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TEMPLES, 1877
1877: 1 Jan.: Dedication of St. George Temple.
“DEDICATION OF THE TEMPLE AT ST. GEORGE.
Our numerous readers and the thousands of Saints throughout the world will peruse with uncommon interest the report, published elsewhere in to-days NEWS, of the dedication, in part, of the Temple of the Lord at St. George, near the southern border of this Territory.
Hitherto the ordinances of the Lord’s House in this dispensation have not been administered in the strictly proper place, a temple built, completed, and dedicated to him. But that disadvantage has passed or will shortly pass away. The Temple at St. George is completed so far as to be dedicated for certain uses for which it was designed, and the administrations therein, for the living and the dead, have commenced, to the joy of the Saints.
The Saints in the southern portion of the Territory and parts adjacent thereto will be specially gratified in having located amongst them a place where those important ordinances can be attended to, instead of them being under the necessity, as formerly, of coming all the way to this city, between three and four hundred miles, to attend to those ordinances, and the dwellers in the south may be congratulated accordingly.
DEDICATION SERVICES AT THE TEMPLE AT ST. GEORGE, UTAH TERRITORY, JANUARY 1, 1877.
At 12 m. President Brigham Young, the Apostles Wilford Woodruff, Erastus Snow, and Brigham Young, Jr., with some two thousand Saints, assembled within the walls of the Temple built in St. George, for the purpose of dedicating certain portions of it unto God, that we might be prepared to commence giving endowments, blessings and sealings unto the Saints.
At 12:30 Elder W. Woodruff stood on the uper step of the font and called the attention of the people and said–
We are this day blessed with a privilege that but few since the days of Adam have ever enjoyed. But few of the sons of Adam have ever entered into a Temple, built by the commandment of God, in which to administer ordinances, both for the living and the dead. We have now assembled to dedicate portions of this Temple unto God, and I have a request to make of all the Saints who are present, and I suppose all who are here profess to be Saints, for none others should be here. I realize that this assembly cannot bow the knee in their crowded condition, but they can bow their heads and their hearts unto God. This I want you to do this day, and those who offer up prayers in the dedication of this Temple I want their words repeated in secret by this assembly before the Lord, that our prayers may ascend unto the Ears of the Lord of Sabbaoth, that they may be answered upon our heads.
At the close of these remarks the following hymn was sung–
‘The Spirit of God like a fire is burning.’
Elder Erastus Snow announced that Elder W. Woodruff would offer the dedication prayer, which was done as follows–
. . . .
We dedicate the boiler, the engine, and the pipes leading to the font and washing baths to warm the water, that they may be holy. We dedicate the baths for the washing of thy people unto thee, O Lord, that they may be holy. We dedicate the railing which surrounds the font unto thee. We dedicate unto thee, O Lord our God, the rooms which will be used by thy people for the giving of endowments and the administration of the ordinances of thine house, and all other rooms, including the water tank belonging to the basement story of this Temple of the Lord our God. [Note that the endowments were given in the basement.]
. . . .
After which a song, composed for the occasion, by Bro. C. L. Walker, entitled ‘The Dedication Song,’ was sugn.
The assembly was requested to repair to the Main Room over the Font Room.
When the people were seated, the choir sang,
‘This house we dedicate to Thee.’
Elder Erastus Snow offered the folowing prayer–
. . . .
After which the hymn, ‘Redeemer of Israel,’ was sung.
The congregation were requested to remain seated while President Brigham Young, the members of the Twelve Apostles, and a few others of the Priesthood, repaired to the Sealing Room, where, after singing, ‘Come let us anew,’ Elder Brigham Young, Junr., offered up the following prayer–
. . . .
And now, our Father, we have assembled in this upper room, wherein we anticipate performing the ordinances of sealing woman to man, children to their parents, and man to his fellow man, that the bond may reach unto heaven thy dwelling place, and when we attain to that happy state and rise with the just in the morning of the first resurrection, that we may legally claim the relationship of husbands and wives, parents and children, and be crowned sons and daughters of God and joint heirs with Jesus, our elder brother.
