Below you will find diary entries on the topic of “General Authorities.” You can view other subjects here.
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Thur., 16 Mar., 1950:
“Immediately after Council meeting I accompanied President Smith into his office, and laying my coat on the back of a chair,–not stopping to go to my own office first–I presented to him the question submitted regarding the advisability or the necessity of adjusting certain inequities in allowances made the General Authorities, this question having been submitted to the Presidency by the Committee on adjustment of salaries of church employees.
I had in mind the allowance paid to each of the members of the Council of the Twelve, of the Assistants to the Twelve, of the First Couhncil of 70, and of the Presiding Bishopric.
President Smith remembered why certain increases had already been made to the following:
George F. Richards
Joseph Fielding Smith
John A. Widtsoe
Ezra T. Benson
Matthew Cowley of the Twelve, and
Levi Edgar Young
Oscar Kirkham
Milton R. Hunter of the Seventies, also
Eldred G. Smith, presiding patriarch
We considered the fact that three 10% increases had been made to the Church employees as an emergency allowance in view of the depreciation of the dollar and the continued high price of clothing and other personal necessities. After due consideration, President Smith said: ‘You go right ahead and report back, and suggest to the committee that they consider the entire matter and submit to us their recommendation for an equalizing of the allowances made to General Authorities.”
Fri., 11 Aug., 1950:
“[Telephone call] Bishop LeGrand Richards–telephoned him at the mortuary and checked on matters pertaining to the program for the funeral [of his father, George F. Richards]. I then asked him when was the last time his father came over to the office, and he answered that Brother Richards came Monday at 11 a.m. and made his appointments for conferences to members of the Twelve, and then went home. That Tuesday he wrote letters to the children whose birthdays were approaching, extending to them his love and greetings. In the afternoon he played checkers with his son George, and later called all of his sons excepting Joel who is in the Northwestern States Mission. Later he suffered some distress, and at 7 min. to 11 p.m. passed from this mortal existence.”
Thur., 4 Oct., 1951:
“10 to 2:15 p.m.–Council meeting–this was an unusually important meeting inasmuch as the choosing of a new apostle to fill the vacancy in the Twelve, and four new Assistants to the Twelve was undertaken at this time.
I invited all the General Authorities, including the Seventies and the Bishopric to attend this meeting.
We dressed in our robes, had prayer circle, and partook of the Sacrament.
Each group was represented as follows:
Council of the Twelve–Elder Joseph Fielding Smith
First Council of 70–by Levi Edgar Young
Assistants to the 12 by Clifford E. Young inasmuch as Marion Romney was asked to open the meeting;
Presiding Bishopric by Bishop LeGrand Richards, each of whom spoke of his love and confidence in his brethren, and assured all of his loyalty to the Presiding Authorities, and bore his testimony.
Each of the Presidency then addressed those present, the result being a real spiritual feast.
I then did something which has not heretofore been done: I told each one when he would be called upon to speak at the approaching conference. The brethren were very pleased about this.
All were then excused excepting the members of the Council of the Twelve and the First Presidency who carried on their regular duties. At that meeting the following recommendations were made to fill vacancies, and each was unanimously sustained:
Marion Romney to fill the vacancy in the Council of the Twelve.
Elder George Q. Morris, Elder Stayner Richards, Elder E. L. Christiansen, and Elder John Longden were sustained as Assistants to the Twelve.
. . . .
5 p.m. Returned to the office. Had Clare call Elder Marion Romney and ask him to come to my office. He arrived a few moments later and I then informed him that he had been chosen to fill the vacancy in the Twelve, and that his name would be presented at the General Conference meeting Saturday morning for the sustaining vote of the people.
As soon as Brother Romney departed, I called by long distance Elder George Q. Morris, President of the Eastern States Mission at his headquarters in New York City, and informed him that at the meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve held today, he was chosen to be one of the Assistants to the Council of the Twelve. I explained that I was calling to see if he was willing to accept such a Call, and he unhesitatingly answered: ‘Of course, anything you want me to do, I shall do.’ I then told him that he would be sustained Saturday morning, and that we would correspond with him later–also that in the meantime he was to go right on with his work in the Mission Field until further notice.”
Thur., 11 Oct., 1951:
“From 10 to 3:30 p.m.–Council meeting was held. At this meeting I ordained and set apart Marion G. Romney as an Apostle. I also ordained and set apart Stayner Richards as an Assistant to the Twelve. President Richards ordained and set apart El Ray L. Christiansen, and President Clark ordained and set apart Elder John Longden.” [Note that Assistants to the Twelve were “ordained”.]
Wed., 24 Oct., 1951:
“Arrived in New York City this morning. After breakfast, we went directly to the Eastern States Mission Home where I had a conference with George Q. Morris. I gave the charge to him as an Assistant to the Twelve Apostles of the Church, and ordained and set him apart to this office.”
Mon., 17 Dec., 1951:
“8 a.m.–Elder Delbert Stapley came in–he brought up three questions–
1. Relating to the allowances given the General Authorites–if they are only living allowances, why should they pay income tax on them? I answered that they should not any more than the Mission Presidents whom we have instructed not to pay income tax. The government objected to their not paying but finally after an appeal to Washington it was decided that Presidencies of Missions need not pay taxes since they are not paid salaries, but that they should pay income tax on what they spend from their allowance for food and clothing. However, this was such a small amount that they have said nothing about it, so our Mission Presidents do not pay an income tax.
I said further that the same thing should prevail with members of the Twelve who receive only a living allowance, but rather than bring the question up again, we have suggested that they add that to their yearly report when they make out their income tax statement.
2. The second point: The missionaries in some missions are not using Sunday for missionary work. I stated that that condition must be corrected at once. [No third point mentioned.]”
Wed., 26 Dec., 1951:
“Came to the office at 8 o’clock–was busy with office affairs until 9 a.m., at which time I met with my counselors in the regular meeting of the First Presidency. Among the letters considered was one from Elder Mark E. Petersen regarding the designation of brethren of the First Council of Seventy in newspaper accounts. It was decided to suggest to Brother Petersen that instead of referring to the brethren of the FIrst Council as ‘President’ they should be referred to as, for instance, ‘Elder Antoine R. Ivins of the First Council of the Seventy.'”
Fri., 29 Feb., 1952:
“[At 3:10 p.m.] President Joseph Fielding Smith of the Council of the Twelve came in to my private office. He asked for approval of the assignment of offices to the various members of the Twelve and Assistants to the Twelve on the second Floor of the Church Office Building. I ventured the comment that the Twelve have too many secretaries, and that less detail work should be carried on in the offices, and more visiting should be done out in the field. President Smith agreed with me.”
Sat., 5 Apr., 1952:
“I called Joseph L. Wirthlin to my office. I told Brother Wirthlin we had decided to call him to the position of Presiding Bishop of the Church, and that I was speaking to him tonight in confidence so that he might have time to think of his counselors as the matter had not yet come before the Twelve, and the matter must have their approval. Bishop Wirthlin said that he would report his decision first thing in the morning.”
Sun., 6 Apr., 1952:
“At 8 o’clock this morning, Bishop Joseph L. Wirthlin, to whom I spoke last evening informing him that he had been called to be the Presiding Bishop of the Church, called to report that after a night of prayer he and Brother Isaacson (whom he had chosen, with permission, as his first counselor) had considered a number of brethren, any one of whom would make an outstanding counselor, and had decided to recommend Brother Carl W. Beuhner as second counselor.
At 8:30 a.m.–went to the Temple where a special meeting of the Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve was held. During this meeting LeGrand Richards was unanimously approved to fill the vacancy in the Council of the Twelve caused by the death of Elder Joseph F. Merrill.
The brethren also approved the choice of Elder Joseph L. Wirthlin as the Presiding Bishop of the Church with Bishop Thorpe B. Isaacson as First Counselor and Elder Carl W. Beuhner as second counselor.
. . . .
Following the morning session, I returned to the office where at 12:20 p.m., I met Brother Carl W. Beuhner and informed him that he had been chosen to be the second counselor in the Presiding Bishopric. With emotion he wholeheartedly accepted the position.
Immediately following my conference with Brother Beuhner, I met in my private office Bishop LeGrand Richards and informed him that this morning in a special meeting in the Temple of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve, he had been unanimously chosen as an Apostle of the Church to fill the vacancy in the Twelve caused by the death of Elder Joseph F. Merrill.
After a confidential conversation with him, Bishop Richards left my office overcome with emotion. I then left for home where I had time to get a ‘bite’ to eat, and then returned to the Tabernacle to preside over and conduct the closing session of the Conference.
At this meeting Bishop LeGrand Richards was sustained by the conference as an Apostle of the Church, and Bishop Joseph L. Wirthlin, Thorpe B. Isaacson, and Carl W. Beuhner, as the Presiding Bishopric of the Church.
. . . .
At the conclusion of this, the 122nd Annual Conference of the Church, my heart is full of gratitude to the Lord–The spirit of the Lord was with the brethren and the messages they gave were very impressive and well received by the people. Never before have I felt such a strength as was in the Priesthood meeting Saturday evening!”
Thur., 10 Apr., 1952:
“At 10 a.m.–attended Council meeting.
At this meeting I gave the charge to Elder LeGrand Richards, newly sustained Apostle of the Church. It was forty-six years ago yesterday that Elder Richards’ father–Elder George F. Richards–sat for the first time in council in the Temple and received his charge, and it was a mellowing feeling to welcome his son into this same group.
The brethren of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve then unitedly laid their hands upon the head of Brother LeGrand Richards and ordained him an Apostle and set him apart as a member of the Council of the Twelve. I was voice in this ordination.”
Fri., 9 May, 1952:
“Bishop Joseph L. Wirthlin, and his counselors, Brothers Thorpe B. Isaacson and Carl Beuhner called at the office–they discussed several matters pertaining to–
1. The Purchasing Department.
2. Under whose direction are the Presiding Bishopric operating–the First Presidency or the Twelve. It was mentioned, when I presented this matter at the First Presidency’s meeting this morning, that the Twelve would like to direct the ward teaching. The sentiment was expressed by the brethren, though not officially or formally, that the Presiding Bishopric should have charge of the ward teaching.
3. Statistics showing a great increase in the number of adult men not holding the Melchizedek Priesthood, notwithstanding the thousands that have been reclaimed. They attribute that increase to the number of young men who went to war while they wtill held the Aaronic Priesthood; soon they were classed among the adult members not holding the Melchizedek Priesthood. The Bishopric recommend the advisability of ordaining worthy young men elders at the age of 18, before they go into the army–instead of 19. The brethren at the First Presidency’s meeting today could see no objection and did see some advantages.”
Wed., 14 May, 1952:
“[First Presidency meeting] Lengthy discussion was held regarding the relationship of the Presiding Bishopric to the Council of the Twelve.”
Thur., 15 May, 1952:
“9 to 9:50 a.m.–Was convened in First Presidency’s meeting. In addition to the items mentioned above, the following were also considered:
1. Letters addressed to me and signed by Richard R. Lyman, dated May 10, 1952, and one with an April date, were read. The one of May 10 expressed regret, remorse, and sorrow for his transgression, and stated that he would like to make restitution and be admitted back into the Church. This matter will be presented at the Council meeting this morning.
. . . .”
Fri., 23 May, 1952:
“7:15 a.m.–While I was dictating letters to the dictaphone Milton Hunter of the First Council of Seventies knocked on the door of my private office. He wished to see me about his publishing another book. He would like to publish a book containing excerpts from speeches of the First Presidency. I told Brother Hunter to send a letter explaining just what he has in mind and that I should be pleased to present the matter at the next meeting of the First Presidency.
Later, Brother Hunter was advised by letter that it was the opinion of the First Presidency that the book should not be published. (See notes of mtg. held May 26)”
Mon., 26 May, 1952:
“[First Presidency meeting] Milton R. Hunter is compiling messages of the First Presidencies of the Church, and wishes to publish them in book form. The Presidency decided against this, they feeling that the messages were given at the time to fit a special condition perhaps, and that it would not be proper to publish them apart from their settings, or an understanding of why the messages were given.”
Fri., 1 Aug., 1952:
“[First Presidency meeting] We also considered a letter from H. A. Lynn, President of the Sunkist Growers inviting Bro. Benson to accept the chairmanship of the American Institute of Cooperation. The Presidency discussed the question of cooperation. A question was raised as to whether or not it is a socialistic tendency, Pres. Clark mentioning an experience he had in the raising of turkeys, the Poultry industry refusing to sell him feed and trying to prevent his selling his turkeys. The brethren were agreed that they could not favor anything that interfered with individual liberty. It was decided that Pres. McKay would talk with Brother Benson, suggesting that he must conserve two points, namely, that he is not pursuing a course that does not have the sympathy and support of his brethren, and secondly, that he does not devote so much of his time to other interests that the Twelve would be deprived of his help.”
Sun., 3 Aug., 1952:
“Telephone to Elder Richard L. Evans–told him that the First Presidency have no objection to his accepting the assignment to prepare an ethical handbook for Junior Chamber of Commerce of the U.S.”
Tues., 5 Aug., 1952:
“8:30 a.m.–At his request, met Elder John Longden, Assistant to the Twelve, who stated that he has an offer from the National Electric Products Company of Pittsburg to accept a good position, lucrative as well as dignified, and that they will give him this position with the understanding that his first duty will be to the Church, including two visits to missions a year, taking two or three weeks at a time. Of course, he would not be able to take a two-weeks’ vacation in addition to the time spent touring the missions.
I told Brother Longden to accept this position. He said that he had seen President J. Reuben Clark, Jr. who had already given his consent.”
Tues., 5 Aug., 1952:
“2 p.m. Returned to the office where I met by appointment at his request Elder Ezra T. Benson. I told him that the First Presidency had approved of his accepting the Chairmanship of the American Institute of Cooperation, but they wished me to state to him that they would oppose anything that would interfere with individual liberty. Brother Benson said: ‘So should I.’ In accepting this Chairmanship, however, Brother Benson understands that his first duty is to the Council of Twelve.
The matter of Brother Benson’s accepting membership on the advisory Board of Consultants of the Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources was left for further consideration, Brother Benson having given additional information regarding that.”
Wed., 6 Aug., 1952:
“8 a.m. Elder Henry D. Moyle, Bishop Jos. L. Wirthlin, Bishop Thorpe Isaacson, and Bishop Beuhner were received at my office by appointment at their request. The following were considered:
1. Authorization given for the Presiding Bishopric to hold a meeting in connection with the October Conference, with bishoprics and others.
2. Approved the Presiding Bishopric’s recommendation that Bishops of Wards be permitted to conduct a meeting once each month with the Aaronic Priesthood separate from the Melchizedek Priesthood; the Melchizedek Priesthood would go to their respective meetings.
3. The Presiding Bishopric recommend that all young men who are worthy be ordained Elders before leaving for military duty. Decided to give this further consideration.
4. Told the Presiding Bishopric to prepare a letter for the Presidency to sign, to go to the Melchizedek Priesthood quorum presidencies and bishoprics, indicating that bishoprics should spend Priesthood meeting time with the Aaronic Priesthood. Once a month, however, they should meet with the High Priests quorum, and that quorum meeting should be held at a time not to conflict with their duties.
5. Agreed with the Bishopric that the Ward bishoprics should ordain boys to the Priesthood–not the advisers. [What about the fathers?]
6. Approved the recommendation of the Presiding Bishopric that four lessons on the Constitution be included in the course of study for the Priests in 1952.
7. I told the Presiding Bishopric that negroes should not be invited to speak in sacrament meetings and at Firesides.
(The above were presented to my counselors at the 9 a.m. First Presidency meeting–their approval was given to decisions made.)”
Thur., 21 Aug., 1952:
“Council meeting
Expressed appreciation of the opportunity of meeting once again with the Council of the First Presidency and Twelve Apostles. Said that, in the words of Peter on the Mount of Transfiguration, ‘It is good to be here.’ Expressed appreciation for the opportunity to join with the Brethren in prayers for Brothers Widtsoe and Bowen and for others of the Council who are ailing.
President Stephen L. Richards, in behalf of the Brethren of the Council, expressed deep gratitude to the Lord for the blessings that attended President McKay during his absence, the pride they have in his work, and the marvelous accomplishments, the reports of which they had read which had come from various sources.
I then said that I wished to acknowledge before my Brethren the fact that the Lord answered our prayers and the prayers of the Saints, that His hand was manifest on more than one occasion. I thanked the Brethren for their united support, their prayers, and this expression.”
Fri., 22 Aug., 1952:
“8:30 a.m.–Met by appointment, at his request, Heber Bennion, Secretary of State. He said he had heard that the Church favors Mayor Earl Glade for Governor, and favored the Republicans.
I told him that the Church takes no stand whatever in politics–there are Democrats in the Church, there are Republicans in the Church, and I am President of the Church, and so far as I am personally concerned, I am going to treat each group in fairness.
I then told Mr. Bennion that I had heard he had made the remark at a social function that he would like to have the salary made by the officials of the Church, especially that of the President.
Mr. Bennion answered: ‘Yes, that is one time when silence would have been golden.’ He then said: ‘I did tell Bishop Isaacson that the Church Authorities got more than the State officials received, and he, Bishop Isaacson, denied that.’ Mr. Bennion said further that he is sorry that he made that remark and that he understands now that the General Authorities are given an allowance sufficient to pay their living expenses. I said: ‘That is true, and those of us who have positions and business companies, of course, have that amount augmented by the salaries paid, but that that has nothing to do with the Church allowance. Mr. Bennion expressed sorrow for having made the statement, and has no criticism whatever of the meager amount allowed the General Authorities who devote all their time to the Church.”
Sun., 5 Oct., 1952:
“7 p.m. to 9 p.m.–Attended and spoke at the Deseret Sunday School Union annual conference held in the Salt Lake Tabernacle. At this meeting my son Lawrence was sustained as First Assistant General Superintendent.”
Thur., 6 Nov., 1952:
“At 8:55 a.m., had the great joy and satisfaction of setting apart my son David Lawrence as first assistant, General Superintendent, of the Deseret Sunday School Union. Elder Lynn S. Richards was set apart by his father, President Stephen L. Richards, as second assistant, General Superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union.”
Fri., 12 Dec., 1952:
“Received the attached letter from Brother LeGrande Richards regarding his appointment to the Council, and also regarding my son Lawrence:
President David O. McKay
Building
Dear President McKay:
May I impose upon your precious time to express unto you the deep and genuine feeling of love and gratitude I have in my heart toward you for your great kindness to me.
As I take my place with the members of the Quorum of the Twelve upon the stand in the Tabernacle and in our Thursday meetings in the Temple, I have a feeling that I owe you a greater loyalty, devotion, and debt of gratitude than do any of the other members of the Quorum unless it be Elder Marion Romney, for having nominated me to fill the vacancy in the Quorum caused by the passing of Elder Joseph F. Merrill–a debt of gratitude that I shall not be able to repay in this life or in the life to come.
If, therefore, there is anything, at any time, that I can do, that I am not now doing, to help lighten your load, or to add to the success of your ministry, in the great responsibility that is yours, please know how much it would please me to respond to any call or suggestion from you. I feel so deeply appreciative of your wonderful kindness to me, which I realize will greatly enrich my life both here and in the eternal worlds, if I can remain true and faithful and perform the labors assigned to me in such a manner as will bring honor and credit to the high and holy calling I am privileged to occupy in our Heavenly Father’s Church, and that I may do this is the burden of my prayers by day and by night, so that I may always enjoy your love and confidence, and the approval and acceptance of my Heavenly Father. I never take my place in the Quorum but what I feel humble, indeed, and grateful to you and the Lord for the great privilege I enjoy. In abilty, I feel the least of all my brethren, but in willingnes to do my part, I am sure the Lord knows that I do not fall short, for I do love the Lord and His great latter-day cause with all my heart.
These were my thoughts as I sat on the stand in the Tabernacle during the funeral services of Elder Widtsoe, which I felt were so beautiful.
Then I thought of you and your great power of leadership, and the magnificent service you have rendered through the years, and the deep and affectionate love the Saints of Zion have for you. Nothing can be compared thereto, I am sure, save the love the Lord has for you for the nobility of your soul, and the great service you have rendered, and the inspiration you are to all the members of His Church, and to men and women and the youth of the land everywhere. It seemed to me that there could be no gift or blessing the Lord would want to withhold from you, and as I thought of how my life has been enriched through your kindness to me, I thought: Wouldn’t it be wonderful if the life of one of your sons could be so enriched?
Realizing that Elder Widtsoe’s passing woud leave a vacancy in the Quorum, and seeing your son David Lawrence and his faithful and efficient wife Mildred whom I learned to appreciate so much through my association with her on the Primary Children’s Hospital Board sitting in the congregation, I thought how wonderful it would be if you were to feel inspired to call him to fill the vacancy. I felt that in addition to enriching his life and that of his wife, it would bring great joy and happiness to you and Sister McKay, now and forever more.
My father had the privilege and honor of following his father as a member of the Quorum, and now I am blessed to follow my father through your kindness. Pres. Joseph F. Smith had two sons follow him. President Woodruff had a son follow him. President John Taylor had a son follow him, also President Brigham Young, and a number of other brethren who were not Presidents of the Church were so honored.
Now, President McKay, I realize that this is no affair of mine, and this letter calls for no answer or acknowledgment–I have written it myself so that no one knows what I have said, but my heart has been so full of gratitude unto you for what you have done for me that I have felt that I had not fully expressed the feelings of my heart unto you, and I am sure my gratitude and appreciation will increase from year to year, even into the eternities to come. I realize that I shall never be able to adequately repay you, but my heart will ever be tender toward you and I shall always have a prayer in my heart that the Lord will grant unto you every blessing your heart may desire.
Please forgive me if the writing of this letter is not in good taste, but ever since our last October Conference I have felt that I would like to tell you what was in my heart. May the Father of us all continue to bless and magnify you in your high and holy calling as He has done in the past.
With the Season’s Greetings to you and yours, in which Sister Richards joins, I remain,
Your humble and appreciative servant,
LeGrand Richards”
Wed., 24 Dec., 1952:
“[First Presidency meeting] A list of appointments of brethren to visit the missions during the year 1953 was read. Approved the list with the exception of Stayner Richards who the list indicates is appointed to visit the Spanish-American Mission in February. In discussing the appointments I expressed the thought that we should not lose sight of the instruction by the Lord on the subject; he questioned the advisability of excusing the Twelve entirely from these assignments. He felt that the 70s should be out presiding over the missions.”
1 April, 1953:
“First Presidency’s Meeting—Among items considered were: (1) It was felt that President Richards should not attempt to attend any of the meetings in the temple of the Brethren of the sessions of the conference. He said that his doctor had suggested that he do not make any public appearances at this time.
(2) I mentioned that at the meeting to be held in the Temple tomorrow, Thursday, of all the General Authorities at 9:00, I had requested the brethren of the Twelve to be prepared to submit their suggestions for a successor to Elder John A. Widtsoe.
Sun., 5 Apr., 1953:
“4:30 p.m.—Returned to the office where I had a meeting with the members of the Presidency and Council of the Twelve. At this meeting the new apostle was named and approved.”
Mon., 6 Apr., 1953:
“10 to 12 noon—Sixth session of the 123rd Annual Conference was held. I again presided and conducted. At this meeting the General Authorities were presented for the sustaining vote of the general Conference, and Adam S. Bennion was sustained to fill the vacancy left by Dr. John A. Widtsoe.
The address by the new apostle, as well as the addresses delivered by the other brethren, provided a spiritual feast for all in attendance. As usual the building was filled to capacity, and many were assembled in the other buildings on the grounds.
Greeted and shook hands with many of the people who came up to the stand and who were gathered at the General Authorities’ entrance.”
Thurs., 9 Apr., 1953:
10 to 2 p.m.—Convened in Council meeting in the Salt Lake Temple.
At this meeting all of the brethren of the First Presidency, with the exception of President Stephen L. Richards, and of the Council of the Twelve, joined in laying their hands upon the head of Elder Adam S. Bennion, and I was voice in ordaining him an Apostle and in setting him apart as a member of the Council of the Twelve Apostles. I then gave him the ‘charge’ given to each new member of the Council.”
Thurs., 28 May, 1953:
“8:30 a.m.—Called on Brother Stayner Richards, Assistant to the Twelve, at the L.D.S. Hospital. Found him to be seriously ill. I administered to him and fervently prayed that his life would be preserved. Brother Richards had been attending a Conference in the San Fernando Stake and was stricken on the train with a severe pain in his abdomen. Felt worried and heavy at heart when I saw Brother Richards.
12 Noon—While in session in Council meeting at the Temple, received word of the passing from this life of Brother Stayner Richards—the news shocked and saddened all of us! Pres. Richards was called to be an Assistant to the Twelve under my Presidency in October, 1951. Our never-to-be-forgotten visit with him last year in the European Mission endeared him to Sister McKay and me. (See letter under May 29)
As, at the invitation of John Foster Dulles, Secretary of Defense, President McKay was attending Conference in the White House, Washington, D.C. he was unable to attend funeral services for Pres. Stayner Richards—he therefore sent the following letter to the family, expressing condolence to the bereaved Loved ones:
May 29, 1953
Sister Stayner Richards and Family,
My dear friends and associates:
After the consultation with President Stephen L., and President Clark regarding Sister McKay’s and my desire to be in attendance at your beloved husband and father’s funeral service next Wednesday, I have concluded it advisable to follow my counselors’ advice and continue East from the Omaha Bridge Dedicatory services, and keep appointments in Washington. We believe that Brother Stayner would approve of my so doing. I am writing you this personal note, therefore, to assure you of my deep regret at not being able by my presence with other members of the General Authorities to do honor to one of the great leaders of the Church.
You will understand the reason for my not returning with the other brethren, and will excuse my absence from the funeral services, I am sure.
