hope not, and it matters not if they do, we are going to carry this out, the Lord being our helper.
I am surprised that I am in this position. I am not a speaker. I used to, when I was younger, try to take up a text and to talk upon it, but I was not very successful. But I can tell what the Lord wants of me, and I know what my duty is, and although I never desired but one thing, one office in this Church, and that was to be an Elder, and that I received under the direction of Joseph Smith, the Prophet, I have gone along from one thing to another, with much fear, knowing my inability. I devoted myself wholly to discharging my duties and the Lord has helped me through, and he will continue to help me. I have my counselors here and we are one. Of course President Cannon has been away for some time, but he will see eye to eye with me as President Smith does. I can depend upon my counselors and I know they will support this principle, that everybody should pay tithing. This law shall be observed now, and things will go along pretty well, and we will pay our debts. The Lord has told us not to get into debt. In regard to building temples he gave a revelation that they should not go into debt, and it was not proper for the Presidency to go into debt in building temples, and it certainly does not look wise for us to become involved in any enterprise. The brethren are mostly in debt. The Lord has let this go on inasmuch as the people have not paid their tithing and even at the expense of our homes that our families live in; that is bad.
Now brethren, I do not wish to detain you, but I want you to reflect upon this matter. Read the law of tithing in the Doctrine and Covenants and then why it was the people who disobeyed this law in Jackson County were expelled, and see what the whisperings of the Lord to you are. We want to introduce this matter mildly but firmly.
God bless you. I intend in the future to take more interest in your meetings. I have taken an interest in you and prayed for you and for those who have the direction of your affairs. Now that I see what you are doing I feel that you are strong and that you will do as the Lord requires you to do. God bless you.
At the conclusion of President Snow's address the following resolution was presented by Elder B. H. Roberts:
Resolved: That we accept the doctrine of tithing, as now presented by President Snow, as the present word and will of the Lord unto us, and we do accept it with all our hearts; we will ourselves observe it, and we will do all in our power to get the Latter-day Saints to do likewise.
The resolution was unanimously adopted by all present rising to their feet and shouting "Aye."
Apostle Francis M. Lyman then arose and said: "President Snow: I believe this body of men are about as clear upon this law and have about as faithfully met their obligations in regard to tithing as any body of men in the Church. It is a splendid thing, brethren, for us to be always in shape to accept the will of the Lord when it comes."
Visibly affected, the President then arose and said: "Brethren, the God of our fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob bless you. Every man who is here, who has made this promise, will be saved in the Celestial Kingdom. God bless you. Amen." {1898-May 30-Improvement Era 2:792-795 (August, 1899).} (2)
Endnotes:
1 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
2 - Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Lorenzo Snow, 1899, May 17
-- 1899, May 17
President Lorenzo Snow received revelation in St. George prompting him to emphasize Tithing. (1)
-- May 17, 1899
Lorenzo Snow's revelation at St. George on necessity for church members to pay full 10 percent tithing, which conference votes to accept on May 30. Tithing is now on annual income only. However, individual general authorities and local leaders continue to differ about whether tithing should be on gross or net income. Text of revelation is part of his published sermon but never canonized by addition to D&C. (2)
-- May 21, 1899
Margaret Cullen Geddes, widow of William S. Geddes who died ten years previously gives birth to a baby boy. Margaret is charged by local Mormon authorities in Plain City, Utah, with adultery. During the hearing before the bishopric, Margaret steadfastly refuses to give the name of the child's father, despite threats of excommunication. At this point, David Eccles, the child's secret father, who had taken Margaret as a plural wife the previous year, contacts George F. Gibbs, secretary to the First Presidency of the church. Eccles asks Gibbs to request that President Lorenzo Snow order Mormon leaders in Plain City to withdraw their charges. President Snow sends a letter to the Plain City bishopric telling them to accept Margaret's statements as sufficient, forgiving her with no further requirement. President Snow also advised that Eccles and Margaret move to Mexico. Thereupon, local church authorities dropped the case. (3)
