-- Oct 8, 1873
[Sermon] Wilford Woodruff: Unchangeableness of the Gospel - God Has Chosen the Weak Things of the World to Confound the Wise - Prophecies Relating to the Latter - Day Work - Joseph Smith:'s Ministry - Zion to Be Built Up - Baptism for the Dead - The Order of Enoch - Babylonish Fashions, JD 16:263 - 272 (1)
-- Jun 10, 1874
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 10 I went to the Endowmets [House] & there was 506 Baptisms for the dead & I Confirmed 100 of them. D H Wells Confirmed about the same. D H Wells [sealed] 62 Couple for the Dead & W Woodruff Sealed 67 Couple. I was vary weary at night. (2)
-- Jun 17, 1874
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 17 I spent the day at the Endowmet House. There were near 1,000 of the Dead Baptized for to day. D H Wells Confirmed for some 5 Hours. ... (2)
-- Jun 23, 1874
[Sermon] Brigham Young: Secret of Happiness - Self Examination - Joseph Smith: a Man of Obedience to God - Baptism for the Dead - Temporal and Spiritual One - a Dream - Order of Enoch, the Order of God - A Good Word for the Women, JD 18:235 - 249 (1)
-- Dec 27, 1874
[Temple] Spent the evening with Father [Brigham Young][.] Had a splendid time. He seems to feel well and talked over the plan for [the] next temple which he proposes building somewhere in Sanpete; and the next one in Logan[.] He says the next plan will be more expressly adapted to the labors of sealing men to men; men to women, baptisms, anointings, washings and other ordinances. [Brigham Young Jr. diary, Dec. 27, 1874] (3)
-- During 1874
(Annie Clark Tanner) : Born in Farmington, Utah. Baptized in 1873, Annie Clark was rebaptized a year later during a reformation movement. She remembered, "We raised our right hand and promised not to trade with outsiders. Also, as children, we promised never to touch tea, coffee, or tobacco. To take the Lord's name in vain was a great offense. The punishment for disregard of high moral standards among young people was severe indeed. The young people who transgressed were required to make an acknowledgement of their sin in a public meeting and ask the forgiveness of the Saints." (4)
-- 1875
On April 6, 1884, Levi Savage receives a copy of the 1875 baptismal prayer: "Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptized [sic] you for the remission of your sins; for the renewal of your covenants with God and your brethren, and for the observance of the rules that have been read in your hearing in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; Amen." (5)
-- Feb 22, 1875
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] Feb 22, 1875 This is not ownly the birth day of George Washington But it was the day when the first Couple of Lamanites were together as man and wife for time & Eternity at the Altar in the Endowment House according to the Holy Priesthood in the last dispensation & fulness of times. Wilford Woodruff Sealed at the Altar two Couple of Lamanites. The first Couple was Indian Named OhetoCump But Baptized and Sealed by the name of James Laman. His wife Named Mine. 2d Couple Isiqwich & Mogogah (Daniel H Wells & Elias Smith Witnesses).
Also Dymock Huntington & his two sisters Precinda & Zinah & some others. We gave Endowments to 36. W Woodruff sealed 11 Couple. I received 5 letters. I attended the firemans grand Ball at the Theater in honor of Washingtons Birthday. There were about 300 Couple present besides many spectaters Gen Smith, & Stall from Camp Douglass was present. Presidet Young was present but did not stay late. (2)
First sealing of husband and wife who are both Native American Indians. Their Native-American name is "Oleito Comp" but are baptized and sealed by the names "James Laman" and his wife Minnie." They are sealed as man and wife for time and eternity at the altar in the Endowment House." (6)
-- Jun 21, 1875
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 21 I Spent the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments to 51. W Woodruff sealed 27 Couple. My Brother Azmon Woodruff & His wife Elizabeth Pierce Woodruff received their Endowments & was Baptized. I went down with them to the farm at the Close of the day. (2)
Footnotes:
1 - Journal of Discourses, http://jod.mrm.org
2 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
3 - Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship
4 - Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
5 - Stapley, Jonathan & Wright, Kristine, '"They Shall Be Made Whole": A History of Baptism for Health,' Journal of Mormon History, Fall 2008
6 - Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
Rebaptism, Jun 1, 1870
-- Jun 1, 1870
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] June 1, 1870 This was a vary Busy day with me. ....
At half past 9 oclok I Accompanied My wife Phebe & Daughter Bulah to the Endowment House & I Baptized Phebe W. Woodruff for 26 Dead Friends. I Baptized My Daughter Bulah A Beatie for 17 Dead Friends. I was then Baptized for 30 Dead Friends By Samuel Smith. Joseph F Smith Confirmed my wife Daughter & Myself for 73 Dead Friends. There were 406 Baptized in all. I Confirmed about 100 of them. ...
I was Baptized for the following Persons 30 in number: ...W Woodruff Baptized Phebe Whitmore Carter Woodruff for the following 26 Persons: ...- = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
I Baptized My Daughter Bulah Agustia Woodruff Beatie for the following persons 17 in number: ... (1)
-- Sep 5, 1870
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 5 Monday I spent the day in the Endowment House. We gave 38 Endowments & sealed 97 Couple. Joseph F Smith sealed 48 Couple & W. Woodruff 49 Couple. Sister Josephene Ursenbak had been baptized for European Ladies, & Princes, &c & she officiated to day with Joseph F Smith & I sealed 9 to the Prophet Joseph Smith... (1)
-- Sep 19, 1870
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] Sept 19 1870 I attended the Endowment House. We gave Endowments to 28 persons. W Woodruff sealed 37 Couple.
Saturday Evening Sept 17 1870 Martin Harris one of the witnesses of the Book of Mormon Came to the Endowment House & Edward Stephenson Rebaptized him into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Orson Pratt John Taylor, W. Woodruff & Joseph F Smith Confirmed him. He was Baptized for Several Dead Friends. (1)
-- During 1870
(Martin Harris) Brigham Young contributed the first $25, declaring: "Send for him? Yes, even if it were to take the last dollar of my own. Martin Harris spent his time and money freely, when one dollar was worth more than one thousand dollars are now. Send for him?Yes, indeed, I shall send!"
During the trip, Harris was frequently invited to witness to the Book of Mormon. At one of these gatherings, a baptism was performed, and Edward Stevenson explained rebaptism to Harris, who said it was "new doctrine to him." He "had not been cut off from the Church," but if rebaptism were "required of him it would be manifested to him by the spirit."
A short time later, he informed Stevenson that "the Spirit had made known to him that it was his duty to renew his covenant before the Lord." Stevenson rebaptized Harris, and Orson Pratt reconfirmed him. Pratt later explained, "Martin Harris, when he came to this Territory a few years ago, was rebaptized, the same as every member of the Church from distant parts is on arriving here. That seems to be a kind of standing ordinance from all Latter-day Saints who emigrate here, from the First Presidency down; all are rebaptized and set out anew by renewing their covenants."
After visiting friends in Salt Lake, Martin moved to Clarkston, Utah, where he lived with his son, Martin Harris, Jr.
When the Relief Society offered to have a set of false teeth made up for him, Harris replied, "No sisters, I thank you for your kindness but I shall not live long. Take the money and give it to the poor." (2)
-- Dec 3, 1871
[Sermon] George Q. Cannon: The New Birth - Baptism for the Dead - Temples, JD 14:310 - 323 (3)
-- Jan 12, 1873
[Sermon] John Taylor: The Spirit and Principles of the Gospel the Same As of Old - Early Experience of Settlers of Utah - Religious Liberty - Modern So - Called Civilization - Baptism for the Dead, JD 15:284 - 291 (3)
-- August 31, 1893
When Joseph received the revelation that we have in our possession concerning the dead, the subject was opened to him, not in full but in part . . . Then women were baptized for men and men for women, &c. (4)
-- Sep 4, 1873
... There are many of the ordinances of the house of God that must be performed in a Temple that is erected expressly for the purpose. There are other ordinances that we can administer without a Temple. You know that there are some which you have received * baptism, the laying on of hands, the gifts of the Holy Ghost, such as the speaking in and interpretation of tongues, prophesying, healing, discerning of spirits, etc.[;] and many blessings bestowed upon the people, we have the privilege of receiving without a Temple. There are other blessings that will not be received, and ordinances that will not be performed according to the law that the Lord has revealed, without their being done in a Temple prepared for that purpose. We can, at the present time, go into the Endowment House and be baptized for the dead, receive our washings and anointing, etc., for there we have a font that has been erected [and] dedicated expressly for baptizing people for the remission of sins, for their health and for their dead friends; in this the Saints have the privilege of being baptized for their friends. We also have the privilege of sealing women to men, without a Temple. This we can do in the Endowment House; but when we come to other sealing ordinances, ordinances pertaining to the holy Priesthood, to connect the chain of the Priesthood from father Adam until now, by sealing children to their parents, being sealed for our forefathers, etc., they cannot be done without a Temple. But we can seal women to men, but not men to men, without a Temple. When the ordinances are carried out in the Temples that will be erected, men will be sealed to their fathers, and those who have slept [died] clear up to father Adam. This will have to be done, because of the chain of the Priesthood being broken upon the earth. The Priesthood has left the people, but in the first place the people left the Priesthood. [Brigham Young, Sept. 4, 1873 , Journal of Discourses, 16:186-87] (5)
Footnotes:
1 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
2 - Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
3 - Journal of Discourses, http://jod.mrm.org
4 - Discourse by President Brigham Young, delivered in the Bowery, at Paris, Oneida County, Idaho, Sunday, August 31, 1873. Reported By: John Q. Cannon.
5 - Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] June 1, 1870 This was a vary Busy day with me. ....
At half past 9 oclok I Accompanied My wife Phebe & Daughter Bulah to the Endowment House & I Baptized Phebe W. Woodruff for 26 Dead Friends. I Baptized My Daughter Bulah A Beatie for 17 Dead Friends. I was then Baptized for 30 Dead Friends By Samuel Smith. Joseph F Smith Confirmed my wife Daughter & Myself for 73 Dead Friends. There were 406 Baptized in all. I Confirmed about 100 of them. ...
I was Baptized for the following Persons 30 in number: ...W Woodruff Baptized Phebe Whitmore Carter Woodruff for the following 26 Persons: ...- = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
I Baptized My Daughter Bulah Agustia Woodruff Beatie for the following persons 17 in number: ... (1)
-- Sep 5, 1870
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 5 Monday I spent the day in the Endowment House. We gave 38 Endowments & sealed 97 Couple. Joseph F Smith sealed 48 Couple & W. Woodruff 49 Couple. Sister Josephene Ursenbak had been baptized for European Ladies, & Princes, &c & she officiated to day with Joseph F Smith & I sealed 9 to the Prophet Joseph Smith... (1)
-- Sep 19, 1870
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] Sept 19 1870 I attended the Endowment House. We gave Endowments to 28 persons. W Woodruff sealed 37 Couple.
Saturday Evening Sept 17 1870 Martin Harris one of the witnesses of the Book of Mormon Came to the Endowment House & Edward Stephenson Rebaptized him into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Orson Pratt John Taylor, W. Woodruff & Joseph F Smith Confirmed him. He was Baptized for Several Dead Friends. (1)
-- During 1870
(Martin Harris) Brigham Young contributed the first $25, declaring: "Send for him? Yes, even if it were to take the last dollar of my own. Martin Harris spent his time and money freely, when one dollar was worth more than one thousand dollars are now. Send for him?Yes, indeed, I shall send!"
During the trip, Harris was frequently invited to witness to the Book of Mormon. At one of these gatherings, a baptism was performed, and Edward Stevenson explained rebaptism to Harris, who said it was "new doctrine to him." He "had not been cut off from the Church," but if rebaptism were "required of him it would be manifested to him by the spirit."
A short time later, he informed Stevenson that "the Spirit had made known to him that it was his duty to renew his covenant before the Lord." Stevenson rebaptized Harris, and Orson Pratt reconfirmed him. Pratt later explained, "Martin Harris, when he came to this Territory a few years ago, was rebaptized, the same as every member of the Church from distant parts is on arriving here. That seems to be a kind of standing ordinance from all Latter-day Saints who emigrate here, from the First Presidency down; all are rebaptized and set out anew by renewing their covenants."
After visiting friends in Salt Lake, Martin moved to Clarkston, Utah, where he lived with his son, Martin Harris, Jr.
When the Relief Society offered to have a set of false teeth made up for him, Harris replied, "No sisters, I thank you for your kindness but I shall not live long. Take the money and give it to the poor." (2)
-- Dec 3, 1871
[Sermon] George Q. Cannon: The New Birth - Baptism for the Dead - Temples, JD 14:310 - 323 (3)
-- Jan 12, 1873
[Sermon] John Taylor: The Spirit and Principles of the Gospel the Same As of Old - Early Experience of Settlers of Utah - Religious Liberty - Modern So - Called Civilization - Baptism for the Dead, JD 15:284 - 291 (3)
-- August 31, 1893
When Joseph received the revelation that we have in our possession concerning the dead, the subject was opened to him, not in full but in part . . . Then women were baptized for men and men for women, &c. (4)
-- Sep 4, 1873
... There are many of the ordinances of the house of God that must be performed in a Temple that is erected expressly for the purpose. There are other ordinances that we can administer without a Temple. You know that there are some which you have received * baptism, the laying on of hands, the gifts of the Holy Ghost, such as the speaking in and interpretation of tongues, prophesying, healing, discerning of spirits, etc.[;] and many blessings bestowed upon the people, we have the privilege of receiving without a Temple. There are other blessings that will not be received, and ordinances that will not be performed according to the law that the Lord has revealed, without their being done in a Temple prepared for that purpose. We can, at the present time, go into the Endowment House and be baptized for the dead, receive our washings and anointing, etc., for there we have a font that has been erected [and] dedicated expressly for baptizing people for the remission of sins, for their health and for their dead friends; in this the Saints have the privilege of being baptized for their friends. We also have the privilege of sealing women to men, without a Temple. This we can do in the Endowment House; but when we come to other sealing ordinances, ordinances pertaining to the holy Priesthood, to connect the chain of the Priesthood from father Adam until now, by sealing children to their parents, being sealed for our forefathers, etc., they cannot be done without a Temple. But we can seal women to men, but not men to men, without a Temple. When the ordinances are carried out in the Temples that will be erected, men will be sealed to their fathers, and those who have slept [died] clear up to father Adam. This will have to be done, because of the chain of the Priesthood being broken upon the earth. The Priesthood has left the people, but in the first place the people left the Priesthood. [Brigham Young, Sept. 4, 1873 , Journal of Discourses, 16:186-87] (5)
Footnotes:
1 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
2 - Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
3 - Journal of Discourses, http://jod.mrm.org
4 - Discourse by President Brigham Young, delivered in the Bowery, at Paris, Oneida County, Idaho, Sunday, August 31, 1873. Reported By: John Q. Cannon.
5 - Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
Rebaptism, Aug 31, 1869 to October 4, 1876 (resend)
-- Aug 31, 1869 to October 4, 1876 (resend)
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] From 1869 to 1876, Wilford Woodruff engaged in a large amount of temple work, recording the numbers of ordinances completed for each of those days in his journal. It is common to see journal entries for a day that speak of nothing but doing such ordinances, or may perhap include a few other minor details. Most of the ordinances done were baptisms for the dead.
Rather that list all of these similar journal entries separately in the chronology, I've compiled the majority of them into this entry, to provide scope for how much time and energy this involved. Other journal entries that provide additional context, special situations or other useful information are included in the standard chronology.
Aug 31, 1869 31 I was Baptized to day for Ten of my Dead Friends in the font in the Endowment House. Samuel Smith Baptized. D H. Wells & Joseph F Smith officiated in Confirming. Joseph F Smith was Mouth. At the Same time Phebe W Woodruff was Baptized for Seven of our Dead Friends. See record in this Journal.
Sep 29, 1869 29 I went to the Endowment House & was Baptized for the following persons: Cousin Samuel Barber Great Grand Father Hart Grand Father Asahel Hart, Samuel Cossett, Ezra Hart, Cyrus Cossett P.W.W. Uncle Moses Farnham & Richard Hazelton total 8....
Oct 12, 1869 12 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments to 58. W Woodruff sealed 23 Couple J F Smith 13. My daughter Phebe Amelia Woodruff Snow was Baptized for 8 person as follows...
Oct 13, 1869 13 I Attended at the Endowment House to attend to the Baptism for the dead. There was 224 Baptism for the dead....
May 25, 1870 25 I Came to the City & spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized for the dead 489...
Oct 5, 1870 Oct 5 1870 I spent the day in the Endowmet House to attend to the Baptism & sealing for the dead. ...
Oct 12, 1870 Oct 12 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Administered 548 Baptisms for the Dead & Confirmation. ...
Oct 19, 1870 19 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized & Confirmed 715 persons for the dead. ...
Nov 2, 1870 2d I spent the day in the Endowment House. There were Baptized for the dead 572 & Confirmed. ...
Nov 12, 1873 12 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We baptized 472...
Nov 19, 1873 19 I spent the day in the Endowment House. 416 were baptized for of the dead. ...
Mar 25, 1874 25 I went to the Endowment House. There was Baptized for the dead 172 persons. ...
Apr 8, 1874 8 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized for the dead 193....
Apr 22, 1874 22d I went to the Endowment House. Many were baptized for the dead. ...
Jun 23, 1874 .... In the afternoon went to the Endowmet House. There were Baptized 304....
Jul 1, 1874 July 1 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 600. W Woodruff Confirmed 300...
Jul 8, 1874 8 I spent the time in the Endowmet House. There was Baptized 693. W Woodruff Confirmed 200. ...
Jul 15, 1874 15 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized some 550. D. H. Wells sealed 65 Couple W. Woodruff 18 Couple. W Woodruff Confirmed 200 for the dead.
Jul 29, 1874 29 I Spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 300....
Aug 5, 1874 5 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 374 persons...
Aug 26, 1874 26 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 354. ...
Sep 2, 1874 2d I went to the Endowment House. We Baptized 365. ...
Sep 9, 1874 9 I am Better this morning & Emma is getting Better. I went to the Endowment House & we Baptized & Confirmed for the dead 304....
Sep 16, 1874 16 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 494 for the dead & Confirmed them. I Confirmed 176. ...
Sep 23, 1874 23d I walked from the field to the City. Went to the Endowment House & we Baptized 340 persons for the Dead....
Sep 30, 1874 30 I went to the farm Endowment House & we Baptized & Confirmed 613 persons for the Dead. ...
Oct 14, 1874 14 I spent the day at the Endowment House. We Baptized 574 persons. W Woodruff Confirmed abot 100 & sealed 69 Couple D H Wells 58 Couple.
Oct 21, 1874 21 I went to the park in the fore noon & spent the Afternoon in the Endowment House. There was About 450 Baptized & Confirmed. ...
Oct 28, 1874 ...I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 482 persons....
Nov 4, 1874 4 I spent the day in the Endowmet House. We Baptized & Confirmed 400. ...
Nov 11, 1874 11 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 375. WW sealed 68 Couple for the dead D H Wells 30 O Pratt 25. Total 123 sealings for the dead.
Nov 18, 1874 18 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 319 persons & Confirmed them. D. H. Wells sealed 60 Couple for the dead & W. Woodruff 88 Couple.
Nov 25, 1874 25 I spent the day at the Endowment House. We Baptized 500. D H Wells sealed for the Dead 56 Couple W Woodruff 81. Among the number I sealed Margaret [F?] Smoot to Brother Dusenbury.
Dec 9, 1874 9 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 311 persons for the dead. D. H. Wells sealed 23 Couple for the dead & W Woodruff 64 Couple.
Dec 16, 1874 16 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 246. D H Wells sealed 30 Couple W Woodruff 41.
Dec 23, 1874 23d I went to the Endowment House. We Baptized 57. D H Wells sealed 4 Couple.
Dec 30, 1874 30 ...I spent most of the day at the Endowment House. We Baptized 74. D. H. Wells sealed 20 Couple & W Woodruff 36. I went to the farm at night. 6.
Feb 3, 1875 ... I went to the Endowment House. There was Baptized 147....
Feb 10, 1875 10 I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 133 persons. WW Sealed 27 Couple for the dead.
Feb 17, 1875 17 I Carried 27 Bushels of wheat to Mill & Sold it to pay water tax. {Baldwin} I preached the funeral sermon of Brother Baldwin of Herefordshire. I then went to the Endowment House & we Baptized 484 person for the dead. D H Wells sealed 51 Couple & W Woodruff 38.
Feb 24, 1875 24 I spent the day at the Endowment House. Baptized 145 persons. WW sealed 6 Couple.
Mar 3, 1875 3d I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 240 persons for the dead. D H Wells sealed 40 Couple & W Woodruff 596.
Mar 10, 1875 10 I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized about 400. D H Wells sealed 49 W Woodruff 25 Couple.
Mar 24, 1875 24 I spent the fore noon in the Endowmet House. We Baptized & Confirmed 270. W. Woodruff sealed 34 Couple for the dead D H Wells 5. I spent the after noon writing.
Apr 7, 1875 April 7, 1875 Conference met at 10 oclok. I went to the Endowment House & spent the forenoon. We baptized & Confirmed for the dead 83 persons & W Woodruff Sealed 27...