My desire to be with you at these last earthly rites is ardent not only because of my cherished friendship for your family, but also because of our recent memorable association in the European Mission field. From the time that you, Sister Richards, President Stayner, and others met us at Preswich airport near Glasgow on June 2, 1952 until your farewell party at London on the evening of July 17th, President Stayner’s every act, every appointment, every sermon showed how thoroughly and sincerely he was devoted to the duties and responsibilities of his European Mission Presidency. We shall ever cherish in our memories his successful, masterful planning and the carrying out of dedicatory services of chapels in Scotland, the great Conference at Battersea Town Hall, London, his counsel and wisdom in selecting a Temple site in Switzerland, and his foresight and sound judgement in choosing the site for a Temple in England.
The last meeting that we held with you and President Stayner, President and Sister Reiser, missionaries, and a congregation of over 200, was in Cardiff, Wales on the evening of July 16th. Associated with that occasion, as an ever-treasured memory, is Stayner’s tribute to Mothers, a sermon delivered extemporaneously and with such fervor as to move the congregation to tears.
His success in securing scores of chapels for branches in the British Mission was outstanding, for which member will hold him in grateful remembrance.
Out of his most successful mission, I name these few of many achievements to illustrate that fact that few if any mission presidents have become more wholly and completely absorbed in their missionary duties, who have radiated more cheerfulness, energy, and devotion to the duties and responsibilities of the Presidency that did our departed Brother Stayner Richards when President of the British Mission. As a result there was a remarkable increase in membership during the several years of his presidency.
As Paul of old, he counted his life not dear unto himself, but to be devoted and consecrated to the ministry. It can be truly said of him that literally almost the last ounce of his strength was directed to the performance of duty.
Last Thursday morning, as his associates, the First Presidency and the Twelve, were making an earnest plea for the preservation of his life, there passed to the great Beyond, a loving husband, a devoted father, a true friend, a valiant defender of the Truth. Brother Stayner was a true gentlemen, honest in thought and action—cheerful, kind, considerate, obliging at all times, constantly loyal to the truth and to what he believed was right.
Sister Richards, and you other bereaved Loved Ones, you have our love and sympathy in this sudden separation. Indeed, there is only one heart in the Church today, and it is heavy and aching because of the passing of this beloved servant of the Lord Jesus Christ.
In this hour of parting, may the Savior’s divine assurance give you peace and comfort: ‘Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in god, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.’
‘The way is short, O friend
That reaches out before us:
God’s tender heavens above us bend,
His love is smiling o’er us;
A little while is ours
For sorrow and for laughter
I’ll lay the hand you love in yours
On the shore of the Hereafter.’
Sister McKay and I express to you, each and all, our love and heartfelt condolence.
Affectionately,
__________
(President)
2646 Alden Avenue
Salt Lake City, Utah”
Wed., 15 July, 1953:
“Laguna Beach, California
Received telephone call from President J. Reuben Clark, Jr. at Laguna Beach. He called to notify me of the passing of Elder A.E. Bowen of the Council of the Twelve. Although the news saddened me, it is a relief to know that he is now released from his long siege of suffering. It is over a year since he first took seriously ill.
President Clark and I talked about arrangements for the funeral services. If the family wish to hold the funeral on Saturday, I shall take the plane to Salt Lake in order to attend the service.
Later, I phoned to Clare and asked her to get information concerning plane flights and let me know. She later phoned and informed me that there are two flights out of Los Angeles that I may take–one at 2:45 a.m., arriving in Salt Lake City at 6 a.m., and one at 9:30 a.m., arriving in Salt Lake City at 12:40 p.m.
I asked Clare to see if the funeral services can be held at 1:15 p.m. and if so to get the plane reservations for the 9:30 a.m. flight. It was later decided that I should return to Los Angeles of the Union Pacific at 6 p.m. the same day, and that Sister McKay would remain in Los Angeles.
About an hour later I received word that all reservations had been made.”
Fri., 2 Oct., 1953:
First Presidency’s meeting
“1. President McKay mentioned he had consulted Brother Richard L. Evans and he had accepted the appointment as a member of the Council of the Twelve. He expressed his inadequacy and unworthiness. He wanted to know about his work on the radio, and President McKay told him wisdom would dictate that he have somebody else in training for that. President McKay advised that he get someone who could take his place when a call from the Twelve required him to go somewhere. He had nobody in mind.
Sat., 3 Oct., 1953:
“Following the Priesthood meeting, at 9:30 p.m., held a meeting of all General Authorities. New members of the General Authorities appointed. Elder Richard L. Evans, a member of the Council of the Twelve; Elder Hugh B. Brown, an Assistant to the Twelve, and Marion Hanks, a member of the First Council of 70. Later, I called Brother Hugh B. Brown who lives in Canada, and told him of his appointment. He said that he is willing to accept any call that comes from the brethren.”
Thurs., 8 Oct., 1953:
At 9:30 a.m., met with members of the First Council of 70 in their room in the Salt Lake Temple. During that meeting I set Brother Marion D. Hanks apart as a member of the First Council of Seventy. Also gave him the charge.
10 to 2 p.m. – Regular Council meeting was held. At this meeting I ordained Brother Richard L. Evans an Apostle, and set him apart as a member of the Twelve. I then gave him the charge.
(At this meeting, President McKay made the following statment to the Brethren: ‘While we are in the circle, may I express to you my gratitude for the loyal support and love that these two devoted counselors give to the President. I assure you there is unity in the Quorum of the First Presidency. With all my soul I ask the Lord to continue to bless them, and to you members of the Twelve I should like to express appreciation and gratitude for the loyalty you give to the First Presidency. With all my heart I say God bless you and continue to attend you.'”
Mon., 19 Oct., 1953:
“9 a.m. – Elder Hugh B. Brown, new Assistant to the Twelve, who just arrived from Canada, called at the office. Consulted with him for 30 minutes about his new responsibilities. (see note below)
During our conversation Brother Brown said that the Friday night before he received the call from me he was seized by something the like of which he had never had before that seemed to be crushing his very life out of him, that he and his wife spent a good part of the night in prayer, with the result that some peace came to him Saturday morning; that he worked through the day, Saturday, and was relaxing in a warm bath when the telephone call came from me, and that with the call came a rejuvenation of his whole spirit; that he has accepted it with a complete consecration, the like of which he has never before been prepared to do. He then said that he would appreciate being set apart for his duties at the first opportunity. This was arranged for the following day.”
Sun., 13 Dec., 1953:
“Arrived in Salt Lake at 6 o’clock this morning. We were shocked and stunned to learn as we arrived at the Station that Elder Matthew Cowley had suddenly passed away early this morning in Los Angeles. He had decided to remain in Los Angeles for a few days before returning to Salt Lake.
He was staying with Sister Cowley at the Alexandria Hotel.
Some comfort can be taken in the fact that he anticipated his passing and knew better than anyone else of his physical impairment, and that he passed away without agony or pain. We were comforted, too, in the fact that Brother and Sister Kimball were near to Sister Cowley when the tragic event occurred, they having a room in the hotel right next to the room occupied by Brother and Sister Cowley. Brother Kimball is to be commended for his great and able guidance and control of all conditions pertaining to Brother Cowley’s passing.”
Wed., 16 Dec., 1953:
11 a.m. All the General Authorities met at the Larkin Mortuary where they paid their last respects to Elder Matthew Cowley. The prayer at the Mortuary was offered by Elder Wendell Mendenhall, President of the San Joaquin Stake, a very dear friend of Elder Cowley’s.
Mon., 5 Apr., 1954:
“Note: Had a conference with Elder George Q. Morris about his being chosen as an Apostle of the Church, and with Elder Sterling W. Sill regarding his appointment as an Assistant to the Twelve.
Thurs., 8 Apr., 1954:
“10 to 2 p.m. Council meeting. At this meeting I gave the charge to George Q. Morris, and also ordained him an Apostle of the Church, and set him apart as a member of the Council of the Twelve.
Wed., 14 Apr., 1954:
“Following the above named meetings, members of the First Presidency met with the Council of the Twelve in their weekly meeting. At this meeting I gave the charge to Elder Sterling W. Sill and then set him apart as an Assistant to the Twelve.
22 Oct., 1954:
October 22, 1954
COPY
1084 East 150 North St.,
Salt Lake City 3, Utah
November 3, 1954
Dr. David O. McKay, President
47 East South Temple Street
Salt Lake City 1, Utah
Dear President McKay:
The voice of an angel would have ben no more welcome than was your voice when you called first Amy B., and then me to the telephone Saturday evening, October 16th. And no voice could have delivered a more welcome and sweeter message than did you when you said that by unanimous vote the First Presidency and the Twelve at the regular weekly council meeting held Thursday, September 23, 1954, granted my appeal to be admitted to the Church.
With tears in our voices and in our eyes we both tried to say: ‘A thousand thanks President McKay and God bless you!!’ Your good will and kindly feelings toward me, reported by our mutual friends, have been a source of great encouragement.
Complying with your instructions written October 22nd, I called Bishop Harrison who came to our home at once after I gave him the good news. He and Sister Lyman and I agreed that it would be most appropriate and fitting to have my good friend Dr. Irvin Hull, who is our Stake Mission President, perform the ceremony of baptism.
Arrangements for having this done at the Tabernacle Wednesday, October 27th were made by Marion Hanks and Alexander Schreiner. I was confirmed by my childhood companion, my life-long intimate friend, my beloved classmate, President Bryant S. Hinckley, assisted by Marion Hanks, Alexander Schreiner, Irvin Hull, and Russell Harris, the other brethren present.
With the ceremony completed I had these brethren gather around me and I said to them: ‘I hope you will remember these words of mine. Eleven years of darkness and daylight at last.’
During those eleven years I have not closed my eyes in sleep in any day until I have, on my bended knees, in secret, prayed, with all the faith at my command, that my short-comings might be forgiven, that I might have a spirit so repentant and humble that I would be worthy of being admitted to membership in the Church. Finally, the Lord has heard and there is ‘daylight at last.’
Faithfully and admiringly your affectionate friend and brother, with another thousand thanks and God bless you,
/s/ Richard R. Lyman
RRL/rrl Richard R. Lyman”
Thurs., 9 May, 1957:
Telephone Calls
“1. President Jay A. Quealy, Jr. of the Honolulu Stake telephoned from Honolulu.
Said that Joseph F. Smith’s son’s farewell is this coming Sunday night. The missionary son is requesting that his father speak at the farewell. President Quealy asked if he could give Brother Smith permission to speak on this occasion.
I answered that I suppose there is nothing we can do but let him speak – so permission was granted.
Wed., 10 July, 1957:
“8:45 a.m. Case of Joseph F. Smith III
Bishop Lowell Christensen of the Wakiki Ward, Honolulu Stake, called at the office. He asked if Joseph F. Smith III may be given responsibility and assignment in the Ward. Since no official action to excommunicate or disfellowship Brother Smith had ever been taken, and in view of the steadfast faithfulness of his wife and children, and the punishment Brother Smith has suffered; and that he has confessed, asked to be forgiven, and has forsaken his sins, the duty to forgive him was recognized. I presented this matter at our meeting of the First Presidency this morning, and it was agreed that Bishop Christensen be so informed.
Later, when Bishop Christensen returned to the office, I told him of our decision this morning — that Brother Smith is to be forgiven and that he may now be given responsibility in the Ward.
Thurs., 18 July, 1957:
10:45 a.m. Brother Spencer W. Kimball of the Council of the Twelve came in and explained to me the circumstances under which he had a throat operation by Dr. Hayes Martin, eminent cancer specialist in New York in January 1957. (see following letter)
Now, since one cord of his throat is still raw after four months, Dr. Leland Cowan, cancer specialist of this city, is urging that Brother Kimball return to New York and let Dr. Martin, cancer specialist, look at his throat again. If Dr. Martin is alarmed he may wish to operate again which would further extend Brother Kimball’s incapacity.
Brother Kimball then said that his work in the Church is more important to him than his life; that he does not fear death, but he dreads the loss of his voice permanently more than anything as it will make it impossible for him to carry on his church work. Said that to lose permanently his voice seems to him to be death, or worse than death.
For these reasons Brother Kimball seeks my advice as to whether or not he should return to New York for further treatment with a possibility of losing his voice, or should he use his voice and expend it, making it last as long as it will.
I told Brother Kimball that if he feels that he has faith enough to be healed, that we shall join him in that faith, and ask the Lord to heal him, but he must ever keep in mind the fundamental principle that the Lord expects us to use the wisdom he gives us, and do all we can first. Then, when we have done everything, and used every means at our command, we have a right to seek his help.
Now, the wisdom of the doctors suggest that he have another examination, and probably an operation. I said that I think he should take their advice, go back to new York, and be examined by this specialist. If he recommends an operation, and that operation deprives Brother Kimball of his voice, he has lost only one means of expression; he still has all his other faculties and can serve the Lord for many years. I referred to Helen Keller who had no voice, no eyesight, and no hearing, yet she became one of the greatest women of the world, and is still rendering service to humanity at an advanced age.
So my advice to Brother Kimball is that he take the advice of his doctors. (see copy of letter of appreciation from Brother Kimball sent following the consultation above recorded)
Thursday, July 18, 1957
THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-
DAY SAINTS
The Council of the Twelve
47 E. South Temple Street
Salt Lake City, Utah
June 28, 1957
President David O. McKay
Building
Dear President McKay:
I am at the crossroads and badly need direction. Can you give me some counsel? I can whisper to you my problem if you like but I have written concerning it. It may not take as much time to read what I have written and it will give you the background. Doctor Cowan assures me that to whisper does not damage the cords.
You may remember that my voice nearly failed me in 1950 and I had a biopsy which proved not malignant. Some of the brethren gave me a blessing at that time and my voice recovered miraculously and I have used it extensively for nearly seven years without serious difficulty.
In January this year (1957) the serious hoarseness returned and rapidly increased. Doctor Cowan, the cancer specialist, had been watching my vocal cords all through the seven-year interval and the white fuzzy growth of 1950 was still there but had not shown advance till now. He said it appeared to be crystalizing and he asked if I had appointments in the East, suggesting he would like a noted specialist there in New York to look at my cords. He seemed concerned but did not want to take the responsibility realizing how much my voice meant to me in my work. I mentioned it to President Smith and he was kind enough to give me the New York and Washington Stake Conferences.
Immediately after my conferences I went to Dr. Hayes Martin, the specialist. I thought he would probably take a tiny biopsy, make some suggestions and give me time to consult. I fully intended to return home and discuss the matter with you brethren of the Presidency before permitting any cutting but for some unaccountable reason I had been operated on almost before I caught my breath. The 1950 Biopsy had incapacitated me only slightly and this was in my mind when I went into the hospital this time. I did not understand nor realize how deeply he would cut and the extent of disability. Since I feel that I belong to the Church with every moment and energy and power I possess, I felt I had no right to take things in my own hands, but it was over before I realized it and my voice went down the drain in the Memorial Hospital. I intended to hold off until I could have had your feelings in the matter; I was given no opportunity to explain to the doctors how much my voice means in my work. I was literally herded through the assembly line.
This time I am determined to move only as you feel I should. I know that as the Lord’s prophet you are entitled to and do receive His revelations, and that if my continued service is of enough value to His program, that He will inspire you to direct me.
Doctor Cowan says that while one cord has healed, the other is still raw and since it has been four months he is concerned and urges me to return to New York that Dr. Martin may again look at it at least, and advise further treatment. I do not wish to go, but I will do whatever you recommend as I have total confidence in your judgment and inspiration. If Dr. Martin is alarmed he may wish to take another biopsy, which may further extend my incapacity. If he finds it still malignant he is likely to wish to perform a laryngectomy. I am sure his first thought would be to operate on the hypothesis – that he should give the benefit of the doubt to the saving of my life and to him my voice would be secondary.
My work in the Church is more important to me than my life. Somehow I do not seem to fear death, but I dread the loss of my voice permanently more than I can express. As you kow a laryngectomy would remove the vocal cords. With a hole in my neck through which to take air, I could learn to make some intelligible sounds, but to preach again would be impossible. Hence, I feel that I would rather use my voice and expend it, making it last as long as it would, rather than to go to the hospital with a fairly usable voice and have it taken away in an hour with never a chance to recover it. It seems to me a little like a woman having her organs removed. There is no chance for the Lord to heal her after that. An operation removing my vocal cords would be so devastatingly final.
President McKay, I am so positive of the divinity of this work that I believe I could give my voice or my life but I would surely dislike having either my life or my speech taken from me. To lose permanently my voice seems to me to be death, or worse than death.
I have tried to assure Doctor Cowan that I have full confidence in his diagnosis and in his treatment if that be necessary, but realizing the importance of the position I occupy in the Church he seems unwilling to take the responsibility. If you say I should go to New York for further check-up or biopsy or laryngectomy, I shall go. If you have any other feeling, I shall abide by your suggestons. I know I am asking much of you and if you prefer not to commit yourself I shall make my own decisions.
President McKay, I seldom presume to take your time as much as I enjoy every moment in your presence, so many make demands on your precious moments. I wish to assure you again that I have a great admiration and esteem for you, amounting as nearly to worship as I would dare permit it toward any human being. And as the Prophet of God, I stand in awe, and my admiration and affection know no bounds and you have my undying loyalty and devotion.
Doctor Cowan has assured me that to whisper is not damaging to my vocal cords, so I can answer any questions or discuss the matter if you like. I can speak aloud also. I demonstrate to the Doctor each time, but do not use the voice otherwise.
I appreciate more than I can express these few moments and any suggestions you wish to give me.
Faithfully,
/s/ Spencer W. Kimball
Spencer W. Kimball
(Original letter is in the scrapbok, ‘Letterbook’.)
Thursday, July 18, 1957
July 19, 1957
President David O. McKay
Building
Dear President McKay:
Dr. Cowan has made an appointment with the celebrated Dr. Martin for next Friday, so that we plan to leave Monday morning early for the East.
Would it be too much of an imposition for you to give me a blessing before I leave?
If your schedule is very crowded I will get some of the other brethren, but if you have the time I can come at any moment convenient to you.
My deep appreciation for the interview yesterday.
Faithfully,
/s/ Spencer
Spencer W. Kimball
SWK/daw
COPY
Thursday, July 18, 1957
July 22, 1957
President David O. McKay
Building
Dear President McKay:
May I express my deep gratitude to you for the interview you gave me and for the advice I received pertaining to my problems.
We are leaving tomorrow morning for New York and shall follow strictly your counsel. Camilla is going with me and Brother Harold B. Lee has written that he will still be in New York and will be with me should there be any serious complications.
I wrote you a note asking if you would give me a blessing but later learned that you had gone out of State. If more than a cursory examination is prescribed, I will get Brother Lee to bless me in New York.
Thanks again sincerely. My admiration and affection,
Faithfully,
/s/ Spencer W. Kimball
Spencer W. Kimball
SWK/daw
COPY”
Mon., 29 July, 1957:
“Received a letter from Elder Spencer W. Kimball of the Council of the Twelve who wrote from New York regarding his admittance into the Memorial Hospital for immediate surgery on his throat – see copy following. (Original in scrap book – letter book)
The following day (July 30) received a telephone call from Elder Harold B. Lee of the Council of the Twelve who was with Elder Spencer W. Kimball during the operation. Elder Lee reported that the operation was a success, and that the doctor was inspired — see copy of conversation following.
See diary page of July 18, giving an account of Elder Spencer W. Kimball’s visit to President McKay for advice regarding whether or not he should have operation.
On July 31, 1957, President McKay sent the following telegram to Elder Spencer W. Kimball:
‘Mr. Spencer W. Kimball
c/o Dr. Martin
Memorial Hospital
New York City, New York
Be assured you have our faith and prayers for God’s overruling power.
Sincerely.
/s/ David O. McKay
Monday, July 29, 1957
THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
Eastern States Mission
975 Fifth Avenue
New York 21, New York
11:15 p.m.
Fri. July 26, 1957
Dear President McKay,
I was unable to reach you at either Salt Lake or Laguna Beach so send this brief note to say that Dr. Martin advises immediate surgery and I expect to be admitted into Memorial Hospital Sunday P.M. 28th to be operated on Mon. in the early afternoon (we think). It is to be a partial laryngectomy or the removal of one cord which means the loss of my voice largely unless the Lord chooses to overrule natural consequences of the removal of the cord. With the slightly damaged but healed remaining cord I should be able (he says) to converse some but ‘will never be an orator.’
It was my understanding that you felt I should proceed with whatever this specialist proposed. I plan to proceed as recommended.
Bro. Lee was with me in the interview and feels I should submit myself to surgery.
I am grateful for your kindness in counselling with me.
My abiding admiration and affection.
/s/ Spencer W. Kimball
Monday, July 29, 1957
Telephone conversation with Elder Harold B. Lee, New York City, Tuesday, July 30, 1957.
Re: Condition of Elder Spencer W. Kimball
Brother Lee: Harold B. Lee talking.
President McKay: Good morning.
Brother Lee: I am calling from New York at the request of Spencer W. Kimball. I was at the hospital with him yesterday when he was operated on. I did not know whether you had any report on it or not.
President McKay: I had a letter from him saying when he would be operated on.
Brother Lee: Well, he wanted me to call you and tell you what had happened. He went under the operation yesterday at 1 o’clock. They removed the left vocal cord and trimmed a part off the right where the connection was made. It was involved with a malignancy and a part of the larnyx which was also malignant, but it has left him with enough of his voice box and the one vocal cord that the doctors say that he will be able to have a voice.
President Mckay: Well, I think that is very good!
Brother Lee: Well, I think the doctor has been inspired in what he has done. It has saved the threat of his life. At the same time it has given him a voice that probably can be trained. They indicate that in the condition he is now in, with some training, he can have a voice that he can converse with and probably do some speaking.
President McKay: Oh well, I think that is glorious! That is just glorious!
Brother Lee: I went back this morning, and he has recovered fully from the anesthetic. They had to cut a slit down the front of his throat, and they have inserted a silver tube through which he is breathing, but he was able this morning to take nourishment by mouth; he took some orange juice and some milk and a soft egg. And he is moving around.
President McKay: Isn’t that good news?
Brother Lee: It looks like the Lord has blessed him.
President McKay: We are certainly happy and thankful. Please give him our blessing, will you?
Brother Lee: I will do it. I knew you would be anxious to know.
President McKay: Tell him he has had our faith and prayers during this critical period, and operation.
Brother Lee: Well, he has felt that President. He feels that the Lord has blessed him.
President McKay: Well, I am very happy that you called, and you give him our blessing this morning.
Brother Lee: I will President. Is everything all right with you?
President McKay: Everything is fine, thank you.
Brother Lee: Well, I will see you the later part of the week, President.
President McKay: All right. Thank you very much for calling. Take our blessing to Brother Kimball.”
Wed., 31 July, 1957:
President McKay sent the following telegram to Elder Spencer W. Kimball of the Council of the Twelve who is in the Memorial Hospital, New York City, New York:
‘Elder Spencer W. Kimball
c/o Dr. Martin
Memorial Hospital
New York City, New York
Be assured you have our faith and prayers for God’s overruling power. Sincerely. /s/ David O. McKay.’
Fri., 23 Aug., 1957:
“6:30 a.m. – Arrived at the office. I took care of correspondence, etc. Sent the following telegram to Brother Spencer W. Kimball:
Elder Spencer W. Kimball
Eastern States Mission
973 – 5th Avenue
New York City, New York
‘Council appreciated your letter; members unite in prayer and faith for your complete recovery, which must be your first consideration and duty. Recommend your remaining in New York as long as wisdom dictates. Affectionately, First Presidency, by David O. McKay.’
Mon., 9 Dec., 1957:
“Pres. Jay A. Quealy – Honolulu Stake
Pres. Quealy came in regarding the reactivating of Joseph F. Smith. I told Pres. Quealy that no formal action was taken when he was disfellowshipped, and that I think we should take no formal action of his participation. Joseph F. Smith has a son on a mission, and Joseph F. Smith recently confessed to his wife and wrote a full confession to the First Presidency. Now his youngest son is participating in Church activity.
I told Pres. Quealy that we would go this far — that he might use Joseph F. Smith as he (Pres. Quealy) thinks best under the circumstances. That, however, is as far as I felt to go in the matter.”
Wed., 5 Feb., 1958:
First Council of Seventy–Visit of members to First Presidency
The First Presidency met with the First Council of Seventy in a body. They had prepared some recommendations which will, if accepted, bring about some changes in regard to their activities.
They asked to meet directly with the First Presidency and make their recommendations, feeling it would not be appropriate for them to present these matters first to the Priesthood Committee. The presentation to the Committee, they thought, should come from the First Presidency. The details of the recommendations and the affect upon the organizations of the priesthood will be presented after the Presidency has given due attention and consideration to their written recommendations. They fully recognize their services under the Twelve, which they indicated at the beginning of their interview.
Sat., 5 Apr., 1958:
“5:15 p.m. Confidential interview with Brother Albert T. Tuttle regarding an appointment to the First Council of Seventy. (see April 6)
5:30 p.m. – Confidential interview with Elder Henry D. Taylor, President of the California Mission, regarding his appointment as an Assistant to the Twelve.
5:50 p.m. Left for home
I later called Elder Gordon B. Hinckley, of the Missionary Department, and asked him to meet me at the Church Offices this evening, just prior to the Priesthood meeting.
6:30 p.m. Confidential interview with Elder Gordon B. Hinckley regarding his appointment as an Assistant to the Twelve.”
Sun., 6 Apr., 1958:
“1:30 p.m. – Confidential talk with Elder Hugh B. Brown re: his appointment as an Apostle.
Wed., 14 May, 1958:
Wednesday, May 14, 1958
MEMORANDUM OF CONFERENCE WITH PRESIDENT DAVID O. MCKAY ON MAY 14, 1958 at 7:50 A.M.
