Opening of the Year 1836--The American Indians--Special Council
Meetings in Kirtland.
[Sidenote: Reflections of the Prophet.]
_Friday Morning, January 1, 1836_.--This being the beginning of a new
year, my heart is filled with gratitude to God that He has preserved
my life, and the lives of my family, while another year has passed
away. We have been sustained and upheld in the midst of a wicked
and perverse generation, although exposed to all the afflictions,
temptations, and misery that are incident to human life; for this I
feel to humble myself in dust and ashes, as it were, before the Lord.
But notwithstanding the gratitude that fills my heart on retrospecting
the past year, and the multiplied blessings that have crowned our
heads, my heart is pained within me, because of the difficulty that
exists in my father's family. The devil has made a violent attack on my
brother William and Calvin Stoddard, and the powers of darkness seem
to lower over their minds, and not only over theirs, but they also
cast a gloomy shade over the minds of my brethren and sisters, which
prevents them from seeing things as they really are; and the powers of
earth and hell seem combined to overthrow us and the Church, by causing
a division in the family; and indeed the adversary is bringing into
requisition all his subtlety to prevent the Saints from being endowed,
by causing a division among the Twelve, also among the Seventy, and
bickering and jealousies among the Elders and the official members of
the Church; and so the leaven of iniquity {353} ferments and spreads
among the members of the Church. But I am determined that nothing on my
part shall be lacking to adjust and amicably dispose of and settle all
family difficulties on this day, that the ensuing year and years, be
they few or many, may be spent in righteousness before God. And I know
that the cloud will burst, and Satan's kingdom be laid in ruins, with
all his black designs; and that the Saints will come forth like gold
seven times tried in the fire, being made perfect through sufferings
and temptations, and that the blessings of heaven and earth will be
multiplied upon their heads; which may God grant for Christ's sake.
Amen.
[Sidenote: Reconciliation of the Prophet and his Brother William.]
Brothers William and Hyrum, and Uncle John Smith, came to my house,
and we went into a room by ourselves, in company with father and Elder
Martin Harris. Father Smith then opened our interview by prayer, after
which he expressed himself on the occasion in a very feeling and
pathetic manner, even with all the sympathy of a father, whose feelings
were deeply wounded on account of the difficulty that was existing in
the family; and while he addressed us, the Spirit of God rested down
upon us in mighty power, and our hearts were melted. Brother William
made a humble confession and asked my forgiveness for the abuse he
had offered me. And wherein I had been out of the way, I asked his
forgiveness. And the spirit of confession and forgiveness was mutual
among us all, and we covenanted with each other, in the sight of God,
and the holy angels, and the brethren, to strive thenceforward to build
each other up in righteousness in all things, and not listen to evil
reports concerning each other; but, like brothers indeed, go to each
other, with grievances, in the spirit of meekness, and be reconciled,
and thereby promote our happiness, and the happiness of the family,
and, in short, the happiness and well-being of all. My wife and mother
and my scribe were then called in, and we repeated the covenant to
them {354} that we had entered into; and while gratitude swelled our
bosoms, tears flowed from our eyes. I was then requested to close
our interview, which I did, with prayer; and it was truly a jubilee
and time of rejoicing; after which we all unitedly administered, by
laying on of hands, to my cousin George A. Smith, who was immediately
healed of a severe rheumatic affection all over the body, which caused
excruciating pain.
[Sidenote: Settlement of William Smith's case Before the Council.]
_Saturday, January 2_.--According to previous arrangement, I went to
the Council at nine o'clock. This Council was called to sit in judgment
on a complaint preferred against Brother William Smith, by Orson
Johnson, on the 29th of December.
The Council organized and proceeded to business, but before entering on
trial, Brother William arose and humbly confessed the charges preferred
against him, and asked the forgiveness of the Council and the whole
congregation.
A vote was then called to know whether his confession was satisfactory,
and whether the brethren would extend again to him the hand of
fellowship. With cheerfulness the whole congregation raised their hands
to receive him.
Elder Almon W. Babbitt also confessed the charges which I preferred
against him in a previous Council; and was received into fellowship.
Council voted that Vinson Knight and Thomas Grover should be ordained
Elders. And some other business was transacted in union and fellowship,
and the best of feeling seemed to prevail among the brethren, and our
hearts were made glad on the occasion, and there was joy in heaven,
and my soul doth magnify the Lord, for His goodness and mercy endure
forever.