Apr 14, 1875 14 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We baptized 333....
Apr 21, 1875 21 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We baptized 254 & Confirmed them. D H Wells sealed 49, W Woodruff 22...
Apr 28, 1875 28 I spent the day in the Endowment House. There were baptized 252 for the dead. D H. Wells sealed 13 Couple W Woodruff 24.
May 5, 1875 5 I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized & Confirmed 207 for the dead. ...
May 12, 1875 12 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We baptized 283. D H Wells sealed 21 Couple W Woodruff 10.
May 19, 1875 19 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We baptized & Confirmed 350. D. H. Wells sealed 22 Couple & W Woodruff 49 Couple.
May 26, 1875 26 I Spent the day in the Endowment House. There was 290 Baptized and Confirmed. W Woodruff sealed at the Altar 46 Couple & D. H. Wells 2 Couple.
Jun 2, 1875 2d I wrote up my Journal and went to the Endowment House. We baptized 350. D H Wells sealed 66 Couple & W Woodruff 42.
Jun 9, 1875 9 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We baptized 542. D H Wells sealed 122 Couple for the dead and W Woodruff 79. Total sealings of the day 201.
Jun 16, 1875 16 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments Baptized 646. D H Wells sealed 62 Couple & W Woodruff 116 Couple for the dead the most I ever done in one day in my life. I was vary weary when I got through 178 Cealing.
Jun 23, 1875 23d I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 355. W. Woodruff sealed 53 Couple.
Jul 7, 1875 7 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 426. D H Wells sealed 72 Couple for the dead & W Woodruff 55. I received a letter from Edward Tullidge.
Jul 14, 1875 July 14, 1875 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 418. D H Wells sealed 53 W Woodruff 32.
Aug 18, 1875 18 I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 300. D. H. Wells sealed 47 Couple & W Woodruff 15 Couple.
Sep 15, 1875 15 I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We baptized for the dead 330 Couple. W. Woodruff sealed 45 Couple.
Sep 22, 1875 ...I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We baptized 325. W Woodruff Sealed 32 Couple & G. Q. Cannon [ ].
Sep 29, 1875 29 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 450. W Woodruff sealed 110 for the dead & G. Q. Cannon 31 Couple....
Oct 5, 1875 Oct 5 1875 I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 60. W Woodruff sealed 32 Couple.
Oct 12, 1875 12 & 13 I spent the time building a House. 1,005 were Baptized at the Endowment House.
Oct 14, 1875 14 Thursday The Twelve met at the Endowment House to Baptize the High Priest & Bishops. Over 100 were Baptized & Confirmed. W Woodruff sealed 59 Couple J F Smith 50 Couple.
May 17, 1876 ... I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized for the dead 525 persons. W Woodruff sealed 131 Couple for the dead & Joseph F Smith 11 Couple and done all the Clerking at the desk.
May 24, 1876 May 24 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized for the Dead 334. W Woodruff sealed 59 Couple & went down to the farm in the Evening.
May 31, 1876 31 We had another Cold Snow Storm this morning. I wrote a letter to Wilford. I went to the Endowment House. We Baptized & Confirmed for the dead 164. W Woodruff sealed 45 Couple.
Jun 7, 1876 7 I spent the time in the Endowment House. We Baptized 376 for the dead. W Woodruff sealed 91 Couple for the Dead. J F Smith sealed 10 Couple.
Aug 2, 1876 2d I spent most of the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 436. D H Wells sealed 33 Couple & W Woodruff 48 Couple for the Dead.
Aug 9, 1876 Aug 9 I spent the time in the Endowment House. We baptized some 500 persons for the dead. W. Woodruff sealed 33 for the dead & D H. Wells 13.
Aug 16, 1876 16 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 402. D H Wells sealed 4 Couple & W Woodruff 33 Couple.
Aug 30, 1876 30 I spent the time in the Endowment House. We baptized 319. W Woodruff sealed 60 Couple for the Dead.
Sep 6, 1876 6 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 692. D H Wells sealed 77 Couple & W Woodruff 78 Couple total 155.
Sep 13, 1876 13 I spent the day in Endowment House. 494 Baptized. J F Smith sealed 51 C. W Woodruff sealed 35 Couple.
Oct 4, 1876 4 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized & Confirmed 693 for the Dead. D H Wells sealed 63 Couple for the Dead. J F Smith sealed 68, & W Woodruff 57. Total 188. (1)
Footnotes:
1 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] From 1869 to 1876, Wilford Woodruff engaged in a large amount of temple work, recording the numbers of ordinances completed for each of those days in his journal. It is common to see journal entries for a day that speak of nothing but doing such ordinances, or may perhap include a few other minor details. Most of the ordinances done were baptisms for the dead.
Rather that list all of these similar journal entries separately in the chronology, I've compiled the majority of them into this entry, to provide scope for how much time and energy this involved. Other journal entries that provide additional context, special situations or other useful information are included in the standard chronology.
Aug 31, 1869 31 I was Baptized to day for Ten of my Dead Friends in the font in the Endowment House. Samuel Smith Baptized. D H. Wells & Joseph F Smith officiated in Confirming. Joseph F Smith was Mouth. At the Same time Phebe W Woodruff was Baptized for Seven of our Dead Friends. See record in this Journal.
Sep 29, 1869 29 I went to the Endowment House & was Baptized for the following persons: Cousin Samuel Barber Great Grand Father Hart Grand Father Asahel Hart, Samuel Cossett, Ezra Hart, Cyrus Cossett P.W.W. Uncle Moses Farnham & Richard Hazelton total 8....
Oct 12, 1869 12 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments to 58. W Woodruff sealed 23 Couple J F Smith 13. My daughter Phebe Amelia Woodruff Snow was Baptized for 8 person as follows...
Oct 13, 1869 13 I Attended at the Endowment House to attend to the Baptism for the dead. There was 224 Baptism for the dead....
May 25, 1870 25 I Came to the City & spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized for the dead 489...
Oct 5, 1870 Oct 5 1870 I spent the day in the Endowmet House to attend to the Baptism & sealing for the dead. ...
Oct 12, 1870 Oct 12 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Administered 548 Baptisms for the Dead & Confirmation. ...
Oct 19, 1870 19 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized & Confirmed 715 persons for the dead. ...
Nov 2, 1870 2d I spent the day in the Endowment House. There were Baptized for the dead 572 & Confirmed. ...
Nov 12, 1873 12 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We baptized 472...
Nov 19, 1873 19 I spent the day in the Endowment House. 416 were baptized for of the dead. ...
Mar 25, 1874 25 I went to the Endowment House. There was Baptized for the dead 172 persons. ...
Apr 8, 1874 8 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized for the dead 193....
Apr 22, 1874 22d I went to the Endowment House. Many were baptized for the dead. ...
Jun 23, 1874 .... In the afternoon went to the Endowmet House. There were Baptized 304....
Jul 1, 1874 July 1 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 600. W Woodruff Confirmed 300...
Jul 8, 1874 8 I spent the time in the Endowmet House. There was Baptized 693. W Woodruff Confirmed 200. ...
Jul 15, 1874 15 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized some 550. D. H. Wells sealed 65 Couple W. Woodruff 18 Couple. W Woodruff Confirmed 200 for the dead.
Jul 29, 1874 29 I Spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 300....
Aug 5, 1874 5 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 374 persons...
Aug 26, 1874 26 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 354. ...
Sep 2, 1874 2d I went to the Endowment House. We Baptized 365. ...
Sep 9, 1874 9 I am Better this morning & Emma is getting Better. I went to the Endowment House & we Baptized & Confirmed for the dead 304....
Sep 16, 1874 16 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 494 for the dead & Confirmed them. I Confirmed 176. ...
Sep 23, 1874 23d I walked from the field to the City. Went to the Endowment House & we Baptized 340 persons for the Dead....
Sep 30, 1874 30 I went to the farm Endowment House & we Baptized & Confirmed 613 persons for the Dead. ...
Oct 14, 1874 14 I spent the day at the Endowment House. We Baptized 574 persons. W Woodruff Confirmed abot 100 & sealed 69 Couple D H Wells 58 Couple.
Oct 21, 1874 21 I went to the park in the fore noon & spent the Afternoon in the Endowment House. There was About 450 Baptized & Confirmed. ...
Oct 28, 1874 ...I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 482 persons....
Nov 4, 1874 4 I spent the day in the Endowmet House. We Baptized & Confirmed 400. ...
Nov 11, 1874 11 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 375. WW sealed 68 Couple for the dead D H Wells 30 O Pratt 25. Total 123 sealings for the dead.
Nov 18, 1874 18 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 319 persons & Confirmed them. D. H. Wells sealed 60 Couple for the dead & W. Woodruff 88 Couple.
Nov 25, 1874 25 I spent the day at the Endowment House. We Baptized 500. D H Wells sealed for the Dead 56 Couple W Woodruff 81. Among the number I sealed Margaret [F?] Smoot to Brother Dusenbury.
Dec 9, 1874 9 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 311 persons for the dead. D. H. Wells sealed 23 Couple for the dead & W Woodruff 64 Couple.
Dec 16, 1874 16 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 246. D H Wells sealed 30 Couple W Woodruff 41.
Dec 23, 1874 23d I went to the Endowment House. We Baptized 57. D H Wells sealed 4 Couple.
Dec 30, 1874 30 ...I spent most of the day at the Endowment House. We Baptized 74. D. H. Wells sealed 20 Couple & W Woodruff 36. I went to the farm at night. 6.
Feb 3, 1875 ... I went to the Endowment House. There was Baptized 147....
Feb 10, 1875 10 I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 133 persons. WW Sealed 27 Couple for the dead.
Feb 17, 1875 17 I Carried 27 Bushels of wheat to Mill & Sold it to pay water tax. {Baldwin} I preached the funeral sermon of Brother Baldwin of Herefordshire. I then went to the Endowment House & we Baptized 484 person for the dead. D H Wells sealed 51 Couple & W Woodruff 38.
Feb 24, 1875 24 I spent the day at the Endowment House. Baptized 145 persons. WW sealed 6 Couple.
Mar 3, 1875 3d I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 240 persons for the dead. D H Wells sealed 40 Couple & W Woodruff 596.
Mar 10, 1875 10 I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized about 400. D H Wells sealed 49 W Woodruff 25 Couple.
Mar 24, 1875 24 I spent the fore noon in the Endowmet House. We Baptized & Confirmed 270. W. Woodruff sealed 34 Couple for the dead D H Wells 5. I spent the after noon writing.
Apr 7, 1875 April 7, 1875 Conference met at 10 oclok. I went to the Endowment House & spent the forenoon. We baptized & Confirmed for the dead 83 persons & W Woodruff Sealed 27...
Apr 14, 1875 14 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We baptized 333....
Apr 21, 1875 21 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We baptized 254 & Confirmed them. D H Wells sealed 49, W Woodruff 22...
Apr 28, 1875 28 I spent the day in the Endowment House. There were baptized 252 for the dead. D H. Wells sealed 13 Couple W Woodruff 24.
May 5, 1875 5 I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized & Confirmed 207 for the dead. ...
May 12, 1875 12 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We baptized 283. D H Wells sealed 21 Couple W Woodruff 10.
May 19, 1875 19 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We baptized & Confirmed 350. D. H. Wells sealed 22 Couple & W Woodruff 49 Couple.
May 26, 1875 26 I Spent the day in the Endowment House. There was 290 Baptized and Confirmed. W Woodruff sealed at the Altar 46 Couple & D. H. Wells 2 Couple.
Jun 2, 1875 2d I wrote up my Journal and went to the Endowment House. We baptized 350. D H Wells sealed 66 Couple & W Woodruff 42.
Jun 9, 1875 9 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We baptized 542. D H Wells sealed 122 Couple for the dead and W Woodruff 79. Total sealings of the day 201.
Jun 16, 1875 16 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments Baptized 646. D H Wells sealed 62 Couple & W Woodruff 116 Couple for the dead the most I ever done in one day in my life. I was vary weary when I got through 178 Cealing.
Jun 23, 1875 23d I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 355. W. Woodruff sealed 53 Couple.
Jul 7, 1875 7 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 426. D H Wells sealed 72 Couple for the dead & W Woodruff 55. I received a letter from Edward Tullidge.
Jul 14, 1875 July 14, 1875 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 418. D H Wells sealed 53 W Woodruff 32.
Aug 18, 1875 18 I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 300. D. H. Wells sealed 47 Couple & W Woodruff 15 Couple.
Sep 15, 1875 15 I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We baptized for the dead 330 Couple. W. Woodruff sealed 45 Couple.
Sep 22, 1875 ...I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We baptized 325. W Woodruff Sealed 32 Couple & G. Q. Cannon [ ].
Sep 29, 1875 29 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 450. W Woodruff sealed 110 for the dead & G. Q. Cannon 31 Couple....
Oct 5, 1875 Oct 5 1875 I spent a part of the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 60. W Woodruff sealed 32 Couple.
Oct 12, 1875 12 & 13 I spent the time building a House. 1,005 were Baptized at the Endowment House.
Oct 14, 1875 14 Thursday The Twelve met at the Endowment House to Baptize the High Priest & Bishops. Over 100 were Baptized & Confirmed. W Woodruff sealed 59 Couple J F Smith 50 Couple.
May 17, 1876 ... I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized for the dead 525 persons. W Woodruff sealed 131 Couple for the dead & Joseph F Smith 11 Couple and done all the Clerking at the desk.
May 24, 1876 May 24 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized for the Dead 334. W Woodruff sealed 59 Couple & went down to the farm in the Evening.
May 31, 1876 31 We had another Cold Snow Storm this morning. I wrote a letter to Wilford. I went to the Endowment House. We Baptized & Confirmed for the dead 164. W Woodruff sealed 45 Couple.
Jun 7, 1876 7 I spent the time in the Endowment House. We Baptized 376 for the dead. W Woodruff sealed 91 Couple for the Dead. J F Smith sealed 10 Couple.
Aug 2, 1876 2d I spent most of the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 436. D H Wells sealed 33 Couple & W Woodruff 48 Couple for the Dead.
Aug 9, 1876 Aug 9 I spent the time in the Endowment House. We baptized some 500 persons for the dead. W. Woodruff sealed 33 for the dead & D H. Wells 13.
Aug 16, 1876 16 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 402. D H Wells sealed 4 Couple & W Woodruff 33 Couple.
Aug 30, 1876 30 I spent the time in the Endowment House. We baptized 319. W Woodruff sealed 60 Couple for the Dead.
Sep 6, 1876 6 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized 692. D H Wells sealed 77 Couple & W Woodruff 78 Couple total 155.
Sep 13, 1876 13 I spent the day in Endowment House. 494 Baptized. J F Smith sealed 51 C. W Woodruff sealed 35 Couple.
Oct 4, 1876 4 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We Baptized & Confirmed 693 for the Dead. D H Wells sealed 63 Couple for the Dead. J F Smith sealed 68, & W Woodruff 57. Total 188. (1)
Footnotes:
1 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
Rebaptism, Jun 2, 1869
-- Jun 2, 1869
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] June 2d 1869 I went to the Endowment House at 10 oclok & G Q Cannon Baptized me for the following dead:
Daniel Carter Great Grandfather to Phebe W Carter W.
Grand Father Ezra Carter to Phebe W Carter Woodruff
Grand Father Joshua Fabyan to Phebe W Carter Woodruff
Great Uncle John Fabyan to Phebe W Carter Woodruff
Uncle John Fabyan to Phebe W Carter Woodruff
Uncle George Fabyan to Phebe W Carter Woodruff
Uncle Joseph Fabyan to Phebe W Carter Woodruff
Total 7
For her Mother Sarah Carter wife of Ezra Carter
G Q. Cannon Baptized Phebe W Carter Woodruff for the following persons:
Grand Mother Dinah Woodruff wife of Eldad Woodruff to Wilford Woodruff.
Grand Mother Anna Thompson wife of Lot Thompson to Wilford Woodruff
Step Aunt wife of Asahel Hart to Wilford Woodruff
Step Aunt Sofrona Hart to Wilfors Woodruff
(Total 5)
- = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = (1)
Footnotes:
1 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] June 2d 1869 I went to the Endowment House at 10 oclok & G Q Cannon Baptized me for the following dead:
Daniel Carter Great Grandfather to Phebe W Carter W.
Grand Father Ezra Carter to Phebe W Carter Woodruff
Grand Father Joshua Fabyan to Phebe W Carter Woodruff
Great Uncle John Fabyan to Phebe W Carter Woodruff
Uncle John Fabyan to Phebe W Carter Woodruff
Uncle George Fabyan to Phebe W Carter Woodruff
Uncle Joseph Fabyan to Phebe W Carter Woodruff
Total 7
For her Mother Sarah Carter wife of Ezra Carter
G Q. Cannon Baptized Phebe W Carter Woodruff for the following persons:
Grand Mother Dinah Woodruff wife of Eldad Woodruff to Wilford Woodruff.
Grand Mother Anna Thompson wife of Lot Thompson to Wilford Woodruff
Step Aunt wife of Asahel Hart to Wilford Woodruff
Step Aunt Sofrona Hart to Wilfors Woodruff
(Total 5)
- = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = (1)
Footnotes:
1 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
Rebaptism, Feb 12, 1862
-- Feb 12, 1862
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 12 I spent the day in the office on the Buy laws of the Jourdan Irrigation Company & Journalizing. A Lecture of W. Woodruff in the Seventies Hall upon History and Journalizing. On the evening of Feb 12 I met at the 70 Hall at 7 oclok to deliver a lecture according to appointment. The Hall was Crouded to overflowing and Hundreds Had to leave who Could not get into the House. The following is a synopsis of my lecture: ....
The Prophet Joseph always recommended the priesthood to keep a record of all their Official acts. And among his last letters to the Church before he was slain he urges upon the Church to be particular in there records of the Baptisms for the dead to be vary particular in there records of there official acts, that what they bound on Earth should be bound in heaven and what they loosed on Earth should be loosed in heaven. And what you record on Earth shall be recorded in Heaven.... (1)
-- Apr 12, 1862
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 12 I spent the fore part of the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments to about 30. I sealed 15 Couple. At 1 oclok I went to the seventies Hall and attended the trial of Zera Pulsipher, who had been sealing women to men without Authority. He was required to be rebaptized & had the privilege of Being ordained into the High Priest Quorum. I attended a feast at Brother & Sister Blackhurst with the Quorum of the Twelve & there wives. (1)
-- Jun 4, 1864
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 4 I spent the most of the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments to 39 persons. HCK Sealed 10 Couple. W. Woodruff sealed 20 Couple. There was present B. Young H. C. Kimball J Taylor W. Woodruff GA. Smith F. D. Richards Joseph Young D Calder G. D. Watt J. D. T. Mcallister, Wm. Folsom S Sprague J V. Long & L Farr Also Eliza R Snow Elizabeth Ann Whitney & Sarah M Hyde.
At the Close of the sealings all the above Named persons repaired to the Font & we there dedicated the Baptismal Font unto god for Baptisms for the remission of sins for the Healing of the sick & for Baptism for the dead. President Brigham Young was mouth & he named in his Prayer every thing from the foundation to the Top, and He said that He felt that the Lord Accepted the Dedication.
I visited G D. Watt's garden in the Evening & saw some vary fine Strawburies in Beds. I think the Excellenta were the best. (1)
-- 1864. September 24
(Annie Clark Tanner) : Born in Farmington, Utah. Baptized in 1873, Annie Clark was rebaptized a year later during a reformation movement. She remembered, "We raised our right hand and promised not to trade with outsiders. Also, as children, we promised never to touch tea, coffee, or tobacco. To take the Lord's name in vain was a great offense. The punishment for disregard of high moral standards among young people was severe indeed. The young people who transgressed were required to make an acknowledgement of their sin in a public meeting and ask the forgiveness of the Saints." (2)
-- Aug 19, 1865
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 19 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments to 25. G. Q. Cannon sealed 11, W. Woodruff 4 Couple. I Baptized Sister Sprague in the New Font for & in Behalf of his first Eliza Caroline Everett Sprague. This was the first Baptism in the Font. We had a thunder Storm in the Evening. Brother G. A. Smith Returned from his Southern Mission ou[t.?] [-]. (1)
-- May 19, 1866
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 19 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments [to] 36 persons. HCK. sealed 4 Couple & WW 31 couple. One was Baptized for the dead. Brother Kimball Confirmed her. I laid on hands with him. I also confirmed sister Sprage who had been baptized for the dead. (1)
-- Jun 14, 1867
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 14 I met at 8 oclok & Anointed {Issac Laney}, A man Noted in the History of the Massacree at Hawns Mill who was shot to Peaces on that occasion & still lived he had 27 Ball Holes in his Shirt. One ball Entered one arm pit & Came out at the other. 2 Balls went through his breast 2 through his body above the hips one through his arm & none of them stoped his runing. Neither did they kill him. He was preserved by the power of God.