. . . .
After prayer, on returning to the lower room, Elders Snow and Woodruff made a few remarks pertaining to the work to be performed in the Temple, after which President Brigham Young arose, walked into the stand, and made the following remarks–
Remarks by President Brigham Young, at the Temple, St. George, January 1, 1877.
I cannot consent in my feelings to retire from this house without exercising my strength, the strength of my lungs, stomach and speaking organs, in speaking to this people. I hardly dare say what is in my heart to say to this people. Perhaps it would not be prudent, but I will say a few encouraging things to the Latter-day Saints, that is, they ought to be encouraging. We that are here are enjoying a privilege that we have no knowledge of any other people enjoying since the days of Adam, that is, to have a temple completed, wherein all the ordinances of the house of God can be bestowed upon his people. Brethren and sisters, do you understand this? It seems that a great many of the people know nothing about it. It is true that Solomon built a temple for the purpose of giving endowments, but from what we can learn of the history of that time they gave very few if any endowments, and one of the high priests was murdered by wicked and corrupt men, who had already begun to apostatize, because he would not reveal those things appertaining to the Priesthood that were forbidden him to reveal until he came to the proper place. [Is this biblical, or a reference to Freemasonry?] I will not say but what Enoch had temples and officiated therein, but we have no account of it. We know that he raised up a people so pure and holy that they were not permitted to remain with the wicked inhabitants of the earth, but were taken to another place. We as Latter-day Saints have been laboring for over forty years, and the revelations given us in the first were to establish the kingdom by gathering the Saints, building temples, and organizing the people as the faimly of heaven here on the earth. We reared up a temple in Kirtland, but we had no basement in it, nor a font nor preparations to give endowments for the living or the dead. It was left by the Saints before it was completed, they going to Missouri. Joseph located the site for the Temple Block in Jackson County, Missouri, and pointed out the south-east corner of the Temple in the year 1831, also laid the corner stone for a temple in Far West, Caldwell County, Mo. These temples were not built. We built one in Nauvoo. I could pick out several before me now that were there when it was built, and know just how much was finished and what was done. It is true we left brethren there with instructions to finish it, and they got it nearly completed before it was burned, but the Saints did not enjoy it. Now we have a temple which will all be finished in a few days, and of which there is enough completed to commence work therein which has not been done since the days of Adam, that we have any knowledge of. Now those that can see the spiritual atmosphere can see that many of the Saints are still glued to this earth and lusting and longing after the things of this world, in which there is no profit. It is true, we should look after the things of this world and devote all to the building up of the kingdom of God. According to the present feelings of many of our brethren they would arrogate to themselves this world and all that pertains to it, and cease not day nor night to see that it was devoted to the building up of the kingdom of the devil, and if they had the power they would build a railroad to carry it to hell and establish themselves there. Where are the eyes and the hearts of this people? Where is their interest for their own salvation and that of their forefathers? We enjoy privileges that are enjoyed by no one else on the face of the earth. Suppose we were awake to this thing, namely, the salvation of the human family, this house would be crowded, as we hope it will be, from Monday morning until Saturday night. This house was built here in this place purposely, where it is warm and pleasant in the winter time, and comfortable to work, also for the Lamanites and all those coming from the south and other places to receive their endowments and other blessings. What do you suppose the fathers would say if they could speak from the dead? Would they not say, ‘We have lain here thousands of years, here in this prison house, waiting for this dispensation to come? Here we are, bound and fettered, in the association of those who are filthy?’ What would they whisper in our ears? Why if they had the power the very thunders of heaven would be in our ears, if we could but realize the importance of the work we are engaged in. All the angels in heaven are looking at this little handful of people, and stimulating them to the salvation of the human family. So also are the devils in hell looking at this people too, and trying to overthrow us, and the people are still shaking hands with the servants of the devil, instead of sanctifying themselves and calling upon the Lord and doing the work which he has commanded us and put into our hands to do. When I think upo this subject, I want the tongues of seven thunders to wak up the people. Can the fathers be saved without us? No. Can we be saved without them? No, and if we do not wake up and cease to long after the things of this earth we will find that we as individuals will go down to hell, although the Lord will preserve a people unto himself. Now we are ready to give endowments, do you have any feelings for those who have died without having the gospel? The spirit was awakened in the people in the north when we gave the word that we should do no more work in the Endowment House–they came to us crying and pleading to be baptized for their dead. What else could they do? They can come here and do the work for their dead, and put these poor prisoners on the ground where they will be free. Do we realize this? As long as we tarry here, we are subject to the world. But nowgo to, like men and women, and say, we will embrace the truth and enter into the covenants of God and carry them out. Then the bonds are broken and the hearts of the people are united in the Father. Perhaps, brethren and sisters, you will not get my meaning, but now go to work and let these holes in the ground alone, and let the Gentiles alone, who would destroy us if they had the power. You are running after them, and some of our brethren are putting their wives and daughters into their society, and will go to the devil with them too, if they do not lookk out. I would not have a dollar on the earth if I had to get it there. It has been the Kingdom of God with me. What I have, aI have got in this kingdom. Well, now, some of the Elders are running after these holes in the ground, and I see men before me in this house that have no right to be here. They are as corrupt in their hearts as they can be, and we take them by the hand and call them brother. You will go to hell, lots of you, unless you repent. You may think this is plain talk, it is not as plain as you will find by and by. If you should ever go to the gates of heaven, Jesus will say he never knew you. While you have been saying your prayers and gong to your meetings and are as corrupt in your hearts as men can be. You had better stop now and repent of your sins and sin no more, while there is yet time, and before the doors are closed against you. I want to wake you up, and if I had the power to lift the veil from your eyes and let you see things as they are, you would be astonished. Not but what there are a great majority of the people as good as they know how to be. Now I will say, bless the people, that they may do better, but show some of the Elders of Israel according to their present conduct a dollar on one side and eternal life on the other, and I fear they would choose the dollar.
We are now prepared to attend to baptizing and giving endowments, and shall appoint Tuesdays and Wednesdays for baptisms, and Thursdays and Fridays for endowments and sealings, as a standing appointment for the present.
God bless you. Amen.
I do not know whether the people are satisfied with the services of the dedication of the Temple or not. We should be satisfied. But I do not mean to and never expect to be satisfied until the devil is whipped and driven from off the face of the earth.
The choir sang the hymn–
‘Glorious things of thee are spoken,’
and the assembly were dismissed by prayer by Elder B. Young, Jr.
The people passed out at the east door.”
(DN 25(51):808-809, 17 Jan., 1877)
“This is a vary important day to the Church and Kingdom of God on the Earth. President Brigham Young, The Apostles Wilford Woodruff, Erastus Snow, Brigham Young jr with some two Thousand Saints assembled within the walls of the Temple of our God, built in St George, for the purpose of Dedicating Certain Portions of it unto God that we might be prepared to Commence giving Endowments and Blessings and sealings unto the Saints.
At 30 Minuts past 12 oclok Elder W. Woodruff stood on the upper step of the font and Called the attention of the people and said we are this day blessed with a privilege that but few since the days of Adam have Ever Enjoyed. But few of the sons of Adam have Ever had the privilege of Entering into a Temple built By the Commandment of God in which to administer ordinances both for the living and the dead.
We have now assembled to dedicate portions of this Temple unto God, and I have a request to make of all the saints who are present and I suppose all who are profesed [to] be saints for none others should be here. I realize that this assembly Cannot bow the knee in these Crouded Condition. But you Can bow your heads and your hearts unto God and this I want you to do this day. And those who offer up Prayers in the dedication of this Temple I want their words repeated in secret by this assembly befor the Lord that our prayers may assend into the Ears of the Lord of Sabath that they may be answerd upon our heads. The saints do not prize as they should the blessings they Enjoy.