Elijah Fordham, Hyrum Dayton, Samuel James and John Herrot were also
appointed by Council to be ordained Elders under my hands.
{355} _Sunday, 3_.--Went to meeting at the usual hour. President Rigdon
delivered a fine lecture upon the subject of Revelation.
In the afternoon I confirmed ten or twelve persons who had been
baptized, among whom was Malcham C. Davis, who was baptized during
the intermission today. Brother William Smith made his confession to
the Church to their satisfaction, and was cordially received into
fellowship again. The Lord's Supper was administered, and Brother
William gave out an appointment to preach in the evening at early
candle-light, and preached a fine discourse; and this day has been a
day of rejoicing to me. The cloud that has been hanging over us has
burst with blessings on our heads, and Satan has been foiled in his
attempts to destroy me and the Church, by causing jealousies to arise
in the hearts of some of the brethren; and I thank my heavenly Father
for the union and harmony which now prevail in the Church.
[Sidenote: Preparation for the Hebrew School.]
_Monday, 4_.--Met and organized our Hebrew school according to the
arrangements that were made on Saturday last. We had engaged Doctor
Piexotto to teach us in the Hebrew language, when we had our room
prepared. We informed him that we were ready and our room was prepared.
And he agreed to wait on us this day, and deliver his introductory
lecture. Yesterday he sent us word that he could not come until
Wednesday next. A vote was then called to know whether we would submit
to such treatment or not; and carried in the negative; and Elder
Sylvester Smith was appointed clerk to write him on the subject, and
inform him that his services were not wanted; and Elders William
E. M'Lellin and Orson Hyde despatched to Hudson Seminary to hire a
teacher. They were appointed by the voice of the school to act in their
behalf. However, we concluded to go on with our school and do the best
we could until we obtained a teacher; and by the voice of the school I
{356} consented to render them all the assistance I was able to for the
time being.
We are occupying the translating room for the use of the school, until
another room can be prepared. It is the west room in the upper part
of the Temple, and was consecrated this morning by prayer, offered up
by Father Smith. This is the first day we have occupied it. This is a
rainy time, and the roads are extremely muddy.
Met this evening at the Temple, to make arrangements for a singing
school. After some discussion, a judicious arrangement was made, a
committee of six was chosen to take charge of the singing department.
_Tuesday, 5_.--Attended the Hebrew school, divided it into classes.
Had some debate with Elder Orson Pratt concerning the pronunciation of
a Hebrew letter. He manifested a stubborn spirit, at which I was much
grieved.
[Sidenote: A Difference Between the Prophet and Orson Pratt.]
_Wednesday, 6_.--Attended school and spent most of the forenoon in
settling the unpleasant feelings that existed in the breast of Elder
Orson Pratt. After much controversy, he confessed his fault for
entering into any controversy concerning so small a matter as the sound
of a Hebrew letter, and asked the forgiveness of the whole school, and
was cheerfully forgiven by all.
[Sidenote: A New Teacher in Hebrew Employed.]
Elder M'Lellin returned from Hudson, and reported to the school that
he had hired a teacher to teach us the term of seven weeks, for three
hundred and twenty dollars; that is, forty scholars for that amount;
to commence in about fifteen days. He is highly celebrated as a Hebrew
scholar, and proposes to give us sufficient knowledge during the above
term to start us in reading and translating the language.
[Sidenote: Vacancies in the High Council Filled.]
A High Council assembled at Kirtland for the purpose of filling the
vacancies of the High Council of Zion. Presidents David Whitmer, John
Whitmer and W. W. Phelps, and fifteen High {357} Priests and Elders
present. President Phelps announced the death of Christian Whitmer on
the 27th of November, 1835. Four councilors, namely Parley P. Pratt,
Orson Pratt, William E. M'Lellin and Thomas B. Marsh, had been chosen
Apostles, or especial witnesses; and Elisha B. Groves was appointed to
take the place of Parley P. Pratt in the High Council of Zion, John
Hitchcock in the place of William E. M'Lellin, George M. Hinkle of
Orson Pratt, Elias Higbee of Thomas B. Marsh, and Peter Whitmer, Jun.,
of Christian Whitmer, deceased; who were ordained at the time to their
office as councilors.
[Sidenote: The Gathering of Israel and the American Indians.]