At 4 oclok I met at the Endowment House & George Q Cannon Baptized My Son Wilford for the remission of his Sins & myself for & in Behalf of My Father Aphek Woodruff & my wife Phebe Whitmore Carter Woodruff for my Step Mother Azubah Hart Woodruff & for my half sister Eunice Woodruff. G Q Cannon Confirmed Wilford and President Brigham Young Confirmed me for my father & my wife Phebe for my step Mother & Sister. I then went to top of the Tabernacle with Mrs Woodruff & my daughter Phebe whare we had a view of the Country. (1)
Footnotes:
1 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
2 - Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 12 I spent the day in the office on the Buy laws of the Jourdan Irrigation Company & Journalizing. A Lecture of W. Woodruff in the Seventies Hall upon History and Journalizing. On the evening of Feb 12 I met at the 70 Hall at 7 oclok to deliver a lecture according to appointment. The Hall was Crouded to overflowing and Hundreds Had to leave who Could not get into the House. The following is a synopsis of my lecture: ....
The Prophet Joseph always recommended the priesthood to keep a record of all their Official acts. And among his last letters to the Church before he was slain he urges upon the Church to be particular in there records of the Baptisms for the dead to be vary particular in there records of there official acts, that what they bound on Earth should be bound in heaven and what they loosed on Earth should be loosed in heaven. And what you record on Earth shall be recorded in Heaven.... (1)
-- Apr 12, 1862
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 12 I spent the fore part of the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments to about 30. I sealed 15 Couple. At 1 oclok I went to the seventies Hall and attended the trial of Zera Pulsipher, who had been sealing women to men without Authority. He was required to be rebaptized & had the privilege of Being ordained into the High Priest Quorum. I attended a feast at Brother & Sister Blackhurst with the Quorum of the Twelve & there wives. (1)
-- Jun 4, 1864
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 4 I spent the most of the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments to 39 persons. HCK Sealed 10 Couple. W. Woodruff sealed 20 Couple. There was present B. Young H. C. Kimball J Taylor W. Woodruff GA. Smith F. D. Richards Joseph Young D Calder G. D. Watt J. D. T. Mcallister, Wm. Folsom S Sprague J V. Long & L Farr Also Eliza R Snow Elizabeth Ann Whitney & Sarah M Hyde.
At the Close of the sealings all the above Named persons repaired to the Font & we there dedicated the Baptismal Font unto god for Baptisms for the remission of sins for the Healing of the sick & for Baptism for the dead. President Brigham Young was mouth & he named in his Prayer every thing from the foundation to the Top, and He said that He felt that the Lord Accepted the Dedication.
I visited G D. Watt's garden in the Evening & saw some vary fine Strawburies in Beds. I think the Excellenta were the best. (1)
-- 1864. September 24
(Annie Clark Tanner) : Born in Farmington, Utah. Baptized in 1873, Annie Clark was rebaptized a year later during a reformation movement. She remembered, "We raised our right hand and promised not to trade with outsiders. Also, as children, we promised never to touch tea, coffee, or tobacco. To take the Lord's name in vain was a great offense. The punishment for disregard of high moral standards among young people was severe indeed. The young people who transgressed were required to make an acknowledgement of their sin in a public meeting and ask the forgiveness of the Saints." (2)
-- Aug 19, 1865
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 19 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments to 25. G. Q. Cannon sealed 11, W. Woodruff 4 Couple. I Baptized Sister Sprague in the New Font for & in Behalf of his first Eliza Caroline Everett Sprague. This was the first Baptism in the Font. We had a thunder Storm in the Evening. Brother G. A. Smith Returned from his Southern Mission ou[t.?] [-]. (1)
-- May 19, 1866
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 19 I spent the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments [to] 36 persons. HCK. sealed 4 Couple & WW 31 couple. One was Baptized for the dead. Brother Kimball Confirmed her. I laid on hands with him. I also confirmed sister Sprage who had been baptized for the dead. (1)
-- Jun 14, 1867
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 14 I met at 8 oclok & Anointed {Issac Laney}, A man Noted in the History of the Massacree at Hawns Mill who was shot to Peaces on that occasion & still lived he had 27 Ball Holes in his Shirt. One ball Entered one arm pit & Came out at the other. 2 Balls went through his breast 2 through his body above the hips one through his arm & none of them stoped his runing. Neither did they kill him. He was preserved by the power of God.
At 4 oclok I met at the Endowment House & George Q Cannon Baptized My Son Wilford for the remission of his Sins & myself for & in Behalf of My Father Aphek Woodruff & my wife Phebe Whitmore Carter Woodruff for my Step Mother Azubah Hart Woodruff & for my half sister Eunice Woodruff. G Q Cannon Confirmed Wilford and President Brigham Young Confirmed me for my father & my wife Phebe for my step Mother & Sister. I then went to top of the Tabernacle with Mrs Woodruff & my daughter Phebe whare we had a view of the Country. (1)
Footnotes:
1 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
2 - Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
Rebaptism, 1856
-- During 1856
During the year, a general "reformation" took place throughout the Church, in which Church members were admonished strongly from the pulpit to reform their lives and rededicate themselves to the service of the Lord. As a symbol of renewed dedication, many members renewed their covenants by rebaptism. The reformation movement continued into 1857. (1)
-- Mar 4, 1857
[Hosea Stout Diary] Wednesday 4 March 57. Worked Mon, Tues & Wed. at the Code Commissioning.This day the 13th Ward was rebaptised my wife and my daughter Elizabeth Ann was baptized. (2)
-- Jun 22, 1857
[Brigham Young Letter] Bishop I.C. Haight -- I this morning received your letter ... As to your question, "Shall I rebaptize those who have Sinned Since they were Catachised & rebaptized," no not until they bring forth fruit meet for repentance. (3)
-- Jun 28, 1857
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... [Apostle George] A. Smith said I want to be baptized with the rest of you. The rest of the brethren wished the same. Presidet Young Chatechized G. A. Smith J M. Bernhisel C. C. Rich & A. Lyman. All passed well.... (4)
-- Mar 11, 1858
[Brigham Young Letter] Bishop P. Farnsworth, -- In reference to rebaptizing those brethren and sisters who have arrived from San Bernardino and settled in your place, you are probably aware that in the days Or what had been termed the reformation the brethren in San Bernardino engaged in that work, and many were then rebaptized, upon the sane principle as were the Saints in the various Settlements in Utah So far as that was the case, you will readily understand that there is no more necessity at present for the re- baptism of such persons than there is for the general rebaptism of those who in the reformation were rebaptized in our various settlements. Of course those who were not then re-baptized would not come under the above suggestion. (3)
-- March 17, 1858
Church historians wrote that Young "was attacked with the most violent fever [he] ever experienced" and after days of suffering and being administered to he "desired to be baptized in the river." ["History of Brigham Young," Deseret News, March 17, 1858, 9] (5)
-- Jan 20, 1860
Concerning Mormon woman who commits suicide due to chronic illness, Brigham Young says, "she had done wrong but by no means had committed the unpardonable sin and in course of time a proxy could be appointed who could be baptized for her." (6)
-- Sep 2, 1860
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 2d Sunday. In Company with G. A. Smith, Lorenzo Snow F. D. Richards I rode to visit James D. Ross Company, to hold a meeting with them at 1 oclok P.M. meeting opened by singing a swiss song there being about 100 swiss present.
G. A. Smith spoke to the people in English which was interpeted to the swiss in their own language by Elder [ ] Bone[ll?]s. He gave them vary good Council. Told them to be faithful & live their religion, not to get Cheated by speculators nor to be in a hurry to get married to those men who profess to save women by the whole sale but wait untill you get acquainted with men and know that they are worthy and Capable of being saved themselvs. There is no hurry in these matters.
He gave the same Council to those who Could understand English. Spoke of their Journey across the Sea & plains that was Calculated to bring out what is in you. Now go to & repent of all your sins & get rebaptized and live your religin.... (4)
-- October 8th, 1861
Brigham Young Papers; Ms/d/1234/Bx 49/fd 8, Church Historical Department. Unpublished discourse of Brigham Young given in the Salt Lake City Tabernacle, October 8th, 1861, in the morning session.
I will give you a few words doctrine, upon which there has been much inquiry, and with regard to which considerable ignorance exists. Brother Watt will write it, but it is not my intention to have it published; therefore pay good attention, and store it up in your memories.
Some years ago, I advanced a doctrine with regard to Adam being our Father and God. That will be a curse to many of the Elders of Israel, because of their folly with regard to it. They yet grovel in darkness--and will. It is one of the most glorious revelations [concerning] the economy of heaven, yet the world hold it [in] derision.
Had I revealed the doctrine of Baptism for the Dead instead of Joseph Smith, there are men around me [right now] who would have ridiculed the idea until dooms day. But they are ignorant and stupid like the dumb ass. (7)
Footnotes:
1 - 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
2 - Diaries of Hosea Stout
3 - Letters of Brigham Young--Excerpts, 1856-1866, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
4 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
5 - Stapley, Jonathan & Wright, Kristine, '"They Shall Be Made Whole": A History of Baptism for Health,' Journal of Mormon History, Fall 2008
6 - Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower
7 - Quotations Dealing with the Relationship of Our First Earthy Parents to Our Heavenly Parents (1830-1978)
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
During the year, a general "reformation" took place throughout the Church, in which Church members were admonished strongly from the pulpit to reform their lives and rededicate themselves to the service of the Lord. As a symbol of renewed dedication, many members renewed their covenants by rebaptism. The reformation movement continued into 1857. (1)
-- Mar 4, 1857
[Hosea Stout Diary] Wednesday 4 March 57. Worked Mon, Tues & Wed. at the Code Commissioning.This day the 13th Ward was rebaptised my wife and my daughter Elizabeth Ann was baptized. (2)
-- Jun 22, 1857
[Brigham Young Letter] Bishop I.C. Haight -- I this morning received your letter ... As to your question, "Shall I rebaptize those who have Sinned Since they were Catachised & rebaptized," no not until they bring forth fruit meet for repentance. (3)
-- Jun 28, 1857
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... [Apostle George] A. Smith said I want to be baptized with the rest of you. The rest of the brethren wished the same. Presidet Young Chatechized G. A. Smith J M. Bernhisel C. C. Rich & A. Lyman. All passed well.... (4)
-- Mar 11, 1858
[Brigham Young Letter] Bishop P. Farnsworth, -- In reference to rebaptizing those brethren and sisters who have arrived from San Bernardino and settled in your place, you are probably aware that in the days Or what had been termed the reformation the brethren in San Bernardino engaged in that work, and many were then rebaptized, upon the sane principle as were the Saints in the various Settlements in Utah So far as that was the case, you will readily understand that there is no more necessity at present for the re- baptism of such persons than there is for the general rebaptism of those who in the reformation were rebaptized in our various settlements. Of course those who were not then re-baptized would not come under the above suggestion. (3)
-- March 17, 1858
Church historians wrote that Young "was attacked with the most violent fever [he] ever experienced" and after days of suffering and being administered to he "desired to be baptized in the river." ["History of Brigham Young," Deseret News, March 17, 1858, 9] (5)
-- Jan 20, 1860
Concerning Mormon woman who commits suicide due to chronic illness, Brigham Young says, "she had done wrong but by no means had committed the unpardonable sin and in course of time a proxy could be appointed who could be baptized for her." (6)
-- Sep 2, 1860
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 2d Sunday. In Company with G. A. Smith, Lorenzo Snow F. D. Richards I rode to visit James D. Ross Company, to hold a meeting with them at 1 oclok P.M. meeting opened by singing a swiss song there being about 100 swiss present.
G. A. Smith spoke to the people in English which was interpeted to the swiss in their own language by Elder [ ] Bone[ll?]s. He gave them vary good Council. Told them to be faithful & live their religion, not to get Cheated by speculators nor to be in a hurry to get married to those men who profess to save women by the whole sale but wait untill you get acquainted with men and know that they are worthy and Capable of being saved themselvs. There is no hurry in these matters.
He gave the same Council to those who Could understand English. Spoke of their Journey across the Sea & plains that was Calculated to bring out what is in you. Now go to & repent of all your sins & get rebaptized and live your religin.... (4)
-- October 8th, 1861
Brigham Young Papers; Ms/d/1234/Bx 49/fd 8, Church Historical Department. Unpublished discourse of Brigham Young given in the Salt Lake City Tabernacle, October 8th, 1861, in the morning session.
I will give you a few words doctrine, upon which there has been much inquiry, and with regard to which considerable ignorance exists. Brother Watt will write it, but it is not my intention to have it published; therefore pay good attention, and store it up in your memories.
Some years ago, I advanced a doctrine with regard to Adam being our Father and God. That will be a curse to many of the Elders of Israel, because of their folly with regard to it. They yet grovel in darkness--and will. It is one of the most glorious revelations [concerning] the economy of heaven, yet the world hold it [in] derision.
Had I revealed the doctrine of Baptism for the Dead instead of Joseph Smith, there are men around me [right now] who would have ridiculed the idea until dooms day. But they are ignorant and stupid like the dumb ass. (7)
Footnotes:
1 - 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
2 - Diaries of Hosea Stout
3 - Letters of Brigham Young--Excerpts, 1856-1866, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
4 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
5 - Stapley, Jonathan & Wright, Kristine, '"They Shall Be Made Whole": A History of Baptism for Health,' Journal of Mormon History, Fall 2008
6 - Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower
7 - Quotations Dealing with the Relationship of Our First Earthy Parents to Our Heavenly Parents (1830-1978)
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
Rebaptism, Oct 5, 1856
-- Oct 5, 1856
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ....At the Close of the meeting we repaired to the prayer Circle had prayers then we went unto the Font & President Brigham Young went down into the Font of water & baptized men women & children of his own family about 75 in number. Then President Heber C. Kimball went down into the water & baptized about 75 mostly of his family. Some were of my Family & others of the Twelve. Then Lorenzo Young went into the water & baptized about 25 persons making 175 persons all of which were confirmed under the Hands of H. C. Kimball J. M. Grant W. Woodruff Joseph Young J. Vancott & D. H. Wells Confirmed a few of the Last.... (1)
-- Oct 6, 1856
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 6th Oct Conference met at the Bowery this morning at 10 oclock. ... At the Close of the meeting I went to the Font & the House of the Lord to assist in baptism & confirmation. Elder Franklin D Richards went into the Font & baptized his brethren the missionaries who had been with him & their families & Elder Lorenzo Snow & myself confirmed them about 65 in number. The spirit of God rested upon us while administering to the people. We went diret to the evening meeting as named above. (1)
-- Oct 7, 1856
[Brigham Young Letter] Thomas S. Smith -- Our conference closed this evening, there was an immense congregation, ... An excellent spirit prevailed and we think that much good has been done a general spirit of reformation rested upon the people; this caused our hearts to rejoice, and inspired us with renewed encouragement in behalf of the people, and of receiving the blessings of our God. We have finished a baptismal font near endowment house, which has been dedicated and is now used for baptisms. Many are going forward renewing their covenants before the Lord. We trust that the spirit of reformation may prevail over the entire community. There is need enough for it tor truly the people were falling asleep, becoming covetous, and the spirit of apostacy appeared to be prevalent to [a] considerable extent. It is necessary that the saints should examine themselves, and know that they are inspired by the right spirit in order to help themselves on the right track, and continue to (it is their duty as well as privilege to do) be filled with the Holy Ghost, which will guide them in the way they should go. (2)
-- 1856. December 1
(Jedediah M. Grant) : After baptizing hundreds in the cold waters of City Creek, forty-year-old Jedediah M. Grant collapsed of exhaustion and exposure. He died a few days later of pneumonia. (3)
-- Dec 30, 1856
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 30 I met with the Legislative Council in the forenoon. ... It was finally moved that all member of the Legislative Body of the Territory of Utah repent of their sins & go to [the] font at 6 oclok On the Temple Block & be baptized for the remission of their sins which was Carried unanimously & the Legislature met at the font & had to fill it with Buckets from the Creek & as the Presidency & Twelve who had been here had been baptized F D Richards went into the font & Baptized Elder Orson Hyde & some 17 others. Then James Cumings went into the font & Baptized the rest also the missionaries 37 in number making [ ] Baptized in all. We the Twelve laid hands upon Elder O Hyde & Confirmed him. W Woodruff was mouth then we Confirmed the whole Company. I was mouth in Confirming 9 persons & assisted in Confirming 12 others.
This was a New feature in Legislation. We believed that if we Could get the spirit of God we could do business faster & better than with the spirit of the Devel or the spirit of the world. There was 55 in all Baptized and Confirmed. The Twelve done most of the Confirming. (1)
Heber C. Kimball: "It is high time for this Legislature to repent, and begin to make restitution this very afternoon, if it takes all you have got. (Brigham, Repent of your religion, I mean your forms.) We don't want no forms. Go and get the font filled, and the Twelve will be on hand to baptize you this night." (4)
[Hosea Stout Diary] Tuesday Dec 30th 1856. House met at ten ... Adjourned till tomorrow at ten a. m. and joint session met in committee of the whole on the state of the Reformation and passed an unanimous Resolution to repent of and forsake our sins and be rebaptized for their Remission and in conformity therewithwent to dinner then repaired to the Font filled it with water and some fifty-five were BaptizedI was baptized by F. D. Richards one of the Twelve and confirmed under the hands of A. P. Rockwood & Thomas Grover
There was an unusual our poring of the spirit of Gad manifested in joint session on this occasion during the Preaching of Presidents B. Young & H. C. Kimball. ... (5)
Footnotes:
1 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
2 - Letters of Brigham Young--Excerpts, 1856-1866, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
3 - Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
4 - Discourses of Brigham Young
5 - Diaries of Hosea Stout
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ....At the Close of the meeting we repaired to the prayer Circle had prayers then we went unto the Font & President Brigham Young went down into the Font of water & baptized men women & children of his own family about 75 in number. Then President Heber C. Kimball went down into the water & baptized about 75 mostly of his family. Some were of my Family & others of the Twelve. Then Lorenzo Young went into the water & baptized about 25 persons making 175 persons all of which were confirmed under the Hands of H. C. Kimball J. M. Grant W. Woodruff Joseph Young J. Vancott & D. H. Wells Confirmed a few of the Last.... (1)
-- Oct 6, 1856
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 6th Oct Conference met at the Bowery this morning at 10 oclock. ... At the Close of the meeting I went to the Font & the House of the Lord to assist in baptism & confirmation. Elder Franklin D Richards went into the Font & baptized his brethren the missionaries who had been with him & their families & Elder Lorenzo Snow & myself confirmed them about 65 in number. The spirit of God rested upon us while administering to the people. We went diret to the evening meeting as named above. (1)
-- Oct 7, 1856
[Brigham Young Letter] Thomas S. Smith -- Our conference closed this evening, there was an immense congregation, ... An excellent spirit prevailed and we think that much good has been done a general spirit of reformation rested upon the people; this caused our hearts to rejoice, and inspired us with renewed encouragement in behalf of the people, and of receiving the blessings of our God. We have finished a baptismal font near endowment house, which has been dedicated and is now used for baptisms. Many are going forward renewing their covenants before the Lord. We trust that the spirit of reformation may prevail over the entire community. There is need enough for it tor truly the people were falling asleep, becoming covetous, and the spirit of apostacy appeared to be prevalent to [a] considerable extent. It is necessary that the saints should examine themselves, and know that they are inspired by the right spirit in order to help themselves on the right track, and continue to (it is their duty as well as privilege to do) be filled with the Holy Ghost, which will guide them in the way they should go. (2)
-- 1856. December 1
(Jedediah M. Grant) : After baptizing hundreds in the cold waters of City Creek, forty-year-old Jedediah M. Grant collapsed of exhaustion and exposure. He died a few days later of pneumonia. (3)
-- Dec 30, 1856
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 30 I met with the Legislative Council in the forenoon. ... It was finally moved that all member of the Legislative Body of the Territory of Utah repent of their sins & go to [the] font at 6 oclok On the Temple Block & be baptized for the remission of their sins which was Carried unanimously & the Legislature met at the font & had to fill it with Buckets from the Creek & as the Presidency & Twelve who had been here had been baptized F D Richards went into the font & Baptized Elder Orson Hyde & some 17 others. Then James Cumings went into the font & Baptized the rest also the missionaries 37 in number making [ ] Baptized in all. We the Twelve laid hands upon Elder O Hyde & Confirmed him. W Woodruff was mouth then we Confirmed the whole Company. I was mouth in Confirming 9 persons & assisted in Confirming 12 others.