At the Clo[se] of thes remarks The following Hymn was sung: The spirit of God like a fire is burning. Then Erastus Snow anounced that Elder Wilford Woodruff would Offer the dedication Prayer. The dedication Prayer by Elder Wilford Woodruff:
O God our Heavenly Father, the Father of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob Thou who hast created the Heavens the Earth the Seas and the fountains of living waters and all things that dwell therein except of the gratitude of our hearts and the Thanksgiving of thy people that Thou hast Preserved our lives to again enter into another Temple which hath been built by thy Saints in these vallies of the mountains in which to organize the Holy Priesthood and to administer the ordinances of the gospel of the Son of God both for the living and the dead.
O our God we thy sons and daughters have assembled to gether in the Name of thy Son Jesus Christ within the walls of this Temple this day for the Purpose of dedicating and Consecrating a portion of this house unto the Lord Our God that it may be Holy and acceptable in thy sight. May the prayers of thy People ascend into thine ears O Lord, and be heard and answerd upon their heads. . . .
We dedicate the Boiler the Engine, and the pipes leading to the font, and washing baths for the washing of thy People unto thee O Lord that they may be Holy. . . .
And all thy People who Enter the threshhold of this Temple may they feel thy power and be constrained to acknowledge that the Power of God rests upon it. . . .
May he [Brigham] live to behold other Temple built and dedicated unto thy name and accepted of Thee O Lord our God and we pray thee our Father in heaven in the name of Jesus Christ if it Can be Consistent to thy will that thy servant Brigham may stand in the flesh to Behold the Nation who now occupies the land upon which thou O Lord hast said the Zion of God should stand in the Latter Day That Nation who hast shed the Blood of Prophets and Saints which Cry unto God day and night for vengance The Nation who are making war against God and his Christ, That Nation whose Sins wickedness and abominations are assending up before God and the heavenly Hosts which Causes all Eternity to be pained and the Heavens to weep like the falling rain yea O Lord that He may live to see that Nation (if they will not repent and serve God) broaken in peaces like a potters vessel and swept from off the face of the Earth as with the besom of destruction as were the Jaredites and Nephites that the land of Zion may scease to groan under the wickedness and abominations of those who now Cumber the ground. . . .
A Dedication Song was then sung Composed by Brother C L Walker. The assembly was then requested to repair to the next main room over the font. After the people got seated President Young and the Twelve occupied the East Stand. Then we Sung This house we dedicate to Thee. Then Elder Erastus Snow offered the following Prayer:
. . .
This room esspecially we Hallow unto Thee and beseech thee to accept it as the Offering of thy people and sanctify it to their use . . . the several Pulpits are built together with the stands or pulpits even those in the Eastern End appointed for the use of the Melchesidek Priesthood and its appendiges with their seats and doors their aisles stepts railings banisters and Newel posts together with the platforms and Seats on Either side prepared for the use of the Elders and High Priests and the visiting Apostles and seventies with the aisles and railing thereunto belonging, also the platforms with the several pulpits in the western End for the use of the Aaronic Priesthood manly the Bishoppric or presidency of the Aaronic Priesthood, the presidency of the Priest Quorum, the Presidency of the Teachers Quorum, and the presidency of the Deacons Quorum, and all seats, doors, aisles, railings, and banisters with the sides seats arranged for visiting Bishops and for the Priests Teachers and Deacons. . . .
Redeemer of Israel was then sung. The Congregation was then requested to remain seated while the Presidet Member of the Twelve and a few others of the Priesthood repaired above to the sealing room. Then some Twenty went up to the Sealing room when a Hymn was sung (Come let us renew). Then Elder Brigham Young Jr offered up the following Prayer:
. . .