Margaret Cullen Geddes, widow of William S. Geddes who died ten years previously gives birth to a baby boy. Margaret is charged by local Mormon authorities in Plain City, Utah, with adultery. During the hearing before the bishopric, Margaret steadfastly refuses to give the name of the child's father, despite threats of excommunication. At this point, David Eccles, the child's secret father, who had taken Margaret as a plural wife the previous year, contacts George F. Gibbs, secretary to the First Presidency of the church. Eccles asks Gibbs to request that President Lorenzo Snow order Mormon leaders in Plain City to withdraw their charges. President Snow sends a letter to the Plain City bishopric telling them to accept Margaret's statements as sufficient, forgiving her with no further requirement. President Snow also advised that Eccles and Margaret move to Mexico. Thereupon, local church authorities dropped the case. (2)
Endnotes:
1 - Ludlow, Daniel H. editor, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Macmillan Publishing, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Vol. 4, Appendix 2: A Chronology of Church History, http://amzn.to/eG0DIp
2 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
3 - Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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President Lorenzo Snow received revelation in St. George prompting him to emphasize Tithing. (1)
-- May 17, 1899
Lorenzo Snow's revelation at St. George on necessity for church members to pay full 10 percent tithing, which conference votes to accept on May 30. Tithing is now on annual income only. However, individual general authorities and local leaders continue to differ about whether tithing should be on gross or net income. Text of revelation is part of his published sermon but never canonized by addition to D&C. (2)
-- May 21, 1899
Margaret Cullen Geddes, widow of William S. Geddes who died ten years previously gives birth to a baby boy. Margaret is charged by local Mormon authorities in Plain City, Utah, with adultery. During the hearing before the bishopric, Margaret steadfastly refuses to give the name of the child's father, despite threats of excommunication. At this point, David Eccles, the child's secret father, who had taken Margaret as a plural wife the previous year, contacts George F. Gibbs, secretary to the First Presidency of the church. Eccles asks Gibbs to request that President Lorenzo Snow order Mormon leaders in Plain City to withdraw their charges. President Snow sends a letter to the Plain City bishopric telling them to accept Margaret's statements as sufficient, forgiving her with no further requirement. President Snow also advised that Eccles and Margaret move to Mexico. Thereupon, local church authorities dropped the case. (3)
Margaret Cullen Geddes, widow of William S. Geddes who died ten years previously gives birth to a baby boy. Margaret is charged by local Mormon authorities in Plain City, Utah, with adultery. During the hearing before the bishopric, Margaret steadfastly refuses to give the name of the child's father, despite threats of excommunication. At this point, David Eccles, the child's secret father, who had taken Margaret as a plural wife the previous year, contacts George F. Gibbs, secretary to the First Presidency of the church. Eccles asks Gibbs to request that President Lorenzo Snow order Mormon leaders in Plain City to withdraw their charges. President Snow sends a letter to the Plain City bishopric telling them to accept Margaret's statements as sufficient, forgiving her with no further requirement. President Snow also advised that Eccles and Margaret move to Mexico. Thereupon, local church authorities dropped the case. (2)
Endnotes:
1 - Ludlow, Daniel H. editor, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Macmillan Publishing, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Vol. 4, Appendix 2: A Chronology of Church History, http://amzn.to/eG0DIp
2 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
3 - Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Lorenzo Snow, May 13, 1899; Saturday
-- May 13, 1899; Saturday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith were at the office. President Snow received a call from Sir John McKenzie, wife and party, of Australia, who were on their way to England.