6. Salary for President A. Ted Tuttle.
I inquired of President McKay as to whether there would be any objection to our retaining Brother A. Ted Tuttle, sustained at the last conference as one of the presidents of the First Council of the Seventy, as an Institute and Seminary supervisor at a modest salary, on the assumption that he would only give to us such time as he was not engaged in his regular duties with the Council of the Seventy. I pointed out to President McKay that Marion Hanks, also of the First Council of the Seventy, now teaches at the LDS Institute in Salt Lake City, for which he gets compensation. President McKay replied that there was no objection to our doing this.
Mon., 14 July, 1958:
“9 a.m. Special meeting of the Twelve
I met, according to my call, all the General Authorities of the Church who are in the city at 9 o’clock this morning. President Clark, who was not feeling very well, asked to be excused from this meeting. President Richards is absent in Yellowstone.
The following is a brief account of what was discussed at this meeting:
1. To let the Brethren know how the First Presidency stands regarding the proposed site for the new Federal building on North Temple; that they should understand that the First Presidency are united in favoring the North Temple site for the Federal Building. I then read to them a quotation from the First Presidency’s letter to Senator Watkins soliciting his aid in the matter.
2. I told the Brethren that it is not a question of right or wrong as in grammatical construction, but that it is a question of right or wrong as in rhetoric when a statement may be better or worse, but the main point is that we should as General Authorities be united.
The Brethren left the room 100% united on the question.
Wed., 16 July, 1958:
“Wednesday, July 16, 1958
Telephone conversation with Mr. Eric Aaberg of the Mountain States Telephone and Telegraph Co.
Mr. Aaberg: Hello, President McKay, this is Eric Aaberg.
President McKay: Oh, good morning.
Mr. Aaberg: I hope you are well this morning.
President McKay: Yes, I am pretty well.
Mr. Aaberg: I checked with the Pacific Telephone Company on the matter regarding Robert L. Simpson, and they are agreeable to give him a two-and-a-half years’ leave of absence when and if he requests it from them to do this work for you in New Zealand, and so I think that if your plans go through, and he asks the company for this leave, you may tell them that we have discussed this matter.
President McKay: Well, that is very kind. We appreciate that very much. He may come back at the conclusion of two-and-a-half years without losing any rights of retirement?
Mr. Aaberg: He will lose about 5% as near as I can figure of his retirement pay.
President McKay: Well, that is all right. That is expected. Thank you, Mr. Aaberg, I appreciate it very much. I shall get in touch with him and let you know what we decide. Thank you, good morning.
Wednesday, July 16, 1958.
Telephone conversation with Bishop Donald A. Barraclough, Los Angeles.
(Bishop of Westchester Ward, Inglewood Stake.)
President McKay: Hello, Bishop.
Bishop Barraclough: Hello, President, how are you?
President McKay: Pretty well thank you. Do you know Robert L. Simpson?
Bishop Barraclough: Yes.
President McKay: A member of your ward?
Bishop Barraclough: Yes.
President McKay: Is he in good standing?
Bishop Barraclough: Very good. He is a fine young man.
President McKay: How many children does he have?
Bishop Barraclough: Three children.
President McKay: What kind of a wife does he have?
Bishop Barraclough: She is outstanding. She is a good girl. She teachers seminary and Relief Society. She is really ‘tops’.
President McKay: Could you recommend Brother Simpson worthy as a man to preside over a mission?
Bishop Barraclough: I certainly could. He is outstanding. He is also a good speaker. He is on the high council. He has done quite a few things in the ward, but he has been on the high council most of the time. His wife’s father is just about to pass away. They do not expect him to live very long. He had a stroke last Friday or Saturday.
President McKay: You just keep this in confidence will you? We may use him as a President of a mission. I will speak to him now.
Bishp Barraclough: He is 100% all down the line. I can certainly recommend him.
President McKay: Thank you, good-bye.
Wednesday, July 16, 1958.
Telephone conversation with Brother Robert L. Simpson. He is a member of the Westchester Ward of the Inglewood Stake.
(Office phone no. – Axminister 4-0110, home phone no. – Orchard 4-4454.)
President McKay: Hello, Brother Simpson, this is David O. McKay.
Brother Simpson: Yes, Brother McKay, how are you today? It is nice to hear your voice. I haven’t seen you since we were in New Zealand together. We had a good time.
President McKay: I have called to see if you would like to go back to New Zealand.
Brother Simpson: Now, you are speaking of a subject close to my heart; you have hit a weak spot.
President McKay: We are going to divide the New Zealand Mission into the New Zealand Mission and the New Zealand South Mission.
Brother Simpson: I have heard rumors of that.
When does this take effect President? I would be very delighted to accept this call.
President McKay: This will take effect immediately. Brother Ballif will be released on August 15th. He would like to leave there August 15th in order to get home for his school position. We have called Brother Alexander P. Anderson to take Brother Ballif’s place and preside over the New Zealand Mission.
Brother Simpson: Yes, I read about that in the Church Section. What will the new mission be called?
President McKay: It will be called the New Zealand South Mission.
Brother Simpson: Will the division of the mission be taken care of at the same time Brother Ballif is released?
President McKay: When I said ‘immediately,’ I meant that it would be fine if the two of you could go down together.
Brother Simpson: When is Brother Anderson leaving?
President McKay: He is leaving in time to be in New Zealand August 15th.
Brother Simpson: He will have to leave in about two weeks or so. Is he going to fly or go by boat?
President McKay: I think he will fly.
Brother Simpson: I think my affairs could be arranged that quickly.
President McKay: Well, I think that is lovely.
Brother Simpson: I cannot see any reason why I cannot speed things up. Not having my own business will help me a lot. I am working with the telephone company.
President McKay: I will report to you now that I have been making some inquiries of
your employers. I know Mr. Eric Aaberg who is associated with the Telephone Company in Salt Lake. Your employers are favorable to your going. I wanted to know whether they will give you a leave-of-absence. I want to compliment you on your standing with the company. When you make application for a leave-of-absence I think you will find a favorable attitude.
Brother Simpson: Well, I shall make that application today, President.
President McKay: Now, there is this thought I am going to give you–you know the Maori language?
Brother Simpson: Yes sir.
President McKay: You should have the northern part of New Zealand because the Maoris are in the Northern part. So I am just thinking now (and I have spoken to one or two of the brethren) and I may speak to Brother Anderson and let him have charge of the pakahas and you have charge of the Maoris up north. When we set you apart, we shall have it all decided.
Brother Simpson: All right. Now, would you like me to come to Salt Lake. I guess that will be decided later on.
President McKay: We shall let you know.
Brother Simpson: Thank you very much. It is nice to hear your voice. I am real excited.
President McKay: You explain it to your wife. Talk it over with her. Do you think she will be willing?
Brother Simpson: Yes, I am sure of it. Will you do me a favor? As soon as this is official, will you let Sister Joseph Fielding Smith know. She is my mother’s sister, and she will be anxious to hear that.
President McKay: Your mother is her sister?
Brother simpson: Well, they were raised together. My mother’s mother passed away when she was an infant and Sister Evans raised my mother.
Brother Simpson: Thank you President.
President McKay: Thank you.”
Thurs., 16 Oct., 1958:
“9 to 2:20 p.m. Council meeting in the Salt Lake Temple
At this meeting Elders William J. Critchlow, Jr. and Alvin R. Dyer, who were sustained at the recent semi-annual Conference as Assistants to the Council of the Twelve, having been invited by me personally to attend the meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve for the purpose of being set apart, were brought into the meeting, and I gave them the charge which is usually given to the Brethren prior to their being set apart and ordained.
Brother Critchlow and Brother Dyer then responded to the charge, following which the Brethren of the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve unitedly laid their hands upon the head of Elder William J. Critchlow, Jr., and I was voice in setting him apart as an Assistant to the Twelve.
The Brethren of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve then unitedly laid their hands upon the head of Elder Alvin R. Dyer, and at my request President Stephen L. Richards was voice in setting him apart as an Assistant to the Twelve.
Mon., 8 Dec., 1958:
“9:30 a.m. Met with Dr. William F. Edwards. Minutes of that meeting as prepared by Dr. William F. Edwards follow:
5. Compensation of General Authorities: I called attention to the fact that three of the General Authorities had spoken to me about their inability to meet expenses with their allowances. I find that the annual financial needs of my family are substantially greater than the allowances of the brethren. This was for his information.”
Fri., 6 Feb., 1959:
10 a.m. to 11:50 a.m. – The regular meeting of the First Presidency continued.
Books by General Authorities to be submitted to First Presidency.
At this meeting I stated that the General authorities of the Church should be informed that the First Presidency except no book to be published unless it be first submitted. The Authority will still be the author, but the First Presidency want to know what is in the book before it is published. In the minds of the people the General Authorities in their individual capacities cannot be separated from them in their official capacities.
Many other Church problems were brought up and considered.
Sun., 8 Feb., 1959:
“Came down to the office this morning. Called Joseph Anderson and asked him to get a copy of Bruce McConkie’s book ‘Mormon Doctrine’ and then place it on my desk.
This he did, and later I took the book to my home where I studied the book, and made an outline of questions that I shall take up with Brother McConkie when he meets with the First Presidency next Wednesday morning. I then went to the office and dictated my notes to the dictaphone. (see 1959 file for notes.)”
Wed., 11 Feb., 1959:
“8:30 to 9:45 a.m.
The First Presidency met with Elder Bruce R. McConkie of the First Council of Seventy.”
Fri., 30 Oct. 1959:
“Future Plans for the Next 100 Years
Note
This has been a very busy week, involving matters pertaining to the Church’s future for the next hundred years. When the plans are in shape they will be presented to all the Brethren of the Twleve so that they will know what is under contemplation.
Thurs., 7 Jan. 1960:
10:15 to 12:45 p.m.
Re: The book – ‘Mormon Doctrine’
The First Presidency met with Elders Mark E. Petersen and Marion G. Romney. They submitted their report upon their examination of the book ‘Mormon Doctrine’ by Elder Bruce McConkie.
These brethren reported that the manuscript of the book ‘Mormon Doctrine’ had not been read by the reading committee; that President Joseph Fielding Smith did not know anything about it until it was published. Elder Petersen stated that the extent of the corrections which he had marked in his copy of the book (1067) affected most of the 776 pages of the book. He also said that he thought the brethren should be under the rule that no book should be published without a specific approval of the First Presidency.
I stated that the decision of the First Presidency and the Committee should be announced to the Twelve.
It was agreed that the necessary corrections are so numerous that to republish a corrected edition of the book would be such an extensive repudiation of the original as to destroy the credit of the author; that the republication of the book should be forbidden and that the book should be repudiated in such a way as to save the career of the author as one of the General Authorities of the Church. It was also agreed that this decision should be announced to the Council of the Twelve before I talk to the author.
Elder Petersen will prepare an editorial for publication in the Improvement Era, stating the principle of approval of books on Church doctrine. A rough draft will be submitted to us for approval.
January 7, 1960
COPY
THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
The Council of the Twelve
47 E. South Temple Street
Salt Lake City, Utah
January 28, 1959
President David O. McKay
Building
Dear President McKay:
This is my report on MORMON DOCTRINE, by Bruce R. McConkie, which on January 5, you asked me to read.
The book is a 776 page work which, in the words of the author, purports to be, ‘the first major attempt to digest, explain, and analyze all of the important doctrines of the kingdom … the first extensive compendium of the whole gospel–the first attempt to publish an encyclopedic commentary covering the whole field of revealed religion.’
‘For the work itself,’ the author assumes the ‘sole and full responsibility.’ (Exhibit I) (The exhibits cited in this report consist of printed pages from the book. The statements in point are underscored in red.)
Preparation of the volume has entailed much study and research. Its favorable reception evidences a felt need for such a treatise.
The author is an able and thorough student of the gospel. In many respects he has produced a remarkable book. Properly used, it quickly introduces the student to the authorities on most any gospel subject.
As to the book itself, notwithstanding its many commendable and valuable features and the author’s assumption of ‘sole and full responsibility’ for it, its nature and scope and the authoritative tone of the style in which it is written pose the question as to the propriety of the author’s attempting such a project without assignment and supervision from him whose right and responsibility it is to speak for the Church on ‘Mormon Doctrine.’ Had the work been authoritatively supervised, some of the following matters might have been omitted and the treatment of others modified.
A. References to churches and other groups who do not accept ‘Mormon Doctrine’.
1. ‘Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,’ who sometimes refer to themselves as ‘Josephites’. (Exhibit II-1, pages 50, 141, 362)
2. ‘Christian Churches’ generally. (Exhibit II-2, pages 139, 455)
3. ‘Catholic Church’. (Exhibit II-3, pages 13, 66, 69, 129, 130, 216, 241,
242, 314-15, 342, 346, 350, 422, 499, 511, 697)
4. Communists and Catholics. (Exhibit II-4, pages 26-7, 131)
5. Evolution and Evolutionists. (Exhibit II-5, pages 37, 77, 136, 180, 228,
238, 659)
B. Declaration as to ‘Mormon Doctrine’ on controversial issues.
1. ‘Pre-Adamites’. (Exhibit III-1, pages 17, 262)
2. Status of Animals and Plants in the Garden of Eden. (Exhibit III-2, pages
36, 234-35)
3. Meaning of the various accounts of Creation. (Exhibit III-3, pages 157-8, 167- 8)
4. Dispensation of Abraham. (Exhibit III-4, page 203)
5. Moses a translated being. (Exhibit III-5, pages 206, 445, 466, 727-8)
6. Origin of Individuality. (Exhibit III-6, page 404)
7. Defiling the priesthood. (Exhibit III-7, page 437)
8. Manner in which Jesus was Begotten. (Exhibit III-8, page 494)
9. Written sermons. (Exhibit III-9, pages 634-5, 716)
10. Resurrection of stillborn children. (Exhibit III-10, page 694)
C. Miscellaneous Interpretations. (Exhibit IV)
Frequency of Administrations, page 22
Baptism in the ‘molten sea,’ page 98
II Peter 1:19, page 102
Paul married, page 112
Status of those ‘with Christ in His Resurrection’, page 128
Consecration of oil, page 147
Councils and schools among the Gods, page 151
Limitations on Deity, page 154
Sunday not a proper day for family reunions, page 254
Geological changes at time of the deluge, page 268
The Holy Ghost a spirit man, page 329
Facing east in temples when giving the Hosanna Shout, page 337
Details on family prayer and asking the blessing on food, page 526
Women to be gods, page 551
Interpretation of the Doctrine and Covenants 93:1, page 581
Interpretation of ‘Every spirit of man was innocent in the beginning,’ page 606
Status of little children in the celestial kingdom, page 607
Resumption of schools of the prophets, page 613
Time of beginning of seasons, page 616
Interpretation of III Nephi 12:20, page 618
D. Repeated use of the word ‘apostate’ and related terms in a way which to many seems discourteous and to others gives offense. (Exhibit V, pages 123, 125, 160, 169, 212, 223, 383, 528, 538, 546, 548, 596)
Faithfully and Respectfully submitted,
Marion G. Romney
Enc.
P.S.
As per my letter to you of January 9. I have promised to contact Marvin Wallin, manager of Bookcraft Company, by the 9th of February about the 4,000 volume edition of MORMON DOCTRINE which he is holding.
I shall therefore seek to contact you about the matter near the end of next week.
Sincerely,
M.G.R.
Note: Original letter and copy of manuscript in First Presidency’s Office.”
Fri., 8 Jan. 1960:
“11:55 to 12:15 p.m.
The First Presidency held a meeting. We decided that Bruce R. McConkie’s book, ‘Mormon Doctrine’ recently published by Bookcraft Company, must not be re-published, as it is full of errors and misstatements, and it is most unfortunate that it has received such wide circulation. It is reported to us that Brother McConkie has made corrections in his book, and is now preparing another edition. We decided this morning that we do not want him to publish another edition.
We decided, also, to have no more books published by General Authorities without their first having the consent of the First Presidency. (See January 7, 1960) (also see Jan. 27, 1960)
Thurs., 14 Jan. 1960:
“8:30 to 9:50 a.m.
Was engaged in the meeting of the First Presidency. Among matters discussed at this meeting were the following:
(1) Elder Mark E. Petersen’s Proposed Editorial on Books by General Authorities
A draft of a proposed editorial for the Improvement Era, prepared by Elder Mark E. Petersen, on the subject of selecting good books, and upon the approval of the publication of books by the First Presidency, was read. After consideration it was decided that the general statement, without the reference to ‘Mormon Doctrine’, and, ‘ancient America and the Book of Mormon’, which should be handled separately, would be a suitable editorial on the subject of selecting good books. Further action on the matter of publishing a statement relating to the approval of books by the First Presidency was deferred awaiting consideration of the subject by me with President Joseph Fielding Smith.
Wed., 27 Jan. 1960:
3:00 p.m.
Conference with Pres. Joseph Fielding Smith
Re: Bruce R. McConkie’s book ‘Mormon Doctrine’
At the request of the First Presidency, I called President Joseph Fielding Smith, and told him that we are a unit in disapproving of Brother Bruce R. McConkie’s book, ‘Mormon Doctrine’, as an authoritative exposition of the principles of the gospel.
I then said: ‘Now, Brother Smith, he is a General Authority, and we do not want to give him a public rebuke that would be embarrassing to him and lessen his influence with the members of the Church, so we shall speak to the Twelve at our meeting in the Temple tomorrow, and tell them that Brother McConkie’s book is not approved as an authoritative book, and that it should not be republished, even if the errors (some 1,067 of them) are corrected.’
Brother Smith agreed with this suggestion to report to the Twelve, and said, ‘That is the best thing to do.’
I then said that Brother McConkie is advocating by letter some of the principles as printed in his book in answer to letters he receives. Brother Smith said, ‘I will speak to him about that.’ I then mentioned that he is also speaking on these subjects, and Brother Smith said, ‘I will speak to him about that also.’
I also said that the First Presidency had decided that General Authorities of the Church should not publish books without submitting them to some member of the General Authorities, and President Smith agreed to this as being wise.”
Thurs., 28 Jan. 1960:
“8:30 to 9 a.m. Bruce R. McConkie’s Book
Was engaged in the meeting of the First Presidency. I reported to my counselors that I had talked with President Joseph Fielding Smith about the decision that the book ‘Mormon Doctrine’ should not be republished and about handling the matter to avoid undermining Brother McConkie’s influence. President Smith agreed that the book should not be republished, and said that he would talk with Brother McConkie. It was decided that the First Presidency should inform Brother McConkie before he learns of our decision from some other source, so Brother McConkie was asked to come into our meeting this morning.
When he arrived, I informed him of the desire of the First Presidency with reference to his book not being republished, to which he agreed. The recommendation was also made that he answer inquiries on the subject with care. Brother McConkie said, ‘I am amenable to whatever you Brethren want. I will do exactly what you want. I will be as discreet and as wise as I can.’ In answering letters he said that he would express no views contrary to views which the First Presidency has expressed. He said that he would conform in every respect.
Many other matters of importance were considered at our meeting this morning, and then we dismissed to attend the Council meeting in the temple.
10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
Was engaged in the meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve in the Salt Lake Temple.
At Council meeting I reported to the Brethren our decision regarding Elder Bruce R. McConkie’s book ‘Mormon Doctrine,’ stating that it had caused considerable comment throughout the Church, and that it has been a source of concern to the Brethren ever since it was published. I said that this book had not been presented to anyone for consideration or approval until after its publication. I further said that the First Presidency have given it very careful consideration, as undoubtedly have some of the Brethren of the Twelve also, and that the First Presidency now recommend that the book be not republished; that it be not republished even in a corrected form, even though Brother McConkie mentions in the book that he takes all responsibility for it; and that it be not recognized as an authoritative book.
I said further that the question has arisen as to whether a public correction should be made and an addendum given emphasizing the parts which are unwisely presented or misquoted or incorrect; but it is felt that that would not be wise because Brother McConkie is one of the General Authorities, and it might lessen his influence. The First Presidency recommend that the situation be left as it is, and whenever a question about it arises, we can answer that it is unauthoritative; that it was issued by Brother McConkie on his own responsibility, and he must answer for it.
I reported that the First Presidency had talked with Brother McConkie this morning, and he said he will do whatever the Brethren want him to do. He will not attempt to republish the book, nor to say anything by letter, and if he answers letters or inquiries that he will answer them in accordance with the suggestions made by the Brethren, and not advocate those things concerning which question has been raised as contained in the book.
The Brethren unanimously approved of this.
I then said that the First Presidency further recommend that when any member of the General Authorities desires to write a book, that the Brethren of the Twelve or the First Presidency be consulted regarding it. While the author need not get the approval of these Brethren, they should know before it is published that a member of the General authorities wants to publish a book. I said it may seem all right for the writer of the book to say, ‘I only am responsible for it,’ but I said ‘you cannot separate your position from your individuality, and we should like the authors to present their books to the Twelve or a Committee appointed.’ I asked the Brethren of the Twelve to convey this information to the other General Authorities. On motion, this became the consensus of the Council.”
Fri., 7 Oct. 1960:
‘8:30 a.m.
Held a meeting with President J. Reuben Clark, Jr., and President Henry D. Moyle. We three decided upon the calling of the following men to be Assistants to the Twelve:
Nathan Eldon Tanner, President of the Calgary Stake, Alberta, Canada
Franklin D. Richards, President of the Northwestern States Mission
Theodore M. Burton, former President of the West German Mission,
now teaching at the Utah State University, Logan, Utah.
After we had taken up the matters before us, President Clark broke down and said that he would not be able to attend Conference — said he is not well enough; that his legs are weak, and that he cannot get up the steps. I wept with him, and reluctantly said that he probably should not attempt to attend the meetings.
4:30 p.m.
I called all members of the Twelve to meet with the First Presidency in our offices in the Church Office Building. Presented to them the names of the new Assistants to the Twelve for their approval.”
Thurs., 2 Feb. 1961:
“10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Was engaged in the meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve in the Salt Lake Temple. At this meeting we unanimously approved the recommendation that members of the Twelve become members of the Missionary Committee, with President Henry D. Moyle as Chairman. The consensus of opinion favored and recommended the continuance of the present practice in having the Missionary Department Staff go over the recommendations of missionaries and making the assignments to missions and bringing the results to the Missionary Committee Tuesday morning.
I then told the Brethren that I should like to have them take under advisement, the matter of making members of the First Council of Seventy High Priests. The Prophet changed that and made them all Seventies. Some of them were High Priests at one time, and a discussion arose as to which would be higher in authority, and the Council of Seventy have not been High Priests since. Now they are sent out under the direction of the Twelve, and cannot set apart Stake Presidents. They have to stand aside while the Brethren of the Twelve do the ordaining of High Priests. It would make them more effective as visitors under the direction of the Twelve if they had the authority to ordain High Priests. This question will be discussed at a later date.
Wed., 29 Mar. 1961:
“9:30 to 10:15 a.m.
Held the regular meeting of the First Presidency. At this meeting I discussed with my counselor the matter of sending out members of the First Council of Seventy to set the Church in order without giving them authority to set apart Stake Presidents or to ordain Bishops, and commented on the fact that they are going out and doing the work of high priests and should be given that authority.
I explained that in the early days of the Church, the First Council of Seventy were high priests and when the question arose about this the Prophet took the high priests out and seventies took their places. In response to President Clark’s inquiry as to whether or not when a president of seventy is chosen I would propose that there be conferred upon him a special authority and to make him a high priest or only confer a special authority, I said that when a vacancy in the Council of the Seventy is filled, special authority would be given to set in order the affairs of the Church and the individual should be ordained a High Priest.
The revelation (Doctrine & Covenants, Section 107, Verse 94), ‘And the seventh president of these presidents is to preside over the six;’ was also considered and the relation of this to the present need of the Church was discussed. President Clark’s question, ‘Will you make it a general rule or apply it to specific persons?’ was answered by me by saying, ‘Under present conditions, I should apply it to specific cases. Every man who is appointed to go out to a stake, every one of the First Council of Seventy appointed to visit a stake, should have authority of High Priests to set in order the needs in that stake. I should not make it general; I should make it individual. I should confer upon each one who goes out to set the Church in order.’
President Moyle said, ‘You have a precedent established by President Grant. He conferred upon the Assistant the authority of the Apostleship.’
I said: ‘They are Apostles with every right and power of the Apostles except only the choosing of patriarchs, and they are given the same charge. They do not have the right to choose a patriarch, and they are not members of the Quorum, but they have the authority of the Apostle.’ I then said that only the members of the First Council who are sent out to do the duty of High Priests would be given authority.
President Clark said, ‘If it is a special ordination, my query is answered.’
I then said that we shall present the matter to the Twelve at our meeting in the Temple tomorrow.
Other important matters were taken up at this meeting.”
Thurs., 30 Mar. 1961:
“7:25 a.m.
Consultation with President Joseph Fielding Smith. I explained that under the arrangements being made to divide mission fields into areas and placing them under the direction of one of the General Authorities of the Church, that the stakes within the areas can be taken care of by the General Authority assigned to the area. I also informed President Smith that the Presidency will probably have a recommendation to make that the Seventies be given authority to set in order everything pertaining to the stakes. I felt impressed to say to him, ‘We shall give them that authority.’ President Smith patted me on the back, and said, ‘I am with you.’
I said the President of the Seventy will be ordained High Priests and sent out to set the stake in order and everything pertaining thereto. He has the same authority as a Seventy, and by virtue of the appointment of the First Presidency, he has authority to attend to every duty in the stake. I am sure that is right! I said nothing to President Smith about the seventh president of seventy presiding over the other six. We shall take this matter up a little later.
Seventies – Ordination to High Priests
Presented to the Brethren in Council Meeting today the matter of ordination of Brethren of the First Council of Seventy to High Priests in order that they may attend to ordinations when they are assigned to go out into the Stakes.