Much has been said and done of late by the general government in
relation to the Indians (Lamanites) within the territorial limits
of the United States. One of most important points in the faith of
the Church of the Latter Day Saints, through the fullness of the
everlasting Gospel, is the gathering of Israel (of whom the Lamanites
constitute a part)--that happy time when Jacob shall go up to the
house of the Lord, to worship Him in spirit and in truth, to live in
holiness; when the Lord will restore his judges as at the first, and
His counselors as at the beginning; when every man may sit under his
own vine and fig tree, and there will be none to molest or make afraid;
when He will turn to them a pure language, and the earth will be filled
with sacred knowledge, as the waters cover the great deep; when it
shall no longer be said, the Lord lives that brought up the children of
Israel out of the land of Egypt, but the Lord lives that brought up the
children of Israel from the land of the north, and from all the lands
whither He has driven them. That day is one, all important to all men.
In view of its importance, together with all that the prophets
have said about it before us, we feel like dropping a few ideas in
connection with the official statements from the government concerning
the Indians. In speaking of the gathering, we mean to be understood
as speaking of it {358} according to scripture, the gathering of the
elect of the Lord out of every nation on earth, and bringing them to
the place of the Lord of Hosts, when the city of righteousness shall be
built, and where the people shall be of one heart and one mind, when
the Savior comes; yea, where the people shall walk with God like Enoch,
and be free from sin. The word of the Lord is precious; and when we
read that the vail spread over all nations will be destroyed, and the
pure in heart see God, and reign with Him a thousand years on earth, we
want all honest men to have a chance together and build up a city of
righteousness, where even upon the bells of the horses shall be written
_Holiness to the Lord_.
[Sidenote: Policy of the Government of the United States Respecting the
Indians.]
The Book of Mormon has made known who Israel is, upon this continent.
And while we behold the government of the United States gathering the
indians, and locating them upon lands to be their own, how sweet it is
to think that they may one day be gathered by the Gospel! Our venerable
President of these United States (Andrew Jackson) speaks of the Indians
as follows:
_President Andrew Jackson's Views on the Policy of the General
Government with Reference to the Indians_.
The plan of removing the aboriginal people who yet remain within
the settled portions of the United States, to the country west
of the Mississippi River, approaches its consummation. It was
adopted on the most mature consideration of the condition of
this race, and ought to be persisted in till the object is
accomplished, and prosecuted with as much vigor as a just regard
to their circumstances will permit, and as far as their consent
can be obtained. All preceding experiments for the improvement of
the Indians have failed. It seems now to be an established fact,
that they cannot live in contact with a civilized community and
prosper. Ages of fruitless endeavors have at length brought us to
a knowledge of this principle of intercommunication with them. The
past we cannot recall, but the future we can provide for,
Independently of the treaty stipulations into which we have entered
with the various tribes for the usufructuary rights ceded to us, no
one can doubt the moral duty of the government of the United States
to {359} protect, and, if possible, to preserve and perpetuate
the scattered remnants of this race which are left within our
borders. In the discharge of this duty, an extensive region in the
west has been assigned for their permanent residence. It has been
divided into districts, and allotted among them. Many have already
removed, and others are preparing to go; and, with the exception
of two small bands, living in Ohio and Indiana, not exceeding
fifteen hundred persons, and of the Cherokees, all the tribes on
the east side of the Mississippi, and extending from Lake Michigan
to Florida, have entered into engagements which will lead to their
transplantation.
The plan for their removal and re-establishment is founded upon
the knowledge we have gained of their character and habits, and
has been dictated by a spirit of enlarged liberality. A territory
exceeding in extent to that relinquished has been granted to
each tribe. Of its climate, fertility, and capability to support
an Indian population, the representations are highly favorable.
To these districts the Indians are removed at the expense of
the United States, and with certain supplies of clothing, arms,
ammunition, and other indispensable articles; they are also
furnished gratuitously with provisions for the period of a year
after their arrival at their new homes. In that time, from the
nature of the country, and of the products raised by them, they can
subsist themselves by agricultural labor, if they choose to resort
to that mode of life. If they do not, they are on the skirts of
the great prairies, where countless herds of buffalo roam, and a
short time suffices to adapt their own habits to the changes which
a change of the animals destined for their food may require.
Ample arrangements have also been made for the support of schools;
in some instances, council houses and churches are to be erected,
dwellings to be constructed for the chiefs, and mills for cotton
use. Funds have been set apart for the maintenance of the poor,
the most necessary mechanical arts have been introduced, and
blacksmiths, gunsmiths, wheelwrights, millwrights, etc., are
supported among them. Steel and iron, and sometime salt are
purchased for them; and plows and other farming utensils.