This was a New feature in Legislation. We believed that if we Could get the spirit of God we could do business faster & better than with the spirit of the Devel or the spirit of the world. There was 55 in all Baptized and Confirmed. The Twelve done most of the Confirming. (1)
Heber C. Kimball: "It is high time for this Legislature to repent, and begin to make restitution this very afternoon, if it takes all you have got. (Brigham, Repent of your religion, I mean your forms.) We don't want no forms. Go and get the font filled, and the Twelve will be on hand to baptize you this night." (4)
[Hosea Stout Diary] Tuesday Dec 30th 1856. House met at ten ... Adjourned till tomorrow at ten a. m. and joint session met in committee of the whole on the state of the Reformation and passed an unanimous Resolution to repent of and forsake our sins and be rebaptized for their Remission and in conformity therewithwent to dinner then repaired to the Font filled it with water and some fifty-five were BaptizedI was baptized by F. D. Richards one of the Twelve and confirmed under the hands of A. P. Rockwood & Thomas Grover
There was an unusual our poring of the spirit of Gad manifested in joint session on this occasion during the Preaching of Presidents B. Young & H. C. Kimball. ... (5)
Footnotes:
1 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
2 - Letters of Brigham Young--Excerpts, 1856-1866, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
3 - Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
4 - Discourses of Brigham Young
5 - Diaries of Hosea Stout
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
Rebaptism, Jul 10, 1850
-- Jul 10, 1850
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 10th Drove 20 miles on the Platt. Camped on the bank of the River. I Baptized 14 Persons for the remission of sins & confirmed them & 2 for Health. (EH} Emily Huntington Died & was buried this day. She was A Saint Aged 24. (1)
-- During December, 1850
Azariah Smith broke ice on a body of water in Sanpete County and was baptized for his health once, then, three weeks later, rebaptized on six successive days for a total of seven. (2)
-- Jan 19, 1851
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 19th Sunday The people Assembled in a vast Body. The presidency Twelve & Seventies were in their place. The meeting was opened as usual by singing & Prayer. Was Addressed by Joseph Young Lorenzo Young George Grant was followed By president Young who informed the Saints the time had now Come to begin to prepare to build A temple & the people must pay their tithing & He requested the presidents of evry Quorum to take the names of evry member of their Quorum & they should sign a paper & covenant to pay their tithing & they who would not do it should be Cut off from the Church.
.../There cannot be any Baptism Endowments or Ordinances in the Spirit world performed but we shall be called to perform in a Temple of the Lord all the ordinances for the dead the same as for the living. All things will be sealed to the End of all things preparitory to the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ whether they Be appertaining to Thrones, kingdoms, families or anything Els pertaining to Earth or Heaven time or Eternity... (1)
-- During 1853
[Schism] Church of Jesus Christ (Cutlerite) -- Cutler, Alpheus 1853 - Handful of members; headquartered in Independence, Missouri Adherents commonly called "Cutlerites"; practice "United Order"; retains Nauvoo-era Temple endowment and Baptism for the Dead; formed prior to the death of Joseph Smith. (3)
-- Feb 4, 1855
Apostle Wilford Woodruff describes "some of the strongest preaching ever delivered to the Saints." First rebaptisms of Utah Reformation occur in wards (like Payson) as early as Apr 14, 1855. (4)
-- Oct 1, 1855
Typical DESERET NEWS report of Reformation meetings. Jedediah M. Grant presides over three days of meetings at Farmington, Utah, where he speaks seven times, prays four times, and during which 450 are rebaptized. (5)
-- Jan 13, 1856
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] .../On the return of the brethren from meeting they informed me that President Brigham Young had preached one of the greatest sermons he had ever deliverd on earth. The following are the items Delivered to me of his sermon ...After Joseph comes to us in his resurrected body He will more fully instruct us concerning the Baptism for the dead & the sealing ordinances. He will say be baptized for this man & that man & that man be sealed to that man & such a man to such a man, and connect the Priesthood together.
I tell you their will not be much of this done untill Joseph comes. He is our spiritual Father. Our hearts are already turned to him and his to us.... (1)
-- Aug 28, 1856
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... R J Campbell T Bullock & Myself walked with him to see the Font which is building in the public or temple Block. ... (1)
-- Sep 26, 1856
First handcart company arrives in Salt Lake Valley. During the next five years ten handcart companies bring 3000 Mormons across the plains to Utah. .... Members of the First Presidency and Council of Twelve Apostles are rebaptized. (5)
-- Oct 2, 1856
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] Oct 2d 1856 I met with Presidents B. Young H. C. Kimball & J. M. Grant at the House of the Lord at 6 oclok P.M. for the purpose of Dedicating the Baptismal Font which has of Late been built on the east side of the House of the Lord. There was also present Besides the Presidency W Woodruff E Hunter Joseph Young D H. Wells A Carrington L. W. Hardy J. C. Little & Gilbert Clements.
We went to the Font & knelt down around it & dedicated it unto God. President B. Young called upon President Heber C Kimball to be Mouth in the dedication Prayer. The following is a synopsis of the dedication Prayer reported by W. Woodruff:
He Said O God the Eternal Father we bow down before Thee upon this Font which has been made by thy servants to baptize thy people in, for the purpose of dedicating it unto the Lord our God. We dedicate ourselves before Thee O Lord & we ask the in the name of Jesus Christ to forgive us all our sins that we may have Thy Holy Spirit to guide us in all things that we may be guided in the ways of the Lord & that we may never do wrong. Look upon us O God that have now bowed before thee around this Font & help us to do thy will in all things Acknowledge the in all things and honor The & worship Thee at all times. Help us to Honor our Tabernacles that we may never disgrace ourselves in any thing. Grant unto us thy Holy spirit that it may quicken our understanding & bring to our understanding rememberance all things which are necessary for us in the discharge of our duties.
We now dedicate this Font unto thee O God. We consecrate it unto thee in the name of Jesus Christ. Let thine Angel O Lord touch this water & this Font with his Finger that it may be holy unto Thee Lord. May no unclean thing ever enter into this Font to pullute it.
We dedicate ourselves our wives [ ] Children & all that we have unto the O Lord Our God. May we be thine forever & all that we have.
Now O Lord except of this dedication at our hands and as we go into this water may our sins be forgiven & not be remembered against us any more. May we feel the power of God and have power to work a great Refermation among this people. And may this people triumph over our enemies & may not our enemies ever again have power over us but wilt thou cause thine indignation to burn against them that they shall not have any power to do thy people harm.
Now O Lord look down upon thy servant Brigham & cloth him with thy power that he may know the workings of the power of the devel in the Earth & among this people & do thy work.
We now dedicate this Font to Baptize the Living & the Living for the dead & for evry purpose which is necessary to perform the work of the Lord our God, even that the generations which are dead & passed away may be saved & that the sins of the Living may be washed away & that the sick may be healed of evry infirmety that we may be renewed in body & spirit in all things. Except of this dedication at our hands O Lord & hear our prayers and we will give all the glory to God our Heavenly Father and we ask it in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
After the Font was dedicated President Brigham Young went down into the water in the Font & Baptized Presidents Heber C. Kimball & J. M. Grant & he laid his hands upon them & confirmed them members in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day saints & blessed them in the name of the Lord. He blessed Heber C Kimball & Heber C Kimball was mouth in blessing J. M. Grant.
President Young said unto Heber C. Kimball Brother Heber Chase In the name of Jesus Christ I lay my hands upon your head and I Confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints & I seal upon you the gift of the Holy Ghost & Eternal life and I ordain & seal upon your head to be a prophet, Seer & Revelator in the church & kingdom of God & over the house of Israel and I seal upon you all the keys of the Kingdom of God on the Earth that was ever sealed upon the head of any man & I seal these blessings upon you in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
Heber C. Kimball then said to Jedediah M. Grant Brother Jedediah In the name of Jesus Christ we lay our hands upon your head & we confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints & we seal upon you all the keys of the Holy Priesthood even to be Prophet seer & Revelator in the Church & kingdom of God & evry blessing which has ever been sealed upon you & we seal upon you the gift of the Holy Ghost & we seal you up unto Eternal Life in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. + [Asterisk is Woodruff's.]
President Brigham Young then Baptized me & all the Presidency laid hands upon me & J. M. Grant was mouth in confirming me & said Brother Wilford Woodruff in the name of Jesus Christ we lay our hands upon your head & we confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints & we seal upon your head all the gifts & blessings of the Apostleship & priesthood & evry blessing which has ever been sealed upon you in any Temple or place we seal & confirm upon you in the name of Jesus Christ & we bless you for your infirmaties & ill health & pray that you may be healed & have the gift of writing the truth as a historian & we ask our Father in heaven to grant unto you these blessings in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
President B. Young then baptized Bishop Edward Hunter & Confirmed him. He was mouth & said Brother Edward Hunter we lay our hands upon your head in the name of Jesus Christ & we confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints & we seal upon you the gifts of the Holy Ghost & the Priesthood & bishopprick & the keyes thereoff and we seal upon your head all the gifts Blessings priesthood & power which has been sealed upon you by the prophet Joseph or any of the Servants of God & we say that you shall have power to magnify your calling as the chief bishop in the Church & Kingdom of God on Earth the spirit & power of the Holy Ghost & Revelation shall rest upon you in power & we seal you up unto Eternal Life & we seal upon your head evry blessing your heart Can desire in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
President Young then baptized the following persons: Joseph Young D. H. Wells A. Carrington L. W. Hardy J. C. Little & Gilbert Clements & was mouth in confirming them all except D. H. Wells. H.C. Kimball spoke upon his head. This made 10 persons which President Young Baptized & confirmed.
+ [Asterisk is Woodruff's.] Heber C Kimball then baptized President Brigham Young & confirmed him & said (J. M. Grant also laid on hands) Brother Brigham Young we lay our hands upon your head & confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints & we seal upon your head the Holy Priesthood with all the keys powers & blessings appertaining thereunto even to be a prophet seer & revelator in the church & kingdom of God & over the House of Israel & we seal upon your head all the blessings which were sealed upon you by the Prophet Joseph & we say unto you that you shall have power over your Enemies & you shall not be slain by them but you shall live to see them overthrown & to see the saints come off victorious over there enemies & I seal these blessing upon you in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
At the Close of the dedication & baptism I attended meeting with J. M. Grant & other Missionaries at the 17th ward. Elder Wallace spoke Johnson spoke to the people followed by J. M. Grant who spoke in the spirit & power of God in calling upon the people to repent & reform. He was followed By Gilbert Clements & W. Woodruff who bore testimony to what had been said. We had a soul stiring meeting.
Judson Stodard had his horse run away with him in his buggy & nearly killed him. (1)
Footnotes:
1 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
2 - Stapley, Jonathan & Wright, Kristine, '"They Shall Be Made Whole": A History of Baptism for Health,' Journal of Mormon History, Fall 2008
3 - Wikipedia, List of Sects in the Latter-Day Saint Movement, http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=List_of_sects_in_the_Latter_Day_Saint_movement#Before_the_schism
4 - Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower
5 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 10th Drove 20 miles on the Platt. Camped on the bank of the River. I Baptized 14 Persons for the remission of sins & confirmed them & 2 for Health. (EH} Emily Huntington Died & was buried this day. She was A Saint Aged 24. (1)
-- During December, 1850
Azariah Smith broke ice on a body of water in Sanpete County and was baptized for his health once, then, three weeks later, rebaptized on six successive days for a total of seven. (2)
-- Jan 19, 1851
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 19th Sunday The people Assembled in a vast Body. The presidency Twelve & Seventies were in their place. The meeting was opened as usual by singing & Prayer. Was Addressed by Joseph Young Lorenzo Young George Grant was followed By president Young who informed the Saints the time had now Come to begin to prepare to build A temple & the people must pay their tithing & He requested the presidents of evry Quorum to take the names of evry member of their Quorum & they should sign a paper & covenant to pay their tithing & they who would not do it should be Cut off from the Church.
.../There cannot be any Baptism Endowments or Ordinances in the Spirit world performed but we shall be called to perform in a Temple of the Lord all the ordinances for the dead the same as for the living. All things will be sealed to the End of all things preparitory to the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ whether they Be appertaining to Thrones, kingdoms, families or anything Els pertaining to Earth or Heaven time or Eternity... (1)
-- During 1853
[Schism] Church of Jesus Christ (Cutlerite) -- Cutler, Alpheus 1853 - Handful of members; headquartered in Independence, Missouri Adherents commonly called "Cutlerites"; practice "United Order"; retains Nauvoo-era Temple endowment and Baptism for the Dead; formed prior to the death of Joseph Smith. (3)
-- Feb 4, 1855
Apostle Wilford Woodruff describes "some of the strongest preaching ever delivered to the Saints." First rebaptisms of Utah Reformation occur in wards (like Payson) as early as Apr 14, 1855. (4)
-- Oct 1, 1855
Typical DESERET NEWS report of Reformation meetings. Jedediah M. Grant presides over three days of meetings at Farmington, Utah, where he speaks seven times, prays four times, and during which 450 are rebaptized. (5)
-- Jan 13, 1856
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] .../On the return of the brethren from meeting they informed me that President Brigham Young had preached one of the greatest sermons he had ever deliverd on earth. The following are the items Delivered to me of his sermon ...After Joseph comes to us in his resurrected body He will more fully instruct us concerning the Baptism for the dead & the sealing ordinances. He will say be baptized for this man & that man & that man be sealed to that man & such a man to such a man, and connect the Priesthood together.
I tell you their will not be much of this done untill Joseph comes. He is our spiritual Father. Our hearts are already turned to him and his to us.... (1)
-- Aug 28, 1856
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... R J Campbell T Bullock & Myself walked with him to see the Font which is building in the public or temple Block. ... (1)
-- Sep 26, 1856
First handcart company arrives in Salt Lake Valley. During the next five years ten handcart companies bring 3000 Mormons across the plains to Utah. .... Members of the First Presidency and Council of Twelve Apostles are rebaptized. (5)
-- Oct 2, 1856
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] Oct 2d 1856 I met with Presidents B. Young H. C. Kimball & J. M. Grant at the House of the Lord at 6 oclok P.M. for the purpose of Dedicating the Baptismal Font which has of Late been built on the east side of the House of the Lord. There was also present Besides the Presidency W Woodruff E Hunter Joseph Young D H. Wells A Carrington L. W. Hardy J. C. Little & Gilbert Clements.
We went to the Font & knelt down around it & dedicated it unto God. President B. Young called upon President Heber C Kimball to be Mouth in the dedication Prayer. The following is a synopsis of the dedication Prayer reported by W. Woodruff:
He Said O God the Eternal Father we bow down before Thee upon this Font which has been made by thy servants to baptize thy people in, for the purpose of dedicating it unto the Lord our God. We dedicate ourselves before Thee O Lord & we ask the in the name of Jesus Christ to forgive us all our sins that we may have Thy Holy Spirit to guide us in all things that we may be guided in the ways of the Lord & that we may never do wrong. Look upon us O God that have now bowed before thee around this Font & help us to do thy will in all things Acknowledge the in all things and honor The & worship Thee at all times. Help us to Honor our Tabernacles that we may never disgrace ourselves in any thing. Grant unto us thy Holy spirit that it may quicken our understanding & bring to our understanding rememberance all things which are necessary for us in the discharge of our duties.
We now dedicate this Font unto thee O God. We consecrate it unto thee in the name of Jesus Christ. Let thine Angel O Lord touch this water & this Font with his Finger that it may be holy unto Thee Lord. May no unclean thing ever enter into this Font to pullute it.
We dedicate ourselves our wives [ ] Children & all that we have unto the O Lord Our God. May we be thine forever & all that we have.
Now O Lord except of this dedication at our hands and as we go into this water may our sins be forgiven & not be remembered against us any more. May we feel the power of God and have power to work a great Refermation among this people. And may this people triumph over our enemies & may not our enemies ever again have power over us but wilt thou cause thine indignation to burn against them that they shall not have any power to do thy people harm.
Now O Lord look down upon thy servant Brigham & cloth him with thy power that he may know the workings of the power of the devel in the Earth & among this people & do thy work.
We now dedicate this Font to Baptize the Living & the Living for the dead & for evry purpose which is necessary to perform the work of the Lord our God, even that the generations which are dead & passed away may be saved & that the sins of the Living may be washed away & that the sick may be healed of evry infirmety that we may be renewed in body & spirit in all things. Except of this dedication at our hands O Lord & hear our prayers and we will give all the glory to God our Heavenly Father and we ask it in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
After the Font was dedicated President Brigham Young went down into the water in the Font & Baptized Presidents Heber C. Kimball & J. M. Grant & he laid his hands upon them & confirmed them members in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day saints & blessed them in the name of the Lord. He blessed Heber C Kimball & Heber C Kimball was mouth in blessing J. M. Grant.
President Young said unto Heber C. Kimball Brother Heber Chase In the name of Jesus Christ I lay my hands upon your head and I Confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints & I seal upon you the gift of the Holy Ghost & Eternal life and I ordain & seal upon your head to be a prophet, Seer & Revelator in the church & kingdom of God & over the house of Israel and I seal upon you all the keys of the Kingdom of God on the Earth that was ever sealed upon the head of any man & I seal these blessings upon you in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
Heber C. Kimball then said to Jedediah M. Grant Brother Jedediah In the name of Jesus Christ we lay our hands upon your head & we confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints & we seal upon you all the keys of the Holy Priesthood even to be Prophet seer & Revelator in the Church & kingdom of God & evry blessing which has ever been sealed upon you & we seal upon you the gift of the Holy Ghost & we seal you up unto Eternal Life in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. + [Asterisk is Woodruff's.]
President Brigham Young then Baptized me & all the Presidency laid hands upon me & J. M. Grant was mouth in confirming me & said Brother Wilford Woodruff in the name of Jesus Christ we lay our hands upon your head & we confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints & we seal upon your head all the gifts & blessings of the Apostleship & priesthood & evry blessing which has ever been sealed upon you in any Temple or place we seal & confirm upon you in the name of Jesus Christ & we bless you for your infirmaties & ill health & pray that you may be healed & have the gift of writing the truth as a historian & we ask our Father in heaven to grant unto you these blessings in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
President B. Young then baptized Bishop Edward Hunter & Confirmed him. He was mouth & said Brother Edward Hunter we lay our hands upon your head in the name of Jesus Christ & we confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints & we seal upon you the gifts of the Holy Ghost & the Priesthood & bishopprick & the keyes thereoff and we seal upon your head all the gifts Blessings priesthood & power which has been sealed upon you by the prophet Joseph or any of the Servants of God & we say that you shall have power to magnify your calling as the chief bishop in the Church & Kingdom of God on Earth the spirit & power of the Holy Ghost & Revelation shall rest upon you in power & we seal you up unto Eternal Life & we seal upon your head evry blessing your heart Can desire in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
President Young then baptized the following persons: Joseph Young D. H. Wells A. Carrington L. W. Hardy J. C. Little & Gilbert Clements & was mouth in confirming them all except D. H. Wells. H.C. Kimball spoke upon his head. This made 10 persons which President Young Baptized & confirmed.
+ [Asterisk is Woodruff's.] Heber C Kimball then baptized President Brigham Young & confirmed him & said (J. M. Grant also laid on hands) Brother Brigham Young we lay our hands upon your head & confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints & we seal upon your head the Holy Priesthood with all the keys powers & blessings appertaining thereunto even to be a prophet seer & revelator in the church & kingdom of God & over the House of Israel & we seal upon your head all the blessings which were sealed upon you by the Prophet Joseph & we say unto you that you shall have power over your Enemies & you shall not be slain by them but you shall live to see them overthrown & to see the saints come off victorious over there enemies & I seal these blessing upon you in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
At the Close of the dedication & baptism I attended meeting with J. M. Grant & other Missionaries at the 17th ward. Elder Wallace spoke Johnson spoke to the people followed by J. M. Grant who spoke in the spirit & power of God in calling upon the people to repent & reform. He was followed By Gilbert Clements & W. Woodruff who bore testimony to what had been said. We had a soul stiring meeting.
Judson Stodard had his horse run away with him in his buggy & nearly killed him. (1)
Footnotes:
1 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
2 - Stapley, Jonathan & Wright, Kristine, '"They Shall Be Made Whole": A History of Baptism for Health,' Journal of Mormon History, Fall 2008
3 - Wikipedia, List of Sects in the Latter-Day Saint Movement, http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=List_of_sects_in_the_Latter_Day_Saint_movement#Before_the_schism
4 - Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower
5 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
Rebaptism, Oct 5, 1846
-- Oct 5, 1846
[Nauvoo Temple] The Hancock Eagle reported on the damage done to the temple: holes cut in the floors, names carved in the wood, messages scrawled on the walls, and the font defaced with the oxen disfigured and broken. (1)
-- Apr 25, 1847. Sunday.
[William Clayton Journal] Arose soon after five, shaved and changed some of my clothing. The morning very pleasant, wind west...P.M. Elijah Newman was baptized by [Tarlton] Lewis in the Lake for the benefit of his health. Brother Newman has been afflicted with the black scurvy in his legs and has not been able to walk without sticks, but after being baptized and hands laid on him he returned to his waggon without any kind of help seemingly much better. ... (2)
-- Aug 6, 1847
Apostles in Salt Lake Valley rebaptize, reconfirm, and reordain each other and the next day begin rebaptizing and reconfirming all pioneers in the valley. The rebaptizims are done in the dammed-up City Creek. (3)
-- August 7, 1847
When the first pioneers arrived in the Salt Lake Valley, Church leaders dammed City Creek and used the resulting pond for rebaptisms and baptisms for health. (4)
-- Aug 15, 1847
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 15th + /||| Sunday The Camp of Israel met as usual at 10 oclok & was addressed by President Young in an interesting manner upon an interesting subject much to our edifycation. The following are some of the remarks made by President Young:
I am going to day to speak upon the subject of the Patriarchal Priesthood & by request of Br Crow say sumthing upon the death of his Child that was drowned the other day. ... But notwithstanding this Can brother Crow get that Child again or any other person their Children except their is sumthing done for them on the earth by their Parents? No they would not. They would go to God who gave them but the parents on the earth would not have them. The Parents framed the Body to be sure But the Lord gave the spirit. What is the Body good for without the spirit?