Thursday, March 30, 1961
ORDINATION OF BRETHREN OF FIRST COUNCIL OF SEVENTY TO HIGH PRIESTS
President McKay, speaking to the Brethren, said that the Church is growing, stakes are increasing in number, and work of the General Authorities is becoming heavier and heavier all the time, and their presence is needed in the stake conferences. He mentioned that the Twelve now have eleven associates called Assistants; also the First Council of Seventy who go out regularly, and the Presiding Bishopric. He said that the Seventy, who labor under the direction of the Twelve in accordance with the revelations, are not authorized to complete all the work for which they are sent out; that at one time in the Church high priests and seventies both were called into the First Council of Seventy. The question arose regarding the authority, etc., of these brethren, and the high priests were released, and since that time only those who were ordained to the office of seventy have occupied a position in the First Council.
President McKay said that the First Presidency now recommend that those members of the First Council of Seventy who are appointed to represent the Twelve at the quarterly conferences be ordained high priests so that they can attend to all the regular duties to which they are assigned. They will not join the high priests’ quorum, he said, because they will hold to their present appointment, but as they go out they will be given authority, which they already have as holders of the Melchizedek Priesthood, to set in order everything necessary.
The President said that this authority would not be given to all of them, and it will not change the order and calling of the seventies into the First Council of Seventy. They shall be chosen as heretofore, but when the First Council of Seventy are used to go out to represent the Twelve and to do that work just as the Assistants do, they should have the power and authority to do everything that will help in the work.
President McKay asked if the Brethren had any questions.
Elder Ezra Taft Benson said he assumed that this would not include the ordaining of patriarchs.
President McKay answered no, that even the Assistants cannot do that. In answer to a further question by Brother Benson, President McKay said that, however, they will be able to ordain bishops and set apart presidents of stakes and high councilmen. They cannot, however, choose patriarchs. That responsibility rests with the Twelve. Nor can they attend to the restoration of blessings. They can merely attend to the local work.
President Joseph Fielding Smith moved approval of the decision of the First Presidency. Motion seconded by Elder Ezra Taft Benson and unanimously approved.”
Wed., 19 Apr. 1961:
“8:30 to 9:10 a.m.
Was in the meeting of the First Presidency. Among important matters considered were 1) I reported that Brother Nathan Eldon Tanner, who has been appointed President of the West European Mission, which mission includes Great Britain, France, and Holland, is to be made Editor of the Millennial Star, and that Brother T. Bowring Woodbury, now President of the British Mission, will be the assistant Editor. 2) I said that heretofore the First Presidency has made appointments of members of the Twelve to visit foreign countries, and that now I feel that the responsibility of making these Stake appointments at home and abroad should be with the Twelve. I further said that we need to appoint a Committee of the Twelve to assist President Joseph Fielding Smith in assigning Brethren to Stake conferences. I shall talk with him, suggesting the need of such a Committee to study the conditions and needs of the Stakes, and to make assignments of General Authorities in accordance therewith. I said that I would present the matter to the Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve at their meeting in the Temple tomorrow. 3) I expressed my feeling that special appointments to visit missions should be made by the First Presidency and approved by the Twelve. 4) First Council of Seventy. We agreed that members of the First Council of Seventy who are sent to Stakes and Missions to set in order the affairs of the Church be ordained high priests, and have authority to serve as such. They will not, however, be members of the high priests’ quorums, but are given special authority to set in order the Stakes and Missions to which they are assigned.
Fri., 9 June 1961:
“Ordaining of Seventies to office of High Priest
11:30 a.m.
Went up to the office of the First Council of Seventy where, by appointment, I met with the members of that Council. Brother Levi Edgar Young was present.
I explained to these brethren the proposition that they are sent out under the direction of the Twelve to set in order matters in the stakes and wards, and that under the arrangement that has heretofore prevailed they were unable to ordain High Priest to any position in the stake, or even assist in such ordinations; that, however, the Brethren of the First Presidency and the Twelve were now united in recommending that when members of the First Council of the Seventy go out to fill such appointments under the direction of the Twelve, they should be empowered with all authority necessary to set in order the stakes and wards.
The brethren of the First Council voted unanimously for this change and seemed to be pleased regarding it. (See Sunday, June 11, 1961 for notes regarding the ordaining of some of these Brethren and for the public announcement of same)
While these Brethren will be ordained High Priests they will not belong to the High Priests Quorum, but will belong to the First Council of Seventy.
Sun., 11 June 1961:
“8 a.m.
Members of the First Council of Seventy Set Apart as High Priests ‘that they may have Power to set in order all things Pertaining to the Church.’
According to appointment at my request, I met with President Henry D. Moyle and the following Brethren of the First Council of Seventy: Antoine R. Ivins – S. Dilworth Young – Milton R. Hunter – Bruce R. McConkie.
In keeping with the divine appointment of the members of the First Council of Seventy to ‘preach the Gospel, and to be especial witnesses unto the Gentiles and in all the world,’ (D & C 107:25), and in harmony with the action of the First Presidency and the Council of the Twleve Apostles on March 30, 1961, the following members of the First Council of Seventy met in the office and were ordained High Priests:
Antoine R. Ivins – Ordained by President David O. McKay
S. Dilworth Young – Ordained by President Henry D. Moyle
Milton R. Hunter – Ordained by President David O. McKay
Bruce R. McConkie – Ordained by President Henry D. Moyle
It is understood that these Brethren, and others who are yet to be ordained, will, under their assignments by the Quorum of the Twelve, ordain High Priests, set apart Presidents of Stakes, members of High Councils, Presidents of High Priests Quorums, Bishops and their counselors, and perform such other official duties as may be necessary in Stakes and Missions to which they may be assigned.
This morning at the 9 a.m. Session of the MIA June Conference held in the Salt Lake Tabernacle I made a public announcement to all assembled of this historical move. (see newspaper clippings following) (Also see report to Council June 15, 1961)
Sunday, June 11, 1961
TO FACILITATE WORK
CHURCH ADVANCES SEVENTY LEADERS
An announcement that members of the First Council of Seventy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints had been ordained high priests to give them ‘power to set in order all things pertaining to the Church’ as they visit among the stakes and missions was made Sunday morning in the Salt Lake Tabernacle.
It was made by President David O. McKay at the close of his remarks at the session of the 62nd annual MIA conference held under the direction of the First Presidency.
President McKay’s statement on the occasion is as follows:
‘There is one message I should like to speak on this occasion to the Church.’
‘This morning four members of the First Council of Seventy were ordained high priests, and the other members of the First Council of Seventy will be so ordained. Under the direction of the Twelve Apostles, the First Council of Seventy go out in all parts of the world to reorganize stakes and the missions, to set in order the affairs of the Church. That means ordaining high priests as presidents of stakes, setting apart as presidents of stakes, setting apart high councilmen, setting apart presidents or ordaining presidents of high priests quorums and doing everything that is necessary for the advancement of the work.
‘The First Presidency and Twelve recently agreed that the First Seven Presidents of Seventy who have been appointed by the Twelve should have power to set in order all things pertaining to the Church and this is declaring that they are thus authorized to carry on the work.’
Members of the First Council of Seventy are Levi Edgar Young, Antoine R. Ivins, S. Dilworth Young, Milton R. Hunter, Bruce R. McConkie, Marion D. Hanks and A. Theodore Tuttle.
Deseret News – Monday, June 12, 1961
Sunday, June 11, 1961
LDS REVEALS PROMOTION FOR 7 AIDES
The elevation of seven general authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to a higher position in the church’s priesthood was announced Sunday by President David O. McKay.
At the close of the morning session of the Mutual Improvement Assn. conference, Pres. McKay said ‘Members of the First Council of Seventy will be ordained to the office of a high priest so they will be enabled to set in order all things pertaining to the affairs of the church.’.
The ordinations will enable the seven members of the council to direct the organization and reorganization of stakes of the church; to set apart and ordain stake presidencies and other high priests, and to officiate in all other ordinances requiring the priesthood of a high priest.
The position of a high priest is one of three callings in the LDS Church Melchizedek Priesthood. The others are that of an elder and a seventy.
In the past the organizing of stakes, setting apart of stake presidencies and performance of other functions of a high priest have been handled primarily by members of the Council of Twelve Apostles and the Assistants to the Council of the Twelve.
Pres. McKay said four of the seven presidents of Seventy were ordained Sunday morning and the other ordinations would be taken care of as soon as possible.
Members of the First Council of Seventy include Levi Edgar Young, Antoine R. Ivins, S. Dilworth Young, Milton R. Hunter, Bruce R. McConkie, Marion D. Hanks and A. Theodore Tuttle.
The Salt Lake Tribune – Monday, June 12, 1961″
Wed., 14 June 1961:
“9 a.m.
The regular meeting of the First Presidency was held. The following are some of the items we took up:
7. First Council of the Seventy
Reference was made to the announcement that I made Sunday morning in the MIA June Conference that four of the members of the First Council of the Seventy had been ordained high priests, which ordination took place Sunday morning at 8 o’clock. Elder Levi Edgar Young had inquired both from my secretary and Brother Anderson, secretary in the office of the First Presidency, as to the reason why he had not been given this ordination.
I explained that the action did not include making all of the first Seven Presidents High Priests, but only those who are going out to set in order the affairs of the Church. Those ordained were Antoine R. Ivins, S. Dilworth Young, Milton R. Hunter, and Bruce R. McConkie.
President Moyle mentioned that Elder Ivins seemed to have the understanding that in the future when selecting brethren for positions in the First Council of the Seventy, Presidents of Stakes and others who are High Priests could be chosen, and that perhaps the Assistants to the Twelve might now be made a part of the First Quorum of Seventies.
I explained that it was not the intention to call High Priests into positions in the First Council of Seventies, nor was there any thought of filling up the First Quorum of Seventies in the manner mentioned. For the record, I said that some time ago (June 9) I met with the First Council of Seventy, Levi Edgar Young being present, and explained to them the proposition that they are sent out under the direction of the Twelve to set in order matters in the stakes and wards, and that under the arrangement that has heretofore prevailed, they were unable to ordain High Priests to any position in the stake or even assist in such ordinations; that, however, the Brethren of the First Presidency and the Twelve are now united in recommending that when members of the First Council of Seventy go out to fill such appointments under the direction of the Twelve, they should be empowered with all authority necessary to set in order the Stakes and Wards.
The Brethren of the First Council voted unanimously for this change, and seemed to be pleased regarding it. I stated further that while these brethren will be ordained High Priests, they will not belong to the High Priests Quorum, but will belong to the First Council of Seventy.
President Moyle suggested that, if I felt inclined to do so, it would be perhaps wise to explain again the situation to Elder Ivins in order that he may have a correct understanding.
Referring to the First Quorum of the Seventy, I said that is has been generally understood that the First Quorum is made up of the first seven presidents of the first ten quorums, but that this is not authoritative and that the first quorum has never been organized. I mentioned that is has also been stated that the First Quorum should include the senior president of the first 63 quorums. I said that I did not feel right about ordaining Levi Edgar Young a High Priest inasmuch as he is not able to visit the Stakes and Wards at the present time due to his condition.
Thurs., 15 June 1961:
Seventies – Ordaining of High Priests
Today at Council Meeting, I reported to the Brethren that I had held a meeting with the members of the First Council of Seventy, and that on Sunday morning, June 11, 1961, I had invited four of them to come to my office and that President Henry D. Moyle and I had ordained the following High Priests – Brothers Antoine R. Ivins, S. Dilworth Young, Milton R. Hunter, and Bruce R. McConkie.
I said that in regard to the ordination of these Brethren, I know it is right,and that the Lord approved of it, but that I do not know that we are compelled to give it to all of the Brethren of the First Council of Seventy just because we give it to those whom we send out to represent us. When they are appointed, they will go representing the Twelve, and they should be empowered with authority to do the work — that is clear to me.
In answer to a question as to whether these Brethren can ordain Bishops, I answered yes, that they could do virtually everything that the Assistants can do; that, however, they do not join the High Priests’ Quorum, but that the First Council of Seventy is their quorum. Nor does it follow that we shall call High Priests into the First Council of Seventy. We are not going to do that, as the Prophet has ruled on that matter.
To the question if the members of the First Council of Seventy who have been or may be ordained High Priests can perform marriages in the Temple, I answered No; nor can they select and ordain Patriarchs.
Sat., 1 July 1961:
“7:15 a.m.
By appointment at my call, met with members of the First Presidency and members of the Council of the Twelve in the office of the First Presidency. (President Clark still being indisposed was absent).
After taking care of regular Stake and Mission affairs, I reported the following appointments to Brethren to serve on Committees and as Advisors to Auxiliaries:
Expenditures Committee
Pres. Joseph Fielding Smith and Elders Harold B. Lee and Mark E. Petersen to replace the Brethren of the Twelve who are at the present time serving on the Expenditures Committee.
Reading Committee
Elders Spencer W. Kimball, Sterling W. Sill, and William J. Critchlow, Jr.
Sunday School
Elders Richard L. Evans and Howard W. Hunter as Advisers
Y.M.M.I.A. and Y.W.M.I.A.
Elders Ezra Taft Benson, Mark E. Petersen, Delbert L. Stapley, and George Q. Morris, as Advisers, the same as present, with the exception of Elder Richard L. Evans who is now released.
Primary
Elders Harold B. Lee and Marion G. Romney as Advisers, the same as present.
Historic Sites Committee
Bishop Thorpe B. Isaacson, Chairman; Wilford Wood. George Q. Morris, released.
The Music Committee and the other committees will not be changed.
Thurs., 27 July 1961:
“9 a.m.
Elders Marion D. Hanks, and A. Theodore Tuttle Ordained High Priests.
Elders Marion D. Hanks and A. Theodore Tuttle came in by appointment for the purpose of being ordained high priests.
I referred to the recent occasion when I met with the First Council of Seventy and mentioned to them the recent action of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve when it was unanimously decided that the brethren of the First Council of Seventy should have full powers under the Quorum of the Twelve to set in order matters pertaining to the Church in the stakes and missions. I then asked Elders Hanks and Tuttle if they were in full accord with that action, and they answered in the affirmative. Presidents Moyle and Brown and I then laid our hands upon the head of Elder Marion D. Hanks, and I was voice in ordaining him a high priest. We then laid our hands upon the head of A. Theodore Tuttle, and President Moyle, at my request, was voice in ordaining Elder Tuttle a high priest.
Thurs., 3 Aug. 1961:
“8:30 a.m.
Attended the First Presidency’s meeting. President Moyle is in Florida, and President Clark still indisposed at home.
President Brown and I read a number of letters containing matters of general church interest.
Ordination of Members of the First Council of the Seventy to High Priests
A letter referring to the recent decision to ordain the members of the First Council of Seventy to High Priests and quoting from the Documentary History of the Church corrected a practice of ordaining Elders to High Priest before they were ordained Seventies, and does not preclude the giving of additional authority and duties to the First Council of Seventies.
Fri., 22 Sept. 1961:
Presiding Bishopric Reorganization
We were agreed that it would be appropriate to make Bishop Wirthlin secretary and treasurer of the Deseret Title Holding Corporation in connection with the proposed release of Bishop Wirthlin as Presiding Bishop of the Church at this coming conference. I mentioned that with the release of Bishop Wirthlin his counselors would also be released. It was the thought that if the papers could be filed in sufficient time announcement of this new position for Bishop Wirthlin could be made in connection with his release at General Conference. We agreed that the following should be the members of the Board of Directors: Harold B. Lee, Marion G. Romney, LeGrand Richards, Gordon B. Hinckley, Henry D. Taylor, Theodore M. Burton, with Joseph L. Wirthlin as secretary and treasurer. The only fee that would be paid the directions would be the directions fee, Bishop Wirthlin’s salary to be determined by the Board. I said that I would call Bishop Wirthlin into my office and tell him of this appointment and of his proposed release as Presiding Bishop.
In regard to counselors in the Presiding Bishopric, I said the new Bishop will have the right to choose his own counselors.
I recommended to my counselors that John H. Vandenberg be chosen as successor to Bishop Wirthlin. I said that Brother Vandenberg is now working with the Building Committee, that he is informed regarding the money we are investing, and that he has handled masterfully our advance loans, that he has been over to Europe and knows the magnitude of the building program, and that the Presiding Bishopric should be vitally concerned with this building program, more so than heretofore. President Moyle moved approval of Brother Vandenberg. He said that he had know him for 20 years as a businessman and he thought he ranked with the best. President Brown felt it was an excellent choice and that he has the confidence of the leading brethren.
I shall visit President Clark at his home and present to him the matter of the proposed reorganization of the Presiding Bishopric.
Thurs., 28 Sept. 1961:
9 – 12 a.m.
Was engaged in the pre-Conference meeting and Fast of all General Authorities held in the upper room of the Salt Lake Temple.
At the regular meeting of the First Presidency and the Twelve, following the above meeting, I presented to the Brethren of the Council the recommendation of the First Presidency that the Presiding Bishopric be reorganized at this General Conference; that a holding corporation be organized with the members of the First Presidency and the Twelve to be members of the Board, and that Joseph L. Wirthlin be given the position of Secretary-Treasurer of that company.
I also presented the recommendation of the First Presidency that John H. Vandenberg be appointed Presiding Bishop of the Church. I told the Brethren that the Presidency hoped to be able to present the two counselors for the new Presiding Bishopric, but that they were not ready to do so as yet, and would call a meeting sometime tomorrow or the next day to complete the organization.
I also reported to the Brethren that it has been recommended that the General Presidency of the Young Women’s Mutual Improvement Association be reorganized.
These recommendations were unanimously approved by the Brethren.”
“7 a.m.
Dictated notes to my secretary, Clare, to be used in remarks I shall make in releasing the Presiding Bishopric of the Church, in the choosing of a third counselor, a new apostle, two new assistants, and a new Presiding Bishopric.
7:30 a.m.
Met by appointment in my private office Elder Gordon B. Hinckley, and interviewed him regarding his filling the vacancy in the Council of the Twelve. He was moved to tears, and said that he would do whatever we ask him to do.
7:45 a.m.
I then met with Brother Boyd K. Packer and told him that we should like him to accept a call to become an Assistant to the Twelve. Brother Packer was really overcome, and the tears flowed freely. He humbly accepted and said that he would do his best to merit the call.
8:30 a.m.
Met with my counselors, President Moyle and Brown. I asked President Moyle to present the General Authorities for the sustaining vote of the people at this morning’s session of the Conference. I said that before the General Authorities were presented that I would say a few words to the conference about the appointment and setting apart of Elder Hugh B. Brown as a counselor in the First Presidency; also, the appointment of Bishop Joseph L. Wirthlin as Secretary-Treasurer of the Deseret Title Holding Corporation, and the necessity of releasing him as Presiding Bishop, and with him his counselors Thorpe B. Isaacson and Carl W. Buehner. I said that I would then present to the congregation the release of the Young Women’s MIA Presidency, and leave the names of the new Bishopric and the members of the new Presidency of the YWMIA to be presented with the other General Authorities in the usual way.
I then told the Brethren that I had talked with John H. Vandenberg, and that he had accepted the responsibility of Presiding Bishop of the Church, and felt well over his appointment; that Brother Vandenberg had chosen Robert L. Simpson as his first counselor, and Victor L. Brown as second counselor. I stated that I had spoken to Sister Florence S. Jacobsen about her accepting the position as General President of the YWMIA and that she had called me this morning and named as her counselors Margaret Romney Jackson and Dorothy Porter Holt.
9:15 a.m.
Presided at a special meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve held in the office of the First Presidency.
I presented the recommendation to the Council that Elder Gordon B. Hinckley be approved for ordination as an Apostle, and to be set apart as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve. I then recommended the following brethren for Assistants to the Council of the Twelve: Elders Thorpe B. Isaacson and Boyd K. Packer.
I then referred to the earlier consideration that had been given to the matter of reorganizing the Presiding Bishopric of the Church, and presented the recommendation of the First Presidency that Elder John H. Vandenberg be made the Presiding Bishop, succeeding Elder Joseph L. Wirthlin. Robert L. Simpson was presented as first counselor, and Victor Lee Brown as second counselor. I then referred to the decision to reorganize the presidency of the Young Women’s Mutual Improvement Association, and presented the name of Sister Florence Smith Jacobsen for President, and as counselors, Margaret Romney Jackson, and Dorothy Porter Holt. On motion, all the above were approved by the Brethren.
At the conclusion of this meeting, we left immediately for the Salt Lake Tabernacle.
10 a.m.
Presided at one of the most history-making sessions of a General Conference ever held in the Church. Just prior to the presentation of the General Authorities for the sustaining vote of the Conference, I made the following statement regarding the appointment of SIX new General Authorities, and a new General Presidency of the Young Women’s Mutual Improvement Association, after which President Henry D. Moyle presented the names of the General Authorities, General Auxiliary officers for the sustaining vote of the members of the Church:
1) ‘The call and appointment and setting apart of Elder Hugh B. Brown as counselor in the First Presidency of the Church, June 22, 1961. It became evident to the First Presidency at that time that it would be necessary to have some help in the First Presidency. As a result, the First Presidency recommended to the Council of the Twelve the appointment of Elder Hugh B. Brown of the Council to be a counselor in the First Presidency. The Council of the Twelve unanimously approved the recommendation.
2) The appointment of Joseph L. Wirthlin, Presiding Bishop of the Church, as Secretary-Treasurer of the Deseret Title Holding Corporation, and the release of the Presiding Bishopric. (Bishop Thorpe B. Isaacson and Bishop Carl W. Buehner)
The accomplishment of these three men as the Presidency of the Aaronic Priesthood of the Church has been apparent to all who have had occasion to note their diligence and success with the young men under their immediate direction. (see letter of appreciation from Brother Carl W. Buehner)
Last Thursday in a meeting of all the General Authorities when called upon to represent the Presiding Bishopric, Bishop Carl W. Buehner gave a very enlightening and inspirational address regarding the details and comprehensive activity of this important department of the Church.
Their work in taking care of the statistics of financial phases, and particularly their remarkably successful efforts with members of the Senior Aaronic Priesthood, will mark their era of service with everlasting distinction, and rebound to the blessing of thousands.
With their release of these important positions go the commendation and blessing of the General Authorities of the Church and all who have been blessed by their inspired efforts.
3) Release of the General Presidency of the Young Women’s Mutual Improvement Association.
Never before in the history of the Church has there been such a marked increase in attendance at Sacrament meetings and other important meetings in the Stakes, Wards, Missions, and Branches throughout the Church in all the world.
That increased attendance is largely due to the work of the Presiding Bishopric and General Superintendency of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association among the young men of the lesser priesthood, and the General Presidency of the Young Women’s Mutual Improvement Association among the young women of the Church.
With this release of the Presiding Bishopric and the General Presidency of the Young Women’s Mutual Improvement Association goes the assurance of our gratitude to the Lord that you have rendered to Him, and to His Church such concentrated effort and devotion.
Please accept of our heartfelt gratitude for the service you have so ably and unselfishly rendered — May the blessings of the Lord and His divine protection be with you always.’
The great body of members of the Church seemed in one accord with these new appointments. At this session, a member of the First Presidency, a member of the Council of the Twelve, two new Assistants, three new members of the Presiding Bishopric, and three new members of the General Presidency of the YWMIA were sustained, making a total of nine new appointees! There are now 39 General Authorities, the highest number in the history of the Church! I was relieved and happy that the meeting was so inspirational and successful!
Thurs., 5 Oct. 1961:
“10:15 to 3:30 p.m.
Was engaged in the meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve in the Salt Lake Temple.
Elder Gordon B. Hinckley, who was sustained at the General Conference Saturday, September 30, 1961 as an Apostle and a member of the Twelve was present upon invitation, and I gave him his charge as an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ. I then set him apart and ordained him as an Apostle of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.”
Fri., 6 Oct. 1961:
8 a.m. — Meeting with the New Presiding Bishopric prior to their Setting Apart.
Upon invitation of the First Presidency, John H. Vandenberg and the brethren he has chosen for his counselors in the Presiding Bishopric met with us. Brother Vandenberg reported that he had met with Bishop Wirthlin and his counselors, and in a general way had reviewed what they are doing. Accompanied by Howard Barker he had been to Idaho Falls and reviewed the Idaho Falls Hospital, and the new addition that is being contemplated there. He said that the bids were opened, that they were about 8% higher than was expected, the lowest being $1,374,000, and the highest $1,507,000. He recommended that we accept the lowest.
Brother Vandenberg said that he had arranged to go to Canada with Bishop Wirthlin to get oriented regarding the situation pertaining to the Church’s ranches there.
I then explained to Bishop Vandenberg, and his counselors, Robert L. Simpson and Victor Lee Brown, that they will receive the office of bishop, which is as eternal in its ordination as the ordination to the priesthood. I said that it is true that once a bishop always a bishop. I said further that in connection with their ordination as bishops they would preside over all the bishops of the Church, and with that would hold the presidency of the Aaronic Priesthood under the Presidency of the Church, holding the office of high priest. I told them that that is really their spiritual duty. As a bishopric they will handle the finances of the Church. I told them that we should like closer cooperation in regard to buildings and financial affairs centered in the Presiding Bishopric and the Building Department.
Brother Vandenberg asked about the disbursement of tithes and I explained that the three groups of priesthood authorities designated by the Lord are responsible for the disbursement of tithes — the First Presidency of the Church, who stand at the head of the Melchizedek Priesthood in the entire Church — the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles – and the Presiding Bishopric. These groups determine once a week the amount of money that should be disbursed, and are represented in the Expenditures Committee.
I further explained that the Presiding Bishopric would be under the direction of the First Presidency and the Twelve Apostles of the Church, and that, today, in ordaining and setting them apart they would be ordained bishops and set apart as the presidency of the Aaronic Priesthood.
Setting Apart of the New Presiding Bishopric
My counselors and I (Presidents Henry D. Moyle and Hugh B. Brown), then officiated, (I being voice) in ordaining John Henry Vandenberg a bishop and conferred upon him the power and authority pertaining to the position as Presiding Bishop of the Church, and also set him apart as president of the Aaronic Priesthood in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
My counselors and I laid our hands upon the head of Elder Robert Leatham Simpson, and President Moyle was voice in ordaining him a bishop and setting him apart as first counselor to Bishop Vandenberg in the Presiding Bishopric of the Church.