Domestic animals, looms, spinning wheels, cards, etc., are
presented to them; and besides these beneficial arrangements,
annuities are in all cases paid, amounting in some instances to
more than thirty dollars for each individual of the tribe, and
in all cases sufficiently great, if justly divided and prudently
expended, to enable them, in addition to their own exertions,
to live comfortably. And as a stimulus for exertion, it is
now provided by law, that in all cases of the appointment of
interpreters, or other persons employed for the benefit of the
Indians, a preference shall be given to persons of Indian descent,
if such can {360} be found, who are properly qualified for the
discharge of the duties.
Such are the arrangements for the physical comfort and for the
moral improvement of the Indians. The necessary measures for their
political advancement and for their separation from our citizens
have not been neglected. The pledge of the United States has been
given by Congress, that the country designated for the residence
of this people shall be "forever secured and guaranteed to them."
A country west of Missouri and Arkansas has been assigned to them,
into which the white settlements are not to be pushed. No political
communities can be formed in that extensive region, except those
that are established by the Indians themselves, or by the United
States for them and with their concurrence. A barrier has thus
been raised for their protection against the encroachments of the
citizens, and guarding the Indians as far as possible, from those
evils which have brought them to their present condition.
Summary authority has been given by law, to destroy all ardent
spirits found in their country without waiting the doubtful result
and slow process of a legal seizure.
I consider the absolute and unconditional interdiction of this
article, among these people, as the first great step in their
amelioration. Halfway measures will answer no purpose. These cannot
successfully contend against the cupidity of the seller and the
overpowering appetite of the buyer; and the destructive effects of
the traffic are marked in every page of the history of our Indian
intercourse.
Some general legislation seems necessary for the regulation of the
relations which will exist in this new state of things between the
government and people of the United States and those transplanted
Indian tribes, and for the establishment among the latter, with
their own consent, some of the principles of intercommunication
which their juxtaposition will call for; that moral may be
substituted for physical force; the authority of a few simple laws,
for the tomahawk; and that an end may be put to those bloody wars,
whose prosecution seems to have made a part of their social system.
After the further detail of the arrangements are completed, with a
very general supervision over them, they ought to be left to the
progress of events. These, I indulge the hope, will secure their
prosperity and improvement; and a large portion of the moral debt
we owe them will be paid.
In addition to the above, we extract the following from the report on
Indian affairs, made to Congress at {361} the present session. We add
and arrange according to circumstances:
The United Nation--Chippewas, Ottawas and Pottawatamies--about
1,000 in number, removed since September, 1834--possess 5,000,000
of acres of land on the east side of the Missouri and lying
north-west of the north-west corner of Missouri [All these tribes
may be rated at about 7,000]..1,000
The Choctaws, about 19,000, in number, have 15,000,000 of acres,
lying between the Red River and the Canadian 19,000
A small band of Quapaws, 200 or 300, perhaps near 95,000 acres,
between the western boundary of the State of Missouri and the
eastern boundary of the Osages 300
The Creeks, about 3,000 or 4,000, have 13,140,000 acres on Arkansas
and Canadian rivers 4,000
The Seminoles, and other Florida Indians, to the number of say
25,000, included as the owners of the above 13,140,000 acres 25,000
The Cherokees, amounting to say 16,000, have 13,000,000 of acres,
near the 36th degree of north latitude 16,000
The Kickapoos, something less than 1,000, have 160,000 acres north
of Fort Leavenworth 1,000
The Delawares, nearly 1,000, have 200,000 acres west and south of
the Kickapoos 1,000
The Shawnees, 1,200 or 1,400, have 1,600,000 acres south side of
Kansas River 1,400
The Ottawas, about 200, have 30,000 acres south of the Shawnees 200
The Weas, Pinkeshaws, Peoria, and Kashaskias, say 500 in all, have
260,000 acres south of the Shawnees 500
The Senecas and Shawnees, say 500, have 100,000 acres on the
western boundaries of the State of Missouri 500
Of the native tribes west of the Mississippi, the report is as follows:
Sioux 27,000
Iowas 12,00
Sacs of the Missouri 500
Omahas 1,400
Ottoes and Missourias 1,600
Pawnees 10,000
Camanches 7,000
{362} Minatares 15,000
Assinaboins 8,000
Crees 3,000
Gros Ventres 3,000
Crows 3,500
Quapaws 450
Caddoes [1] 2,000
Poncas 800
Arickarees 3,000
Cheyennes 2,000
Blackfeet 30,000
Foxes 1,600
Anepahas, Kioways, etc. 14,000
Osages 5,120
Kansa 1,471
Sacs 4,800
[Sidenote: Hopes of the Prophet in Behalf of the Indians.]