And now our Father we have assembled in this upper room wharein we anticipate performing the ordinances of sealing women to Men Children to their Parents and man to his fellow man that the bond may reach unto heaven thy dwelling place and when we attain to that happy State and rise with the just in the morning of the first resurrection that we may legally Claim the Relationship of Husbands and wives parents and Children and be Crowned Sons and Daughters of God and joint heirs with Jesus our Elder Brother. . . .
At the Close of the prayer we returned to the Lower Court when Elder Snow and Woodruff made a few remarks pertaining to the workings in the Temple Calling upon all who desired to Come forth and attend to the ordinances for themselves and their dead After which President Brigham Young who had been so lame through the day with Rheumatism in his feet had been Carried through the house in a Chair by 3 men but upon this occasion he arose and walked into the lower Stand and made the following remarks:
I Cannot Consent in my feelings to retire from this house without exercising my strength the strength of my Lungs stomach and speaking organs in speaking to this people. I hardly dare to say what is in my heart to say to this people. Perhaps it will not be prudent but I will say a few encouraging things to the Latter Day Saints that is they ought to be incouraging.
We that are here are enjoying a privilege that we have no knowledge of any other people Enjoying since the days of Adam. Brethren and Sisters do you understand this? It seems a great many of the people know nothing about it. It is true that Solomon built a Temple for the purpose of Giving Endowments but from what we Can learn of the History of that time they gave vary few if any Endowmets and one of the High Priest was murdered by wicked and Corrupt men who had already began to apostitize because he would not reveal those things appertaining to the Priesthood that was forbidden for him to reveal untill he Came to the proper place. [NOTE THAT THIS APPEARS TO COME STRAIGHT FROM THE MASONIC LORE.]
I will not say but what Enoch had Temples and officiated in them but we have no account of it. We know that he raised up a people so pure and holy that they were not permitted to remain with the wicked inhabitants of the Earth but were taken to another place.
We as Latter Day Saints have been laboring for over forty years and the revelations given us in the first were to esstablish the kingdom by gathering the Saints, Building Temples, and organizing the people as the family of heaven here on the Earth. We reared up a Temple in Kirtland but we had no basement in it nor a font or preparations to give Endowments for the living or dead. It was left by the Saints they going to Missouri.
Joseph Located the site for the Temple in Jackson Co Mo. and pointed out the South East Cornor of the Temple in the year Eighteen hundred Thirty one Also laid the Cornor Stone for a Temple in Far west Caldwell County Mo. But these temple were not built. We built one in Nauvoo. I could pick out several before me now that were there when it was built and know just how much was finished and what was done. It is true we left Brethren there with instructions to finish it and they got it nearly Completed before it was burned but the Saints did not Enjoy it.
Now we have a Temple which will all be finished in a few days and of which their is enough Completed to Commence work therein which has not been done since the days of Adam that we have any knowledge of. Now those that Can see the spiritual Atmosphere Can see that many of the Saints are Still glued to this Earth and lusting and Longing after the thing of this world in which there is no profit.
It is true we should look after the things of this world and devote all to the building up of the Kingdom of God. According to the present feeling of many of our Brethren they would arogate to themselves this world and all that pertains to it, and cease not day nor night to see that it was devoted to the building up of the kingdom of the Devil and if they had the power they would build a railroad to Carry it to hell and esstablish themselves there. Whare are the Eyes and hearts of this people? Whare is their interest for their own salvation and that of their fore fathers? We Enjoy privileges that are Enjoyed by no one Els on the face of the Earth. Supposing we were awake to this thing namly the salvation of the human family this house would be Crouded as we hope it will be from Monday morning untill Saturday night.
This House was built here in this place purposely whare it is warm and plesant in the winter time and Comfortable to work also for the Lamanites and all those Coming from the South to receive their Endowments and other Blessings.