My counselors and I then laid our hands upon the head of Victor Lee Brown, and President Hugh B. Brown was voice in setting him apart as second counselor to Bishop Vandenberg in the Presiding Bishopric of the Church. Brother Brown had heretofore been ordained a Bishop.
Additional Instructions to Presiding Bishopric
Following the setting apart of the Presiding Bishopric, the brethren of the Presiding Bishopric remained with us for a few moments, and I explained to them that there will be some changes and further appointments given them. Inasmuch as Bishops Simpson and Brown will require about two weeks to sever their connections with their present employers, I said that the First Presidency would consult Bishop Vandenberg regarding matters that might arise in the meantime. I said: ‘We should like to be free to use you as we feel impressed.’ Bishops Simpson and Brown said: ‘We are in your hands completely.’ I said that they would be expected to accept certain positions by virtue of this setting apart today, and that they would be consulted further relative thereto. In the meantime Bishop Vandenberg was requested to remain where he is as far as his quarters are concerned until other arrangements are made. I asked these brethren to get together and understand one another. They departed from us at 9 a.m.
Deseret Title Holding Corporation
We discussed the matter of providing an office for Bishop Wirthlin as secretary-treasurer of the Deseret Title Holding Corporation. We were agreed that it would be well to have him close to the Financial Department and that perhaps provision can be made in that department for an office for him. In regard to the salary to be paid Brother Wirthlin, it was thought that he should receive the same compensation he is now getting. President Moyle suggested that in order to justify a compensation of that kind it might be well to call him manager, as there is more justification for paying a manager a substantial salary than the secretary and treasurer. Said he was speaking on the matter from a legal standpoint. After some discussion of the matter, we decided to make Brother Wirthlin manager; Brother Henry D. Taylor, secretary, and Theodore M. Burton, treasurer.
9:30 a.m. Meeting of Assistants to the Twelve
The Assistants to the Twelve, at my call, came into the office of the First Presidency for a meeting. All of the Assistants were present with the exception of Elder Henry D. Taylor who was excused to attend an appointment in Idaho, and N. Eldon Tanner who had returned to Europe.
At this time I gave the charge to the new Assistants, Elders Thorpe B. Isaacson, and Boyd K. Packer, after which my counselors and I laid our hands upon the head of Elder Thorpe B. Isaacson, and I was voice in setting him apart as an Assistant to the Twelve. We then laid our hands upon the head of Elder Boyd K. Packer, and President Henry D. Moyle was voice in setting him apart as an Assistant to the Twelve.
Friday, October 6, 1961
In setting apart two new Assistants to the Council of the Twelve at a special meeting held with the First Presidency and Assistants to the Twelve in the First Presidency’s office, President McKay said:
‘Now you will go out representing these chosen of the Twelve, whose first obligation and whose requirement to be a member of the Council of the Twelve is the knowledge of the divinity of Jesus Christ, our Lord; and you as representing this body are required to have that same testimony and to bear witness to the reality of his existence. Now you know why such emphasis is being placed upon it.
‘Only a few days ago the leader of the Communists, praising a man who appealed to them to serve the world and bring about its destruction, said: ‘Of course we do not believe in Christ or in God.’ They do not believe in the home ties, and as I have said in public I say to you this morning, a whole generation for nearly half a century, over 40 years, has been indoctrinated with that falsehood, as false as Satan himself can make it; that there is no God; that Jesus Christ is not his Son, has no divinity, in fact, has no existence.
‘One of these indoctrinated young men, a member of the Church, said: ‘I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ, but I have been indoctrinated falsely.’ The man said, ‘Who is Jesus Christ?’ Whether he said it, we do not know, but it is a fact that a whole generation is indoctrinated with that idea — atheistic, a false ideology, a false philosophy, that is a false as Satan himself can make it — and upon the Twelve Apostles, the Presidency of the Church, and the Assistants to the Twelve, and other General Authorities of this Church rests the responsibility of counteracting in the world where dwell millions of honest men, God-fearing men, and we have that responsibility.
‘So it is your first charge: The knowledge of the Son of God and his divinity is your responsibility and your privilege and your blessing.’
Wed., 29 Nov. 1961:
Salaries of General Authorities
We considered the allowances of some of our younger authorities who have large families; that in some cases they are not getting sufficient compensation to meet their expenses. It was agreed that some adjusting must be done in these cases.
Fri., 19 Jan., 1962:
8:05 – 8:25 a.m.
Office consultation with Bishop Joseph B. Wirthlin, Bishop of the
Bonneville Ward, and son of Bishop Joseph L. Wirthlin. Bishop
Wirthlin expressed his concern over his father’s ‘enforced’ inactivity. I assxured him that we have a special mission in mind for Bishop Joseph L. Wirthlin which, we are certain, will given him all of the Church activity with which he has heretofore been accustomed.”
Wednesday, April 25, 1962
MEMORANDUM OF CONFERENCE WITH PRESIDENT DAVID O. MCKAY AT 8:00 A.M. ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, 1962
I [Ernest Wilkinson] met with President McKay at 8:00 a.m. and transacted the following business with him.
4. Boyd K. Packer. I told President McKay that President Moyle had asked us to keep Boyd K. Packer on the payroll of the Church School System but that our budget just did not permit us to pay $9,000 to him and hire a successor. President McKay made a note of the same and said they would handle it some way.
Thurs., 19 July 1962:
Smith, President Joseph Fielding
President Hugh B. Brown said that he had called President Smith to congratulate him on his birthday. President Smith said the best birthday present he could get would be to ask the members of the Council to let him make decisions; that he does not know what is going on as some members of the Council go directly to the First Presidency, and he does not know what requests they have made of the Presidency. President Brown said that President Smith is losing men to whom he can make assignments. I said that President Smith may make the usual assignments.
Fri., 3 Aug., 1962:
“[First Presidency Meeting] At this time, President Bott, Brother Williamson and the Presiding Bishopric withdrew from the meeting, and President Joseph Fielding Smith and Elder Harold B. Lee came into the room by appointment at my request.
We considered the necessity of members of the Quorum of the Twelve discharging their duty given them by revelation to set in order the affairs of the Church in all the world. I suggested that since it is physically impossible for the Twelve, their Assistants, and other General Authorities of the Church to visit stake conferences (now numbering 355) more than possibly once a year, it would be more essential than ever for each one of the General Authorities to be thoroughly acquainted with all policies, plans and programs approved by the First Presidency and theTwelve.
The present practice, therefore, of appointing area supervisors and expecting them to give out special instructions to presidents of stakes and mission presidents should not be encouraged, but every member of the General Authorities — the Twelve, their Assistants, the First Council of Seventy, and the Presiding Bishopric — should be given all the information regarding details and new plans now given to the so-called area supervisors. In a word, each General Authority must be supplied with all information now given to the so-called area supervisors .
We also considered the advisability of the General Priesthood Committee and the general auxiliary boards presenting their respective matters at quarterly conferences not attended by the General Authorities.
At the departure of President Smith and Elder Lee, the Presiding Bishopric again came into the room, and we resumed our meeting.”
Wed., 5 Sep., 1962:
Changes in Tabernacle Ceiling for Colored Television
Brown: Do you think it will be wise to present to them (the Brethren) the matter of making any changes in the Tabernacle. Should not we take that to the Twelve for their opinions?
Moyle: The trouble in taking it to the Twelve, we only get the opinion of one or two of them.
McKay: We can do that, and let each one state his opinion.
Moyle: That’s right.
McKay: It Applied when I was in the Twelve. They gave every- body an opportunity to speak. This is what should be done.
Brown: If we make radical changes in the Tabernacle there will be much opposition, and I would like them to share the responsibility.
McKay: We want each one to express himself. I remember a policy followed out with President Joseph F. Smith, and I had started to express my opinion. One matter came relating to politics when Reed Smoot was running, and President Smith, contrary to his usual policy, did not ask for the opinions. I had mine ready. I knew I was in harmony with the President of my Quorum. When the matter came before us, President Smith arose and didn’t ask any opinion of the Twelve. He said, “Brethren, we have a very important question before us — whether a member of our Council should run for the Senate. I want to tell you that it is the will of the Lord that he does. ” Brother Lyman, who was opposed to it, said, “I move that be the sentiment of the Council. “
Moyle: Sure, that’s got to be the case.
Brown: When the President makes such a statement, that is it.
Moyle: Even then, some people would say under the circumstances, the Lord was wrong .
McKay: Some of them did say that.
The statement was made that report was made to the Council that it was unnecessary to do anything to the Tabernacle ceiling. President Brown said that in view of this report received from Jacobsen and Ashton, that is one reason why it should be taken back.
President Moyle said that that report does not include what you must do to produce colored television in the Tabernacle. The question now is whether or not you want colored television.
McKay: That is the question — whether we want to make the Tabernacle into a studio.
Moyle: If you do not want to do that, you do not need to bother with colored television and make a studio of the Tabernacle. I see no escape in changing the ceiling.
Brown: Let them share that. When it is in the discussion stage, I would like to have them share everything.
Moyle: I think we should let them know all that we know, and have Brother Barker present the case to them. We cannot present it as adequately as he could. They ought to have the same viewpoint as we have. If this goes to the Twelve, I think Brother Barker should present it.
McKay: That’s right, that they should know.
Moyle: Yes, I think so. It is such an important step. I would like everybody in it.
Thur., 13 Sep., 1962:
(2) Successor to Elder George O. Morris
I said that I think the Twelve should he asked today in the meeting of the First Presidency and Twelve that each one submit his recommendation as was done of old. I suggested, also, that the Twelve be asked to consider the need of a successor to George Aposhian of the Central States Mission, and that they send their recommendation on this to President Moyle. The recommendation for a successor to Elder Morris is to be sent to me.
Wed., 3 Oct., 1962:
I then dismissed Elders Joseph Anderson and A. Hamer Reiser, secretaries to the First Presidency, from the meeting, and confidentially took up with my counselors the matter of the appointments of a new apostle, a new Assistant to the Twelve, and also the release of Elder Joseph T. Bentley, General Superintendent of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association, and the appointment of a successor to him, and the appointment of someone to succeed Lester F. Hewlett as President of the Tabernacle Choir.
At the conclusion of the meeting, I told the brethren that the meeting of the First Presidency tomorrow morning would be held subject to my call.”
Thur., 4 Oct., 1962:
“9:30 – 10:00 a.m.
Had a meeting with my counselors at which time I discussed matters
pertaining to the appointment of a new Apostle, and an Assistant to the Twelve. At this time I called Elder Nathan Eldon Tanner into the meeting and told him of the decision to call him as an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, and asked his feelings regarding the matter. I said his name would by presented to the Council today for approval. Also presented names of the other new appointees mentioned later.
10:00 – 12:15 p. m.
The meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve was held in the office of the First Presidency, Church Offices. The construction and renovating that is now going on over at the Temple make it impossible for us to hold meetings there unless we have them cease all work.
Apostle, Appointment of
At this meeting, I thanked the Brethren for their suggestions regarding someone to fill the vacancy in the Quorum of the Twelve caused by the death of Elder George Q. Morris, and said that we now have before us the responsibility which the original Council of the Twelve had when they met together and asked the Lord to guide them in filling a vacancy in the Twelve and that was a very important occasion in the history of the former-day Church. I said that I had always been impressed with what Peter said on that occasion, “From those who have been with us while Christ was here and who witnessed his resurrection, we are to choose a man to take his place.”
I then said that the First Presidency had considered the full list of names submitted, and that one who it seems is worthy to fill the vacancy is Brother Nathan Eldon Tanner, now presiding over the West European Mission. The brethren unanimously approved of Brother Tanner.
Assistant to the Twelve, Appointment of
At this meeting Brother Bernard P. Brockbank, President of the Scottish Mission was unanimously approved as an Assistant to the Twelve.
Wed., 10 Oct., 1962:
11:00 a. m.
Returned to the Church Offices. In the office of the First Presidency, the First Presidency met with all the Assistants to the Twelve. At this time, I ordained Brother Bernard Park Brockbank as an Assistant to the Twelve. Also gave the “charge” to him. He was sustained at the General Conference held October 6, 1962.
Thurs., 17 Jan. 1963:
“*Today in Council Meeting, I mentioned a matter that I presented to the members of the Council a week ago regarding changes that were being made in the membership of General Authorities’ Committees. (For list of new committee assignments, see list attached) At that time, Elders Spencer W. Kimball, Ezra Taft Benson, and Marion G. Romney were named to represent the Twelve on the Expenditures Committee, succeeding President Joseph Fielding Smith, Harold B. Lee, and Mark E. Petersen.
Regarding the Personnel Committee, I mentioned to the Brethren that I thought Elder Delbert L. Stapley should be relieved of the details of the work on this committee because of the condition of his health, and therefore for the present Elder LeGrand Richards would serve as chairman, with Howard W. Hunter, Thorpe B. Isaacson, William J. Critchlow, Jr., and Rulon Tingey. I said that these brethren could confer with Elder Stapley in regard to matters, but Elder Stapley should not do too much work in connection therewith.
I also mentioned that I feel that Elder Mark E. Petersen can take care of the work of the Publishers Paper Company, even though he will be presiding over the West European Mission, and that he can come home when necessary to do so.
(For re-organization of the Missionary Committee, see Council Meeting of January 31, 1963.)
Thursday, January 17, 1963
January 17, 1963
Committee Assignments
Book of Mormon Project Office Space for Church
Missionary Sub-Committee Office Employees
Spencer W. Kimball, Chairman Thorpe B. Isaacson
John Longden Darcey Wright
S. Dilworth Young
Budget Committee Old Folks Central Committee
Spencer W. Kimball, Chairman Bishop John H. Vandenberg
Delbert L. Stapley
John H. Vandenberg
Bureau of Information on Personnel Committee
Temple Square LeGrand Richards, Chairman
Richard L. Evans, President Howard W. Hunter
Robert R. McKay, First Counselor William J. Critchlow, Jr.
Thorpe B. Isaacson
Rulon H. Tingey
Delbert L. Stapley, Adviser
Delinquent Boys and Girls Primary Association Advisers
Spencer W. Kimball Howard W. Hunter
Ezra Taft Benson William J. Critchlow, Jr.
Marion G. Romney Robert L. Simpson
Foreign-Speaking Organizations Publicity Committee
LeGrand Richards Richard L. Evans
Antoine R. Ivins Gordon B. Hinckley
Robert L. Simpson N. Eldon Tanner
Alvin R. Dyer
Garment Committee Publishers Paper Company
Harold B. Lee Mark E. Petersen
Thorpe B. Isaacson
Indian Committee Reading Committee
Spencer W. Kimball Spencer W. Kimball
LeGrand Richards Alvin R. Dyer
Boyd K. Packer William J. Critchlow, Jr.
L.D.S. Girls Work Committee Relief Society Advisers
Spencer W. Kimball Joseph Fielding Smith
John Longden Harold B. Lee
Marion G. Romney
M.I.A. Advisers Relief Society Wheat Fund
Ezra Taft Benson Bishop John H. Vandenberg
N. Eldon Tanner
Alvin R. Dyer
Robert L. Simpson
Music Committee Retirement Committee
Harold B. Lee, Chairman Delbert L. Stapley, Chairman
Spencer W. Kimball LeGrand Richards
William J. Critchlow, Jr.
Thorpe B. Isaacson
Rulon H. Tingey and George Jarvis
representing the employees
Servicemen’s Committee Society for the Aid of the Sightless
Harold B. Lee Bishop John H. Vandenberg
Gordon B. Hinckley
Boyd K. Packer
Softball Committee Stake Conference Committee
Ezra Taft Benson Spencer W. Kimball
Thorpe B. Isaacson Delbert L. Stapley
S. Dilworth Young
Sunday School Advisers Temple Committee
Richard L. Evans Harold B. Lee
Howard W. Hunter ElRay L. Christiansen”
Thurs., 7 Mar. 1963:
“10:00 a.m.
Council Meeting
For the first time for several months, we met in the Salt Lake Temple for our regular weekly meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve.
I told the Brethren that it was with feelings of gratitude that we welcomed them back to the Upper Room of the Temple where for so many years the Presidency of the Church and the Council of the Twelve have met in worship. I said that we are glad that we have the privilege of using the room of the First Presidency as a substitute place for the meeting room of the Twelve during the cleansing, remodeling, and refinishing of this part of the Temple. I said that whenever we have met in the First Presidency’s room in the Church Administration Building, I have felt that the presence of this body of men added sanctity to that room, that I felt grateful for the privilege we have had, but that it is a satisfaction and joy supreme to meet here in this Upper Room as the Presidency and Twelve, the guiding authority of the Church of Jesus Christ on earth.
I said that we are grateful for the cleanliness of this room in which we are now meeting; for the new carpeting, and that we look forward to the time when the entire House of God will be just as clean and wholesome as this upper room. I remarked that it does not seem just right to come through ‘garbage’ and such things to get to the Temple, during all the remodeling, reconstruction, etc., but that it is glorious to get away from it all, and to feel once more that we are in the presence of our Savior. I said that it is a glorious thing to have a House of the Lord set apart and dedicated for the worship of Him, where we come to meet Him in reality, and, as we go from room to room, to find it clean and wholesome and properly decorated and feel the holiness and sanctity that should characterize our thoughts and deliberations under the guidance of our Savior.
I told the Brethren that I had read the other day a very impressive article about the condition of the world under the caption, ‘Can We Bring About General Understanding’. The writer of the article describes the three billion people now inhabiting this planet and the different ideaologies, the different trainings, and the prospect of millions more in the next few years. While reading of the plans suggested by some of these great leaders of nations, wise men, I thought of the poverty of the inhabitants of this earth, the inability of many to read or write, their physical conditions, their temporal affairs — one third of them starving — and I was impressed as I read that article that stated that there is only one successful way — only one — of uniting these three billion people, and that one way is the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The writer, and a very intelligent writer, very-well trained, could see no way of bringing into harmony the various classes and races of three-billion inhabitants. The only way that he could see to reach these people was through personal efforts, making personality felt, to travel around and see the Eiffel tower, the pyraminds of Egypt, the Nile, the Himalayan Mountains — all physical aspects — but never touching the individual, or the glories of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Lord’s way of reaching the hearts of the people, the one perfect plan, and opposed to it the hatred, the bitterness of the subjugation of the spirit of man, taking from him his free agency. And the glorious part of it is that the Gospel Plan seems more divinely inspired, more divinely directed than ever before.
I said that as we re-enter this newly-renovated building — the Salt Lake Temple — set apart and dedicated to the Lord for His purposes, that I again emphasize the responsibility resting upon this body of men of saying the world, only a small part of the people of which have been reached, but the souls of whom are spirits of God. I informed the Brethren that this building will not be completely finished until the new annex, which is just now commencing, is built. This will take two years or more. I said that this old house (the Temple) has stood essential and sublime for nearly a century, and that it has become necessary to have it renovated.
We shall continue to fulfill the obligation of going out into the world and touching the hearts of the inhabitants. Our obligation does not end there. This House itself will be the means of reaching those millions who have gone before us who will have to hear the Gospel, hear the message ‘except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God’. Nicodemus, a ruler in his day, could not understand it, and Jesus said, ‘Except a man be born of water and of the spirit, he cannot enter the Kingdom of God.’
I then said that as we start again with gratitude in our hearts to continue our missionary work, and to visit the Stakes of Zion throughout the world, we should renew our own covenants and realize what it means to make those covenants and to be true to the charge given us when we accepted the apostleship of the Lord Jesus Christ.
I stated that we are glad to be back in our old room, and pray that God’s blessings would be with each and all of us, and with the Brethren who are not with us this morning because of sickness. ‘May the Lord give us renewed power, renewed inspiration, and a determination to fulfill our duties to the best of our ability — with prayers that we may do so, with God’s approval, I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.’
We then took up the regular order of business.
Seventies – Ordination of First Council of Seventy to High Priests
I referred to the action taken by the Council sometime ago when members of the First Council of Seventy were ordained High Priests. I stated that some people thought that action was contrary to the teachings of the Prophet Joseph because he released High Priests who were Presidents of Seventies and appointed Seventies in their stead. I explained that during the days of the Prophet Joseph they were ordaining Presidents of Seventies High Priests before they made them Seventies, and that that was not according to the will of the Lord. I said, however, that there is nothing against our giving the Seventies the High Priesthood to officiate as General Authorities after they have been ordained Seventies and set apart as members of the First Council of Seventies, in order that they may assist in setting apart Stake Presidencies and Bishoprics. I said, however, that they do not join the High Priests’ Quorum, although they have been given the High Priesthood. I mentioned that this is not out of harmony with the teachings of the Prophet Joseph.
Fri., 27 Sept. 1963:
Sustaining of General Authorities at One Annual General Conference
President Brown submitted the suggestion that consideration be given to sustaining General Authorities in one General Conference as they are sustained now in one Stake Conference annually. I submitted the question as to whether or not there should be but one General Conference a year. The subject was briefly considered without decision.
Thurs., 3 Oct. 1963:
“7:00 to 7:30 a.m.
New Counselor in First Presidency Chosen
By appointment, Elder Nathan Eldon Tanner came into my private office. At this time I told him that I should like him to be Second Counselor in the First Presidency of the Church. Brother Tanner was greatly overcome. It was hard for him to understand why he, one of the youngest in point of service, should be selected. I told him that it is the Lord’s will. With tears in his eyes he accepted with all his heart, and said that he would do the best he could.
7:30 to 8:30 a.m.
Dictated notes to Clare on the Opening Address of the Conference. Also went over the Conference program which she has been preparing.
8:30 to 8:40 a.m.
First Counselor in First Presidency Chosen
A short meeting of the First Presidency was held. At this time I notified President Brown that I had chosen him as my First Counselor, and Elder Nathan Tanner as Second Counselor.
8:40 a.m.
In company with President Brown, left for the Salt Lake Temple.
9:00 to 2:00 p.m.
Pre-Conference meeting in the Salt Lake Temple of all the General Authorities of the Church was held. This was followed by the regular meeting of the Quorum of the Twelve and the First Presidency.
Reorganization of the First President
I mentioned to the Brethren the vacancy in the First Presidency caused by the death of President Henry D. Moyle, and that it is now considered advisable to reorganize the First Presidency.
I said that I had chosen President Hugh B. Brown to serve as First Counselor in the First Presidency, and Elder Nathan Tanner as Second Counselor.
Elder Gordon B. Hinckley moved approval. Motion was seconded by Elder Howard W. Hunter, and unanimously approved.
Thomas S. Monson to Fill Vacancy in the Twelve
I then mentioned that the calling to the First Presidency of Elder Tanner would leave a vacancy in the Quorum of the Twelve. I presented to the Council the recommendation of the First Presidency that Thomas S. Monson be approved to fill this vacancy. I said that I had not yet consulted Elder Monson, but would do so this afternoon.
On motion of President Joseph Fielding Smith, duly seconded, the Council approved Brother Monson for ordination as an Apostle and to fill the vacancy in the Council of the Twelve.
2:15 p.m.
Returned to the office. Had a conference with Clare on the coming duties of the General Conference.
2:30 p.m.
New Apostle Interview – Elder Thomas S. Monson, age 36.
By appointment, Elder Thomas S. Monson came into my private office. I told him of his call as an Apostle of the Lord. He seemed stunned for a moment, and then broke down and wept. My heart melted with his as I remembered the Call that had come to me in my youth. I was 32 years of age, so I could fully sympathize with Elder Monson in the great obligation that has come to him.”
Thurs., 10 Oct. 1963:
10:00 a.m. to 2:40 p.m.
Meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve held in the Salt Lake Temple.
Elder Thomas Spencer Monson ordained as an Apostle – also given the charge.
I said that in order that Brother Monson might participate with the Twelve, I thought it would be well to give him the charge at the beginning of the meeting. I also announced that the Quorum of the First Presidency would be completed this morning, and also the vacancy in the Quorum of the Twelve.
I then gave the charge to Brother Thomas Spencer Monson, after which I asked President Joseph Fielding Smith, President of the Quorum of the Twelve to be voice in ordaining Elder Monson an apostle, and in setting him apart as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve.
President Hugh B. Brown Set Apart as First Counselor in the First Presidency
The Brethren of the First Presidency and the Twelve united in placing their hands upon the head of President Hugh B. Brown, and I was voice in setting him apart as First Counselor in the First Presidency.
President Nathan Eldon Tanner Set Apart as Second Counselor in the First Presidency.
All the Brethren then united in laying their hands upon the head of Nathan Eldon Tanner and I was voice in setting him apart as Second Counselor in the First Presidency of the Church.
The Brethren extended the hand of fellowship to each of these Brethren in their new positions.
I remarked to them that we had participated in one of the most glorious ordinances, and that we knew to a degree what the Apostle John meant when he said, ‘I know I have passed from death unto life, because I love the brethren.’
After listening to reports and remarks from the Brethren, I gave my report, and said that the meeting had been glorious; that the Presidency had been completed, and all members of the Twelve are present.
I then said, referring to the recently held October Conference that it had been successful, and that the spirit throughout the sessions was wonderful. The new appointments seemed to have been received wholeheartedly by the congregation, millions of whom were not members of the Church. I said that one could feel that there was a spirit of unity, and a desire to be one with the growing Church; that all the sessions were inspirational; that the Brethren rose to the heights in delivering masterful addresses. Countless millions were inspired by the blessings of wisdom and encouragement, and the music rendered by the various choirs and choruses during the several sessions was the highest quality that we have had. I said that I think the Singing Mothers, the Brigham Young University Chorus, and the Tabernacle Choir outdid themselves. The world-wide dissemination of the Saturday and Sunday morning sessions was greater than ever. The broadcast sessions were heard in four languages — English, Spanish, German and Portuguese. I said that I agree with the Brethren as to the value of these Conferences, and that they, themselves, had never done better in their lives.”