What then can be done. I will tell you. A man that has embraced the gospel must [be?] some one who has the Priesthood & keys & power of Elijah & must attend to ordinances for that Child, even must be baptized [for it?] as well as to have it sealed to him & through [---] claim his Child in the morning of the resurrection & the Lord will give it up to him. ... (5)
-- Dec 11, 1847
William Wines Phelps: Rebaptized 11 December 1847. (6)
-- Apr 4, 1848
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 4th I went over the river And Baptized Sister Peck for the remission of sins And also for her daughter who was dead. I also baptized 8 others who had not before been baptized one of which was Samuel H. Smiths ownly Son & one was Peter Balentine an Insane man. I confirmed 4 persons. ... (5)
-- Nov 12, 1848
Oliver Cowdery: Rebaptized by Orson Hyde 12 November 1848 at Kanesville, Iowa. (6)
-- Sep 10, 1849
[Nauvoo Temple] John M. Bernhisel on a trip to the East stopped at Nauvoo and left a description of the Temple ruins: "Though the walls of the Temple are standing, yet they are much cracked, especially the east one; and not a vestige of the once beautiful font remains." He reported that no work had been done to repair the structure, except for clearing away some rubbish, and that the lot was used as a sheep fold and cow pen. (1)
-- 1850
Pioneer William Snow noted "we found Br John Moon on the prarie So bad he could not walk to his waggon we laid hands on him helped him to his wag[on] & baptised him 7 times anointed him & he was much better." (4)
Footnotes:
1 - Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple
2 - George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton
3 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
4 - Stapley, Jonathan & Wright, Kristine, '"They Shall Be Made Whole": A History of Baptism for Health,' Journal of Mormon History, Fall 2008
5 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
6 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
[Nauvoo Temple] The Hancock Eagle reported on the damage done to the temple: holes cut in the floors, names carved in the wood, messages scrawled on the walls, and the font defaced with the oxen disfigured and broken. (1)
-- Apr 25, 1847. Sunday.
[William Clayton Journal] Arose soon after five, shaved and changed some of my clothing. The morning very pleasant, wind west...P.M. Elijah Newman was baptized by [Tarlton] Lewis in the Lake for the benefit of his health. Brother Newman has been afflicted with the black scurvy in his legs and has not been able to walk without sticks, but after being baptized and hands laid on him he returned to his waggon without any kind of help seemingly much better. ... (2)
-- Aug 6, 1847
Apostles in Salt Lake Valley rebaptize, reconfirm, and reordain each other and the next day begin rebaptizing and reconfirming all pioneers in the valley. The rebaptizims are done in the dammed-up City Creek. (3)
-- August 7, 1847
When the first pioneers arrived in the Salt Lake Valley, Church leaders dammed City Creek and used the resulting pond for rebaptisms and baptisms for health. (4)
-- Aug 15, 1847
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 15th + /||| Sunday The Camp of Israel met as usual at 10 oclok & was addressed by President Young in an interesting manner upon an interesting subject much to our edifycation. The following are some of the remarks made by President Young:
I am going to day to speak upon the subject of the Patriarchal Priesthood & by request of Br Crow say sumthing upon the death of his Child that was drowned the other day. ... But notwithstanding this Can brother Crow get that Child again or any other person their Children except their is sumthing done for them on the earth by their Parents? No they would not. They would go to God who gave them but the parents on the earth would not have them. The Parents framed the Body to be sure But the Lord gave the spirit. What is the Body good for without the spirit?
What then can be done. I will tell you. A man that has embraced the gospel must [be?] some one who has the Priesthood & keys & power of Elijah & must attend to ordinances for that Child, even must be baptized [for it?] as well as to have it sealed to him & through [---] claim his Child in the morning of the resurrection & the Lord will give it up to him. ... (5)
-- Dec 11, 1847
William Wines Phelps: Rebaptized 11 December 1847. (6)
-- Apr 4, 1848
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 4th I went over the river And Baptized Sister Peck for the remission of sins And also for her daughter who was dead. I also baptized 8 others who had not before been baptized one of which was Samuel H. Smiths ownly Son & one was Peter Balentine an Insane man. I confirmed 4 persons. ... (5)
-- Nov 12, 1848
Oliver Cowdery: Rebaptized by Orson Hyde 12 November 1848 at Kanesville, Iowa. (6)
-- Sep 10, 1849
[Nauvoo Temple] John M. Bernhisel on a trip to the East stopped at Nauvoo and left a description of the Temple ruins: "Though the walls of the Temple are standing, yet they are much cracked, especially the east one; and not a vestige of the once beautiful font remains." He reported that no work had been done to repair the structure, except for clearing away some rubbish, and that the lot was used as a sheep fold and cow pen. (1)
-- 1850
Pioneer William Snow noted "we found Br John Moon on the prarie So bad he could not walk to his waggon we laid hands on him helped him to his wag[on] & baptised him 7 times anointed him & he was much better." (4)
Footnotes:
1 - Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple
2 - George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton
3 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
4 - Stapley, Jonathan & Wright, Kristine, '"They Shall Be Made Whole": A History of Baptism for Health,' Journal of Mormon History, Fall 2008
5 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
6 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
Rebaptism, Nov 24, 1845
-- Nov 24, 1845
[Nauvoo Temple] Painters continued working in the attic, while two stoves were put up in the large room. Others began to clean up the rooms. Work on the font continued with several of the oxen and their tin horns, in place. (1)
-- Jan 20, 1846
[Nauvoo Temple] The Times and Seasons reported that "the font, standing upon twelve stone oxen, is about ready" and that the second story floor was being laid. (1)
-- Feb 7, 1846
[Nauvoo Temple] Last day of endowments given in the attic, as well as the last day that baptisms for the dead were administered. 5,083 persons received their endowments. By this date there had been 15,626 proxy baptisms performed in the temple. (1)
-- Apr 15, 1846
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 15th + In company with Father and Mother Woodruff And Phebe cousin Betsey Cossett Sister Smoot & others we visited the Temple. We all went through each appartment of it from the font in the basement to the hall of the tower And had a view of all Nauvoo & the surrounding country. And after taking a view of each Appartment of the Temple we again desended to the ground.
I rode out on the prairie & sold mr William Allen my lot of land of 12 Acres & 20 of Br Pulsi-phers. I also sold my House And lot in which I am now living in for $675. I had a vary busy day. (2)
-- July 1846 - July 1847
Members of the Mormon Battalion administered ritual [of baptism for health, which] expanded to wherever Church members were located, including to branches outside of the Great Basin, to the Pacific Islands, and to Britain. (3)
-- Aug 8, 1846
On April 15 or Aug 2, 1846, Wilford Woodruff married Mary Ann Jackson (married at the Nauvoo Temple or at Winter Quarters) Mary Ann was twenty-eight, Wilford was thirty-nine. They had one child, James Jackson, but divorced in 1848. Mary Ann had been born on February 18, 1818, in Liverpool, England, the daughter of William and Elizabeth Lloyd Jackson, and Wilford Woodruff met her on his English mission. In his journal, on August 8, 1845, he wrote: I recieved 2 letters & wrote 2. 4 m. Sister Mary Jackson commenced labour with us this day." On August 2, 1846, Woodruff wrote: During the evening President Young And Dr Richards Called at my tent. President Young deliverd an interesting lecture upon the priesthood And the principal of sealing there being present: Phebe W. Woodruff / [Mary] Caroline Barton / Caroline [mistake for Sarah] Brown / Mary Jackson." There is a picture of a large heart with four keys. This is a typical pre-1852 cryptic reference to plural marriages. On August 8, at a time of rebaptisms, Woodruff baptized the trio, and got the names right: Caroline, Sarah, Mary. He also has the names correct on August 26: Caroline Barton and Sarah Brown. He describes them there as members of my family. Alexander writes, While in England he had met Mary Ann Jackson, a twenty-eight-year-old Liverpool native, who had converted to Mormonism in May 1843. Working for the Woodruffs as housekeeper, she returned with Phebe and a party of emigrants via New Orleans in January 1846. On April 15, two days after his return to Nauvoo for a reunion with his wife and children, Wilford and his family and friends visited the temple. The records are contradictory, but he married Mary Ann on that occasion or on August 2, at Winter Quarters. The marriage produced one son, James Jackson Woodruff, who was born on March 25, 1847, at Florence, Nebraska. Mary Ann and Wilford subsequently divorced, but James remained on good terms with his father. "" Mary Ann died Oct. 25, 1894 in Salt Lake City. Wilford Woodruff spoke at her funeral. (4)
[Wilford Woodruff] Woodruff family rebaptized (5)
-- Aug 15, 1846
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 15th I met in Council with the Twelve to attend to such business as our circumstances requred. I Baptized Phebe in the evening for the restoration of her health. It seemed to be a benefit to her. (2)
Footnotes:
1 - Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple
2 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
3 - Stapley, Jonathan & Wright, Kristine, '"They Shall Be Made Whole": A History of Baptism for Health,' Journal of Mormon History, Fall 2008
4 - Compton, Todd, 'The Wives of Wilford Woodruff', http://www.geocities.com/athens/oracle/7207/WWfamilies.htm
5 - Kenny, Scott (editor), Wilford Woodruff's Journals 1833-1898, Chronology Signature Books, Midvale, Utah, http://bit.ly/wwjournal
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
[Nauvoo Temple] Painters continued working in the attic, while two stoves were put up in the large room. Others began to clean up the rooms. Work on the font continued with several of the oxen and their tin horns, in place. (1)
-- Jan 20, 1846
[Nauvoo Temple] The Times and Seasons reported that "the font, standing upon twelve stone oxen, is about ready" and that the second story floor was being laid. (1)
-- Feb 7, 1846
[Nauvoo Temple] Last day of endowments given in the attic, as well as the last day that baptisms for the dead were administered. 5,083 persons received their endowments. By this date there had been 15,626 proxy baptisms performed in the temple. (1)
-- Apr 15, 1846
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 15th + In company with Father and Mother Woodruff And Phebe cousin Betsey Cossett Sister Smoot & others we visited the Temple. We all went through each appartment of it from the font in the basement to the hall of the tower And had a view of all Nauvoo & the surrounding country. And after taking a view of each Appartment of the Temple we again desended to the ground.
I rode out on the prairie & sold mr William Allen my lot of land of 12 Acres & 20 of Br Pulsi-phers. I also sold my House And lot in which I am now living in for $675. I had a vary busy day. (2)
-- July 1846 - July 1847
Members of the Mormon Battalion administered ritual [of baptism for health, which] expanded to wherever Church members were located, including to branches outside of the Great Basin, to the Pacific Islands, and to Britain. (3)
-- Aug 8, 1846
On April 15 or Aug 2, 1846, Wilford Woodruff married Mary Ann Jackson (married at the Nauvoo Temple or at Winter Quarters) Mary Ann was twenty-eight, Wilford was thirty-nine. They had one child, James Jackson, but divorced in 1848. Mary Ann had been born on February 18, 1818, in Liverpool, England, the daughter of William and Elizabeth Lloyd Jackson, and Wilford Woodruff met her on his English mission. In his journal, on August 8, 1845, he wrote: I recieved 2 letters & wrote 2. 4 m. Sister Mary Jackson commenced labour with us this day." On August 2, 1846, Woodruff wrote: During the evening President Young And Dr Richards Called at my tent. President Young deliverd an interesting lecture upon the priesthood And the principal of sealing there being present: Phebe W. Woodruff / [Mary] Caroline Barton / Caroline [mistake for Sarah] Brown / Mary Jackson." There is a picture of a large heart with four keys. This is a typical pre-1852 cryptic reference to plural marriages. On August 8, at a time of rebaptisms, Woodruff baptized the trio, and got the names right: Caroline, Sarah, Mary. He also has the names correct on August 26: Caroline Barton and Sarah Brown. He describes them there as members of my family. Alexander writes, While in England he had met Mary Ann Jackson, a twenty-eight-year-old Liverpool native, who had converted to Mormonism in May 1843. Working for the Woodruffs as housekeeper, she returned with Phebe and a party of emigrants via New Orleans in January 1846. On April 15, two days after his return to Nauvoo for a reunion with his wife and children, Wilford and his family and friends visited the temple. The records are contradictory, but he married Mary Ann on that occasion or on August 2, at Winter Quarters. The marriage produced one son, James Jackson Woodruff, who was born on March 25, 1847, at Florence, Nebraska. Mary Ann and Wilford subsequently divorced, but James remained on good terms with his father. "" Mary Ann died Oct. 25, 1894 in Salt Lake City. Wilford Woodruff spoke at her funeral. (4)
[Wilford Woodruff] Woodruff family rebaptized (5)
-- Aug 15, 1846
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 15th I met in Council with the Twelve to attend to such business as our circumstances requred. I Baptized Phebe in the evening for the restoration of her health. It seemed to be a benefit to her. (2)
Footnotes:
1 - Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple
2 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
3 - Stapley, Jonathan & Wright, Kristine, '"They Shall Be Made Whole": A History of Baptism for Health,' Journal of Mormon History, Fall 2008
4 - Compton, Todd, 'The Wives of Wilford Woodruff', http://www.geocities.com/athens/oracle/7207/WWfamilies.htm
5 - Kenny, Scott (editor), Wilford Woodruff's Journals 1833-1898, Chronology Signature Books, Midvale, Utah, http://bit.ly/wwjournal
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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
Rebaptism, Apr 6, 1845
-- Apr 6, 1845
Brigham Young announces to general conference: "Know ye not that the millennium has commenced?" He also rules that males should be proxies for males and females for females in baptism for the dead, thus ending the gender-neutral practice of proxy ordinances. (1)
-- June 17, 1845
"While in this condition, Elder Phineas Richards, the father of Apostle F. D. Richards, assisted by other kind brethren, took me [Lorenzo Snow] from my bed, wrapped in a sheet - placed me in a carriage, drove to a stream of water, and baptized me in the name of the Lord, for my recovery. The fever immediately abated, and through kind, unwearied nursing and attention . . . I was delivered from suffering and restored to health." [Eliza R. Snow writing as Lorenzo Snow in "Biography and Family Record of Lorenzo Snow" Salt Lake City: Deseret News Company, 1884] (2)
-- Jun 26, 1845
[Nauvoo Temple] Workmen laid the first stone for the new font. Men who cut stone for the font were William W. Player, Benjamin T. Mitchell, Charles Lambert, William Cottier, Andrew Cahoon, Daniel S. Cahoon, Jerome Kimpton, Augustus Stafford, Bun Anderson, Alvin Winegar, William Jones and Stephen Halles, Jr. The roof was completed and ready for shingles. (3)
-- Saturday, June 28th, 1845
[Apostle John Taylor diary] The brethren had been requested to change the place of meeting with the stand, to the grove in front of the Temple.
I went up with the Twelve to inspect their work, also to see the Arsenal and the font in the Temple, its foundation having just been laid]... (4)
-- Jul 1, 1845
[Nauvoo Temple] Apparently some Saints were questioning the right of the Twelve to replace the wooden font which had been built under Joseph Smith's directions. In the Times and Seasons Brigham Young explained the reason for erecting the stone font and he wrote that the Saints should not wonder at the decision. Just because Joseph Smith had built, a wooden font did not mean that it should be permanent. He stated that he wanted a font that would not "stink" and take so much time in keeping it clean. (3)
-- Sunday, August 10th, 1845
[Apostle John Taylor diary] Sunday, August 10th, 1845. I baptized my mother, and my nephew, John Rich and his sister Elizabeth for their health; and John and Jerusha Smith, son and daughter of the late Bro. Hyrum Smith, Patriarch for their sins. After which attended meeting at sand, Bro. Phelps spoke, after which I addressed the people.... (4)
-- Aug. 10 AD 1845
[general] City of Joseph Aug 10th 1845
Brother Wm Smith, Patriarch,
Your letter of the 9th has been read before a council of the Twelve and Trustees, by whose decision this answer is dictated.
... To your question. "when the Brethren call on me to be sealed to their wives, - their dead friends &c also to get patriarchal blessings for their dead- what shall I say to them?" Of what use for sealing when every thing of the kind must be done over again in the Temple to make it valid? And it is not according to the order of the church to confer Patriarchal Blessings on the dead by proxy, until baptism &c has been attended to for them by proxy, which must be done in the Lord's House, therefore, any thing of the kind done at this time would be of no effect ... (5)
-- ...Aug 23rd The dome for the temple was completed and all rejoiced In the afternoon went with sister Sary Alby to the river and Baptized her for her health in the evening Bros Solomon Hancock & Moses Clawson came to my house to council some with regard to the affairs of the Branch in Father Morleys settle.
[Brigham Young Journal] (6)
-- Oct 8, 1845
[Nauvoo Temple] In a letter the Twelve reported that the font and others parts of the temple were nearly ready to commence ordinance work. (3)
-- Nov 9, 1845
[Nauvoo Temple] No Sunday service, because the first floor of the temple, which had been laid in October 1842 to protect the font in the basement during construction, had to be taken up to replace rotting timbers. (3)
Footnotes:
1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
2 - Stapley, Jonathan & Wright, Kristine, '"They Shall Be Made Whole": A History of Baptism for Health,' Journal of Mormon History, Fall 2008
3 - Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple
4 - 'The John Taylor Nauvoo journal, January 1845-September 1845,' BYU Studies 23:3 (1983) edited by Dean C. Jessee
5 - [Brigham. Young] Communication letter to [William] Smith Patriarch
6 - Brigham Young Journal # 4 in the handwriting of: William Clayton, Evan Greene, John D. Lee, Willard Richards. First person account kept by others. 'Lieut. Genl Brigham Young's Journal 1844'
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
Brigham Young announces to general conference: "Know ye not that the millennium has commenced?" He also rules that males should be proxies for males and females for females in baptism for the dead, thus ending the gender-neutral practice of proxy ordinances. (1)
-- June 17, 1845
"While in this condition, Elder Phineas Richards, the father of Apostle F. D. Richards, assisted by other kind brethren, took me [Lorenzo Snow] from my bed, wrapped in a sheet - placed me in a carriage, drove to a stream of water, and baptized me in the name of the Lord, for my recovery. The fever immediately abated, and through kind, unwearied nursing and attention . . . I was delivered from suffering and restored to health." [Eliza R. Snow writing as Lorenzo Snow in "Biography and Family Record of Lorenzo Snow" Salt Lake City: Deseret News Company, 1884] (2)
-- Jun 26, 1845
[Nauvoo Temple] Workmen laid the first stone for the new font. Men who cut stone for the font were William W. Player, Benjamin T. Mitchell, Charles Lambert, William Cottier, Andrew Cahoon, Daniel S. Cahoon, Jerome Kimpton, Augustus Stafford, Bun Anderson, Alvin Winegar, William Jones and Stephen Halles, Jr. The roof was completed and ready for shingles. (3)
-- Saturday, June 28th, 1845
[Apostle John Taylor diary] The brethren had been requested to change the place of meeting with the stand, to the grove in front of the Temple.
I went up with the Twelve to inspect their work, also to see the Arsenal and the font in the Temple, its foundation having just been laid]... (4)
-- Jul 1, 1845
[Nauvoo Temple] Apparently some Saints were questioning the right of the Twelve to replace the wooden font which had been built under Joseph Smith's directions. In the Times and Seasons Brigham Young explained the reason for erecting the stone font and he wrote that the Saints should not wonder at the decision. Just because Joseph Smith had built, a wooden font did not mean that it should be permanent. He stated that he wanted a font that would not "stink" and take so much time in keeping it clean. (3)
-- Sunday, August 10th, 1845
[Apostle John Taylor diary] Sunday, August 10th, 1845. I baptized my mother, and my nephew, John Rich and his sister Elizabeth for their health; and John and Jerusha Smith, son and daughter of the late Bro. Hyrum Smith, Patriarch for their sins. After which attended meeting at sand, Bro. Phelps spoke, after which I addressed the people.... (4)
-- Aug. 10 AD 1845
[general] City of Joseph Aug 10th 1845
Brother Wm Smith, Patriarch,
Your letter of the 9th has been read before a council of the Twelve and Trustees, by whose decision this answer is dictated.
... To your question. "when the Brethren call on me to be sealed to their wives, - their dead friends &c also to get patriarchal blessings for their dead- what shall I say to them?" Of what use for sealing when every thing of the kind must be done over again in the Temple to make it valid? And it is not according to the order of the church to confer Patriarchal Blessings on the dead by proxy, until baptism &c has been attended to for them by proxy, which must be done in the Lord's House, therefore, any thing of the kind done at this time would be of no effect ... (5)
-- ...Aug 23rd The dome for the temple was completed and all rejoiced In the afternoon went with sister Sary Alby to the river and Baptized her for her health in the evening Bros Solomon Hancock & Moses Clawson came to my house to council some with regard to the affairs of the Branch in Father Morleys settle.