What do you suppose the fathers would say if they Could speak from the dead? Would they not say we ‘have lain here thousand of years here in this prision House waiting for this dispensation to Come. Here we are bound and fettered in the association of those who are filthy.’ What would they whisper in our Ears? Why if they had the power the vary thunders of heaven would be in our Ears if we Could but realize the importance of the work we are ingaged in. All the Angels in heaven are looking at this little handful of people. So also are the devils in hell looking at this people too and trying to overthrow us and the people are still shaking hands with the devil instead of sanctifying themselves and Calling upon the Lord and doing his work which He has Commanded us and put into our hands to do. When I think upon this subject I want the Tongues of sev[ere?] thunders to wake up the people. Can the Fathers be saved without us? No. Can we be saved without them? No. And if we do not wake up and scease to long after the things of this Earth we will find that we as individuals will go down to Hell although the Lord will preserve a people unto himself.
Now we are ready to give Endowments. Do you have any feelings for those who have died without hearing the gospel? The spirit was awakened in the people in the North when we gave the word that we should do no more work in the Endowment House they Came to us Crying and pleading to be baptized for their dead. What Els Could they do? They Can Come here and do the work for their dead and put these poor prisioners on the ground whare they will be free. Do we realize this? As long as we tarry here we are subjet to the world, but now go to like men and women and say we will Embrace the Truth and Enter into the Covenants of God and Carry them out. Then the bonds are broaken and the Harts of the people are united in the Father.
Perhaps Brethren and Sisters you will not get my meaning but now go to work and let those infernal holes in the ground alone [i.e., mines], and let the Gentiles alone who would destroy us if they had the power. You are running after them and some of our Brethren are putting their wives and daughters into their society and will go to the devil with them to if they do not look out. I would not have a dollar on the Earth if I had to get it there. It has been the kingdom of God with me and what I have I have got in this kingdom. Well now some of the Elders are running after these holes in the ground and I see men here before me in this house that have no right to be here. They are as Corrupt in their harts as they Can be and we take them by the Hand and Call them Brother. You will go to Hell lots of you unless you repent. You may think this is plain talk. It is not as plain as you will find by and By. You will go to the gates of Heaven and Jesus will say I never knew you. While you have been saying your prayers and going to your Meeting and [are] as Corrupt in your hearts as man Can be you had better stop now and repent of your sins and sin no more while their is yet time and before the doors are Closed against you. I want to awake you up and if I had the power to lift the veil from your Eyes and let you see thngs as they are you would be asstonished not but what there are a great many of the people as good as they know how to be.
Now I will say Bless the people that they may do better. But show some of the Elders of Israel according to their present Conduct a dollar on one side and Eternal Life on the other and I fear they would Chuse the Dollar. We are now prepared to attend to Baptizing and giving Endowments and shall appoint Tuesdays and wednesdays for Baptisms and Thursdays and Fridays for Endowments and sealings as a standing appointment for the present. God Bless you. Amen.
I do not know whether the people are satisfied with the services of the dedication of the Temple or not. I am not half satisfied and I never Expect to be satisfied untill the devil is whiped and driven from off the face of the Earth.
In the last remark the Presidet made he struck the pulpit with a hickery Cane filled with knots with such power that he buried three of the knots into the solid wood that they may remain there for a generation if they are not filled up. His feet began to amend from the time he made his speech.
Thus I have recorded in my Journal 20 Pages of the Prayers and procedings of the dedication of this the Temple of the Lord in St George.