Fri., 24 Jan. 1963:
The Twelve to be Notified of Important Actions by the First Presidency
President Tanner suggested that when the First Presidency make a decision of importance, such as the recent decision authorizing the Relief Society to set up a child placement agency in Nevada, that it would be helpful to the Twelve if they were informed of these decisions in order that they might know what is going on in the Church. This information could be given to the Brethren at Council Meeting. I said that I had no objection to this being done.
Fri., 13 Mar. 1964:
Seventy, Member of First Council of – Setting Apart of Presidents of High Priests Quorums
The question came up as to whether a member of the First Council of Seventy may set apart the Presidency of the High Priests Quorum. I answered in the affirmative, explaining that the President of the High Priests Quorum will be the President of the Stake; that members of the First Council of Seventy, being High Priests, have been given that authority specially though they are not members of a High Priests Quorum, but of the First Council of Seventy; however, by virtue of their ordination as High Priests, and their having been given special authority to set apart High Priests as Stake Presidents and the Presidents of High Priests, they may do so.
Wed., 18 Mar. 1964:
“General Authorities – Authority to Set Apart Stake Officers
We reviewed a chart submitted by Elder Harold B. Lee. Two questions were submitted with regard to information indicated on the chart, showing authority to set apart Stake officers. 1) As to the authority of members of the First Council of Seventy to set apart Stake Presidents, I confirmed this. 2) Can members of the First Council of Seventy set apart the President of the High Priests Quorum? I said that they are given that authority; that they have authority to set the Church in order in the Stakes. President Brown concurred in this. 3) The question asked by Elder Harold B. Lee as to whether or not members of the First Council of the Seventy may be chosen out of the High Priests Quorum, I answered in the negative. 4) As to setting apart counselors in the Stake Presidency by members of the First Presidency, members of the Council of the Twelve, Assistants to the Twelve, the First Council of the Seventy, and the Stake Presidency or of the Council of the Twelve. President Brown stated that I had ruled previously that I should prefer to hold that for the Twelve. I said that Assistants to the Twelve have the same authority as the Quorum of the Twelve, except choosing and ordaining a patriarch, second anointings, and authorizing a Stake President to set apart his counselors; that I think we should keep that to the Twelve.
The next day, March 19, these matters were presented at the meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve, held in the Salt Lake Temple. Elder Lee mentioned that the new Handbook of Instructions on Priesthood is almost ready to come off the press. He called attention to a chart that has been prepared for inclusion in the Handbook indicating those who should ordain and set apart various officers in the Priesthood. He inquired specifically whether or not the members of the First Council of Seventy should set apart Stake Presidents and their counselors, and presidencies of High Priests Quorums, which latter means the Stake President and his counselors. He said the Twelve wondered whether or not it would be better if the Seventies did not set apart Presidencies of High Priests Quorums.
I answered that they should be able to do whatever the Assistants of the Twelve are authorized to do.
Elder Lee then called attention to the statement on the chart under consideration that Stake Clerks, Assistant Stake Clerks, High Councilors, and Alternate High Councilors may be set apart by the Stake President in the absence of a General Authority when so directed by a member of the Council of the Twelve. He asked if this would also apply to other General Authorities. I said, ‘Yes, it should apply as well to the Assistants of the Twelve and the First Council.'”
Sun., 5 Apr. 1964:
“1:00 p.m.
Search for Paul Harold Dunn
Sent word through Henry Smith of the Deseret News to my secretary, Clare, for her to get in touch by telephone, or any other way, with Paul Harold Dunn and ask him to come to my apartment in the Hotel Monday morning at 8:00 a.m. (see Note by CM Following)
2:00 p.m.
I asked President Nathan Eldon Tanner to conduct this session of the Conference, and President Brown gave the opening address. (see newspaper clippings following.)
*Note by CM
After receiving the above message from President McKay, thinking that Brother Dunn would be in Salt Lake for Conference, all the hotels in town were called to see if he were registered. Not being able to locate him in the city, the secretary checked and found that Brother Dunn is a member of the Downey Third Ward in the Huntington Park Stake, California. After much telephoning, she finally reached the Bishop of the Ward, who informed her that Brother Dunn had not attended Conference, that he would locate him immediately, and have him call her. When she finally talked to Brother Dunn she gave him the message that President McKay wanted to see him Monday morning; that it may be possible for him to get a plane on the Western Airlines at midnight. That night at 10:00 p.m. Brother Dunn called the secretary at her home from Las Vegas and said that he had decided to take his wife and drive up to Salt Lake City. After driving all night, he reached President McKay’s hotel apartment fifteen minutes before his appointment at 8:00 a.m.”
Mon., 6 Apr. 1964:
“8:00 a.m.
Interview with Paul Harold Dunn
Was pleased to welcome to my office in the apartment at the Hotel Brother Paul Harold Dunn of the Downey Third Ward, Huntington Park Stake, Downey, California. Brother Dunn, in company with his wife, had driven all night in order to keep this appointment with me.
I asked Brother Dunn to tell me something about himself. As I listened to him, I was impressed with his sincerity and faithfulness. I then told Brother Dunn that we should like him to fill the vacancy in the First Council of Seventy caused by the death of Elder Levi Edgar Young.
Brother Dunn tearfully expressed his willingness to accept this position, and I told him that he would be presented at the Conference this morning.
9:45 a.m.
General Authorities Approve of Appointment of Paul Harold Dunn
Met all the General Authorities in the North room of the rear of the Tabernacle, having arranged for a meeting early this morning. I presented to them the name of Paul Harold Dunn to be the new Seventy. The Brethren gave their unanimous approval.
10:00 a.m.
I conducted the Sixth Session of the Conference. Following the singing and opening prayer, I made a few remarks regarding the organization of the Church 134 years ago. The statistical and financial reports were read, and I then called on President Hugh B. Brown to present the General Authorities and General Auxiliary Officers for the sustaining vote of the members. Elder Paul Harold Dunn was sustained as the new Seventy. (See newspaper clippings following)
President Joseph Fielding Smith delivered the opening address. We had another wonderful session!
Thurs., 9 Apr. 1964:
“9:15 a.m.
Paul Harold Dunn – New Seventy Set Apart
Met with the members of the First Council of Seventy in their room in the Salt Lake Temple. A meeting was held, and then I gave the charge to Brother Paul Harold Dunn. After his acceptance, I set him apart as a member of the First Council of Seventy, and conferred upon him every authority, power, privilege, and gift pertaining to this high and holy calling. I also ordained him an High Priest.
10:00 to 12:00 Noon
Attended the regular meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve in the Salt Lake Temple.
Stake Authorities – Letter on Ordination and Setting Apart of Local
At our meeting, Elder Harold B. Lee presented in behalf of the Twelve the matter of a proposed letter to be sent to Presidents of Stakes to supersede one previously sent by the First Presidency regarding ordaining and setting apart certain ward and stake officers. This matter had been referred to a committee of the Twelve for study and recommendation, and there was now presented to the Council the recommendation of the committee, in which the Twelve concurred, which letter as submitted reads as follows:
‘To Presidents of Stakes
Dear Brethren:
‘This letter will supersede our circular letter of March 4, 1964, addressed to Presidents of Stakes regarding the sustaining and setting apart of certain ward and stake officers.
In the future, General Authorities who are authorized will continue to set apart stake presidents and counselors, bishops, presidents of high priests quorums and counselors, and presidents of seventies quorums, and ordain patriarchs and seventies. It is understood that only members of the First Presidency and the Twelve will ordain patriarchs.
All other ward and stake officers heretofore ordained or set apart by General Authorities will hereafter be ordained or set apart by the Stake President after a thorough and searching interview and being properly sustained.
Stake Presidents will make certain in their interview that such persons are fully devoted to the Church, that they are maintaining the standards and that they will continue to lead exemplary lives.
Sincerely yours,
The First Presidency’
After hearing the letter, I said that the letter as prepared is all right. Elder Lee thereupon moved that approval be given to the letter revised. Motion seconded by Brother Stapley and unanimously approved. (See copy of letter following.)”
Wed., 13 May 1964:
First Council of Seventy – Line of Authority
President Brown mentioned that the Brethren of the First Council of the Seventy have raised a question as to how they should trace their line of authority in connection with ordaining Bishops, Stake Presidents, and others who are High Priests.
I ruled that they should trace their line of authority through their ordination as High Priests.
Fri., 12 June 1964:
“8:00 a.m.
Met by appointment at his request, Elder Marion D. Hanks of the First Council of Seventy.
After a brief report of his activities since coming home from his Mission in Great Britain, Elder Hanks told me of the number of requests that are coming to him from missionaries and others to officiate at their marriages in the Temple, and that he wondered inasmuch as some of the members of the Council have been ordained High Priests why they could not have the sealing power conferred upon them.
I explained that members of the First Council of Seventy do not belong to the High Priests Quorums; that they are members of the First Council. I said that they have been ordained High Priests so that they can place everything in order in the Church in accordance with their assignment.
I said that I would take the matter of conferring of the sealing power up with the Brethren and let him know.
8:30 a.m.
First Council of Seventy – Sealing Power to be Conferred
Following Elder Hanks’ departure, Presidents Brown and Tanner came over to the apartment, and I presented to them the matter of conferring the sealing power upon members of the First Council of Seventy, and it became the unanimous sentiment of the First Presidency that the sealing power should be conferred upon them, which authority I shall confer at a later date.”
Fri., 19 June 1964:
“10:30 to 11:00 a.m.
Following the departure of the Presiding Bishopric, the secretary presented several letters addressed to the First Presidency.
First Council of Seventy – Sealing Power to be Conferred
Report of the action taken at the meeting of the Council held June 11, when I was not present, approving the conferring of the sealing power upon the members of the First Council of Seventy was reviewed. I said that this matter I had presented at a First Presidency’s meeting previous to that and had expressed approval of the sealing power being conferred.
11:10 a.m.
Returned to my private office.
First Council of Seventy – Sealing Power Conferred on Marion D. Hanks
Met by appointment Elder Marion D. Hanks. I discussed with him the role in the Church of the members of the First Council of Seventy.
Following our discussion, I conferred upon him the sealing power, thus permitting him to officiate at marriage ceremonies in the Temples of the Church.”
Wed., 8 July 1964:
“First Council of Seventy
I discussed with the Brethren the advisability of conferring the sealing power upon the members of the First Council of Seventy. I asked Presidents Brown and Tanner if they could see any objection thereto, and they both expressed themselves as favoring this proposition. I mentioned that I had already given Elder Marion D. Hanks this authority, and that Elder Paul H. Dunn, also of the First Council of Seventy, has been asked by some of his friends to perform marriages for them in the Temple.
I said that I had prayed about this matter, and have thought seriously about it, and that I can see nothing wrong about it.
I then said that I would confer the sealing power upon Brother Dunn as soon as convenient.”
Wed., 15 July 1964:
“Minutes of the Meeting of the First Presidency
Held Wednesday, July 15, 1964, at President McKay’s Home in Huntsville, Utah at 8 a.m.
Present: Presidents David O. McKay and N. Eldon Tanner. President Hugh B. Brown in Europe.
Portraits of General Authorities
President Tanner called President McKay’s’ attention to a memorandum from Elder Richard L. Evans stating that certain brethren of the Twelve and President Tanner had not had their portraits painted. In the memorandum Brother Evans suggested that Brother Harry Anderson, who painted the picture of Christ and His Apostles for the World’s Fair might be interested in painting the portraits of these brethren.
President McKay said that the portraits should be painted and each of the brethren was free to make his own choice as to the artist he desired. President Tanner was to carry this information to those concerned.
Wed., 13 Jan. 1965:
“4:00 a.m.
Arose.
8:00 a.m.
Met by appointment in my office in the Hotel Brother Seymour Dilworth Young of the First Council of Seventy, and conferred upon him the sealing power.
Thurs., 4 Mar. 1965:
“8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Held a meeting with my Counselors this morning in the office in the apartment. Among matters considered were:
Council of the Twelve – Assistants to Meet Weekly with the Twelve; Assignment of Assistant to the Twelve
Some consideration was given to the matter of the advisability of holding a regular meeting for the Twelve and the Assistants to the Twelve. The Brethren had in mind that at present all the General Authorities with the exception of the First Presidency meet together each Wednesday in a brief meeting which is confined to reports of the Brethren regarding their activities of the past week. The thought was expressed that the Twelve and the Assistants should meet together as a united body and discuss the problems that have arisen so that the Assistants would feel that they are part of the picture. Under the present arrangement the Assistants to the Twelve are left more or less dangling, awaiting any assignments that might be given them.
I said that by all means they should be given more definite supervision and assignment; that I think, however, that the matter of attaching one of the Assistants to a member of the Twelve to help him in all his various assignments was something that should have very careful consideration. It was agreed that this matter should be taken up with the Twelve with the request that they bring a refined recommendation to the First Presidency.
Tues., 30 Nov. 1965:
General Authorities – Assignment for Availability at Church Administration Building
Consideration was given to a matter that had been discussed in the Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve regarding assignment of Brethren of the General Authorities to be available in the Church administration building for consultation by office visitors. In considering this matter, it was decided that the First Presidency will take the matter under consideration. It was the sentiment of the Presidency that a list of the Brethren be prepared who might be used for these assignments.
Other matters of general interest were discussed until ten o’clock a.m., at which time we concluded our meeting.
Thurs., 2 Dec. 1965:
10:00 to 2:00 p.m.
Was engaged in the meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve.
General Authorities – Statement Regarding Strength and Fellowship in Group
As I met with the Brethren in the Temple, I was impressed to say to them that I sensed very keenly that there is strength and fellowship in this group of General Authorities which I have seldom, if ever, felt before, and that in my heart I prayed that the strength and brotherhood manifest in this group may ever grow stronger and be more effective in magnifying the Priesthood of the Church. I said, ‘this is my prayer this morning, and I pray thus in the name of the Lord, Jesus Christ, whose servants we are, Amen.’
Wed., 8 Dec. 1965:
“8:30 a.m.
Met with Presidents Tanner, Joseph Fielding Smith, and Thorpe B. Isaacson, President Brown absent, being in the hospital. Some of the matters considered by us were:
General Authorities – Availability to Meet Visitor at Office
President Isaacson read to us a draft of a letter that has been prepared to go to the Assistants to the Twelve and the First Council of Seventy relative to their spending time in their offices in the Church Administration Building when they are in the City, except one day a week when they would wish to rest and take care of personal affairs. We approved the letter subject to minor changes. (See copy of letter following.)
Wed., 15 Dec. 1965:
“South African Mission – Translation and Publication of Book of Mormon
We read a letter from President Mark E. Petersen of the West European Mission, who reported his visit to the South African Mission. Brother Petersen recommends the translation and publication of the Book of Mormon in the Afrikaan language. He especially asks for permission to translate 3 Nephi into this language for the use of missionaries and Saints. This matter will be discussed with Brother Petersen when he returns to headquarters.
3) Elder Marion D. Hanks, of the First Council of Seventy, who explained to me about the invitations that are coming to him to participate in various conferences and conventions throughout the country.
I urged Brother Hanks to accept these appointments, and told him that I feel that it is important the the Church be represented on such levels whenever it is possible.
I then discussed with Brother Hanks the Temple Square Mission and the proposed release of members of the Mission Presidency. I said that I am not in full accord with the release of the Presidency of this Temple Mission, because I feel the importance of the work that can and should be done here in Salt Lake City on Temple Square.
I also discussed at some length the condition of the British Missions at the time Brother Hanks was serving as Mission President. I said that I had not known what was going on. I told Brother Hanks that I appreciated what he had done to stop the procedures which Brother T. Bowring Woodbury, British Mission President preceding Brother Hanks, had followed, which would take the Church years to correct.
We then talked about the organization of the Glasgow Stake, and matters pertaining to the missionary work in that field so dear to my heart.
Wednesday, December 15, 1965
15 December 1965
Dear Clare:
I had a very pleasant and uplifting visit with President McKay today. Thank you for your graciousness.
Pres. McKay and I talked about several invitations which have come to me to participate in various conferences and conventions, for instance the American Medical Association Convention in Colorado Springs next March. I was more interested in his feeling about my accepting such special invitations than in any particular one. The President strongly suggested that I fill such appointments and assured me that it was his feeling that I should do so. He mentioned the importance of having the Church represented on such levels when it is possible.
We then discussed Temple Square and the projected releases of members of the Mission Presidency. I assured him that a release was perfectly acceptable to me and that I felt it should be done if the effect would be to get some new and qualified leadership for the Square. Something should be done to build the spirit and missionary consciousness of those who serve as guides there.
Pres. McKay and I also discussed at some length the condition of the British Missions when I was assigned to Britain. He told me he had not known what was going on and expressed appreciation that I had been able to stop the procedures which, he said, had cast a reflection that would take the Church years to correct. We talked about the organization of the Glasgow Stake and related matters.
These were the chief topics of our conversation. I was humbled and touched when he expressed his confidence and walked to the door to open it for me. I don’t think that the world has seen a man just like this one, or that the Church currently has any candidates to succeed to his mantle of gentleness and graciousness. God preserve him.
Sincerely,
Marion D. Hanks”
Thurs., 10 Feb. 1966:
“8:30 a.m.
Met with Counselors — Presidents Brown and Tanner — in a meeting of the First
Presidency. President Smith is meeting with the Council of the Twelve in the Temple, and President Isaacson is in the hospital.
Some of the matters considered by us were:
General Authorities – To Consult With First Presidency or Twelve Before Authoring or Publishing Books
There was called to our attention an action by the Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve, January 28, 1960, to the effect that when any member of the General Authorities desires to write a book, the Brethren of the Twelve or the First Presidency should be consulted regarding it, that while the author need not obtain the approval of these Brethren, they should know of its proposed publication before it is published, and that the authors should present their books to the Twelve or a committee appointed to consider the matter.
In this connection, it was mentioned that certain ones of the Brethren of the General Authorities have published and are now considering publishing books without consulting the First Presidency or Twelve.
We decided to send a copy of the action of the Council referred to each of the General Authorities for their information and guidance.
Thurs., 3 Mar. 1966:
10:00 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
Attended the meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve held in the Salt Lake Temple. A wonderful spirit prevailed at our meeting today. Following the administration of the Sacrament, I made the following remarks to the Brethren:
‘I think I have never felt more appreciative of the privilege that is ours to meet in this sacred room and partake of the brotherhood that is manifest in this Council. Many years have passed since I first sat in this room as one of the Twelve (April 1906). Joseph F. Smith was President, and I sat as a young man just about opposite to where I am sitting now. Years have passed by. Those who were present then — all of them — are now enjoying the companionship of one another in the Celestial world. I feel as though they are close to us whenever we meet here.
‘The prayer and thanksgiving, appreciation, and gratitude offered today, the spirit of brotherhood and unity manifest by all the Brethren who make up this sacred Council — I am sure we can send our greetings to those who have sat in this room during the many years that have passed. We send greetings to them, for they meet with us whenever we assemble in this Council.
‘I feel to ask God’s blessings upon you Brethren as you express gratitude for the privilege that is yours as mentioned in the prayer this morning — gratitude for the privilege of being together in the spirit of love and unity, and to join with those who have long since passed into the Spirit World. I send my greetings to them, and pray that the prayers offered this morning will always be answered by magnifying ourselves as members of the Twelve, and with that feeling going out throughout all the Church — there has never been more unity and sincerity manifest in this Council than is expressed this morning and every day of our lives. God bless you Brethren that the Spirit you possess may radiate throughout the entire Church to the strengthening of every person’s faith, and may the Spirit of this Council be felt by the hundreds of visitors who enter this City.
‘A man who visited us just recently — His Excellency Alexander A. Matsas, Greek Ambassador to the United States — expressed the feeling that there is something in this Church that is different from any other church he had ever visited. He said that he felt a spirituality here. He is only one among three others that I call to mind now who said in as many words what he expressed; viz., that there is something about this City that is different from any other city they had ever visited. That something emanates from this Council. The spirit of oneness is felt by the strangers who walk these streets. There is a spirit of unity and brotherhood and love. It is from our Father in Heaven in answer to the prayer offered this morning and every other morning; that Spirit will be radiated from you Brethren. As long as we have that oneness of spirit, so long will this City be blessed by the authority that you hold.
‘I feel like blessing you this morning for your faithfulness, your support, and unity. God bless you and all of us that we may be worthy of His guidance and inspiration every day of our lives, and that the whole City, the whole world will be blessed because of that Spirit you have here in this Council this morning. God give us health and strength to honor His name, and the Brethren who have sat here for years and years, and who I feel are close with us this morning.’
President Joseph Fielding Smith responded by saying, ‘President McKay, I have sat here in this room with you for fifty years. You have been here longer than that. I want to say, and I think I can ‘speak for all of these Brethren, that we love you with all our hearts. We sustain you, uphold you in our prayers and in our faith, and we want the Lord to bless you and strengthen you in your body and keep you here just as long as you want to be here.’
I said, ‘Thank you, I feel that, Brother Smith.'”
Fri., 25 Mar., 1966:
General Authorities – Increase In Allowance to
President Tanner mentioned that Elder Delbert L. Stapley had discussed with him on Saturday last the matter of the allowance received by the General Authorities, and suggested that they be given an increase of $50 each. Elder Stapley mentioned that the cost of living has gone up 5.6 percent since the latest increase was allowed, and that it is anticipated that this cost of living will go up another 1 1/2 percent. Elder Stapley mentioned that his reason for suggesting that the matter be considered by the First Presidency is that the last time an increase was given it was done after a review which was made at the President’s request.
Elder Stapley had also suggested that the allowance to widows of the deceased General Authorities be increased from $150 to $175 or $200.
I agreed to the suggestion that the General Authorities be given an increase in allowance of $50 per month each, but said that the allowances to the widows should remain at $250.
Auxiliary Heads – Wives of Accompanying Husbands on Tours
President Tanner said that Brother Stapley had raised the question as to whether the Church should pay the expense of wives of auxiliary heads when they go on trips for the Church.
I said that I do not think we should extend this benefit to these people.
General Authorities – Expenses of Wives of Traveling with their husbands
Consideration was given to the matter of wives of General Authorities accompanying their husbands on trips at the expense of the Church. President Tanner said it was his understanding that when a General Authority tours a mission he is authorized to take his wife with him; that when two General Authorities go together they do not take their wives with them, and that when General Authorities visit stakes in foreign countries they should obtain clearance from me in each instance if they desire to take their wives with them at the expense of the Church. I said this is correct.”
Fri., 1 Apr. 1966:
“Note by CM
At 10:30 a.m., President Brown came into President McKay’s office and said to Clare Middlemiss, secretary, ‘We have just passed a resolution in the Presiding Bishopric’s meeting that the speeches of the Brethren speaking at Conference Wednesday, April 6, should be in the hands of the translators within twenty-four hours. Furthermore, I should like to have a copy of the Conference program so that I shall not stumble all around when I conduct.’
The secretary said, ‘President Brown, President McKay may give out the names of the Broadcast speakers for Saturday and Sunday morning sessions today. I am going over this morning, and I shall see what he wants to do.’
President Brown said, ‘Is he giving the opening address Wednesday?’
The secretary answered, ‘No, he is giving just a few words of greeting, and then giving his main address Saturday morning; they want him to be on that particular broadcast because it will have the largest coverage of any of the sessions and will go Sunday morning to the Eastern part of the United States.’
‘Well,’ said President Brown, ‘will he be able to give his talk?’
The secretary answered, ‘He says he will, and he is determined to do it.’
President Brown then remarked, ‘Well, he didn’t seem so well this morning; I don’t see how he can give a talk. Is one of his sons going to read it?’
The secretary answered, ‘I do not know; President McKay says that he is going to give it, and if he feels that way, I am sure that he will be blessed as he was last Conference when he gave such a marvelous address, standing forty minutes at the pulpit with his voice strong and clear.’
President Brown then left the room.
11:00 to 12:50 p.m.
Clare came over to the office at the Hotel at my request. She told me that President Brown is anxious to get the program, and had reported that at the meeting of the Presiding Bishopric this morning they had passed a ‘resolution’ that the speeches of those to speak on Wednesday should be in the hands of the translators within twenty-four hours before. I said, ‘Well, they do not need to have them so soon.’
Clare reported that one of the translators had told her that they will have plenty of time to handle the translations without getting the speeches that soon.
Clare then asked me about the speeches of those who are to speak on the broadcast sessions Saturday and Sunday mornings, and I said that Tuesday morning will give them plenty of time to get ready for Saturday and Sunday; that they have already been told to be prepared.
I said that I had never had a President of the Church tell me when I was to speak in my life; that we were called from the stand when the President was inspired to do so.
Clare then told me that President Brown wanted the Conference program for each session, which she has prepared under my direction, and I said that the programs will be prepared in such a say that he will just have to get up and read them, and that he will have plenty of time to go over them before the meetings. I said that I am not worried about it; that I shall take care of it as I see fit to do it; and that I do not need the Counselors telling me what to do on these matters.
I then asked Clare to read to me the address that I shall give on the broadcast session Saturday morning, so that I could see how long it is going to take to give it. It seemed to be just about right, but I asked her to leave the manuscript with me so that I could study it over the weekend. Clare also left copies of the other talks I shall give at the various sessions.
Having had a long morning of meetings, I was pretty tired, so after Clare’s departure I joined Sister McKay in the living room, and shortly thereafter we had dinner.”
Thurs., 22 Sept. 1966:
“Members of the Church not to Write Letters to First Presidency or to Come to Church Administration Building for Advice on Personal Problems
We sent a circular letter signed by members of the First Presidency addressed to Stake Presidents, Bishops, Mission Presidents, and Branch Presidents, telling them that members of the Church who are confronted with problems affecting their daily lives are depriving themselves of a great blessing by writing directly to the First Presidency or coming to the Church Offices for interviews with the General Authorities. All members are urged to consult their Bishop or Branch President freely and fully and get from him the help of which they feel they stand so much in need. By failing to observe this order ‘our wearied and discouraged members overlook the great blessings which would be theirs if they went forward as the Lord has provided.’