[Brigham Young Journal] (6)
-- Oct 8, 1845
[Nauvoo Temple] In a letter the Twelve reported that the font and others parts of the temple were nearly ready to commence ordinance work. (3)
-- Nov 9, 1845
[Nauvoo Temple] No Sunday service, because the first floor of the temple, which had been laid in October 1842 to protect the font in the basement during construction, had to be taken up to replace rotting timbers. (3)
Footnotes:
1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
2 - Stapley, Jonathan & Wright, Kristine, '"They Shall Be Made Whole": A History of Baptism for Health,' Journal of Mormon History, Fall 2008
3 - Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple
4 - 'The John Taylor Nauvoo journal, January 1845-September 1845,' BYU Studies 23:3 (1983) edited by Dean C. Jessee
5 - [Brigham. Young] Communication letter to [William] Smith Patriarch
6 - Brigham Young Journal # 4 in the handwriting of: William Clayton, Evan Greene, John D. Lee, Willard Richards. First person account kept by others. 'Lieut. Genl Brigham Young's Journal 1844'
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
Rebaptism, Saturday, January 11th, 1845
-- Saturday, January 11th, 1845
[Apostle John Taylor diary] Attended City Council at 10 o'clock A.M., and continued in Council till 3 o'clock P.M. In the evening at my own house in company with Pres. B. Young, Willard Richards, and Amasa Lyman; assisted to write an epistle of the Twelve to the churches throughout the world, the following of which is a copy.
An Epistle of the Twelve, to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints in all the world. Greeting.
... There was a font erected in the basement story of the Temple, for the baptism of the dead, the healing of the sick and other purposes; this font was made of wood, and was only intended for the present use; but it is now removed, and as soon as the stone cutters get through with the cutting of the stone for the Temple, they will immediately proceed to cut the stone for, and erect a font of hewn stone. This font will be of an oval shape and twelve feet on length and eight wide, with stone steps and an iron railing; this form will stand upon twelve oxen, which will be cast of iron or brass, or perhaps hewn stone, if of brass, polished; if of iron, bronzed;'--upon each side of the font there will be a suit of rooms fitted up for the washings.
In the recesses, on each side of the arch, on the first story, there will be a suit of rooms or ante-chambers, lighted with the first now of circular windows.
As soon as a suitable number of those rooms are completed we shall commence the endowment.
Brethren, inasmuch as you have long desired blessings, come up to the help of the Lord, and help to forward the work that we are engaged in; for we trust that these rooms will be finished by the first of December next, so that you may enter therein and receive wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and the power of the priesthood, which you have so long desired; that you may be prepared to go forth to the nations of the earth and build up the Kingdom in all parts of the world; gather up Israel, redeem Zion; rebuild Jerusalem and fill the whole earth with the knowledge of God. .....
Brigham Young, Pres't Willard Richards, Clerk. (1)
-- Jan 14, 1845
[Nauvoo Temple] The Twelve reported on the temple progress. They indicated that the masonry work on the walls would be finished early in the year. Carpenters were busy preparing sashes, flooring, seats, etc., with an anticipating of using the building for ordinances next fall. They also reported that the wooden font would be replaced by a limestone font. The decision to replace the font had actually been made during the winter of 1843. (2)
-- Feb 6, 1845
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 6th I spent this day at home aranging my Journal And looking over my labours & travels in the morning during the last eleven years of my life commencing with 1834 to 1844 inclusive & the following is a true account & result of my travels & labours:....
In 1835 .... Was baptized for 36 Dead friends. Baptized for 135 Dead.... (3)
-- Mar 15, 1845
[Nauvoo Temple] The Twelve and the Temple Committee decided to build a new drain for the new font, keep the three cranes in operation, as well as to erect a wall on the south side of the temple block.
Sisters Mary Smith and Mercy Rachel Thompson published a notice, requesting that all sisters who were holding funds in the penny subscription to forward the money to them, saying that the drive had collected over $1000. (2)
-- Apr 6, 1845
[Brigham Young Sermon] Conference am Last Sunday I proposed to the Saints, to speak to day on the subject of the baptism for the dead in connection with other items, that the Saints may be satisfied - that all doubt and darkness may be removed with regard to certain principles of the doctrine of redemption.
But before I undertake to explain or give correct views upon this important subject, I would say to all those who are satisfied with all the knowledge they have, and want no more: to you I do not expect to be an apostle this day; but for those who are hungering and thirsting after righteousness, I pray, that they may be filled and satisfied with the intelligence of God, even his glory.
What I have stated in the winter past relative to the baptism for the dead, has been a matter of discussion among the elders, and among the brethren and sisters in general, but I will endeavor to show to this congregation of Saints the propriety of it; and that the people could not run at hap hazard, and without order to attend to this ordinance and at the same time it be valid, and recognized in heaven.
We are building a house at present unto the Lord in the which we expect to attend to the fulfillment of this doctrine: you all believe that this is a doctrine revealed by God to his servant Joseph. Admitting this to be the fact, that he has revealed through him a plan by which we may bring to life the dead, and bless them with a great and glorious exaltation in the presence of the Almighty with ourselves; still we want to know how to do these things right; to do them in a manner that shall be acceptable to the Almighty, if otherwise he will say unto us at the last day, "ye have not known me right, because of your slothfulness and your wickedness depart from me for I know you not." O ye Latter-day Saints! I don't want one of you to be caught in that snare, but that you may do things right and thus be enabled to make your calling and election sure. I might say the plan of salvation is perfect of itself - it is a system that can save, redeem, honor and glorify all who are willing to apply themselves to it according to the pattern - it is a palm of salvation to all men both male and female; it has been handed down, and known from the days of Adam, and those who will open their eyes to see, their ears to hear, and their hearts to understand, they will acknowledge at once that it is a perfect system; but those whose eyes, ears and hearts are shut up by incorrect tradition and prejudice, they acknowledge by their lives, by their practices, by their walk and conversation, and by their actions in general, that they do not understand it, yet they plead the atonement, and say we believe the atonement is sufficient for all--only believe and he will save you; yet at the same time the bible, reason, common sense and every other righteous principle positively testifies that there must be means made use of to put you in possession of the blessings of the atonement, as well as any other blessing.
I believe the plan of salvation is comeatable, and may be understood and the inhabitants of the world who will come to God can be made acquainted with all the ordinances and blessings by which they may know how to save themselves and their friends, as we know how to build a house, or as the mechanic knows how to make any piece of mechanism; but mechanism is not to be compared with the perfection of the machine of salvation or with the beauty of the plan of redemption: it is the most perfect system of any other creature under heaven.
The gospel is adapted to the capacity of all the human family, whether they be high or low, rich or poor, bond or free, black or white, young or old, it is adapted to their capacities, all can understand and be saved: no comparison of its purity can be made; you may investigate the laws of nations, and gather together all the laws of the kingdoms of this world, and make a selection of the best part of the purest principles of the laws of justice and equity, and they would not compare, nor would there be any resemblance to the purity of the laws of heaven. He who gives that law is perfect, and reduces it to the capacity of finite beings in order that they may understand it and then receive more: thus the infinite being gives line upon line, reveals principle after principle, as the mind of the finite being expands, and when he has learned all his life he will then begin to see, that he has not yet entered upon the threshold of the eternal things that are to be gained by the children of men. I have now about got through with my preliminaries, and shall occupy your attention with some items in relation to the doctrine of the baptism for the dead.
I do not say that you have not been taught and learned the principle; you have heard it taught from this stand from time to time, by many of the elders, and from the mouth of our beloved and martyred prophet Joseph: therefore my course will not be to prove the doctrine, but refer to those things against which your minds are revolting. Consequently I would say to this vast congregation of Saints, when we enter in to the Temple of God to receive our washings, our anointings, our endowments and baptisms for the saving of ourselves, and for the saving of our dead: that you never will see a man go forth to be baptized for a woman, nor a woman for a man. If your minds should be in any dubiety with regard to this, call to mind a principle already advanced, that when an infinite being gives a law to his finite creatures, he has to descend to the capacity of those who receive his law, when the doctrine of baptism for the dead was first given, this church was in its infancy, and was not capable of receiving all the knowledge of God in its highest degree; this you all believe. I would keep this one thing in your minds, and that is, that there is none, no not one of the sons and daughters of Adam and Eve, that ever received the fullness of the celestial law at the first of the Lord's commencing to reveal it unto them.
The doctrine of baptism for the dead you have been taught for some time, and the first account that I heard of it was while I was in England; it was there I got the glad tidings that the living could go forth and be baptized for those who had fallen asleep. This doctrine I believed before anything was said or done about it in this church; it made me glad when I heard it was revealed through his servant Joseph, and that I could go forth, and officiate for my fathers, for my mothers, and for my ancestors, to the latest generation who have not had the privilege of helping themselves; that they can yet arise to the state of glory and exaltation as we that live, have a privilege of rising to ourselves. The next year I came home and requested Brother Joseph to preach upon the subject, which he did, I also heard many of the elders preach upon the same subject.
There has been many things said, and notions imbibed concerning this doctrine. Allow me to advance an idea, and it is this; except we attend to this ordinance according to the law of heaven in all things it will not be valid or be of any benefit either to the living or the dead; when it was first revealed all the order of it was not made known, afterwards it was made known, that records, clerks, and one or two witnesses were necessary or else it will be of no value to the saints.
The Lord has led this people all the while in this way, by giving them here a little and there a little, thus he increases their wisdom, and he that receives a little and is thankful for that shall receive more and more, and more even to the fullness of the eternal Godhead: there is no stopping place, but the weak capacity of man cannot understand it unless the spirit of the eternal God is in their hearts, and then they can comprehend but a little of it. In this is the glory, power, and excellency of the gospel of the Son of God to poor weak finite man. Look, O ye Latter-day Saints, at the nations of the earth, Christendom, look at them; but look at ourselves (although we have received a great deal) yet who is there here that has seen Jesus Christ, that have beheld angels,that have conversed with the spirits of just men made perfect, and the assembly of the church of Enoch, and with God the judge of all? who is there here that has been caught up to the third heavens and gazed upon the order and glory of the celestial world? don't you see brethren we have yet a great deal to learn, but is it not our privilege to be filled with all the fullness of Godliness? (cries of yes.) When you receive all that is for you, you will say O the blindness of Christendom! O the ignorance of the world!! even the Latter-day Saints that have assembled themselves together at the April conference in the year eighteen hundred and forty-five, will say, what am I?
Joseph in his life time did not receive every thing connected with the doctrine of redemption, but he has left the key with those who understand how to obtain and teach to this great people all that is necessary for their salvation and exaltation in the celestial kingdom of our God. We have got to learn how to be faithful with the few things, you know the promise is, if we are faithful in a few things we shall be made rulers over many things. If we improve upon the small things, greater will be given unto us.
I have said that a man cannot be baptized for a woman, nor a woman for a man, and it be valid. I have not used any argument as yet; I want now to use an argument upon this subject, it is a very short one; and I will do it by asking this congregation, if God would call a person to commence a thing that would not have power and ability to carry it out? Would he do it? (no.) Well then, what has been our course on former occasions? Why, here goes our beloved sisters, and they are baptized in the river or in the fount for their uncles, for their fathers, for their grandfathers and great grandfathers.
Well, now I will take you and confirm you for your uncles, for your fathers, for your grandfathers, and for your great grandfathers, and let you go; after a while here comes our beloved sisters, saying. I want to be ordained for my uncle, and for my grandfather, and great grand-father; I want my father ordained to the high priesthood, and my grandfather, I want to be patriarch, and you may ordain me a prophet for my uncle! What would you think about all that, sisters, come now you have been baptized and confirmed for your father, won't you be ordained for him? You could cast on a stocking and finish it. - You could take wool and card and spin it and make it into cloth, and then make it into garments. A person that commences a work and has not ability and power to finish it, only leaves the unfinished remains as a monument of folly. We will not commence a work we cannot finish: but let us hearken to the voice of the spirit and give heed to his teachings and we will make ourselves perfect in all things.
I would now call your attention to some of the saying of the apostle Paul. I hope you will not stumble at them. Paul says, "nevertheless, neither is the man without the woman. neither the woman without the man, in the Lord, for as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the women, but all things of God." The same Apostle also says, "The woman is the glory of the man." Now brethren, these are Paul's sayings, not Joseph Smith's spiritual wife system sayings.
And I would say, as no man can be perfect without the woman, so no woman can be perfect without a man to lead her, I tell you the truth as it is in the bosom of eternity; and I say so to every man upon the face of the earth; if he wishes to be saved he cannot be saved without a woman by his side. This is spiritual wife ism, that is, the doctrine of spiritual wives.
Lest these my sisters should think I give power into the hands of their husbands to abuse them, I would say there is no man has a right to govern his wife and family unless he does it after the order of the church of Christ, unless he does it upon this principle he need not expect to receive a celestial glory. He that does not govern as Jesus governs his church, breaks his bonds and solemn obligations to his family.
Now ye elders of Israel will you go and beat your wives? will you neglect and abuse them? You may ask, is that anything about being baptized for the dead, or the laws of the celestial kingdom? With regard to the laws of the celestial kingdom, I say it always was, and is, and always will be, a system of beauty and order. When the angel visited Cornelius, and commanded him to send men to Joppa for Peter, who should tell him words whereby he and his house should be saved. Would it not have saved a good deal of trouble if the angel had told these words to Cornelius? It certainly would, but it was not the angel's privilege, it remained for Peter to do, because it was Peter's calling; it was Peters's duty. In this case we see the principle of order. Again, in the case of the Savior, did he offer to baptism Paul? No, he had to go to Damascus, to a certain street, in order to find Ananias, who administered to him. Thus you see the angel honored Peter, the Savior honored Ananias by permitting them to attend to the calling they had received power to act in. So let fathers honor their families, husbands honor your wives, honor your children that they may learn to honor you; and if you come and are baptized for the father of your wife, and you want your mother baptized for, let your wife do it; give honor to her. --Ananias had the glory and honor of ordaining Paul and sending him to preach. Christ had done his work, and then gave honor and glory to his servants; when the elders have done their work, let them give their wives honor, and let them say to them, come and be baptised for my mother, and for my sister, and save them, and I will preside over the whole of you.
Thus let every person stand in their own order, and do that which belongs to them to do, that there may be no confusion, but let order and beauty be the characteristics of this people. I used to think that the sectarian world would certainly get to heaven for they tried hard enough. And we boys would frequently wish ourselves in heaven with our backs broke that we could not get out again. The sectarian world is just like that, they are scrambling up in the greatest confusion, saying to each other, I hope you will get to heaven, and may your back be broke that you cannot get out again, and that is all they know about it.
The religion of heaven teaches us to give every man and every woman their due, that rightly belongs to them. And he that walks up to his privilege and duty, he has honor and glory, and shall never be removed out of his place.
I have shown to the brethren and sisters that Brother Joseph did not tell them all things at once, consequently you may expect to hear and see many things you never thought of before. One thing is that we have taken down the wooden fount that was built up by the instructions of Brother Joseph. This has been a great wonder to some, and says one of the stone cutters the other day, "I wonder why Joseph did not tell us the fount should be built of stone." The man that made that speech is walking in darkness. He is a stranger to the spirit of this work, and knows nothing. In fact he does not know enough to cut a stone for the house of God. There is not a man under the face of the heavens that has one particle of the spirit about him, but knows that God talks to men according to their circumstances. God knew that old Abraham could not build a temple, therefore he said unto him, go to the mountain I shall tell thee of, and there offer up you sacrifice. He tells us to build an house here in this place, according to our means. And when we get a little more strength, he will say, go now and execute your means upon the next house we have got to build, and it is just to stretch our faith until it shall become exceeding great, that we can command the elements and they will obey. And when we get into Jackson county to walk in the courts of that house, we can say we built this temple for as the Lord lives we will build up Jackson county in this generation, (cries of amen,) and we will be far better off with regard to temporal things, when we have done, than ever we were before. If we had the means to build a fount in that house, say one of marble, the Lord would just as like as not tell us to cover it with gold just to stretch our faith. Brother Joseph said to me with regard to the fount, "I will not go into the river to be baptized for my friends, we will build a wooden fount to serve the present necessity; brethren does that satisfy you? This fount has caused the Gentile world to wonder but a sight of the next one will make a Gentile faint away. This brings to my memory a circumstance that transpired in the temple at Kirtland. A very pious lady came to see the temple, she walked up and down in the house, with her hands locked together, and after the escape of one or two of the sectarians most sanctified groans, she exclaimed, "The Lord does not like such extravagance." Poor thing, I wonder how she will walk upon the streets when they are paved with gold; she could not bear to see the temple of God adorned and beautified, and the reason was because she was full of the devil.
I would put you on your guard against those who wear a long face, and pretend to be so holy, and so much better than every body else - They cannot look pleasant because they are full of the devil. Those who have got the forgiveness of their sins have countenances that look bright, and they will shine with the intelligence of heaven. If you don't believe it, try yourselves and then look up into the glass.
We will have a fount that will not stink and keep us all the while cleansing it out: and we will have a pool wherein to baptism the sick, that they may recover. And when we get into the fount we will show you the priesthood and the power of it: therefore, let us be diligent in observing all the commandments of God. Put away all fears of mobs, let not these things trouble you, for I say to the people I believe myself we shall have a healthy season, and that we shall have a summer of peace. The devils will growl without, and if they could get in here they would growl, but if they do they must look out. And I dare venture to say, that there could not be found as healthy a looking congregation in all the United States as I see here this day.
Brethren and sisters, for the sake of your dead and for the sake of yourselves, be faithful and have no feelings in your hearts against one another, but learn to suffer wrong rather than do wrong, and by so doing we will outstrip all our enemies and conquer the evil one, for know ye not that here is Zion? know ye not that the millennium has commenced? We have had Zion upon the earth this fourteen years. Peace reigns among this people which is Zion. Union and true charity dwells with this people: this is the most orderly and peaceable people upon the face of the whole earth. Well, this is Zion, and it is increasing and spreading wider and wider, and this principle of Zion, which is peace, will stretch all over the earth; that is the millennium. The saints will increase, and continue to increase, and virtue, love, holiness, and all good principles, will continue to spread and spread and will rule the nations of the earth, and who is there that can stop its progress? None, but it will roll until there is no room for the devil; then he will be bound and shut up. The principles of the kingdom of God will prevail, from city to city, from nation to nation, until the devil shall be bound and there is no place for him. They killed the prophet Joseph for fear he would spread this principle but it will go and fill the whole earth; this is true and will come to pass as the Lord lives. Amen. [Nauvoo, Illinois - T&S 6:953-957] (4)
Footnotes:
1 - 'The John Taylor Nauvoo journal, January 1845-September 1845,' BYU Studies 23:3 (1983) edited by Dean C. Jessee
2 - Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple
3 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
4 - Elden J. Watson, ed. Brigham Young Addresses, 1801-1877: A Chronological Compilation of Known Addresses of the Prophet Brigham Young, 6 vols. (Salt Lake City: Privately published, 1971)
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
[Apostle John Taylor diary] Attended City Council at 10 o'clock A.M., and continued in Council till 3 o'clock P.M. In the evening at my own house in company with Pres. B. Young, Willard Richards, and Amasa Lyman; assisted to write an epistle of the Twelve to the churches throughout the world, the following of which is a copy.
An Epistle of the Twelve, to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints in all the world. Greeting.
... There was a font erected in the basement story of the Temple, for the baptism of the dead, the healing of the sick and other purposes; this font was made of wood, and was only intended for the present use; but it is now removed, and as soon as the stone cutters get through with the cutting of the stone for the Temple, they will immediately proceed to cut the stone for, and erect a font of hewn stone. This font will be of an oval shape and twelve feet on length and eight wide, with stone steps and an iron railing; this form will stand upon twelve oxen, which will be cast of iron or brass, or perhaps hewn stone, if of brass, polished; if of iron, bronzed;'--upon each side of the font there will be a suit of rooms fitted up for the washings.
In the recesses, on each side of the arch, on the first story, there will be a suit of rooms or ante-chambers, lighted with the first now of circular windows.
As soon as a suitable number of those rooms are completed we shall commence the endowment.
Brethren, inasmuch as you have long desired blessings, come up to the help of the Lord, and help to forward the work that we are engaged in; for we trust that these rooms will be finished by the first of December next, so that you may enter therein and receive wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and the power of the priesthood, which you have so long desired; that you may be prepared to go forth to the nations of the earth and build up the Kingdom in all parts of the world; gather up Israel, redeem Zion; rebuild Jerusalem and fill the whole earth with the knowledge of God. .....
Brigham Young, Pres't Willard Richards, Clerk. (1)
-- Jan 14, 1845
[Nauvoo Temple] The Twelve reported on the temple progress. They indicated that the masonry work on the walls would be finished early in the year. Carpenters were busy preparing sashes, flooring, seats, etc., with an anticipating of using the building for ordinances next fall. They also reported that the wooden font would be replaced by a limestone font. The decision to replace the font had actually been made during the winter of 1843. (2)
-- Feb 6, 1845
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 6th I spent this day at home aranging my Journal And looking over my labours & travels in the morning during the last eleven years of my life commencing with 1834 to 1844 inclusive & the following is a true account & result of my travels & labours:....
In 1835 .... Was baptized for 36 Dead friends. Baptized for 135 Dead.... (3)
-- Mar 15, 1845
[Nauvoo Temple] The Twelve and the Temple Committee decided to build a new drain for the new font, keep the three cranes in operation, as well as to erect a wall on the south side of the temple block.