The joy that we shall feel, in common with every honest American,
and the joy that will eventually fill their bosoms on account of
nationalizing the Indians, will be reward enough when it is shown that
gathering them to themselves, and _for themselves_, to be associated
with themselves, is a wise measure, and it reflects the highest honor
upon our government. May they all be gathered in peace, and form a
happy union among themselves, to which thousands may shout, _Esto
perpetua_.
[Sidenote: A Feast at Bishop Whitney's.]
_Thursday, 7_.--Attended a sumptuous feast at Bishop Newel K.
Whitney's. This feast was after the order of the Son of God--the lame,
the halt, and the blind were invited, according to the instructions of
the Savior. Our meeting was opened by singing, and prayer by Father
Smith; after which Bishop Whitney's father and mother, and a number of
others, were blessed with a patriarchal blessing. We then received a
bountiful refreshment, furnished by the liberality of the Bishop. The
company was large, and before we partook we had some of the songs of
Zion sung; and our hearts were made glad by a foretaste of those joys
that will be {363} poured upon the heads of the Saints when they are
gathered together on Mount Zion, to enjoy one another's society for
evermore, even all the blessings of heaven, when there will be none to
molest or make us afraid. Returned home, and spent the evening.
[Sidenote: Progress of Work on Kirtland Temple.]
_Friday, 8_.--Spent the day in the Hebrew school, and made rapid
progress in our studies. The plastering and hard-finishing on the
outside of the Lord's house was commenced on the 2nd of November, 1835,
and finished this day. The job was let to Artemas Millet and Lorenzo
Young, at one thousand dollars. Jacob Bump took the job of plastering
the inside of the house throughout, at fifteen hundred dollars, and
commenced the same on the 9th of November last. He is still continuing
the work, notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather.
[Sidenote: Bishop Whitney's Unique Invitation to the Prophet.]
_Saturday, 9_.--Attended school in the forenoon. About eleven o'clock
received the following note:
Thus saith the voice of the Spirit to me--If thy brother Joseph
Smith, Jun., will attend the feast at thy house, this day (at
twelve o'clock), the poor and the lame will rejoice in his
presence, and also think themselves honored.
Yours in friendship and love,
Newel K. Whitney.
January 9, 1836.
I dismissed the school to accept this polite invitation, with my wife,
father and mother. A large congregation assembled, a number were
blessed under the hands of Father Smith, and we had a good time. Spent
the evening at home.
_Sunday, 10_.--Attended meeting at the usual hour. Elder Wilbur Denton
and Wilkins J. Salisbury preached in the forenoon, and Brothers Samuel
and Don Carlos Smith in the afternoon. They all did well, considering
their youth. Administered the Sacrament during intermission. Elder
Martin Harris baptized three. Spent the evening at home.
[Sidenote: Visit of Alva Beaman to the Prophet.]
{364} _Monday, 11_.--There being no school, I spent the day at home.
Many brethren called to see me, among whom was Alva Beaman, from
Genesee County, New York, who had come to attend the solemn assembly.
I delight in the society of my brethren and friends, and pray that the
blessings of heaven and earth may be multiplied upon their heads.
[Sidenote: Preparations for the Solemn Assembly.]
_Tuesday, 12_.--I called on the Presidency of the Church, and made
arrangements to meet tomorrow at ten o'clock, a. m. to take into
consideration the subject of the solemn assembly. This afternoon, a
young man called to see the Egyptian manuscripts, which I exhibited.
Also Brother Joseph Rose introduced to me, Russel Weaver, a Christian
or Unitarian preacher, so-called, from Cambray, New York. We had some
little controversy on prejudice, but soon came to an understanding. He
spoke of the Gospel, and said he believed it, adding that it was good
tidings of great joy. I replied that it was one thing to proclaim good
tidings, and another to tell what these tidings were. He waived the
conversation and withdrew.
_Wednesday, 13_.--At ten o'clock I met in council with the Presidency
of Kirtland and Zion, namely, Joseph Smith, Sen., Sidney Rigdon, Hyrum
Smith, David Whitmer, John Whitmer, and W. W. Phelps; also the Twelve
Apostles, the High Council of Zion, and the High Council of Kirtland,
the Bishops of Zion and Kirtland, the Presidency of the Seventies,
and many more of the Elders. Some of the Councilors, both of Zion and
Kirtland, were absent.