In this letter members are also urged to ‘refrain from discussion of mysteries and to refrain from asking about matters and principles concerning which the Lord has made no definite statement.’
Thursday, September 22, 1966
September 22, 1966
To Stake Presidents, Bishops,
Mission Presidents and Branch Presidents
Dear Brethren:
We repeat the counsel sent to you under date of December 19, 1951:
The increasing number of calls and letters that come to us in the general headquarters of the Church, touching upon matters which are usually intimately personal to the one making the inquiry, has persuaded us to ask you to call to the attention of the members of your Stake or Mission and of your respective Wards or Branches that the members of the Church who are confronted with problems affecting their daily lives are depriving themselves of a great blessing by writing directly to the First Presidency or coming to the Church Offices for interviews with the General Authorities.
The Lord has so organized His Church that there is accessible to every member – man, woman and child– a spiritual advisor, and a temporal counselor as well, who knows them intimately and who knows the circumstances and conditions out of which their problems come, and who, by reason of his ordination, is entitled to an endowment from our Heavenly Father of the necessary discernment and inspiration of the Lord to enable him to give the advice which the one in trouble so much needs. We refer to the Bishop or Branch President in the first instance and to the Stake or Mission President, if the Bishop or Branch President for any reason feels the need of assistance in giving his counsel.
We therefore urge all members who have problems or question that are troubling them, to consult their Bishop or Branch President freely and fully and get from him the help to which they feel they stand so much in need.
The relationship which is so created between the Bishop or Branch President or Stake or Mission President and the member is one of the most highly confidential character. Realizing that neither the Stake or Mission President from reasons of personal delicacy and humility may feel in a position to state the matter set out above as of their own volition, we are sending this communication to you with a request that every Bishop and Branch President carefully read this communication to the members of his Ward or Branch in a regular Sacrament Meeting and that each Stake or Mission President read it in a general session of Stake or Mission Conference so that all the members of the Church may be advised of the due order which should obtain in the Church in these matters.
We repeat, that by failing to observe this order our wearied and discouraged members overlook the great blessings which would be theirs if they went forward as the Lord has provided. We urge the members carefully to observe the admonitions given above and consult their Bishop or Branch President in the first instance or the Stake or Mission President. If either of these, or both of them, feel the necessity of advice or counsel on any problem presented, they can in turn consult the First Presidency.
One final word: we urge the Saints to refrain from the discussion of mysteries and to refrain from asking about matters and principles concerning which the Lord has made no definite statement.
Sincerely yours,
The First Presidency
David O. McKay
Hugh B. Brown
N. Eldon Tanner
Joseph Fielding Smith”
Fri., 23 Sept 1966:
“Books Written by General Authorities
Letter was sent to all General Authorities stating that when they wish to write a book, they are to submit a request to do so to the First Presidency or a member of the Twelve. Manuscript of book, if written, is to be submitted before publication. (See copy of letter following.)
Friday, September 23, 1966
September 23, 1966
To: The General Authorities of the Church
Dear Brethren:
At a meeting of the Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve on January 28, 1960 the Council ruled that when any member of the General Authorities desires to write a book that the brethren of the First Presidency or the Twelve should be consulted relative thereto, and further, that before the manuscript is turned over to the printer or publisher, it should be presented to the Twelve or a committee appointed by the Twelve, for consideration.
This matter again was brought to the attention of the Council at their regular weekly meeting on Thursday, September 1st, at which time it was decided to remind the brethren of the Authorities of this ruling heretofore made, and to emphasize the desirability of conforming to the instructions given at that time.
Sincerely yours,
The First Presidency
David O. McKay
Hugh B. Brown
N. Eldon Tanner
Joseph Fielding Smith”
Thurs., 3 Nov. 1966:
“General Authorities – Publication of Books
Attention was called to a manuscript submitted by S. Dilworth Young in the nature of a poem regarding the life of the Prophet Joseph Smith, which manuscript Brother Young is asking for permission to publish. It was explained that this had been sent to Elder Harold B. Lee, Chairman of the Reading Committee, and that Brother Lee had said that it was his understanding that the First Presidency would designate one or two of the Brethren to pass upon these manuscripts.
There was read to the First Presidency an item from the First Presidency minutes of December 17, 1963, referring to action by Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve appointing Elder Harold B. Lee as Chairman of the Reading Committee, with Elders Thomas S. Monson and Alvin R. Dyer to serve as helpers. At the same time it was suggested that if Brother Lee wished to call any others to assist in reading manuscripts, he might do so. It was the sentiment of the First Presidency that these manuscripts be referred to Elder Lee’s committee, informing him that they would like him to be responsible for passing on these writings and to call to his assistance any help from other General Authorities that he might desire.
In this connection reference was made to a letter from Paul H. Dunn reporting that he has written a book on leadership which is in the printer’s hands and asking if the Presidency desire to see a copy of this material. The Brethren agreed that Elder Dunn should be informed that this manuscript should be submitted to Elder Lee’s committee.
It was reported that Elder Sterling W. Sill is making a compilation of some of his Sunday evening radio talks, which he would like to have approval on to publish. It was the sentiment that Brother Sill should submit his manuscript to Brother Lee’s Committee also.
Thurs., 1 Dec. 1966:
“8:30 a.m.
Met with Presidents Hugh B. Brown and Nathan Eldon Tanner for a regular meeting of the First Presidency. President Smith was in a meeting of the Council of the Twelve in the Temple. Some of the matters discussed were:
10:00 a.m.
Attended the meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve held in the Salt Lake Temple.
At the beginning of the meeting, I made the following remarks to the Brethren:
‘This is the most auspicious time of our lives to meet in the upper room of the Temple and partake of the Lord’s sacrament, renewing our covenants in the presence of one another. We are now in the presence of the most precious group of men in all the world; men who in the presence of one another acknowledge Jesus Christ as the Savior of the world! No other group of men in all the world can come nearer the presence of our Lord and Savior, and in that brotherhood we bear witness that no other being, person, may receive the united sustenance and brotherhood that we have recognized this morning. No other group of men in all the world are entitled to the brotherhood of one another and of our Elder Brother, Jesus Christ, as is illustrated in this brotherhood today.
I wish to express my thanks to our Heavenly Father and His Son for this manifestation this morning. No other group in all the world can offer this manifestation in gratitude, partaking of the Sacrament of the Lord’s supper, covenanting with one another that we esteem that brotherhood by partaking of the Sacrament under these auspicious circumstances, this expression of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, to whom we give obedience and testify of His divinity. O Lord, accept our gratitude this morning, in the truest sense for our beloved Jesus Christ, our Lord.
I testify to you brethren in His name that I appreciate as never before our fellowship with Jesus Christ our Lord. Brethren, I appreciate as never before the value of our brotherhood through Jesus Christ. May this manifestation of divine brotherhood be cherished and held sacred by this group and those who are absent on assigned duty, and the value of this brotherhood be esteemed through Jesus Christ, our Elder Brother, I pray with all my soul in His name, Amen.’
We then sang the hymn ‘Nearer, My God, To Thee’, following which I made the following statement:
‘We have never been nearer to our Lord than we are this morning. I think the brotherhood of this group has never been dearer than it is this morning. I love you. I am sure the Lord is with us and will always be with us. This group of men are more precious than any other group of men that has ever occupied the Twelve. God bless you all and your Loved Ones, I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen.’
Fri., 24 Feb. 1967:
“Brigham Young University – Answering Questions by Students
President Brown stated that while recently at the Brigham Young University where he delivered an address to the student body in their devotional exercises, the question was raised as to whether he would be willing to sit with the students after the devotional and answer questions. President Brown said he told them that he did not desire to do this. He felt that there could be some danger in a policy whereby members of the General Authorities met with the students and answered questions for the reason that all of the Brethren might not answer the questions in the same way. President Brown referred to Elder LeGrand Richards’ report in the Council yesterday that following his address at the BYU devotional exercises he met with the students for several hours and answered questions. President Tanner mentioned that they had invited him to do the same thing and that he refused to do so, feeling that there were some dangers involved in such a policy, that the students might get the impression that there is a lack of unity among the General Authorities. I agreed that this should not be done, and a letter will be sent to President Wilkinson to that effect.
Thurs., 20 Apr. 1967:
“General Authorities – Services of the Assistants
Brother Tanner brought up the decision of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve sometime ago that all General Authorities other than the First Presidency and the Twelve; namely, the Assistants, and members of the First Council of Seventy, and Presiding Bishopric, should be on the job in the Church Administration Building every day excepting one day each week. He mentioned three of the brethren who perhaps should be granted an exception to this ruling; namely, Elder Sill, who is doing special work in the matter of preparing addresses which he delivers and is working for the New York Life; Elder Sonne, who is at Logan and has difficulty in being here at all times; and Elder William J. Critchlow, Jr. of Ogden, who is here about half the time.
President Tanner said that other than these three it seemed to him that there is no reason why the brethren could not comply with this requirement. He mentioned that the Twelve have asked that the Assistants and the brethren of the First Council of Seventy be here on Wednesday when missionaries are set apart. Elder Kimball had conferred with President Tanner about this matter yesterday, and submitted a letter he had prepared to be sent to each one of these General Authorities advising them of this instruction. He wanted President Tanner to attend the meeting of the General Authorities yesterday at 1:00 p.m. when they make their reports, but President Tanner had told Brother Kimball that he wanted to clear the matter with me before going forward with this program, particularly in regard to the three individuals mentioned. President Tanner read the letter Elder Kimball had prepared on this subject, which it is proposed be sent to the members of the General Authorities involved over the signature of President Smith of the Council of the Twelve, which was approved with one slight change.”
Wed., 14 June 1967:
“8:00 a.m.
The First Presidency met with Elder Sterling W. Sill, Assistant to the Twelve, and discussed with him interviews which he has been conducting with persons who have called at his office on marital and other troubles.
Brother Sill has been asked by the First Presidency to desist such interviews.
Wed., 21 June 1967:
“Elder Sterling W. Sill
Decision made by Presidency that Elder Sterling W. Sill is to continue the radio talks he has been giving for sometime over KSL. His other assignments will be discontinued for the time being.
Fri., 21 Jul., 1967:
“Was up at the usual early hour, and at my desk by 7:00 a.m. attending to letters and memorandums.
“July 28, 1967
Bishop John H. Vandenberg and Counselors
Presiding Bishopric
Building
Dear Brethren:
Having in mind the urgent need of the services of all the General Authorities in visiting stake quarterly conferences and of taking care of such business as may be necessary while in attendance at these conferences, we have decided to authorize the members of the Presiding Bishopric, and hereby do so authorize you to officiate in setting apart stake presidencies, high councilors and other ward and stake officers, other than patriarchs, after they have been properly sustained. This authorization also includes the ordaining and setting apart of bishops of wards and their counselors.
President Joseph Fielding Smith, who will have a copy of this letter, will notify the other General Authorities of this action.
Sincerely yours,
The First Presidency
By David O. McKay
Hugh B. Brown
N. Eldon Tanner
Joseph Fielding Smith”
Wed., 16 Aug., 1967:
5:35 p.m.
President Hugh B. Brown came over by appointment at his request, and played a recording of matters pertaining to interviews held by Elder Sterling W. Sill.”
Thur., 17 Aug., 1967:
Sterling W. Sill
Clare then reported the conference she had had with President Brown regarding Elder Sterling W. Sill, and I gave permission for Clare to interview two of the girls; in fact, I said to her, “I give you a special mission to do so, and then report your findings to me.”
Later on August 19, l967, Clare reported her interview with the girls — there are two different versions of their interviews with Elder Sill.
“(Excerpt from Council Minutes of Thursday, August 31, 1967.)
Security Measures for Church Properties
Elder Richard L. Evans referred to the alert we had sometime ago regarding possible rioting or trouble on Temple Square. He mentioned that notwithstanding the situation at that time, we do not appear to have taken measures for security in case of trouble, that there are no guards to protect our Tabernacle grounds, the Temple, the entrance to the Church Office Building, particularly the entrance into the building from the garage, that those inclined to do so could perhaps go through the tunnel from the garage into the Temple.
The Twelve in discussing the matter this morning suggested that we confer with the FBI, Police Department, or other agencies to see what kind of security measures should be taken. Mention was made of a metal door that can be let down from the ceiling just outside of the tunnel entrance to the Temple, but no one knows just how to lower the door, nor who is responsible for it.
Elder Evans also raised a question as to the wisdom of publishing in the press the mission tours of the Brethren, the Stake Conference assignments, etc., that people reading in the paper information to the effect that the General Authorities and others are to be out of town could take advantage of this opportunity to burglarize the homes or otherwise create trouble. It was also suggested that consideration might be given to taking the names of the General Authorities out of the telephone book, that they might have unlisted telephone numbers. It was thought if this were to be done, it should be uniform. Elder Benson mentioned that his number is unlisted.
Elder Evans said that even if it costs tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands of dollars to do it, we should not be neglectful in taking proper measures to protect our buildings and properties and our people. Mention was made of the fact that this matter comes under the jurisdiction of the Presiding Bishopric, and that it should be called to their attention. President Brown said that the Counselors were meeting with President McKay tomorrow morning, Friday, and while there the matter would be brought to his attention for discussion and action. Elder Lee asked that the Brethren be notified of such measures as may be decided upon.”
Fri., 22 Sep., 1967:
“Did not hold a meeting of the First Presidency today.
10:00 to 1:00 p.m.
October Conference Preparations
Held a long meeting with my secretary, Clare, on Conference matters. Spent the time in going over the list of speakers for the General Conference, and took time to call each of the Brethren to tell them at which session I have assigned them to speak.
After I had gone over the Conference messages which I shall give, and other Conference duties, I said to Clare: “I know more than you think I know about what you have done for me, and I appreciate you more than you know and what you have done for me through the years.”
When I talked to Elder Sterling W. Sill, I said to him, “You have my confidence, not only as a man, but as a General Authority; however, I want you to be careful to whom you speak and how you speak in the future.”
Tues., 19 Dec., 1967:
“8:30 a.m.
Held a meeting with Presidents Brown, Tanner and Smith, and Elder Dyer.
“(Minutes of a Meeting of The First Presidency in the Hotel Apartment)
JOURNAL RECORD OF ALVIN R. DYER
TUESDAY, December 19, 1967
(Letter from Elder S. Dilworth Young)
President Tanner presented a letter from Elder S. Dilworth Young. Brother Young was inquiring as to whether he would be permitted to take his wife with him, at Church expense, to visit the South American Stakes. President Tanner stated that the policy was that the wives could go when touring foreign missions, but not when visiting foreign stakes. But that President McKay had given approval in some instances for this to be done and that in some cases the Brethren had arbitrarily done it. President Tanner suggested that the matter be reappraised.
I commented that the problem of visiting foreign stakes for 3 or 4 consecutive weeks became a problem of “aloneness” unless the General Authority could visit in and meet with the missionaries in the missions near the stakes visited to occupy his time — this has been restricted to General Authorities assigned to those missions — there is a great waste of time and it is very disconcerting, and this is why the Brethren felt they wanted their wives with them.
President Brown at this point made rather a trite comment in saying, “What is the matter with being alone, are you afraid someone will steal you?” I promptly answered, “It is not that, but it is nevertheless not a good thing for a man to be alone for the greater part of three or four weeks with little or nothing to do. But if work could be done in the missions in the interim of each week, it would help to solve the problem.”
It was agreed that the matter would be discussed again; no decision was reached.
Fri., 26 Jan., 1968:
“8:30 a.m.
Held a meeting of the First Presidency with Presidents Brown, Tanner, and Smith. Also Alvin Dyer was present. Some of the matters we discussed were:
General Authorities – Hereafter to Travel First Class
President Brown reported that in the meeting of the First Presidency and Presiding Bishopric a week ago, the question was raised as to whether or not the General Authorities should travel first class as they go to the Stakes and Missions. The Presiding Bishopric recommended that they do travel first class. President Brown mentioned a ruling made at one time that the General Authorities should travel economy class. President Tanner reported that the Presiding Bishopric had mentioned that some have received special permission to travel first class because of physical impairments; namely, Elders Dyer, Sonne, and Bishop Brown. It was the suggestion of the Bishopric that now, inasmuch as the board members and Priesthood representatives will not be traveling to the extent that they formerly did, and the cost of travel is being reduced, when one of the General Authorities travels, he should travel first class. It was mentioned that some of the Brethren like to work when they are on the plane traveling from one place to another and that there is not really sufficient space to do so when they travel economy class; also that they have considerable more cigarette smoke to contend with when they travel second class.
I said that I think the brethren should travel first class.
Wed., 20 Mar., 1968:
“2:30 p.m.
General Authorities – Suggestions for new Appointees
Inasmuch as the regular report meeting of the General Authorities is being held at 1:00 p.m., I called President Joseph Fielding Smith who is in charge of the meeting, and instructed him to ask each of the Brethren to submit to me personally suggestive names for a new Assistant and a new Seventy.”
Thur., 21 Mar., 1968:
“8:30 a.m.
Held a brief meeting with the First Presidency. We discussed general matters.
Presiding Bishopric – Members of to Ordain Seventies
President Tanner referred to an action taken by the First Presidency sometime ago authorizing the members of the Presiding Bishopric to set apart Stake Presidents and Counselors, ordain Bishops, ordain High Priests, etc., at which time it was decided not to authorize them to ordain seventies. He mentioned that the question has been raised a time or two as to why they could not ordain seventies, and he personally could see no reason why they shouldn’t do so inasmuch as they can ordain everyone else that the General Authorities ordain except Patriarchs, who must be ordained by the Twelve.
I said that I could see no reason why the members of the Presiding Bishopric could not ordain seventies, and gave my permission for this to be done.
Wed., 27 Mar., 1968:
7 to 7:30 p.m. Names of General Authorities to Fill Vacancies Considered
Inasmuch as the General Authorities pre-Conference meeting is to be held tomorrow morning, I asked Elder Dyer and my secretary Clare to remain for a few moments so that I could go over the list of names that had been submitted by all the General Authorities at my request for the new General Authorities to be sustained at the coming Annual Conference of the Church.
At my request Clare had tabulated the names so that I could study the ones who had been suggested by the Brethren. I stated that I would give thought and prayer to the names to be considered, but said that I had made up my mind to call Elder Marion D. Hanks as one of the Assistants to the Twelve, and Hartman Rector of the Potomac Stake, who lives in Virginia, as one of the Seventies. Brother Charles Walker Whitman of the West Utah Stake is also being considered as one of the Seventies, but by morning additional information concerning him changed my mind about him. I also told Brother Dyer that I had decided to present his name to be a member of the First Presidency.
(See Elder Dyer’s minutes for further detail on this meeting.)
All of the above names are subject to change if I feel impressed to do so.
This ended a very busy and taxing day!”
“JOURNAL RECORD ALVIN R. DYER
WEDNESDAY, March 27, 1968
(Meeting of The First Presidency)
A meeting of the First Presidency was held with President McKay. I attended. All were present.
7 p.m.
(Meeting with President McKay with His Personal Secretary, Clare Middlemiss)
After Senator Kennedy and the others had gone, I attended, as I was requested to by the President, a short meeting, pertaining to certain matters which were to be presented to the General Authorities in the pre-conference Temple meeting, the following morning. As preliminary to our discussion at this time the following is given.
(President McKay requests Names from General Authorities to Fill Vacancies)
Acting upon direct instruction from President McKay, President Joseph Fielding Smith announced to the brethren in the General Priesthood Board Meeting on March 13, 1968, that they were requested to submit confidentially to the President names of brethren whom they recommended to fill the vacancy in the First Quorum of Seventy and also an assistant to the Twelve to take the place of myself.
In the ensuing days the President received quite a number of sealed envelopes from the brethren, but not from all. At the request of the President, Clare Middlemiss tabulated the various recommendations, and I was asked to meet with him to discuss the names. (It is to be stated here that I had nothing whatsoer to do with the request made by the President, wondering myself how the matter would be implemented.)
It was in the meeting with President McKay following the Kennedy visit, that the names were discussed and the decision reached by the President, as to who was to be recommended.
(To Be Sustained As a Member of the First Presidency)
I learned at this time, that the President had decided to present my name to be a member of the First Presidency. Although some references had been made to it by him to others, (Clare Middlemiss, Henry Smith)–I had not discussed the matter with him since the time of the First Presidency’s first meeting following the October Conference of 1967, when President Brown asked for a clarification of my status with the First Presidency. I, at a later date, discussed it with President Tanner as recorded in this Journal, but at no time did I speak to the President about it, feeling that if he wanted me sustained in the First Presidency he would announce it.
Thus, in this meeting, I learned of the President’s desire concerning myself.
After reviewing the names submitted by the brethren it was the President’s direct decision to call Marion D. Hanks, a member of the Seventy’s Presidency, to be an Assistant to the Twelve, and that Hartman Rector, of the Potomac Stake, who lives in Virginia, be called to the Seventy’s Presidency. He was recommended by Ezra Taft Benson. I know Brother Rector and strongly supported this recommendation. The President seemed greatly moved with regard to his call.
The other vacancy in the Seventy’s Presidency, it was thought at first, was to be filled by Charles Walker Whitman of the West Utah Stake, but there was a question concerning this appointment. A telephone call to me from Marion Hinckley, Stake President, late that evening, revealed a situation of his being seen in the company of a Brother Workman, who had been charged with molesting boys. This new information seemed sufficient not to choose Brother Whitman, although he came highly recommended otherwise. Thus, the appointments were tentatively arrived at. The President wanted to think and pray about them.”
Thur., 28 Mar., 1968:
“8:00a.m.
At my request Elder Alvin R. Dyer came over to the office at the Hotel Apartment. I also had asked my secretary, Clare Middlemiss, to be present to take notes. After prayerful consideration during the night and early morning hours, and still further consideration this morning, I made the decision that I would call the following brethren: Elder Marion D. Hanks as an Assistant to the Twelve; Elder Hartman Rector, Jr. as a member of the First Council of Seventy; and Elder Loren Charles Dunn as a member of the First Council of Seventy. I also informed Elder Dyer that I had decided to present his name at the meeting of the General Authorities this morning as a counselor in the First Presidency. I instructed Clare to return to her office to make a list of these brethren for me so that I could present their names to the General Authorities. I asked her to hand this list and the list of the General Authorities to speak at the various sessions of the General Conference to Elder Dyer so that he could hand them to me in the Temple.
Elder Dyer and Clare then left the apartment for the Administration Building. Before leaving, I heard the nurse tell Brother Dyer that the Doctor had given instructions that I was not to stay the full time of the meeting.
Mon., 1 Apr., 1968:
“10:00 a.m.
Met with my secretary Clare. I instructed her to arrange the
following appointments:
(1) With Elder Hartman Rector, Jr., of Fairfax,
Virginia for interview with me regarding his
appointment as a member of the First Council
of Seventy.
(2) With Elder Loren Charles Dunn of Natick,
Massachusetts, regarding his new appointment
as a member of the First Council of Seventy.
(3) With Elder Marion D. Hanks, a member of the
First Council of Seventy, regarding his new
appointment as an Assistant to the Twelve.
I directed her to make these appointments for Wednesday, April 3, 1968, at approximated 10:30 a.m.
NOTE BY CLARE MIDDLEMISS:
Telephone Call to Loren Charles Dunn:
After leaving President McKay’s office, in accordance with President
McKay’s instructions, I got in touch by telephone with Elder Loren
Charles Dunn at his office, (telephone 617-542-2580, ) Natick, Massachusetts. Fortunately, I was able to reach him immediately, and I told him that I was calling for President David O. McKay. I asked him if it would be possible for him to fly to Salt Lake and have a conference with President McKay on Wednesday, April 3, at approximately 10:30 a.m. I said that if he would give me the name of the airport there in Natick, I would arrange for his transportation, and would also make hotel accommodations for him here in Salt Lake City. He, of course, was shocked and surprised, but said that he would make all efforts to be in Salt Lake City on Wednesday at the appointed time. I asked him if he wanted to bring Sister Dunn, and he said that she had two children and he was not sure that she could come. Later it was decided that Sister Dunn would accompany him, and arrangements were made accordingly.
Telephone Call to Hartman Rector, Jr., 1968:
Telephoned to Elder Hartman Rector, Jr. at Fairfax, Virginia (telephone -273-57340) and was also fortunate in reaching him immediately. He was stunned when I told him that President McKay would like him to fly out to Salt Lake City for an interview on Wednesday, April 3. He said that he definitely would meet President McKay’s wishes, so I informed him that I would arrange for his airplane transportation and Hotel accommodations here in Salt Lake City. At first he decided that his wife could not make it because of their children, and because she was not very well, but he called later and said his wife wanted to come so airplane reservations were made for her also.
Telephone Call to Elder Marion D. Hanks:
After several attempts, reached Elder Hanks at his office and told him that President McKay would like to see him in his office at the Hotel on April 3, at about 10: 00 a.m. Elder Hanks said he would be there.”
Wed., 3 Apr., 1968:
l0:00 a.m.
General Authorities — Interview of New General Authorities
In accordance with appointment previously made, I first met with Elder Marion D. Hanks of the First Council of Seventy.
As Elder Hanks was brought into the office by my secretary, I held out both hands to him, and told him how delighted I was to see him. I invited him to sit down, and then I told him that after much prayerful thought, I had decided to call him as an Assistant to the Twelve, taking him from the First Council of Seventy.
I said: “Brother Hanks, are you willing to accept this new calling?” He answered with conviction, “Yes sir, I am willing to accept any calling you give me.” I then asked him if there were any reason why he should not be so called, and he answered that there was nothing to his knowledge if I felt that he could carry on with this responsibility.
Before leaving Elder Hanks handed me a copy of the talk he had given at the David O. McKay Day at the BYU on March 19, 1968, at which time I was presented with the Exemplary Manhood Award (See March 19 for copy.) Brother Hanks, with tears in his eyes, expressed his feelings of love and respect and thanked me for the trust that I had shown in him. He then took his leave.