Eight brethren from Davis [Utah] Stake, to whom letters had been sent, at the instance of Apostle John W. Taylor, calling them to settle in Canada to help carry out the terms of the contract between the First Presidency and the Alberta Irrigation Company, came to the office to explain to the Presidency their circumstances, which were of such a character that they were not prepared to go. It was learned that Brother Taylor had not seen nor talked with them personally, as had been expected when he and Bishop [William B.] Preston were asked to see to the matter, some time since, but had talked with the Presidency of the Stake, who had given to him the names of these brethren without their knowing anything about it. Brother Taylor, being reached at noon to-day in Ogden [Utah], was reminded of the irregularity, and promised to return to Davis Stake and make the matter right. The brethren from that part were excused from responding to the call made upon them. (1)
-- Monday, May 15, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Brigham City. Cloudy and cool. I took the 6:10 a.m. for Salt Lake, arriving at 9 a.m. I spent the forenoon and part of the afternoon at the President's office, working on President Snow's private books. At 3 p.m. went with Mother and some of the girls down to Scheel's Bros. and selected the wallpaper for the 18th Ward house.
At 5:30 p.m. President Snow and party took train for St. George where they will hold conference, and in their return home will take teams and visit the settlements along the rode. It is expected that they will have a grand time. The party was composed of the following brethren and sisters: Pres. Snow and wife, Pres. J. F. Smith and wife, Pres. F. D. Richards and wife, Apostle F. M. Lyman and wife, A[braham]. O. Woodruff and wife, Bishop [William B.] Preston, Seymour B. Young, and Arthur Winter, church reporter. Pres. Snow kindly invited me to go with the party, but owing to certain matters of importance arising I could not accept the invitation, much to my regret. (2)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith were at the office. President Snow received a call from Sir John McKenzie, wife and party, of Australia, who were on their way to England.
Eight brethren from Davis [Utah] Stake, to whom letters had been sent, at the instance of Apostle John W. Taylor, calling them to settle in Canada to help carry out the terms of the contract between the First Presidency and the Alberta Irrigation Company, came to the office to explain to the Presidency their circumstances, which were of such a character that they were not prepared to go. It was learned that Brother Taylor had not seen nor talked with them personally, as had been expected when he and Bishop [William B.] Preston were asked to see to the matter, some time since, but had talked with the Presidency of the Stake, who had given to him the names of these brethren without their knowing anything about it. Brother Taylor, being reached at noon to-day in Ogden [Utah], was reminded of the irregularity, and promised to return to Davis Stake and make the matter right. The brethren from that part were excused from responding to the call made upon them. (1)
-- Monday, May 15, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Brigham City. Cloudy and cool. I took the 6:10 a.m. for Salt Lake, arriving at 9 a.m. I spent the forenoon and part of the afternoon at the President's office, working on President Snow's private books. At 3 p.m. went with Mother and some of the girls down to Scheel's Bros. and selected the wallpaper for the 18th Ward house.
At 5:30 p.m. President Snow and party took train for St. George where they will hold conference, and in their return home will take teams and visit the settlements along the rode. It is expected that they will have a grand time. The party was composed of the following brethren and sisters: Pres. Snow and wife, Pres. J. F. Smith and wife, Pres. F. D. Richards and wife, Apostle F. M. Lyman and wife, A[braham]. O. Woodruff and wife, Bishop [William B.] Preston, Seymour B. Young, and Arthur Winter, church reporter. Pres. Snow kindly invited me to go with the party, but owing to certain matters of importance arising I could not accept the invitation, much to my regret. (2)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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Lorenzo Snow, May 08, 1899
-- May 08, 1899
At a conference in St. George, Utah, President Lorenzo Snow announces a renewed emphasis on the payment of tithing, which members have been neglecting for some time, stating, "The time has now come for every Latter-day Saint . . . to do the will of the Lord and pay his tithing in full" (in James R. Clark, Messages of the First Presidency, 3:312). (1)
-- May 9, 1899; Tuesday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith were at the office. President Snow, with President Smith and Bishop [William B.] Preston, arranged this morning a program for a trip to St. George [Utah]. He decided to leave here next Monday evening, going direct to St. George, and visiting the settlements on his way back to Salt Lake City.