The council came to order, sang Adam-ondi-Ahman, [2] {365} and opened
by prayer offered up by Joseph Smith, Sen.; when I made some remarks,
in my introductory lecture before the authorities of the Church, in
general terms, laying before them the business of the day, which was to
supply some deficiencies in the Bishop's Council in this place, also in
the High Council.
[Sidenote: Vinson Knight Ordained into Kirtland Bishopric.]
After some consideration upon the most proper manner of proceeding,
Elder Vinson Knight was nominated as a counselor in the Bishopric at
Kirtland. The nomination was made by the Bishop and seconded by the
Presidency. The vote was then called from the Presidency, and carried;
next from the High Council of Zion, and carried; from the Twelve, and
carried; from the Council of the Seventy, and carried; from the Bishop
of Zion and his Council, and carried. And Elder Knight was received by
the universal voice and consent of all the authorities of the Church.
Elder Knight was then ordained under the hands of Bishop Newel K.
Whitney, to the office of High Priest {366} and Bishop's counselor,
to fill the place of Elder Hyrum Smith, who had been ordained to the
Presidency of the High Council of Kirtland.
Council adjourned for one hour, by singing, "Come let us rejoice," etc.
Council assembled again at one o'clock p. m.
[Sidenote: Vacancies in the Kirtland High Council Filled.]
John P. Greene was nominated and seconded by the Presidency, a member
of the High Council of Kirtland, and carried by the unanimous voice
of all the authority of the Church, to supply the place of President
Oliver Cowdery, who had been elected to the Presidency of the High
Council of Kirtland.
Elder Thomas Grover was elected in like manner, a Councilor in the High
Council, to fill the vacancy occasioned by Luke S. Johnson's having
been ordained one of the Twelve Apostles.
Elder Noah Packard was elected a member of the High Council of
Kirtland, to fill the place of Sylvester Smith, who had been ordained
to the Presidency of the Seventy.
Elder John E. Page was nominated, but being absent, his name was
dropped.
Elder Joseph Kingsbury was unanimously chosen a High Councilor in
Kirtland, to fill the vacancy occasioned by Orson Hyde's being ordained
one of the Twelve Apostles.
Elder Samuel James was unanimously chosen a member of the High Council
of Kirtland, in place of Joseph Smith, Sen.
The newly elected Councilors were then called forward in order as they
were elected, and ordained under the hands of Presidents Rigdon, Joseph
Smith, Jun., and Hyrum Smith, to be High Priests, and Councilors in
this Stake of Zion. Many great and glorious blessings were pronounced
upon the heads of these Councilors, by President Rigdon, who was
spokesman on the occasion.
[Sidenote: Vacancies Filled in the High Council of Zion.]
The Council next proceeded to fill the vacancies in the {367} High
Council of Zion, occasioned by the absence of Councilors John Murdock
and Solomon Hancock. And Elders Alva Beaman and Isaac McWithy were
appointed to serve as Councilors in the High Council of Zion, for the
time being.
Elders Nathaniel Milliken and Thomas Carrico were appointed by
unanimous vote to officiate as doorkeepers in the House of the Lord.
Presidents Joseph Smith, Jun., Sidney Rigdon, W. W. Phelps, David
Whitmer and Hyrum Smith were appointed to draft rules and regulations
to govern the House of the Lord.
By unanimous voice of the assembly, moved, seconded, and carried, that
no whispering shall be allowed in our councils or assemblies, nor any
one allowed (except he be called upon or asks permission) to speak
aloud upon any consideration whatever; and no man shall be interrupted
while speaking, unless he is speaking out of place; and every man shall
be allowed to speak in his turn.
Elder Milliken objected to officiate in the House of the Lord as
doorkeeper, on account of his health; and was released by the voice of
the assembly.
The minutes of the Council were then read, and Council adjourned until
Friday, the 15th instant, at nine a. m., to the west school room, in
the upper part of the temple.
[Sidenote: Sidney Rigdon's Ailment.]
President Sidney Rigdon requested some of the Presidency to lay their
hands upon him, and rebuke a severe affliction in the face, which
troubles him most at night. Elders Hyrum Smith and David Whitmer,
by request, laid hands upon him and prayed for him, and rebuked his
disease in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. The whole assembly
responded, Amen.