The Quire sang a hymn glorious things of the[e] are spoken The Assembly passing out at the front doors The services having Continued three hours.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 1 Jan., 1877)
“Early morn called on Bro Woodruff Raleigh and L John Nutall, at St George House, then went to Prest B Young’s Engaged Bro Charles Wilkins to take the large Record Books &c to the Temple. went to the Temple at 9 A.M. Prepared for receiving the People. Prest Young arrived at 12 M. opened the doors and admitted the Saints. Dedication commenced at quarter to one oclock & closed about 4. Wilford Woodruff offered dedication prayer in basement. Erastus Snow offered dedication prayer in main room. B Young Jr offered dedication prayer in Sealing rooms.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 1 Jan., 1877)
“At 9 A.M. went over to the Temple and assisted in carrying the seats into the first main floor. At 12 M. the doors were opened and Br Chas Smith and myself attended to the south door. At 15 minutes to one the doors were closed and the ceremonies of the Dedication commenced. Br W. Woodroof wished the congregation to be still as possible and be united in the dedicatory prayers. The St George Choir ender [under] Br Jno M. Macfarlane and the People sang ‘The Spirit of God Like a Fire is Burning.’ Willford Woodroof offered up the prayer dedicating the ground upon which the foundation stood, the outer walls and the fence and the surroundings, the foundation, the walls, the stones which composed the walls, the morter which laid between the stones, the Plaster which covered the walls, outside and inside. The Rooms and furniture, the garden and the places celestial, telestial, and terrestrial. The Boiler and enjine and pipes, the Baths and fixtures belonging to them. The Font and the oxen upon which it stands, the steps, railings and banisters; the floors and the carpets, the stoves and the wood boxes, the frames and the cloth thereon, the windows and glass, the putty and paints, the Beams and bolts, the nails and fastenings, all Holy to the Lord and prayed that no unholy thing might pollute this, thine house. He prayed for all the Holy Priesthood in all its ramifications. For the Hous of Israel and the remnant of the Lamanites, and all who had assisted in any way in rearing this Temple to thy Holy name, hear, hear, O hear, God, amen and amen. Pres Erastus Snow said the choir will now sing the Temple Dedication song . . .
After which the congregation moved up stairs. The room looked simply grand and pure. The Pres had to be carried about in a chair owing to his infirmities. A large number had to stand. The choir sang ‘Redeemer of Israel, our only delight.’ Erastus Snow offered up the Dedicatory prayer; dedicating the Room and furniture, stands, Pillars, Bases, and Capitals, in fact all and everything pertaining to the Room, that it might be holy unto the Lord our God, and those that entered therein might be led to uncover their heads and loose their shoes from their feet. Prayed for Pres Young and all his kin, and the apostles of the Lamb. Choir sang ‘This House We Dedicate to Thee.’ Pres E Snow requested the congregation to remain quite while a few went and dedicated the Sealing room. Br Brigham was carried up stairs to the sealing room. The Brethren of the Twelve, Presidents of Branches, the High Council, and Presidents of this stake of Zion went also. They sang ‘Come Let Us Anew.’ Brigham Young Jr offered the dedicatory prayer, which I suppose was simillar to the others, dedicating all pertaining to it to the Lord. I did not hear the prayer but I heard them sing, and the Historian told me that Brigham Jr did dedicate the room. Pres E. Snow said that on Tuesdays and Wendsdays they would Baptize for the dead, and on Thursdays and Fridays they would give endowments. Also said that it was best for the Brethern wishing to avail themselves of the blesings of the house of God to Square up their tithing, and get a recomend from their Presiding Elders. Pres Young said this was the greatest time that had been since Adam. Solomon had a Temple but little or no Endowments were given as far as he could learn, and Jews killed the Prest betwen the Altar and the door because he would not divulge the secrets of the Holy Priesthood. He would not say that Enoch did not have Temples and minister in them; But he and his People were too pure, so the Lord took them unto himself. Dwelt with great earnestnes and power on the negligence of the People in not attending to the ordinances for their dead. Wished he could awaken the saints to appreciate the great and glorious despensation in which they lived. Showed the folly of the saints in giving their substance to the gentiles, to wicked and corrupt men. Said that some of the People if they had the power would build a railroad to the bottomless Pit, and would send all they had and the Earth besides to the devil; rebuked such with sharpnes and said we acted like damned fools; had not began to stress as he would yet, And would never cease until Satan and his hosts were over come and driven from the Earth. He smote the stand with his walking stick as he spoke this sentence and made the Room ring again and the marks are on the stand and will remain there as a testimony of the truth and the great power by which he spake. Br E Snow made a few remarks on the folly of the saints in doing things contrary to the counsels of the servants of God. Choir sang ‘Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken, Zion, City of Our God.’ Brigham Jr dismised the Meeting. About 1249 were present.” (Charles L. Walker diary, 1 Jan., 1877)