Brother Alfred Budge called and had a talk with Presidents Snow and Smith regarding the property matter (referred to before in this journal) between his father, President William Budge, of Bear Lake [Idaho/Utah] Stake, and a Brother Wilcox. He represented that the latter was taking such a course as would preclude his father from any rights whatever in the property he had acquired (once owned by Wilcox) and was determined to wrest the property from President Budge and place it in the hands of non-Mormons,
notwithstanding that President Budge was willing to pay as much for it as anybody else. The plea of Brother Wilcox, when he presented his case at the President's Office, was that if he could control his farm once more he could make enough out of it to save his home, and Brother Budge, being requested to give him that opportunity, consented to do so. It was now decided that a telegram, signed by President Franklin D. Richards, Chairman of the Apostles' Committee, who investigated the matter he sent to Brother Wilcox, requesting him to confine himself to this understanding, otherwise President Budge would be at liberty to hold the property himself.
The sum of $25 was appropriated to pay for a message received by cable from Samoa. (2)
-- May 11, 1899; Thursday
At 11 A.M. the regular council meeting took place at the Temple. Present: Presidents Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith and Franklin D. Richards; Apostles Francis M. Lyman, Geroge Teasdale, Heber J. Grant, Anthon H. Lund and Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff.
At letter was read from Pres[iden]t. George Q. Cannon, dated at Washington D.C., on the 6th inst., reporting progress in the work of securing the Federal building for the News corner. The letter was very encouraging.
A letter was read from Elder John M. Baxter, President of Woodruff [Wyoming/Utah] Stake, asking advice regarding the purchase of the paper called "The Roundup", published by a Gentile at Woodruff, Utah. Brothers Lyman and Woodruff had just returned from that part and had advised that the people there, instead of undertaking to run an independent paper, subscribe for the Deseret News. This advice was approved and adopted by the Council. ...
A request was submitted from prominent Catholics of Salt Lake City, asking the use of the Tabernacle for religious purposes, to enable an eminent Priest of that Church to speak to a large body of people. Brother Grant was authorized to place the Tabernacle at their disposal for one or two days.
Brother Grant brought up the matter of Brother Leonard G. Hardy's indebtedness to the Church, and stated that he had collected about $1,500 on that account. He suggested that this amount be paid on Brother Hardy's home, which is mortgaged for $3,500, with a view to getting a better price for the property than the sum represented by this obligation. He therefore offered the amount collected to go upon Brother Hardy's debt to the Church. The matter was left to the First Presidency. ...
The sum of $118.30 was appropriated in favor of P. C. Jasperson, a compositor on the Swedish paper "Bikuben". This brother compromised for this amount--which was paid to him half in cash and half in produce--for what was coming to him from the Deseret News Publishing Company. (2)
Endnotes:
1 - The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com
2 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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At a conference in St. George, Utah, President Lorenzo Snow announces a renewed emphasis on the payment of tithing, which members have been neglecting for some time, stating, "The time has now come for every Latter-day Saint . . . to do the will of the Lord and pay his tithing in full" (in James R. Clark, Messages of the First Presidency, 3:312). (1)
-- May 9, 1899; Tuesday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith were at the office. President Snow, with President Smith and Bishop [William B.] Preston, arranged this morning a program for a trip to St. George [Utah]. He decided to leave here next Monday evening, going direct to St. George, and visiting the settlements on his way back to Salt Lake City.