Elder David W. Patten requested our prayers in behalf of his wife, that
she might be healed. I offered up a {368} prayer for her recovery, and
the assembly responded, Amen.
President Rigdon arose and made some very appropriate remarks touching
the endowment, and dismissed the assembly by prayer.
[Sidenote: The Prophet's Joy.]
This has been one of the best days that I ever spent; there has been
an entire union of feeling expressed in all our proceedings this day;
and the spirit of the God of Israel has rested upon us in mighty power,
and it has been good for us to be here in this heavenly place in Christ
Jesus; and although much fatigued with the labors of the day, yet my
spiritual reward has been very great indeed. Spent the evening at home.
[Sidenote: The Coming of Professor Seixas.]
_Thursday, 14_.--Nine o'clock. Met the Hebrew class at the school
room in the Temple, and made some arrangements about our anticipated
teacher, Mr. Joshua Seixas, of Hudson, Ohio.
I then returned to the council room in the printing office, to meet
my colleagues who were appointed with myself to draft rules and
regulations to be observed in the "House of the Lord," in Kirtland,
built by the Church of the Latter-day Saints, in the year of our Lord
1834, which rules are as follows:
_Rules and Regulations to be Observed in the House of the Lord in
Kirtland_.
I. It is according to the rules and regulations of all regularly
and legally organized bodies to have a president to keep order.
II. The bodies thus organized are under obligation to be in
subjection to that authority.
III. When a congregation assembles in this house, it shall submit
to the following rules, that due respect may be paid to the order
of worship, viz.:
1st. No man shall be interrupted who is appointed to speak by the
Presidency of the Church, by any disorderly person or persons
in the congregation, by whispering, by laughing, by talking, by
menacing gestures, by getting up and running out in a disorderly
manner, or by offering indignity to the manner of worship, or the
religion, or to any {369} officer of said Church while officiating
in his office, in anywise whatsoever, by any display of ill manners
or ill breeding, from old or young, rich or poor, male or female,
bond or free, black or white, believer or unbeliever. And if any of
the above insults are offered, such measures will be taken as are
lawful, to punish the aggressor or aggressors, and eject them from
the house.
2nd. An insult offered to the presiding Elder of said Church shall
be considered an insult to the whole body. Also, an insult offered
to any of the officers of said Church, while officiating, shall be
considered an insult to the whole body.
3rd. All persons are prohibited from going up the stairs in times
of worship.
4th. All persons are prohibited from exploring the house, except
waited upon by a person appointed for that purpose.
5th. All persons are prohibited from going into the several
pulpits, except the officers who are appointed to officiate in the
same.
6th. Ail persons are prohibited from cutting, marking or marring
the inside or outside of the house with a knife, pencil, or any
other instrument whatever, under pain of such penalty as the law
shall inflict.
7th. All children are prohibited from assembling in the house,
above or below, or any part of it, to play, or for recreation, at
any time: and all parents, guardians, or masters, shall be amenable
for all damage that shall accrue in consequence of their children's
misconduct.
8th. All persons, whether believers or unbelievers, shall be
treated with due respect by the authorities of the Church.
9th. No imposition shall be practiced upon any members of the
Church, by depriving them of their rights in the house.
Council adjourned _sine die_.
[Sidenote: Return of Oliver Cowdery from Columbus, Ohio.]
Returned home and spent the afternoon. Towards evening President
Cowdery returned from Columbus, the capital of the State. I could spend
but little time with him, being under obligation to attend at Mrs.
Wilcox's, to join Mr. John Webb and Mrs. Catherine Wilcox in matrimony:
also Mr. Thomas Carrico and Miss Elizabeth Baker, at the same place;
all of which I performed in the customary manner in the midst of a
large assembly. We then partook of some refreshments, and our hearts
were made glad with the fruit of the vine. This is according to the
pattern set by our Savior Himself, and we feel disposed to patronize
all the institutions of heaven.
{370} [Sidenote: The Council Meeting in the Kirtland Temple.]
_Friday, 15_.--At nine a. m., met in council agreeable to adjournment,
at the Council room in the Temple, and seated the authorities of
the Church agreeable to their respective offices. I then made
some observations respecting the order of the day, and the great
responsibility we were under to transact all our business in
righteousness before God, inasmuch as our decisions will have a hearing
upon all mankind, and upon all generations to come.