10:30 a. m. — Interview with Elder Hartman Rector, Jr.
Elder Alvin R. Dyer, who had met the two young men who are being called as Seventies in the lobby of the Hotel Utah, arrived at the office and introduced to me Elder Hartman Rector, Jr. of Fairfax, Virginia. He is 43 years of age, and is presently serving as the President of the 542nd Quorum of Seventies, and also as a Ward Seminary teacher of the Potomac Stake. He is married to Constance Kirk Daniel and they have seven lovely children ranging in age from two to twenty years. The oldest son is presently serving on a mission in the Brazilian South Mission. Sister Hartman is President of the Potomac Stake Relief Society.
After greeting Elder Hartman I told him that I had called him in to tell him that I have chosen him to serve as one of the Seven Presidents of Seventy. I questioned him as to his faithfulness to his wife and family, and as to his loyalty and devotion to the Church. I also asked him if there were any hidden reason why he could not accept this call.
He was straightforward in his answers, and told of his love for his family and for the Church; that he accepted the call with all his heart, and was honored that he had been chosen. The tears shown in his eyes as he vowed his allegiance to the Church and to the duties that would now be his in this new responsibility. We both shed tears, and I had a good feeling about the attitude of this brother.
10-45 a. m. — Interview with Elder Loren Charles Dunn
Elder Dyer then brought into my office Elder Loren Charles Dunn of Natick, Massachusetts. He is 36 years of age and is presently serving as counselor to President Boyd K. Packer of the New England Mission. His father, whom I knew well, was President of the Tooele Stake for many years.
Brother Dunn is married to Francis Sharon Longden, daughter of Brother and Sister John Longden. They have two children. Sister Dunn has been active an the Boston Stake MIA, Relief Society and Primary .
After greeting Brother Dunn, and telling him of my admiration for his father who had been President of the Tooele Stake for so long, I told him that I was happy to meet him. I then asked him the same questions that I had asked Elder Hartman Rector, and Brother Dunn, who was shocked and stunned as had been the other brethren, vowed to me that there had been nothing in his life that would prevent him from accepting this position. He was very sincere and stated that he would do his best to measure up to the trust I had given him. I feel that he is a very choice young man, and that he will do his best to fill the duties of one of the First Council of Seventy with efficiency and honor.
After the brethren left, my secretary Clare, who had been waiting in the outer room for me to get through with these appointments, came in for a few moments.
She mentioned the meeting of all the General Authorities to be held in the Salt Lake Temple tomorrow at 9 o’clock, and said that she would bring to me tomorrow morning all the papers that I would need for the meeting, including the names of the new General Authorities for presentation to the Council, and the list of speakers for the coming General Conference of the Church. I thanked her, and expressed appreciation for the attention she had given to all the details for the meetings today and tomorrow — that it is very important and necessary that she continue with these duties in order that the work can be carried forward smoothly.”
“JOURNAL RECORD ALVIN R. DYER
WEDNESDAY, April 3, 1968
At 8:00 a.m. I attended the opening exercises of the Regional Representatives of the Twelve Seminar held in the 17th Ward Chapel, but was called out of the Seminar by note, the information of which came from my secretary, to attend the meeting of the First Presidency.
(Meeting of the First Presidency)
I arrived at the President’s apartment at 8:35 a.m., and was greeted by the words of the President, ‘He is here.’ All were present.
The following matters were discussed before the President.
(New Presidents of Seventies Introduced to President McKay)
Later in the morning, I met Hartman Rector and Loren Dunn in the First Presidency’s office foyer, being asked by Clare Middlemiss who was with President McKay, to bring them over to him for interview. This I did. But as they waited in the north room of the President’s apartment I went into the President’s office with Clare to tell him that these two brethren were here for their interview.
(The President Asked what the Earlier Meeting was all About)
But before Hartman Rector was introduced, the President, much more alert now, said to me these exact words: ‘What was that all about this morning?’ There can be no doubt that the President did not fully understand the motions which the Counselors had brought up, and was asking for clarification.
The President had already interviewed Marion D. Hanks, and then one by one interviewed Hartman Rector and Loren Dunn. The President told me he was pleased with the selection of these two brethren.
These new brethren were of course shocked, but most humble and happy in their callings.
Mon., 8 Apr., 1968:
9:20 a. m.
Setting Apart of Newlor Sustained General Authorities
According to appointment, the following arrived at the apartment: Elders Marion D. Hanks, Hartman Rector, Jr., and Loren Charles Dunn.
I was very happy to see these young men, and joked a little with Brother
Hartman about his red hair.
Marion D. Hanks — Assistant to the Twelve
I asked Elder Hanks to come forward and sit on the leather stool which had been placed in front of me so that I could easily place my hands upon his head. I noticed that both Presidents Smith and Dyer remained seated as Presidents Brown and Tanner stood to assist in the settings apart. I looked over at them, and then President Tanner noting my hesitation said, “Al, you should join us and also President Smith.” The brethren knew this was what I wanted, so Presidents Smith and Dyer came over and stood around Brother Hanks, placing their arms on the brethren’s shoulder and one hand on Brother Hank’s head. I then looked up at Brother Dyer and said, “Brother Dyer, you set Elder Hanks apart.” Brother Dyer seemed surprised, but he did as I directed him.
Hartman Rector, Jr. — First Council of the Seventy
I then directed Elder Hartman Rector, Jr. to come forward, and I asked President Joseph Fielding Smith to set him apart as a member of the First Council of the Seventy.
Loren Charles Dunn — First Council of the Seventy
I then asked Brother Loren Charles Dunn to join us, and I asked President N. Eldon Tanner to be voice in assisting us to set apart Elder Dunn as a member of the First Council of the Seventy.
(At this point, President Hugh B. Brown left the meeting, saying that he had some matters to attend to in his office.)
Tues., 10 Sep., 1968:
“In Huntsville.
General Authorities – Correspondence — Answering of
President Tanner called attention to a letter from Elders Mark E. Petersen, Victor L. Brown, Joseph Anderson and D. Arthur Haycock, who had met as a committee in response to the suggestion of the First Presidency and given consideration to the question of the proper handling of letters received by members of the General Authorities from time to time in which questions are asked regarding doctrine, Church policy, history, etc. It is the recommendation of this committee that all such letters received at the office of individual brethren of the Authorities should be referred to the Secretary to the First Presidency for answer. In regard to the answering of such questions by secretaries it was the recommendation of the committee
that the secretaries not attempt to assume the responsibility of answering these questions. The brethren of the Presidency felt to approve this recommendation and it was also suggested that when questions are presented by individuals over the telephone the information should not be given out by secretaries in answer thereto but they should be referred to the Secretary to the First Presidency.
It was agreed that a letter of instruction should be prepared and sent to the brethren of the General Authorities, other than members of the First Presidency, informing them of the sentiment of the brethren of the First Presidency regarding these matters. One of the reasons for this decision is that from time to time individuals write different ones of the brethren asking the same question in order to see if they would get the same answer.
(See Diary of June 27 for letter and previous mention of the matter.)”
Tues., 24 Sep., 1968:
“At 11:00 o’clock this morning my Secretary Clare came up to Huntsville. I was delighted to see her as I had not seen her for a month and I have been worried about the Conference. I said, “It is good to see you”.
She took up the following matters with me:
General Conference Matters
1. Choosing of New Assistant
Gave thought to choosing of new Assistant to the Twelve. I am not satisfied in my mind regarding the person suggested by the First Presidency. I have in mind someone other than they suggested.
2. Pre-Conference Meeting of All General Authorities
Directed Clare to get lists of General Authorities who had spoken at previous pre-Conference Temple meetings.
3. Persons to Pray at Conference
Clare presented letters from Stake Presidents who had accepted my invitation to offer prayers at Conference.
Anonymous Letter
Read anonymous letter regarding appointment of younger General Authorities. (See copy following)”
“September 14, 1968
Dear Miss Middlemiss:
I have written and discarded several letters to you but am going to be bold enough to send this one. People assure me that you are one person who is totally loyal to President McKay and the Church and I am willing to pass on to you, therefore, an opinion that many others share with me.
There are two rumors that concern a number of us. The first is that either Boyd Packer or Marion Hanks is going to be appointed President of the Brigham Young University. Since the word comes out of the School itself I and others are much interested. Elder Packer is a nice young man who takes himself very seriously but is not qualified to be President of the University. Elder Hanks would be a popular choice among students and faculty but should never be saddled with a job as limited as that one, important as it is.
The other rumor is that President Isaakson [sic] is going to be mercifully released and someone appointed to take his place. Out of our love for the Church we hope so. He is obviously not going to get well and to keep him in this position while the great needs of the Church go unmet is tragic. Why not retire him ‘until he recovers’ and get a vigorous younger man into the President [Presidency] to replace him and help President McKay?
As we read Church history, President McKay was a young man when he was called into the Presidency. His great natural abilities were given training and he has become the most unique leader in the Church’s history. As I read the tribute written to him in the Improvement [Era] by Elder Hanks I shed tears and wondered where he (or when he) will ever be replaced. Why cannot he now duplicate himself by choosing a young man who is very much like President McKay must have been when he was chosen? The greatest tribute I ever heard for President McKay was given by Elder Marion Hanks in California at an education week this summer, and many of them wondered if Elder Hanks himself could not be expected to move into positions of greater responsibility. The Dialogue editors and others who were talking about the negro and criticizing Pres. McKay were really silenced effectively by the wonderful answer they received from Elder Hanks.
Miss Middlemiss, it is said that the Church is now made up of at least half its membership under 25 years of age. Can you imagine what it would do for this vast body of great young people, and to the educators and to those who love President McKay’s compassion and graciousness if the course I am mentioning were followed? His loyalty to President McKay and his ideals and to the Church are well known everywhere. The people love him. Wouldn’t it be a marvelous thing to see the President appoint a man who is so much like himself in intellect and compassion and love of literature and forgivingness and other virtues. If I sould like a fan, I am. If I sound like I would like to run the Church, I don’t. But many of us are aware that your love and loyalty to the President are very great, one of the most wonderful stories in existence, and we would like you to know our feelings.
God bless you as you help President McKay. We pray for him to guide the Church for a long time to come.
With all sincerity.”
Thur., 26 Sep., 1968:
“At 8:35 a. m. I left for the Temple. I had promised the doctors I would remain just an hour at this meeting, but stayed the full time which was 3 hours and 25 minutes.
I called on a representative of each group — Presiding Bishopric, Seventies, Assistants to the Twelve, the Patriarch, the Twelve and the First Presidency to speak. When I called on President Brown, President Tanner spoke up and said, “But his doctor says he is not to talk”, and I answered, “But his President is asking him to do so”. So President Brown spoke for a few moments and did very well. I also spoke to the Brethren.
After hearing from the Brethren, they were given their speaking assignments for the Conference. It was a wonderful meeting. A spirit of brotherly love and consideration prevailed.
Note by CM:
Mrs. Noyes “raked me over the coals” because President McKay was attending the Council Meeting saying that Dr. MacFarlane did not want him to go. I said, “You had better call Dr. McKay because he made the arrangements. “
I called Lottie, his wife, who said Dr. McKay knows what he is doing and he thought it would be better for him to go.”
Fri., 27 Sep., 1968:
“Note by CM:
Dr. MacFarlane called me this afternoon. He asked how I felt and I said, “Tired”, as I had been working night and day on Conference. The Doctor said that President McKay should have no meetings longer than an hour; that he stayed too long at Council Meeting yesterday — 3 1/2 hours. President McKay said he was exhausted when he came home, although he had enjoyed meeting with the Brethren. Dr. MacFarlane said he has an ulcerated sore on the end of his spine from sitting too much. The Doctor feels he should remain off it as much as possible, hold only hour meetings from now on, and then perhaps he would feel well enough to go to Conference. I said that I could see no reason this week for a meeting with President McKay; that I had seen him in Huntsville last week–the first time in a month — had arranged with him for all Conference matters, and that the Brethren were busy preparing their speeches. He said, “Good, I hope he does not have to see anyone.” I said that Vice-President Humphrey will be here Monday, but that President Brown is handling all of his appointments and meetings. Dr. MacFarlane said, “Vice-President Humphrey shouldn’t see President McKay as the President hasn’t seen any of the others including Richard Nixon.”
Thur., 7 Nov., 1968:
“At 8:45 a. m. I met with my counselors, Presidents Brown, Tanner, and Dyer for a meeting of the First Presidency. President Smith is meeting with the Twelve in the Temple, and President Isaacson is still at home because of his stroke.
The following items were discussed at this meeting:
General Authorities – All To Meet In Council Meeting In The Temple On First Thursday Of Each Month
Today, a change of our usual procedure in Temple meetings was made. In accordance with a decision made by the Council a week ago, the Assistants to the Twelve, the Patriarch, the members of the First Council of Seventy, and the Presiding Bishopric, were invited to meet with the Council, and they will continue to do so in the future on the first Thursday of each month in that part of the meeting which is devoted to the prayer circle and the administration of the Sacrament.”
Thur., 5 Dec., 1968:
“8:30 to 9:45 a. m.
Held a meeting of the First Presidency in my office in the Hotel Utah Apartment. Presidents Tanner and Dyer were present. Presidents Brown and Smith were absent; President Brown because of illness, and President Smith because of being in attendance at the Quorum of the Twelve meeting in the Temple.
Comment by President Alvin R. Dyer: “President McKay was very determinate in his decisions and expressions, and seemed vitally interested in and took part in all that transpired at this meeting.”
The following matters were discussed at the meeting:
General Authorities – Attendance at Overseas Stake Conferences
Attention was called to a list of proposed appointments of brethren of the General Authorities to visit stake conferences in overseas stakes. I said that I want to personally go over this list. After some discussion of the matter it was decided, on recommendation of President Dyer, that this particular group as submitted be approved, and that in one of the subsequent meetings the whole program be reviewed in order that I might be satisfied in my mind relative thereto. I said that this should be approved now inasmuch as it becomes necessary for those who are appointed to arrange passports and make other provisions for their proposed visits.
Comment by President Alvin R. Dyer
“President McKay opposed these appointments because of his feeling that they were a part of the visiting plan of the General Authority to the various Missions of the Church which he has been opposed to from the beginning. He made the statement in this meeting twice that he did not want the brethren travelling any more until the entire matter could be gone into and reviewed.”
Fri., 3 Jan., 1969:
“At 9:45 a. m. I met with President Tanner, President Smith and President Dyer. President Brown is spending some time away from the office for the holiday Season.
The following items were discussed, among others:
First Council of Seventy — Sealing Power Conferred
Gave consideration to the fact that Elders Loren C. Dunn and Hartman Rector, Jr. , recently sustained as members of the First Council of Seventy, have not been given the sealing power.
I authorized President Joseph Fielding Smith to officiate in conferring the sealing power upon these brethren.”
Wed., 27 Aug, 1969:
“I held no meeting with the First Presidency today. However my counselors took up the following matters of importance:
Traveling Expenses for Wives of Church Employees and Others
President Tanner mentioned that Brother Wilford W. Kirton had asked him the other day regarding the rules or regulations whereby wives of Church employees would travel with their husbands twice a year at Church expense. He mentioned that the Legal Department has a representative in the Frankfurt, Germany area who goes from one place to another and in the same area are representatives of the Building Committee, and the Building Committee encourage their representatives to take their wives with them now and then, they indicating that it can be helpful by meeting with the wives of the district men and encouraging them. It was mentioned also that at times members of the Building Committee have taken their wives with them on trips, that there seems to be some lack of uniformity in the matter.
President Brown did not think that we could make a firm program for all. He thought that where these employees want to take their wives on trips of the kind mentioned they should pay their expenses. President Tanner suggested that we do two things: first, that we write the heads of all departments and tell them that wives should not travel with their husbands at Church expense without special permission from the First Presidency. This was approved by the brethren. President Brown said that inasmuch as his wife is sick and cannot go with him he felt that he sould have someone with him when he is traveling and that therefore he has taken one of his daughters on some of the trips he has made, and has paid their expenses. It was mentioned also that the General Authorities take their wives with them when they are touring missions and this would include when they are attending conferences in conjunction with such tours.
The question was raised about auxiliary organizations. The brethren did not think we should open the door for the wives to accompany their husbands and husbands their wives on their visits. It was decided to send a letter to the heads of departments, also heads of auxiliaries, informing them of the ruling above mentioned.
(See letters following.)
September 11, 1969
TO ALL GENERAL AUTHORITIES
Dear Brethren:
In order that there may be a clear understanding regarding the payment of traveling expenses for wives of the General Authorities we are pleased to give you the following information:
When brethren of the General Authorities are engaged in visiting missions under assignment of the First Presidency or the Twelve the wives may accompany their husbands and the Church will take care of such traveling and hotel expenses as may be involved in this assignment. We feel that this ruling should not apply to visits to stakes unless the visiting Authority is taking care of stake assignments while on his mission tour.
Any exceptions to this rule should be taken up with the First Presidency for their decision.
Sincerely yours,
David O. McKay
Hugh B. Brown
N. Eldon Tanner
The First Presidency
September 11, 1969
GENERAL PRESIDENCIES AND GENERAL SUPERINTENDENCIES AUXILIARY ORGANIZATIONS
Dear Brethren and Sisters:
In order that there may be a clear understanding regarding the attitude of the Church pertaining to the payment by the Church of traveling expenses for wives and husbands of general officers and general board members, please be advised as follows:
In the first place, we feel that every proper precaution should be taken to avoid unnecessary expense in using cars for travel to assignments. We suggest that as far as possible car pool arrangements be made for transportation to conferences and other assignments where several are making the trip.
Secondly, relative to air travel, spouses should not accompany their wives or husbands on Church assignments at the expense of the Church without in each instance clearing such proposed expenditures through the First Presidency.
Sincerely yours,
David O. McKay
Hugh B. Brown
N. Eldon Tanner
The First Presidency
September 9, 1969
CHURCH AGENCY AND DEPARTMENT HEADS
Dear Brethren:
The question has arisen from time to time in regard to whether or not the Church should pay the traveling expenses of wives of Church agency and department head staff employees.
Please be advised that it is the ruling of the Church that wives should not travel with their husbands at Church expense without special permission from the First Presidency. We shall be pleased to have you abide by this instruction.
Sincerely yours,
David O. McKay
Hugh B. Brown
N. Eldon Tanner
The First Presidency
Thur., 28 Aug, 1969:
“I held no First Presidency Meeting this morning.
Upon reading the Temple minutes for this day I instructed my secretary Clare to include the following matters that were presented in my Diary:
Marvin J. Ashton Called as Assistant to the Twelve
President Brown mertioned that since the death of William J. Critchlow, Jr. no one has been nominated to succeed him as an Assistant to the Twelve. President Brown presented the nomination of myself of Marvin J. Ashton to be an Assistant to the Twelve. He mentioned the recent assignment given Elder Ashton in regard to social services which would take him out of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association superintendency, and it is thought if he is an Assistant to the Twelve he can handle that appointment with greater facility.
The brethren unanimously approved the recommendation.
Tues., Sept. 2, 1969:
“Minutes of the Meeting of the First Presidency
Held Tuesday, September 2, 1969, at 9:00 A.M., in the First Presidency’s Office
Present: Presidents Hugh B. Brown, N. Eldon Tanner, Joseph Fielding Smith and Alvin R. Dyer
Travel Expenses for Wives
President Tanner raised the question that had been discussed at a previous meeting of the Presidency regarding travel expenses for wives of General Authorities, various Church agency staff members, auxiliary board members, etc. as to how far the Church should go in paying the transportation of these people. It was the understanding of the brethren that in the case of General Authorities when they visit missions but not stakes they may take their wives with them at the expense of the Church. In the case of General Board members it was thought that we should caution them against unnecessary expense in using cars for travel to assignments. Relative to air fare for General Board members, they should not take their spouses at the expense of the Church without clearing it through the First Presidency.
Visits to Missions, Stakes, Etc.
President Dyer suggested that the brethren of the Authorities when filling assignments to missions, stakes, etc., should arrange for adequate time to know the problems of the stake or mission in advance and not travel on such a close schedule as they frequently do, that it would seem advisable for them to leave in sufficient time to take care of necessary preliminaries and to get settled before commencing their work. It was felt that this would protect their health and that they would not be under such tension. It was decided that if they feel it desirable to go a day earlier they should do so. It was decided to convey this information to the General Authorities.
Thurs., 11 Sept., 1969:
“Minutes of the Meeting of the First Presidency
Held Thursday, September 11, 1969, at 9:00 A.M. in President McKay’s Apartment
Present: Presidents David O. McKay, Hugh B. Brown, N. Eldon Tanner and Alvin R. Dyer.
Assistant to the Twelve
President Brown called attention to the need for an additional Assistant to the Twelve on account of the recent death of John Longden, and asked the President if he would like the Twelve to submit suggestions of someone to fill this position for the President’s consideration. The President asked that this be done.
Thur., 11 Sep., 1969:
“Note by CM:
Items read by President McKay from the Minutes of the Temple Council Meeting held today.
Assistant to the Twelve – Nominations for
President Brown told the brethren that this morning when the First Presidency met in President McKay’s apartment the President had asked that the brethren of the Council each write two names on a slip of paper nominating someone to take Elder John Longden’s place as an Assistant to the Twelve. He asked that the brethren do this. He said that it was not necessary that they sign their names.
One of the brethren asked where the names should be submitted and President Brown said either to him or to Joseph Anderson.
Thurs., Sept. 18, 1969:
9:00 a.m. Meeting of the First Presidency in the President’s Hotel Apartment. Present were Presidents Hugh B. Brown and N. Eldon Tanner.
Among the matters discussed were the following:
October Conference–General Authorities Meeting
President Brown asked if it would be agreeable to my feelings if we hold the General Authorities meeting, which is normally held just before the General Conference, on September 25th. I gave my consent for this.
General Authorities–Appointments of New Assistants to the Twelve
President Brown asked me if I had in mind appointing a new Assistant to the Twelve at this Conference. He mentioned that Elder Marvin J. Ashton was previously mentioned and has been approved by me, that, however, Elder John Longden has passed away since that time making another vacancy. President Brown said he thought it would be desirable to call the brother who may be selected to serve as Commissioner of Education to be an Assistant to the Twelve. I agreed with this and gave authority to President Brown to present this matter to the Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve a week from today.
Wed., Sept. 24, 1969:
9:20 a.m. Meeting of the First Presidency in the President’s Hotel Apartment. Present were Presidents Hugh B. Brown and N. Eldon Tanner.
The following matters were discussed:
Assistant to the Twelve
President Brown reminded me of approval given to have Marvin J. Ashton sustained as an Assistant to the Twelve at the October Conference. He mentioned the death of John Longden about a month ago and asked me if I desired to appoint someone to replace him as an Assistant to the Twelve. I said that I would rather leave this open for the time being.
Thurs., 9 Oct., 1969:
“I held no meetings today.
I was interested in the reports of Elder Harold B. Lee and President Alvin R. Dyer given at the Temple Meeting on this day:
Report of Elder Harold B. Lee
‘Elder Lee in referring to his inability to be at the conference because of the condition of his health said that he had made the observation that he thought it would be quite an education if each of the brethren in turn were assigned to sit home and watch conference over television, that it is sort of soul training to see how the brethren look from the other end. He said that never had he had greater appreciation for the brethren in their performance at conference, that to him it was a great uplift to be on the receiving end of the sermons, applying them to himself as though he was one of the 2,700,000 members, and that he tried to do that, and search his own soul. He said he thought the needs of today were as completely treated as he had ever heard, and that each of the brethren had made a tremendous contribution. He said he was proud of them. . . .’
Thurs., 16 Oct., 1969:
“Temple Meeting
I was interested in the following minutes from the Temple Meeting held on this day.
Setting Apart of Marvin J. Ashton as an Assistant to the Twelve
Upon the authorization of President McKay, the members of the First Presidency and the Twelve who were present laid their hands unitedly upon the head of Brother Ashton, and President Brown was voice in ordaining and setting him apart as an Assistant to the Twelve as follows:
‘Elder Marvin J. Ashton, we your brethren of the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve unitedly place our hands upon your head, you having been nominated and approved both by this group and by the Church in general conference assembled to be an Assistant to the Council of the Twelve. We are now acting under that direct authority of the President of the Church, and by virtue of that, and by reason of the fact that we hold the holy Melchizedek Priesthood, we now by virtue of that priesthood ordain and set you apart as one of the Assistants to the Council of the Twelve Apostles in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and we confer upon you every right, power, privilege and authority associated with or appertaining to this calling in the holy priesthood, and authorize you to go forth visiting the stakes, wards, branches and missions of the Church, setting the Church in order, calling to repentance those who are in transgression, and in every way representing the First Presidency of the Church and the Twelve, except in the two different categories which have been mentioned.
We bless you, Brother Ashton, for your faith and faithfulness in the past and for your devotion to the Lord and his cause. We bless you that by reason of the wonderful work you have performed in the past, you may receive an increased portion of the Holy Spirit to be constantly with you, to guide you, direct you, warn you, and give you the spirit of revelation and of intuition that you may know as you meet people by reason of the spirit that will rest uipon you what is best to do and to say in order to bring harmony and peace where there might have been unrest and chaos.
We bless you that you may go forth on this new assignment, that you may be directed by that Spirit to the end that you may be in an increased measure a great servant of the Lord, proclaiming the truth, advancing his work and setting the Church in order.
We pray that God will bless your family, that you may know that your first duty is to them, and as President McKay has so often said, if a man fails in his duty to his family, he cannot make up for that no matter how much he gives in other work assigned to him. We pray that the Lord will bless your family, that they may sustain you and support you, and that your actions in the future will be such that they will be justified in that support.
Now, we bless you and send you forth in this new calling and pray God’s Holy Spirit to guide you in every aspect of the work that will come under your jurisdiction. To this end we send you forth, and seal upon you every blessing that is necessary for you to receive at this time humbly in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.’
Elder Ashton was then excused from the meeting, and the Council went forward with their meeting.