Brother Alfred Budge called and had a talk with Presidents Snow and Smith regarding the property matter (referred to before in this journal) between his father, President William Budge, of Bear Lake [Idaho/Utah] Stake, and a Brother Wilcox. He represented that the latter was taking such a course as would preclude his father from any rights whatever in the property he had acquired (once owned by Wilcox) and was determined to wrest the property from President Budge and place it in the hands of non-Mormons,
notwithstanding that President Budge was willing to pay as much for it as anybody else. The plea of Brother Wilcox, when he presented his case at the President's Office, was that if he could control his farm once more he could make enough out of it to save his home, and Brother Budge, being requested to give him that opportunity, consented to do so. It was now decided that a telegram, signed by President Franklin D. Richards, Chairman of the Apostles' Committee, who investigated the matter he sent to Brother Wilcox, requesting him to confine himself to this understanding, otherwise President Budge would be at liberty to hold the property himself.
The sum of $25 was appropriated to pay for a message received by cable from Samoa. (2)
-- May 11, 1899; Thursday
At 11 A.M. the regular council meeting took place at the Temple. Present: Presidents Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith and Franklin D. Richards; Apostles Francis M. Lyman, Geroge Teasdale, Heber J. Grant, Anthon H. Lund and Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff.
At letter was read from Pres[iden]t. George Q. Cannon, dated at Washington D.C., on the 6th inst., reporting progress in the work of securing the Federal building for the News corner. The letter was very encouraging.
A letter was read from Elder John M. Baxter, President of Woodruff [Wyoming/Utah] Stake, asking advice regarding the purchase of the paper called "The Roundup", published by a Gentile at Woodruff, Utah. Brothers Lyman and Woodruff had just returned from that part and had advised that the people there, instead of undertaking to run an independent paper, subscribe for the Deseret News. This advice was approved and adopted by the Council. ...
A request was submitted from prominent Catholics of Salt Lake City, asking the use of the Tabernacle for religious purposes, to enable an eminent Priest of that Church to speak to a large body of people. Brother Grant was authorized to place the Tabernacle at their disposal for one or two days.
Brother Grant brought up the matter of Brother Leonard G. Hardy's indebtedness to the Church, and stated that he had collected about $1,500 on that account. He suggested that this amount be paid on Brother Hardy's home, which is mortgaged for $3,500, with a view to getting a better price for the property than the sum represented by this obligation. He therefore offered the amount collected to go upon Brother Hardy's debt to the Church. The matter was left to the First Presidency. ...
The sum of $118.30 was appropriated in favor of P. C. Jasperson, a compositor on the Swedish paper "Bikuben". This brother compromised for this amount--which was paid to him half in cash and half in produce--for what was coming to him from the Deseret News Publishing Company. (2)
Endnotes:
1 - The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com
2 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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More History?
Want more LDS history? Check out Mormon-Church-History, a comprehensive chronology of church history. It is a tour through church history, covering a little bit each day through the the history of the church. About a dozen chronological entries are posted daily, gradually covering the entire history of the Mormon church over the next several years. More info can be found here: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html
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Lorenzo Snow, May 4, 1899; Thursday
-- May 4, 1899; Thursday
At 11 A.M. the Presidency met with the Apostles in the Temple. Present: Presidents Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith, Apostles Brigham Young [Jr.], Francis M. Lyman, George Teasdale, Heber J. Grant, Anthon H. Lund, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff and Rudger Clawson. ... (1)
-- May 8, 1899
[Finances] Speaking at a conference in St. George, Lorenzo Snow delivers a landmark address counseling church members to be strictly observant of the law of tithing. The renewed commitment to tithing was formalized on July 2, at a solemn assembly in the Salt Lake Temple, where the general authorities, stake presidencies and bishops of the church affirmed that the law of tithing is "the word and will of the Lord unto us." (2)
President Lorenzo Snow announced a renewed emphasis concerning the payment of tithing, which members had been neglecting for some time, at a conference in St. George, Utah. (3)
Revelation to Lorenzo Snow on Tithing-- August 31, 1899).
If there is one topic for which the short administration of President Lorenzo Snow is particularly noted it is his announcement of a renewed emphasis on the doctrine and payment of a full tithing on the part of all members of the L.D.S. Church. The announcement of this new revelation on tithing was first made by President Snow on May 8, 1899 in St. George, Utah. It was re-affirmed in an announcement to the general Mutual Improvement Association conference in Salt Lake City on May 30, 1899.