_Minutes of a Priesthood Meeting Held in Kirtland Temple, January
15, 1836_.
Council opened in usual form, and proceeded to business by reading
the rules and regulations to govern the house of the Lord, three
times.
The vote of the Presidency was then called upon these rules,
followed by the High Council of Kirtland, the High Council of Zion,
the Twelve, the Seventy, the Bishops of Zion and Kirtland, with
their Counselors, each in turn; and after a few queries, answers,
and debates, the above rules passed the several quorums in their
order, by the unanimous voice of the whole, and are therefore
received and established as a law to govern the House of the Lord
in Kirtland.
In the investigation of the subject, it was found that many who
had deliberated upon it, were darkened in their minds, which drew
forth some remarks from President Smith respecting the privileges
of the authorities of the Church, that each should speak in his
turn and in his place, and in his time and season, that there may
be perfect order in all things; and that every man, before he
makes an objection to any item that is brought before a council
for consideration, should be sure that he can throw light upon
the subject rather than spread darkness, and that his objection
be founded in righteousness, which may be done by men applying
themselves closely to study the mind and will of the Lord, whose
Spirit always makes manifest and demonstrates the truth to the
understanding of all who are in possession of the Spirit.
After one hour's adjournment of the Council, Elder Don Carlos
Smith was nominated to be ordained to the High Priesthood, also
to officiate as President, to preside over that body in Kirtland.
The vote of the quorums was called for in their order, and their
nomination passed through the whole house by unanimous voice.
Elder Alva Beaman was chosen in the same manner to preside over the
Elders in Kirtland.
{371} William Cowdery was nominated to officiate as President over
the Priests of the Aaronic Priesthood in Kirtland.
The vote of the assembly was called, beginning at the Bishop's
Council, and passing through the several authorities, until it
came to the presidency of the High Council in Kirtland, and
received their sanction, having been carried unanimously in all the
departments below.
Oliver Olney was unanimously elected to preside over the Teachers
in Kirtland.
Ira Bond was unanimously chosen to preside over the deacons in
Kirtland.
Elders Don Carlos Smith and Alva Beaman were ordained to the
offices to which they had been elected, under the hands of
Presidents Joseph Smith, Jun., Sidney Rigdon, and Hyrum Smith, with
many blessings.
Bishop Whitney, of Kirtland, then proceeded to ordain William
Cowdery, Oliver Olney and Ira Bond, and pronounced many blessings
upon them according to their offices and standing.
Moved, seconded, and carried, that all the several quorums take
their turn in performing the office of doorkeeper in the House of
the Lord; also, that Nathaniel Milliken, Thomas Carrico, Amos R.
Orton, and Samuel Rolfe be appointed assistant doorkeepers.
Moved, and carried, that the presidency of the High Council hold
the keys of the House of the Lord, except the keys of one vestry,
which is to be held by the Bishopric of the Aaronic Priesthood.
Moved, and carried unanimously, that John Corrill be appointed to
take charge of the House of the Lord in Kirtland immediately, and
that the laws regulating the House of the Lord go into effect from
this time, and that Elder Corrill see that they are enforced, with
the privilege of calling as many as he chooses to assist him.
Council adjourned _sine die_.
Orson Hyde, Clerk
Footnotes
1. The agent reported these Indians as upwards of 2,000.
2. Adam-ondi-Ahman was known to the saints at this time as the place
where the Lord appeared unto Adam our Father, three years previous
to his death, and ministered unto the righteous among his posterity
assembled at that place; on which occasion Adam was called "Michael,"
"the Prince," "the Archangel," and the Lord administered unto Adam and
said unto him, "I have set thee at the head: the multitude of nations
shall come of thee, and thou art a prince over them." It was this
knowledge that inspired the hymn sung on that occasion, composed by W.
W. Phelps, and here follows:
This earth was once a garden place, With all her glories common;
And men did live a holy race, And worship Jesus face to face, In
Adam-ondi-Ahman. We read that Enoch walked with God, Above the power
of Mammon; While Zion spread herself abroad, And saints and angels
sang aloud, In Adam-ondi-Ahman. Her land was good and greatly blessed,
Beyond old Israel's Canaan; Her fame was known from east to west;
Her peace was great and pure the rest Of Adam-ondi-Ahman. Hosanna to
such days to come--The Savior's second coming, When all the earth in
glorious bloom Affords the Saints a holy home, Like Adam-ondi-Ahman.
(L.D.S. Hymn Book, p. 277.)
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