Sisters Mary Smith and Mercy Rachel Thompson published a notice, requesting that all sisters who were holding funds in the penny subscription to forward the money to them, saying that the drive had collected over $1000. (2)
-- Apr 6, 1845
[Brigham Young Sermon] Conference am Last Sunday I proposed to the Saints, to speak to day on the subject of the baptism for the dead in connection with other items, that the Saints may be satisfied - that all doubt and darkness may be removed with regard to certain principles of the doctrine of redemption.
But before I undertake to explain or give correct views upon this important subject, I would say to all those who are satisfied with all the knowledge they have, and want no more: to you I do not expect to be an apostle this day; but for those who are hungering and thirsting after righteousness, I pray, that they may be filled and satisfied with the intelligence of God, even his glory.
What I have stated in the winter past relative to the baptism for the dead, has been a matter of discussion among the elders, and among the brethren and sisters in general, but I will endeavor to show to this congregation of Saints the propriety of it; and that the people could not run at hap hazard, and without order to attend to this ordinance and at the same time it be valid, and recognized in heaven.
We are building a house at present unto the Lord in the which we expect to attend to the fulfillment of this doctrine: you all believe that this is a doctrine revealed by God to his servant Joseph. Admitting this to be the fact, that he has revealed through him a plan by which we may bring to life the dead, and bless them with a great and glorious exaltation in the presence of the Almighty with ourselves; still we want to know how to do these things right; to do them in a manner that shall be acceptable to the Almighty, if otherwise he will say unto us at the last day, "ye have not known me right, because of your slothfulness and your wickedness depart from me for I know you not." O ye Latter-day Saints! I don't want one of you to be caught in that snare, but that you may do things right and thus be enabled to make your calling and election sure. I might say the plan of salvation is perfect of itself - it is a system that can save, redeem, honor and glorify all who are willing to apply themselves to it according to the pattern - it is a palm of salvation to all men both male and female; it has been handed down, and known from the days of Adam, and those who will open their eyes to see, their ears to hear, and their hearts to understand, they will acknowledge at once that it is a perfect system; but those whose eyes, ears and hearts are shut up by incorrect tradition and prejudice, they acknowledge by their lives, by their practices, by their walk and conversation, and by their actions in general, that they do not understand it, yet they plead the atonement, and say we believe the atonement is sufficient for all--only believe and he will save you; yet at the same time the bible, reason, common sense and every other righteous principle positively testifies that there must be means made use of to put you in possession of the blessings of the atonement, as well as any other blessing.
I believe the plan of salvation is comeatable, and may be understood and the inhabitants of the world who will come to God can be made acquainted with all the ordinances and blessings by which they may know how to save themselves and their friends, as we know how to build a house, or as the mechanic knows how to make any piece of mechanism; but mechanism is not to be compared with the perfection of the machine of salvation or with the beauty of the plan of redemption: it is the most perfect system of any other creature under heaven.
The gospel is adapted to the capacity of all the human family, whether they be high or low, rich or poor, bond or free, black or white, young or old, it is adapted to their capacities, all can understand and be saved: no comparison of its purity can be made; you may investigate the laws of nations, and gather together all the laws of the kingdoms of this world, and make a selection of the best part of the purest principles of the laws of justice and equity, and they would not compare, nor would there be any resemblance to the purity of the laws of heaven. He who gives that law is perfect, and reduces it to the capacity of finite beings in order that they may understand it and then receive more: thus the infinite being gives line upon line, reveals principle after principle, as the mind of the finite being expands, and when he has learned all his life he will then begin to see, that he has not yet entered upon the threshold of the eternal things that are to be gained by the children of men. I have now about got through with my preliminaries, and shall occupy your attention with some items in relation to the doctrine of the baptism for the dead.
I do not say that you have not been taught and learned the principle; you have heard it taught from this stand from time to time, by many of the elders, and from the mouth of our beloved and martyred prophet Joseph: therefore my course will not be to prove the doctrine, but refer to those things against which your minds are revolting. Consequently I would say to this vast congregation of Saints, when we enter in to the Temple of God to receive our washings, our anointings, our endowments and baptisms for the saving of ourselves, and for the saving of our dead: that you never will see a man go forth to be baptized for a woman, nor a woman for a man. If your minds should be in any dubiety with regard to this, call to mind a principle already advanced, that when an infinite being gives a law to his finite creatures, he has to descend to the capacity of those who receive his law, when the doctrine of baptism for the dead was first given, this church was in its infancy, and was not capable of receiving all the knowledge of God in its highest degree; this you all believe. I would keep this one thing in your minds, and that is, that there is none, no not one of the sons and daughters of Adam and Eve, that ever received the fullness of the celestial law at the first of the Lord's commencing to reveal it unto them.
The doctrine of baptism for the dead you have been taught for some time, and the first account that I heard of it was while I was in England; it was there I got the glad tidings that the living could go forth and be baptized for those who had fallen asleep. This doctrine I believed before anything was said or done about it in this church; it made me glad when I heard it was revealed through his servant Joseph, and that I could go forth, and officiate for my fathers, for my mothers, and for my ancestors, to the latest generation who have not had the privilege of helping themselves; that they can yet arise to the state of glory and exaltation as we that live, have a privilege of rising to ourselves. The next year I came home and requested Brother Joseph to preach upon the subject, which he did, I also heard many of the elders preach upon the same subject.
There has been many things said, and notions imbibed concerning this doctrine. Allow me to advance an idea, and it is this; except we attend to this ordinance according to the law of heaven in all things it will not be valid or be of any benefit either to the living or the dead; when it was first revealed all the order of it was not made known, afterwards it was made known, that records, clerks, and one or two witnesses were necessary or else it will be of no value to the saints.
The Lord has led this people all the while in this way, by giving them here a little and there a little, thus he increases their wisdom, and he that receives a little and is thankful for that shall receive more and more, and more even to the fullness of the eternal Godhead: there is no stopping place, but the weak capacity of man cannot understand it unless the spirit of the eternal God is in their hearts, and then they can comprehend but a little of it. In this is the glory, power, and excellency of the gospel of the Son of God to poor weak finite man. Look, O ye Latter-day Saints, at the nations of the earth, Christendom, look at them; but look at ourselves (although we have received a great deal) yet who is there here that has seen Jesus Christ, that have beheld angels,that have conversed with the spirits of just men made perfect, and the assembly of the church of Enoch, and with God the judge of all? who is there here that has been caught up to the third heavens and gazed upon the order and glory of the celestial world? don't you see brethren we have yet a great deal to learn, but is it not our privilege to be filled with all the fullness of Godliness? (cries of yes.) When you receive all that is for you, you will say O the blindness of Christendom! O the ignorance of the world!! even the Latter-day Saints that have assembled themselves together at the April conference in the year eighteen hundred and forty-five, will say, what am I?
Joseph in his life time did not receive every thing connected with the doctrine of redemption, but he has left the key with those who understand how to obtain and teach to this great people all that is necessary for their salvation and exaltation in the celestial kingdom of our God. We have got to learn how to be faithful with the few things, you know the promise is, if we are faithful in a few things we shall be made rulers over many things. If we improve upon the small things, greater will be given unto us.
I have said that a man cannot be baptized for a woman, nor a woman for a man, and it be valid. I have not used any argument as yet; I want now to use an argument upon this subject, it is a very short one; and I will do it by asking this congregation, if God would call a person to commence a thing that would not have power and ability to carry it out? Would he do it? (no.) Well then, what has been our course on former occasions? Why, here goes our beloved sisters, and they are baptized in the river or in the fount for their uncles, for their fathers, for their grandfathers and great grandfathers.
Well, now I will take you and confirm you for your uncles, for your fathers, for your grandfathers, and for your great grandfathers, and let you go; after a while here comes our beloved sisters, saying. I want to be ordained for my uncle, and for my grandfather, and great grand-father; I want my father ordained to the high priesthood, and my grandfather, I want to be patriarch, and you may ordain me a prophet for my uncle! What would you think about all that, sisters, come now you have been baptized and confirmed for your father, won't you be ordained for him? You could cast on a stocking and finish it. - You could take wool and card and spin it and make it into cloth, and then make it into garments. A person that commences a work and has not ability and power to finish it, only leaves the unfinished remains as a monument of folly. We will not commence a work we cannot finish: but let us hearken to the voice of the spirit and give heed to his teachings and we will make ourselves perfect in all things.
I would now call your attention to some of the saying of the apostle Paul. I hope you will not stumble at them. Paul says, "nevertheless, neither is the man without the woman. neither the woman without the man, in the Lord, for as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the women, but all things of God." The same Apostle also says, "The woman is the glory of the man." Now brethren, these are Paul's sayings, not Joseph Smith's spiritual wife system sayings.
And I would say, as no man can be perfect without the woman, so no woman can be perfect without a man to lead her, I tell you the truth as it is in the bosom of eternity; and I say so to every man upon the face of the earth; if he wishes to be saved he cannot be saved without a woman by his side. This is spiritual wife ism, that is, the doctrine of spiritual wives.
Lest these my sisters should think I give power into the hands of their husbands to abuse them, I would say there is no man has a right to govern his wife and family unless he does it after the order of the church of Christ, unless he does it upon this principle he need not expect to receive a celestial glory. He that does not govern as Jesus governs his church, breaks his bonds and solemn obligations to his family.
Now ye elders of Israel will you go and beat your wives? will you neglect and abuse them? You may ask, is that anything about being baptized for the dead, or the laws of the celestial kingdom? With regard to the laws of the celestial kingdom, I say it always was, and is, and always will be, a system of beauty and order. When the angel visited Cornelius, and commanded him to send men to Joppa for Peter, who should tell him words whereby he and his house should be saved. Would it not have saved a good deal of trouble if the angel had told these words to Cornelius? It certainly would, but it was not the angel's privilege, it remained for Peter to do, because it was Peter's calling; it was Peters's duty. In this case we see the principle of order. Again, in the case of the Savior, did he offer to baptism Paul? No, he had to go to Damascus, to a certain street, in order to find Ananias, who administered to him. Thus you see the angel honored Peter, the Savior honored Ananias by permitting them to attend to the calling they had received power to act in. So let fathers honor their families, husbands honor your wives, honor your children that they may learn to honor you; and if you come and are baptized for the father of your wife, and you want your mother baptized for, let your wife do it; give honor to her. --Ananias had the glory and honor of ordaining Paul and sending him to preach. Christ had done his work, and then gave honor and glory to his servants; when the elders have done their work, let them give their wives honor, and let them say to them, come and be baptised for my mother, and for my sister, and save them, and I will preside over the whole of you.
Thus let every person stand in their own order, and do that which belongs to them to do, that there may be no confusion, but let order and beauty be the characteristics of this people. I used to think that the sectarian world would certainly get to heaven for they tried hard enough. And we boys would frequently wish ourselves in heaven with our backs broke that we could not get out again. The sectarian world is just like that, they are scrambling up in the greatest confusion, saying to each other, I hope you will get to heaven, and may your back be broke that you cannot get out again, and that is all they know about it.
The religion of heaven teaches us to give every man and every woman their due, that rightly belongs to them. And he that walks up to his privilege and duty, he has honor and glory, and shall never be removed out of his place.
I have shown to the brethren and sisters that Brother Joseph did not tell them all things at once, consequently you may expect to hear and see many things you never thought of before. One thing is that we have taken down the wooden fount that was built up by the instructions of Brother Joseph. This has been a great wonder to some, and says one of the stone cutters the other day, "I wonder why Joseph did not tell us the fount should be built of stone." The man that made that speech is walking in darkness. He is a stranger to the spirit of this work, and knows nothing. In fact he does not know enough to cut a stone for the house of God. There is not a man under the face of the heavens that has one particle of the spirit about him, but knows that God talks to men according to their circumstances. God knew that old Abraham could not build a temple, therefore he said unto him, go to the mountain I shall tell thee of, and there offer up you sacrifice. He tells us to build an house here in this place, according to our means. And when we get a little more strength, he will say, go now and execute your means upon the next house we have got to build, and it is just to stretch our faith until it shall become exceeding great, that we can command the elements and they will obey. And when we get into Jackson county to walk in the courts of that house, we can say we built this temple for as the Lord lives we will build up Jackson county in this generation, (cries of amen,) and we will be far better off with regard to temporal things, when we have done, than ever we were before. If we had the means to build a fount in that house, say one of marble, the Lord would just as like as not tell us to cover it with gold just to stretch our faith. Brother Joseph said to me with regard to the fount, "I will not go into the river to be baptized for my friends, we will build a wooden fount to serve the present necessity; brethren does that satisfy you? This fount has caused the Gentile world to wonder but a sight of the next one will make a Gentile faint away. This brings to my memory a circumstance that transpired in the temple at Kirtland. A very pious lady came to see the temple, she walked up and down in the house, with her hands locked together, and after the escape of one or two of the sectarians most sanctified groans, she exclaimed, "The Lord does not like such extravagance." Poor thing, I wonder how she will walk upon the streets when they are paved with gold; she could not bear to see the temple of God adorned and beautified, and the reason was because she was full of the devil.
I would put you on your guard against those who wear a long face, and pretend to be so holy, and so much better than every body else - They cannot look pleasant because they are full of the devil. Those who have got the forgiveness of their sins have countenances that look bright, and they will shine with the intelligence of heaven. If you don't believe it, try yourselves and then look up into the glass.
We will have a fount that will not stink and keep us all the while cleansing it out: and we will have a pool wherein to baptism the sick, that they may recover. And when we get into the fount we will show you the priesthood and the power of it: therefore, let us be diligent in observing all the commandments of God. Put away all fears of mobs, let not these things trouble you, for I say to the people I believe myself we shall have a healthy season, and that we shall have a summer of peace. The devils will growl without, and if they could get in here they would growl, but if they do they must look out. And I dare venture to say, that there could not be found as healthy a looking congregation in all the United States as I see here this day.
Brethren and sisters, for the sake of your dead and for the sake of yourselves, be faithful and have no feelings in your hearts against one another, but learn to suffer wrong rather than do wrong, and by so doing we will outstrip all our enemies and conquer the evil one, for know ye not that here is Zion? know ye not that the millennium has commenced? We have had Zion upon the earth this fourteen years. Peace reigns among this people which is Zion. Union and true charity dwells with this people: this is the most orderly and peaceable people upon the face of the whole earth. Well, this is Zion, and it is increasing and spreading wider and wider, and this principle of Zion, which is peace, will stretch all over the earth; that is the millennium. The saints will increase, and continue to increase, and virtue, love, holiness, and all good principles, will continue to spread and spread and will rule the nations of the earth, and who is there that can stop its progress? None, but it will roll until there is no room for the devil; then he will be bound and shut up. The principles of the kingdom of God will prevail, from city to city, from nation to nation, until the devil shall be bound and there is no place for him. They killed the prophet Joseph for fear he would spread this principle but it will go and fill the whole earth; this is true and will come to pass as the Lord lives. Amen. [Nauvoo, Illinois - T&S 6:953-957] (4)
Footnotes:
1 - 'The John Taylor Nauvoo journal, January 1845-September 1845,' BYU Studies 23:3 (1983) edited by Dean C. Jessee
2 - Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple
3 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
4 - Elden J. Watson, ed. Brigham Young Addresses, 1801-1877: A Chronological Compilation of Known Addresses of the Prophet Brigham Young, 6 vols. (Salt Lake City: Privately published, 1971)
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
Rebaptism, Aug 25, 1844
-- Aug 25, 1844
[Brigham Young Journal] Sunday 25 went to the Stand Br Woodruff Preached I spoke to the saints 3/4 of an our had a good meeting gave much instruction to the saints and liberty to Baptize the saints for there dead relitives Brs. Hyde P. P. Pratt Cahoon and Phelps Bore testamona (1)
-- Aug 26, 1844
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 26th I went to the River in Company with Mrs Woodruff to be baptized for some of our dead friends. I was baptized for five of my friends under the hands of G. A. Smith, & confirmed under the hands of Elder Richards. Their names were Cyrus Thompson, Sylva Thompson Hyram Barber Arena Hart, Electa Woodruff.
Phebe W. Woodruff was baptized for five of her friends under the hands of W. W. & confirmed by W. Richards. Olive Libby, Sarah Pierce, Ezra Carter, Sophia Carter, Rachael Smith.
W. Woodruff baptised & confirmed by G.A.S. on the 26th of Aug. for: Asahel Hart, wife, Asahel Hart, Joseph Hart, Sophrona Hart, Adna Hart, Eunice Hart, Robt. Mason, Erastus Hart, Milla Woodruff, Hellan Woodruff, Henry Woodruff, Laura Hoskins, Marietta Hoskins, Wakerman Standley. (2)
-- Dec 5, 1844. Thursday.
[William Clayton Journal] ...I was at the office all day. At noon we had some conversation concerning recorders for the Baptism of our dead &c. We feel very anxious on the matter but have little prospect of anything being done very speedily. I feel very anxious on the subject myself, inasmuch as the Records of our Baptisms for our dead have not been kept in order for near 2 years back. The minutes have been kept on loose slips of paper and are liable to be lost and they have not been kept according to the order of God. There is so much treachery in man that it is hard to find a man who can be trusted with those Records for they cannot be public property. Inasmuch as they will have to contain histories pertaining to the transactions of individuals which never must be public. Dr. Richards remains very sick and I fear if he do not change his mode of living he will die...Brother Kimball asked President Young concerning D[iantha] Farr. He gave full consent and ordered Brother K[imball] to attend to it. I feel humbly grateful for this grant. And feel to ask the father in the name of Jesus to give me favor in her eyes and the eyes of her parents that I may receive the gift in full. (3)
-- Jan 8, 1845
[Brigham Young Sermon] Meeting of the Richards and Young families am President Brigham Young said, in substance:
As I do not know where to begin, I will begin in the middle and work both ways. With regard to our circumstances of being here this day I would have been happy to have seen the whole family. We have recorded up 120 or 130 of Father Young's family now living, and there is not one-third part of the family present. There are only a few of them here. There must be 60 or 80 in the church. Almost all the posterity are members. There are some things I will talk about. When we come to the connections we discover that we all sprung back to the settlement of New England about 200 years ago. It is but a little more than that time when Father Smith, the Goddards, Richards, Youngs and Kimballs were all in one family - as it were. We are all relations. It is only three generations back that Brother Joseph Smith's family were related to this family. There are only three children of Grand father and Grand mother Howe - that is, only three families who have embraced the Gospel, but the others must, because the decree has gone forth. I have preached to them myself, I have done my duty and now I have handed them over to other powers for a time. There is a great deal might be explained here this day. I will first set in order before these relations the true order of the Kingdom of God and how the families hereafter will be organized; you have heard Joseph say that the people did not know him; he had his eyes on the relation to blood-relations. Some have supposed that he meant spirit, but it was the blood-relation. This is it that he referred to. His descent from Joseph that was sold in to Egypt was direct, and the blood was pure in him. That is why the Lord chose him and we are pure when this blood - strain from Ephraim comes down pure. The decrees of the Almighty will be exalted - that blood which was in him was pure and he had the sole right and lawful power, as he was the legal heir to the blood that has been on the earth and has come down through a pure lineage. The union of various ancestors kept that blood pure. There is a great deal the people do not understand, and many of the Latter-day Saints have to learn all about it. In all the Kingdoms of the World you will find that there will be only one King, and all will be governed as one family, every man will preside over his own family. We will have to work out some of the impurities. There is a great deal that I have to say and the brethren will have patience. Mother Smith is here - she is our Mother, we hold her in a three-fold bond, for we hold her by blood, by the spirit, and by the Gospel. We are connected together. The human family will find out who are the saviors of the Earth. The world knew nothing of the office of saviors upon Mount Zion. If Joseph Smith is not the man on whom the Keys of the Kingdom rest, I would not give the ashes of a rye straw for our Salvation. If I teach my family correct principles and show them the way of Salvation I am in a sense their savior. There is the same blood of Ephraim running in the veins of this family - and I know who has the blood and the Priesthood to carry the keys to the world. The decree of the Almighty is so pure that it would seem like blunders in the eyes of the world; but the keys will rest upon the Prophet and there is no power on earth or in hell to take it from him. This is a subject relating to the baptism for the dead. We will tell you when the temple is finished how to redeem your dead. I want to tell you now don't be scared, don't be frightened, at what I tell you. The Church does not understand the doctrine that Joseph taught - yet it is plain as the sun at noonday - the order of redeeming our relatives originated in the Kingdom of Heaven. If our progenitors had kept their records as the Jews anciently did they would be able to tell exactly where they came from -- and see where they run down in one straight line. We have hundreds ready to be baptized for the dead. Nauvoo, Illinois UGHM 11:109-113 pm Brigham Young again spoke in substance as follows:
I have been reflecting on my life and the consequences of it and have listened to the remarks that Brother Joseph has been making. I have seen, and I know why the nations of the Earth have been left in darkness. They have rejected the Priesthood of God and have gone in the dark themselves and the rising generations have come up in darkness in obedience to their traditions. The result of it all I seldom talk about. For my reflections have been since I have been before the people as a public man, that I will build on the foundation of his (Joseph's) claims and rights. I suppose it was the first time that Joseph Smith gave to his Father the account of the finding of the records, when there was printed in the newspaper a short paragraph; it was only about a square inch, but it stated that a young man had seen an angel who had told him where to find an Indian Bible, and it went on to inquire what would happen if it should come forth; should we then know about the origin of the Indians? The night the plates were found, there was a great light in the East and it went to the West and it was very bright although there was no moon at the time. I gazed at it in company with my wife. The light was perfectly clear and remained several hours. It formed into men as if there were great armies in the West; and I then saw in the northwest armies of men come up. They would march to the South West and, then go out of sight. It was a very remarkable occurrence. It passed on, and continued perhaps about two hours. Soon after this the Book of Mormon was printed and came into our section of the country. Brother Joseph Young and Phinehas Young saw the elders, and Father Chamberlain preached to Joseph and Phinehas in such a manner that they asked him to desist. Then they went into Canada to preach. Samuel Smith brought the Book of Mormon into our district, and he preached from it. I weighted the matter for a year and a half. I looked at it on all sides. All other religions I could fathom, I could get to the bottom of all religions that I had any knowledge of, but this new one. I reasoned on month after month, until I came to a certain knowledge of its truth. I reasoned on revelation and while I was getting into it, brother Phinehas laid it by. I saw the two first Elders who preached to my brothers when I calculated to be baptized. I calculated that I would go into the Church seeing things as they were. I knew Methodism. The Methodist Preachers used to talk with children in such a manner that I have often prayed, "if there is a God in heaven, save me, that I may know all the truth and not be fooled by such doctrines." I saw them get religion all around me. Men were rolling and bawling and thumping, but it had no effect on me. I wanted to know the truth that I might not be fooled. Children and young men got religion but I could not get it till I was twenty-three years old; and then, in order to prevent my being any more pestered about it I joined Methodism. I was brought up in the midst of Methodists, Episcopalians, Quakers and Presbyterians. But when Mormonism came along I fathomed it as far as I could and then I embraced it for all day long, that I might just live and die standing straight in this work. I took my sleigh and horse and drove right off to Canada about 200 miles. John P. Greene went part way with me as a preacher--and when we were going along I told him if he didn't get snagged I'd treat. Joseph Young when he saw me believed the Book of Mormon. I preached to him first. And so I claim all of you as the fruit of my labors. I am the first one of the family that embraced it understandingly. The Prophet Joseph could not come to our neighborhood then, so I preached to my family and related the truth about the Book of Mormon. There was one, Nathan Fellows, who had not been out of doors for years, who was ill and always had his head wrapt up. When he heard the preaching of the fulness of the Gospel he threw away his coat and his stick believing it.