Neither of these statements, which were both made orally in public meetings, were issued under the signature of the First Presidency. They nevertheless constitute a revelation to the Church by the President and Prophet of the Church. The May 30th statement was not only approved as revelation by unanimous vote of the Mutual Improvement Association conference but by a solemn assembly of all the general authorities of the Church, representatives of all forty Stakes of the Church and of the 478 Wards, and of all the auxiliary organizations, held in the Salt Lake Temple on July 2, 1899.
Reproduced below is the crucial section of the St. George statement which deals specifically with the instructions to the Church on tithing. The statement made in Salt Lake City is reproduced in full as it was printed in the Improvement Era for August, 1899.
DISCOURSE by President Lorenzo Snow
I come here now my brethren that you may understand what is required of you as a people under the peculiar conditions in which the Church is now placed. It is the word of the Lord to you, my brethren and sisters, that you should conform to that which is required of you as a people who have these glorious prospects of exaltation and glory before you. What is it? Why it is something that has been drummed into your ears from time to time until you perhaps have got tired of hearing it. I need the faith and the prayers of every Latter-day Saint; no man needs them any more than I do; and it is unpleasant for me to say things that would in any way diminish the exercise of your faith and prayers in my behalf. But the Lord requires me to say something to you, and since I commenced to labor in His interest, I have never failed, thank the Lord, to do that which He has required at my hands; and I shall not do it today, nor any other day, the Lord being my helper. The word of the Lord to you is not anything new; it is simply this: THE TIME HAS NOW COME FOR EVERY LATTER-DAY SAINT, WHO CALCULATES TO BE PREPARED FOR THE FUTURE AND TO HOLD HIS FEET STRONG UPON A PROPER FOUNDATION, TO DO THE WILL OF THE LORD AND PAY HIS TITHING IN FULL. That is the word of the Lord to you, and it will be the word of the Lord to every settlement throughout the land of Zion. After I leave you and you get to thinking about this, you will see yourselves that the time has come when every man should stand up and pay his tithing in full. The Lord has blessed us and has had mercy upon us in the past; but there are times coming when the Lord requires us to stand up and do that which He has commanded and not leave it any longer. What I say to you in this State of Zion I will say to every Stake of Zion that has been organized. There is no man or woman that now hears what I am saying who will feel satisfied if he or she fails to pay a full tithing.
I could reason with you upon this, but what need is there of showing why we should do these things. We receive from different Stakes of Zion requests for help, some to build meeting houses and some for other purposes. Well, we feel that we ought to help them, because they are deserving of help; but we cannot do it. I do not think I will say much about the financial condition of the Church. The Church, of course is very much in debt. And I do not know that anybody is to blame for it being in debt. It has been partially explained today by the brethren, and I will leave it that way. But we are going into debt no longer. All the enterprises that we have gone into, have been for the benefit of the people. Well; I do not care to talk about this. It is sufficient to say to the Latter-day Saints that we must now pay our tithing. I have scarcely ever talked about tithing. I have said it was the duty of the Latter-day Saints to pay tithing, but I have never made it a business like some of my brethren have. You will not hear much from me now in regard to tithing. I simply tell you the truth straight out; and I have faith in the Latter-day Saints to believe and know that they will respond to this.
Brethren and sisters, I feel and know that you are a good people. I do not flatter you when I say this. I simply tell the facts. The Lord has helped you, as He has helped other portions of the people in Zion. He has done this, not because they have done right under all circumstances, not because they have paid their tithing properly, but because they have paid it partially and have done some good. But when the voice of the Lord comes to us and His will is expressed, then is the time for us to act.
Now, I have shaken hands with over 800 children, and I want to see those children grow up and become 80, 90, 100 or 140 years of age; and this will surely be the case if you will teach them these things that I am talking to you about today. Teach them to pay their tithing while they are young. You mothers, teach your children that when they get any money they should pay one-tenth of it to the Lord, however little it may be. Educate them to pay their tithing in full. Then we will have a people prepared to go to Jackson County. President Smith was talking yesterday about the land of Zion. Yes, surely, this entire continent is the land of Zion, and the time will come when there will be Temples established over every portion of the land, and we will go into these Temples and work for our kindred dead night and day, that the work of the Lord may be speedily accomplished, that Jesus may come and present the kingdom to His father. He is coming soon, too. But we will not hear His voice until we build up Jackson County. Now we should make preparation for this. We are not only going to have Zion throughout this continent, but we will have it over the whole earth. The whole earth is the Lord's. The time will come when it will be translated and be filled with the spirit and power of God. The atmosphere around it will be the spirit of the Almighty. We will breathe that Spirit instead of the atmosphere that we now breathe. But now it is for us to make the preparation, that we may be worthy to be called into the house of the Lord and receive our second blessings. I do not want the presidents of Stakes to send any person to our Temples to receive the highest blessings that have ever been bestowed upon man since the world began, until it can be said of him, "He pays his full tithing." ... {1899-May 8-MS 61:532-533, 545-546 (August 17, 1899;} (4)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - http://www.heraldextra.com/content/view/282148/
3 - Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html
4 - Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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At 11 A.M. the Presidency met with the Apostles in the Temple. Present: Presidents Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith, Apostles Brigham Young [Jr.], Francis M. Lyman, George Teasdale, Heber J. Grant, Anthon H. Lund, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff and Rudger Clawson. ... (1)
-- May 8, 1899
[Finances] Speaking at a conference in St. George, Lorenzo Snow delivers a landmark address counseling church members to be strictly observant of the law of tithing. The renewed commitment to tithing was formalized on July 2, at a solemn assembly in the Salt Lake Temple, where the general authorities, stake presidencies and bishops of the church affirmed that the law of tithing is "the word and will of the Lord unto us." (2)
President Lorenzo Snow announced a renewed emphasis concerning the payment of tithing, which members had been neglecting for some time, at a conference in St. George, Utah. (3)
Revelation to Lorenzo Snow on Tithing-- August 31, 1899).
If there is one topic for which the short administration of President Lorenzo Snow is particularly noted it is his announcement of a renewed emphasis on the doctrine and payment of a full tithing on the part of all members of the L.D.S. Church. The announcement of this new revelation on tithing was first made by President Snow on May 8, 1899 in St. George, Utah. It was re-affirmed in an announcement to the general Mutual Improvement Association conference in Salt Lake City on May 30, 1899.
Neither of these statements, which were both made orally in public meetings, were issued under the signature of the First Presidency. They nevertheless constitute a revelation to the Church by the President and Prophet of the Church. The May 30th statement was not only approved as revelation by unanimous vote of the Mutual Improvement Association conference but by a solemn assembly of all the general authorities of the Church, representatives of all forty Stakes of the Church and of the 478 Wards, and of all the auxiliary organizations, held in the Salt Lake Temple on July 2, 1899.
Reproduced below is the crucial section of the St. George statement which deals specifically with the instructions to the Church on tithing. The statement made in Salt Lake City is reproduced in full as it was printed in the Improvement Era for August, 1899.