I was baptized in Mendon, Munroe County, New York, by Eleazer Miller April 9, 1832, and then we went preaching to the North, East, West and South and started the work. Seven months had scarce passed away when there were a dozen branches raised up. Father Smith had gone West to Missouri so we were left alone in New York. Phinehas Young and I went into Canada and I preached to my friends. If my father and mother had said goodbye I should have said goodbye without a tear; for God is my Father, Jesus is my brother and the faithful are my brothers and sisters. The Prophet Joseph told us to go and preach to our friends. We did so. We sowed the seed and now I see the fruits of our preaching. The rest of our relatives we have handed over to other powers for a season. If they must of necessity see sorrow to bring them into the Gospel then they must. If all my family and relatives were here they would be more than all that are now here today. There are only three branches of the Howe family here. Where will this Howe family grow to, when we go back to our great grand Father Goddard? If he had had the Priesthood and preached to his race how many hundreds would there not have been? My mother could sum up from 130 to 150 as her own family today, if she were here alive. If we were to take Grandfather Goddard's children and grand children what sort of a number would there be here? You would want a ten acre lot to stand them all on. Then provided great Grand Father Goddard had had the Keys of the Kingdom of Heaven, and was permitted to reign over his posterity he would now have had a great multitude to preside over. Then come on down to our Great Grand Children and trace them back to the main stream--it is like a little fibre, it spreads itself and becomes a mighty river.
If our Grand Father Goddard is permitted to rule as King and Priest over his posterity, and the posterity are raised up as kings and priests to rule over their posterity, our Grand-Fathers Goddard would call together a numerous host. I will show you the order of the Kingdom as regards my own family; one of my sons is placed here, another there, another there, and so on. Yet I should be their ruler, savior, dictator, and governor. They would have an innumerable posterity but all would join in harmony with my counsel; I should console, comfort, and advise them all. You and your children will rise up and administer unto your children, and you will rule over your posterity, and they may get up in tens, hundreds, thousands, and millions. Yet all will finally join with Adam who will be the King of all; Seth comes next; Seth rules under his father and over all; so this process will never end. This is the order of the Kingdom of Heaven, that men should rise up as Kings and Priests of God. We must have posterity to rule over. Uncle Haven, Phinehas, my brother Joseph, these come next and if my father were here, he would rule over all of us.
I calculate if I am blessed that I will have an innumerable host, of my own, the same as Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Orson Pratt can tell you the number of the lands and of the stars; but the Lord said of the Patriarchs, "their seed will be innumerable and they shall exceed the number of the Stars, they shall never cease to all eternity." Where there is no end, it must be innumerable. You may get an eternal decrease and thus get down to nothing, but there is no end to an increase.
I'll tell you about old Israel; do you know what the curse was upon Israel for? It was for mixing their seed with the Gentile races about them. I have received a promise that is to remain with me, and the same will be upon you and upon your children. I would tell you children that inasmuch as you have received this promise, and then if you mix your blood with others I will curse you, and in relation to the Priesthood, you would be cursed, or condemned. For your children, in such mixed unions, would be high-minded and stiff necked. The nations have wandered in darkness for centuries. If they had not mixed their blood, the Priesthood would never have been taken from them. Abraham was blessed and told that in the Latter Day he would gather his seed up and cleanse and wash them. God has had regard to the blood of the covenant for his oath's sake. That promised blood has trickled down through our parents until now we are here. I know who has the right to the Keys--the Prophet has! That blood has been preserved and has been brought down through father to son, and our heavenly Father has been watching it all the time and saw the man that has received the blood pure through descent--that is what Joseph meant the Lord had regard to: and He made promises to the seed of Abraham which He would have fulfilled if it had not been mixed with the Gentiles. Ephraim is the character who has the pure blood of promise in him. The Lord has respect unto it. This doctrine is perfectly plain and simple. Those who have the right will redeem the nations of the Earth. The people who had the right to the Priesthood lost it, and the Lord has brought it forth in this our day. We shall redeem our friends and all the house of Esau will be saved by proxy, by the Priesthood. When we go into the temple after awhile we will tell you who ought to do the work and how to do it. Suppose a man and woman want to redeem their friends; perhaps they have lived without the Gospel; the man would be baptized for his father and the woman for her mother; and if the husband has the power of the Priesthood they are jointly baptized he for the father she for the mother--he is then washed for the father, she for the mother--he holding the Priesthood redeems the father and mother of the woman. Again for his father and mother--she receives the anointing for the woman, and he for the man. Then they stand as proxy to be sealed up to all eternity and then they will go through the ordinances in the same way. Then they are sealed up in the same way for others--we shall have Father Smith with his grey locks. Joseph, Hyrum, Samuel, all will stand in their order, and we shall be priests and rulers to all eternity. Let my walk and my life speak for myself. The joy of the Lord is a great deal more than any one realizes unless he has partaken thereof. I have now given you text enough for weeks. [Nauvoo, Illinois - UGHM 11:106-108] (4)
Footnotes:
1 - Brigham Young Journal (1801-1877) Journal #2 July, 1837- Mar. 1845
2 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
3 - George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton
4 - Elden J. Watson, ed. Brigham Young Addresses, 1801-1877: A Chronological Compilation of Known Addresses of the Prophet Brigham Young, 6 vols. (Salt Lake City: Privately published, 1971)
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
[Brigham Young Journal] Sunday 25 went to the Stand Br Woodruff Preached I spoke to the saints 3/4 of an our had a good meeting gave much instruction to the saints and liberty to Baptize the saints for there dead relitives Brs. Hyde P. P. Pratt Cahoon and Phelps Bore testamona (1)
-- Aug 26, 1844
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 26th I went to the River in Company with Mrs Woodruff to be baptized for some of our dead friends. I was baptized for five of my friends under the hands of G. A. Smith, & confirmed under the hands of Elder Richards. Their names were Cyrus Thompson, Sylva Thompson Hyram Barber Arena Hart, Electa Woodruff.
Phebe W. Woodruff was baptized for five of her friends under the hands of W. W. & confirmed by W. Richards. Olive Libby, Sarah Pierce, Ezra Carter, Sophia Carter, Rachael Smith.
W. Woodruff baptised & confirmed by G.A.S. on the 26th of Aug. for: Asahel Hart, wife, Asahel Hart, Joseph Hart, Sophrona Hart, Adna Hart, Eunice Hart, Robt. Mason, Erastus Hart, Milla Woodruff, Hellan Woodruff, Henry Woodruff, Laura Hoskins, Marietta Hoskins, Wakerman Standley. (2)
-- Dec 5, 1844. Thursday.
[William Clayton Journal] ...I was at the office all day. At noon we had some conversation concerning recorders for the Baptism of our dead &c. We feel very anxious on the matter but have little prospect of anything being done very speedily. I feel very anxious on the subject myself, inasmuch as the Records of our Baptisms for our dead have not been kept in order for near 2 years back. The minutes have been kept on loose slips of paper and are liable to be lost and they have not been kept according to the order of God. There is so much treachery in man that it is hard to find a man who can be trusted with those Records for they cannot be public property. Inasmuch as they will have to contain histories pertaining to the transactions of individuals which never must be public. Dr. Richards remains very sick and I fear if he do not change his mode of living he will die...Brother Kimball asked President Young concerning D[iantha] Farr. He gave full consent and ordered Brother K[imball] to attend to it. I feel humbly grateful for this grant. And feel to ask the father in the name of Jesus to give me favor in her eyes and the eyes of her parents that I may receive the gift in full. (3)
-- Jan 8, 1845
[Brigham Young Sermon] Meeting of the Richards and Young families am President Brigham Young said, in substance:
As I do not know where to begin, I will begin in the middle and work both ways. With regard to our circumstances of being here this day I would have been happy to have seen the whole family. We have recorded up 120 or 130 of Father Young's family now living, and there is not one-third part of the family present. There are only a few of them here. There must be 60 or 80 in the church. Almost all the posterity are members. There are some things I will talk about. When we come to the connections we discover that we all sprung back to the settlement of New England about 200 years ago. It is but a little more than that time when Father Smith, the Goddards, Richards, Youngs and Kimballs were all in one family - as it were. We are all relations. It is only three generations back that Brother Joseph Smith's family were related to this family. There are only three children of Grand father and Grand mother Howe - that is, only three families who have embraced the Gospel, but the others must, because the decree has gone forth. I have preached to them myself, I have done my duty and now I have handed them over to other powers for a time. There is a great deal might be explained here this day. I will first set in order before these relations the true order of the Kingdom of God and how the families hereafter will be organized; you have heard Joseph say that the people did not know him; he had his eyes on the relation to blood-relations. Some have supposed that he meant spirit, but it was the blood-relation. This is it that he referred to. His descent from Joseph that was sold in to Egypt was direct, and the blood was pure in him. That is why the Lord chose him and we are pure when this blood - strain from Ephraim comes down pure. The decrees of the Almighty will be exalted - that blood which was in him was pure and he had the sole right and lawful power, as he was the legal heir to the blood that has been on the earth and has come down through a pure lineage. The union of various ancestors kept that blood pure. There is a great deal the people do not understand, and many of the Latter-day Saints have to learn all about it. In all the Kingdoms of the World you will find that there will be only one King, and all will be governed as one family, every man will preside over his own family. We will have to work out some of the impurities. There is a great deal that I have to say and the brethren will have patience. Mother Smith is here - she is our Mother, we hold her in a three-fold bond, for we hold her by blood, by the spirit, and by the Gospel. We are connected together. The human family will find out who are the saviors of the Earth. The world knew nothing of the office of saviors upon Mount Zion. If Joseph Smith is not the man on whom the Keys of the Kingdom rest, I would not give the ashes of a rye straw for our Salvation. If I teach my family correct principles and show them the way of Salvation I am in a sense their savior. There is the same blood of Ephraim running in the veins of this family - and I know who has the blood and the Priesthood to carry the keys to the world. The decree of the Almighty is so pure that it would seem like blunders in the eyes of the world; but the keys will rest upon the Prophet and there is no power on earth or in hell to take it from him. This is a subject relating to the baptism for the dead. We will tell you when the temple is finished how to redeem your dead. I want to tell you now don't be scared, don't be frightened, at what I tell you. The Church does not understand the doctrine that Joseph taught - yet it is plain as the sun at noonday - the order of redeeming our relatives originated in the Kingdom of Heaven. If our progenitors had kept their records as the Jews anciently did they would be able to tell exactly where they came from -- and see where they run down in one straight line. We have hundreds ready to be baptized for the dead. Nauvoo, Illinois UGHM 11:109-113 pm Brigham Young again spoke in substance as follows:
I have been reflecting on my life and the consequences of it and have listened to the remarks that Brother Joseph has been making. I have seen, and I know why the nations of the Earth have been left in darkness. They have rejected the Priesthood of God and have gone in the dark themselves and the rising generations have come up in darkness in obedience to their traditions. The result of it all I seldom talk about. For my reflections have been since I have been before the people as a public man, that I will build on the foundation of his (Joseph's) claims and rights. I suppose it was the first time that Joseph Smith gave to his Father the account of the finding of the records, when there was printed in the newspaper a short paragraph; it was only about a square inch, but it stated that a young man had seen an angel who had told him where to find an Indian Bible, and it went on to inquire what would happen if it should come forth; should we then know about the origin of the Indians? The night the plates were found, there was a great light in the East and it went to the West and it was very bright although there was no moon at the time. I gazed at it in company with my wife. The light was perfectly clear and remained several hours. It formed into men as if there were great armies in the West; and I then saw in the northwest armies of men come up. They would march to the South West and, then go out of sight. It was a very remarkable occurrence. It passed on, and continued perhaps about two hours. Soon after this the Book of Mormon was printed and came into our section of the country. Brother Joseph Young and Phinehas Young saw the elders, and Father Chamberlain preached to Joseph and Phinehas in such a manner that they asked him to desist. Then they went into Canada to preach. Samuel Smith brought the Book of Mormon into our district, and he preached from it. I weighted the matter for a year and a half. I looked at it on all sides. All other religions I could fathom, I could get to the bottom of all religions that I had any knowledge of, but this new one. I reasoned on month after month, until I came to a certain knowledge of its truth. I reasoned on revelation and while I was getting into it, brother Phinehas laid it by. I saw the two first Elders who preached to my brothers when I calculated to be baptized. I calculated that I would go into the Church seeing things as they were. I knew Methodism. The Methodist Preachers used to talk with children in such a manner that I have often prayed, "if there is a God in heaven, save me, that I may know all the truth and not be fooled by such doctrines." I saw them get religion all around me. Men were rolling and bawling and thumping, but it had no effect on me. I wanted to know the truth that I might not be fooled. Children and young men got religion but I could not get it till I was twenty-three years old; and then, in order to prevent my being any more pestered about it I joined Methodism. I was brought up in the midst of Methodists, Episcopalians, Quakers and Presbyterians. But when Mormonism came along I fathomed it as far as I could and then I embraced it for all day long, that I might just live and die standing straight in this work. I took my sleigh and horse and drove right off to Canada about 200 miles. John P. Greene went part way with me as a preacher--and when we were going along I told him if he didn't get snagged I'd treat. Joseph Young when he saw me believed the Book of Mormon. I preached to him first. And so I claim all of you as the fruit of my labors. I am the first one of the family that embraced it understandingly. The Prophet Joseph could not come to our neighborhood then, so I preached to my family and related the truth about the Book of Mormon. There was one, Nathan Fellows, who had not been out of doors for years, who was ill and always had his head wrapt up. When he heard the preaching of the fulness of the Gospel he threw away his coat and his stick believing it.
I was baptized in Mendon, Munroe County, New York, by Eleazer Miller April 9, 1832, and then we went preaching to the North, East, West and South and started the work. Seven months had scarce passed away when there were a dozen branches raised up. Father Smith had gone West to Missouri so we were left alone in New York. Phinehas Young and I went into Canada and I preached to my friends. If my father and mother had said goodbye I should have said goodbye without a tear; for God is my Father, Jesus is my brother and the faithful are my brothers and sisters. The Prophet Joseph told us to go and preach to our friends. We did so. We sowed the seed and now I see the fruits of our preaching. The rest of our relatives we have handed over to other powers for a season. If they must of necessity see sorrow to bring them into the Gospel then they must. If all my family and relatives were here they would be more than all that are now here today. There are only three branches of the Howe family here. Where will this Howe family grow to, when we go back to our great grand Father Goddard? If he had had the Priesthood and preached to his race how many hundreds would there not have been? My mother could sum up from 130 to 150 as her own family today, if she were here alive. If we were to take Grandfather Goddard's children and grand children what sort of a number would there be here? You would want a ten acre lot to stand them all on. Then provided great Grand Father Goddard had had the Keys of the Kingdom of Heaven, and was permitted to reign over his posterity he would now have had a great multitude to preside over. Then come on down to our Great Grand Children and trace them back to the main stream--it is like a little fibre, it spreads itself and becomes a mighty river.
If our Grand Father Goddard is permitted to rule as King and Priest over his posterity, and the posterity are raised up as kings and priests to rule over their posterity, our Grand-Fathers Goddard would call together a numerous host. I will show you the order of the Kingdom as regards my own family; one of my sons is placed here, another there, another there, and so on. Yet I should be their ruler, savior, dictator, and governor. They would have an innumerable posterity but all would join in harmony with my counsel; I should console, comfort, and advise them all. You and your children will rise up and administer unto your children, and you will rule over your posterity, and they may get up in tens, hundreds, thousands, and millions. Yet all will finally join with Adam who will be the King of all; Seth comes next; Seth rules under his father and over all; so this process will never end. This is the order of the Kingdom of Heaven, that men should rise up as Kings and Priests of God. We must have posterity to rule over. Uncle Haven, Phinehas, my brother Joseph, these come next and if my father were here, he would rule over all of us.
I calculate if I am blessed that I will have an innumerable host, of my own, the same as Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Orson Pratt can tell you the number of the lands and of the stars; but the Lord said of the Patriarchs, "their seed will be innumerable and they shall exceed the number of the Stars, they shall never cease to all eternity." Where there is no end, it must be innumerable. You may get an eternal decrease and thus get down to nothing, but there is no end to an increase.
I'll tell you about old Israel; do you know what the curse was upon Israel for? It was for mixing their seed with the Gentile races about them. I have received a promise that is to remain with me, and the same will be upon you and upon your children. I would tell you children that inasmuch as you have received this promise, and then if you mix your blood with others I will curse you, and in relation to the Priesthood, you would be cursed, or condemned. For your children, in such mixed unions, would be high-minded and stiff necked. The nations have wandered in darkness for centuries. If they had not mixed their blood, the Priesthood would never have been taken from them. Abraham was blessed and told that in the Latter Day he would gather his seed up and cleanse and wash them. God has had regard to the blood of the covenant for his oath's sake. That promised blood has trickled down through our parents until now we are here. I know who has the right to the Keys--the Prophet has! That blood has been preserved and has been brought down through father to son, and our heavenly Father has been watching it all the time and saw the man that has received the blood pure through descent--that is what Joseph meant the Lord had regard to: and He made promises to the seed of Abraham which He would have fulfilled if it had not been mixed with the Gentiles. Ephraim is the character who has the pure blood of promise in him. The Lord has respect unto it. This doctrine is perfectly plain and simple. Those who have the right will redeem the nations of the Earth. The people who had the right to the Priesthood lost it, and the Lord has brought it forth in this our day. We shall redeem our friends and all the house of Esau will be saved by proxy, by the Priesthood. When we go into the temple after awhile we will tell you who ought to do the work and how to do it. Suppose a man and woman want to redeem their friends; perhaps they have lived without the Gospel; the man would be baptized for his father and the woman for her mother; and if the husband has the power of the Priesthood they are jointly baptized he for the father she for the mother--he is then washed for the father, she for the mother--he holding the Priesthood redeems the father and mother of the woman. Again for his father and mother--she receives the anointing for the woman, and he for the man. Then they stand as proxy to be sealed up to all eternity and then they will go through the ordinances in the same way. Then they are sealed up in the same way for others--we shall have Father Smith with his grey locks. Joseph, Hyrum, Samuel, all will stand in their order, and we shall be priests and rulers to all eternity. Let my walk and my life speak for myself. The joy of the Lord is a great deal more than any one realizes unless he has partaken thereof. I have now given you text enough for weeks. [Nauvoo, Illinois - UGHM 11:106-108] (4)
Footnotes:
1 - Brigham Young Journal (1801-1877) Journal #2 July, 1837- Mar. 1845
2 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
3 - George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton
4 - Elden J. Watson, ed. Brigham Young Addresses, 1801-1877: A Chronological Compilation of Known Addresses of the Prophet Brigham Young, 6 vols. (Salt Lake City: Privately published, 1971)
LDS History Chronology: Unconventional Baptisms
Mormon History Timeline: Forms of Rebaptism in LDS History
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/
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