DISCOURSE by President Lorenzo Snow
I come here now my brethren that you may understand what is required of you as a people under the peculiar conditions in which the Church is now placed. It is the word of the Lord to you, my brethren and sisters, that you should conform to that which is required of you as a people who have these glorious prospects of exaltation and glory before you. What is it? Why it is something that has been drummed into your ears from time to time until you perhaps have got tired of hearing it. I need the faith and the prayers of every Latter-day Saint; no man needs them any more than I do; and it is unpleasant for me to say things that would in any way diminish the exercise of your faith and prayers in my behalf. But the Lord requires me to say something to you, and since I commenced to labor in His interest, I have never failed, thank the Lord, to do that which He has required at my hands; and I shall not do it today, nor any other day, the Lord being my helper. The word of the Lord to you is not anything new; it is simply this: THE TIME HAS NOW COME FOR EVERY LATTER-DAY SAINT, WHO CALCULATES TO BE PREPARED FOR THE FUTURE AND TO HOLD HIS FEET STRONG UPON A PROPER FOUNDATION, TO DO THE WILL OF THE LORD AND PAY HIS TITHING IN FULL. That is the word of the Lord to you, and it will be the word of the Lord to every settlement throughout the land of Zion. After I leave you and you get to thinking about this, you will see yourselves that the time has come when every man should stand up and pay his tithing in full. The Lord has blessed us and has had mercy upon us in the past; but there are times coming when the Lord requires us to stand up and do that which He has commanded and not leave it any longer. What I say to you in this State of Zion I will say to every Stake of Zion that has been organized. There is no man or woman that now hears what I am saying who will feel satisfied if he or she fails to pay a full tithing.
I could reason with you upon this, but what need is there of showing why we should do these things. We receive from different Stakes of Zion requests for help, some to build meeting houses and some for other purposes. Well, we feel that we ought to help them, because they are deserving of help; but we cannot do it. I do not think I will say much about the financial condition of the Church. The Church, of course is very much in debt. And I do not know that anybody is to blame for it being in debt. It has been partially explained today by the brethren, and I will leave it that way. But we are going into debt no longer. All the enterprises that we have gone into, have been for the benefit of the people. Well; I do not care to talk about this. It is sufficient to say to the Latter-day Saints that we must now pay our tithing. I have scarcely ever talked about tithing. I have said it was the duty of the Latter-day Saints to pay tithing, but I have never made it a business like some of my brethren have. You will not hear much from me now in regard to tithing. I simply tell you the truth straight out; and I have faith in the Latter-day Saints to believe and know that they will respond to this.
Brethren and sisters, I feel and know that you are a good people. I do not flatter you when I say this. I simply tell the facts. The Lord has helped you, as He has helped other portions of the people in Zion. He has done this, not because they have done right under all circumstances, not because they have paid their tithing properly, but because they have paid it partially and have done some good. But when the voice of the Lord comes to us and His will is expressed, then is the time for us to act.
Now, I have shaken hands with over 800 children, and I want to see those children grow up and become 80, 90, 100 or 140 years of age; and this will surely be the case if you will teach them these things that I am talking to you about today. Teach them to pay their tithing while they are young. You mothers, teach your children that when they get any money they should pay one-tenth of it to the Lord, however little it may be. Educate them to pay their tithing in full. Then we will have a people prepared to go to Jackson County. President Smith was talking yesterday about the land of Zion. Yes, surely, this entire continent is the land of Zion, and the time will come when there will be Temples established over every portion of the land, and we will go into these Temples and work for our kindred dead night and day, that the work of the Lord may be speedily accomplished, that Jesus may come and present the kingdom to His father. He is coming soon, too. But we will not hear His voice until we build up Jackson County. Now we should make preparation for this. We are not only going to have Zion throughout this continent, but we will have it over the whole earth. The whole earth is the Lord's. The time will come when it will be translated and be filled with the spirit and power of God. The atmosphere around it will be the spirit of the Almighty. We will breathe that Spirit instead of the atmosphere that we now breathe. But now it is for us to make the preparation, that we may be worthy to be called into the house of the Lord and receive our second blessings. I do not want the presidents of Stakes to send any person to our Temples to receive the highest blessings that have ever been bestowed upon man since the world began, until it can be said of him, "He pays his full tithing." ... {1899-May 8-MS 61:532-533, 545-546 (August 17, 1899;} (4)
Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - http://www.heraldextra.com/content/view/282148/
3 - Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html
4 - Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)
LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow
Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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