“11 AM went into the Temple of the Lord to attend its dedication, 1/4 to 12 noon doors closed and the President called on the choir thro Brother Snow to sing the ‘Spirit of God like a fire is burning[‘]–all joining in, after which Elder Wilford Woodruff offered the dedicatory prayer on the Font Step landing, the people being in the font room and adjacent rooms & steps. Some few instructions were offered by Elder Show. When we adjourned to the main room above and after all were seated and the President arrived, the choir sung Redeemer of Israel, Dedicatory prayer was offered by Elder Erastus Snow, Choir sung ‘This house we dedicate to the’, remarks by Erastus Snow then the President called upon some of the Priesthood to go with him to the Sealing room, Bp Lunt & myself from Cedar Ward, several Bishops and leading men. After some instruction relative to the alter the President instructed Truman O. Angell to make it smaller or rather shorter, he then called on Bishop Henry Lunt to sing, who started ‘come let us anew’ all joining in after which he called on Brigham Young junor to offer the Dedicatory prayer which was full of ferour [sic]. We then returned to the people in the main Hall and after some instruction from brother Snow. President Young spoke 25 minutes sharp and pointed, said there were people in the Temple who had no business there and would go to hell. The choir sung Glorious things of Thee are spoken. Dismissal by B. Young junior, during the Presidents remarks he brought his cane down on the stand with such force as to leave its impression on the face of the stand, he said the workman could repair it, but I understand brother Woodruff orderd the impression should remain. We had a pretty good time, but not as was expected, the President did not feel sattisfied, so many present that should not have been.” (Christopher J. Arthur autobiography, part III; LC Collection)
“The dedication of the St. George Temple when it was finished.
When the temple was dedicated there was a terrible wind storm. People came from every where in their buggies with ox teams. Wagons and horses were too expensive to use much in those days. The temple was crowded. President Young was there and some of the Apostles. President Young was up speaking when the wind started its worst. We looked out of the windows and could see nothing but dirt flying everywhere. The men wanted to go out and rescue their buggies for they were being overturned and broken up by the wind but President Young said to be quiet. ‘The devil’s mad but it will soon be over.’ So when we came home it had quieted a lot but it was certainly very windey. When I got home the west end of my father’s home had started caving in. Mother and father had things there to keep it from falling. They got that fixed all right but it was sure an awful wind storm.” (Interview given by Martha Canfield, ca. 1934; LC Collection)
“I went to the dedication of the temple in January 1877. President Brigham Young was present. President Young said that the doctors had told him he had gout, anyway he was lame and had to use a cane. He was carried up into the Temple in a big chair. People thought that he would not be able to talk but he was. Just on the outskirts of town the people built an arbor for President Young to pass under as he entered town. People from far and near went out and greeted him, and then followed the procession down to the temple.
President Young was not planning on speaking, but before the meeting was finished he spoke to the people. He raise up on the stand and brought his cane down very hard on the pulpit. He said, ‘If I mar the pulpit some of these good workmen can fix it up again.’ He did mar the pulpit but the people did not fix it up again. The left it for a mark to be carried through the years.
When the meeting had been dismissed they began to file out of the building. Just as it was dismissed a terrible wind began to blow. The people began to crowd one another trying to get out of the building because they thought something was going to happen. Then President Young again stood up and said, ‘Sit down and calm yourselves and let the devil roar.’ The devil did roar for perhaps two hours or more doing much destruction in its fury. It upset buggies, tore trees up, and did such damage to everything in general. The devil tried his best to discourage the people, but he had found that he had met up with a stronger apposition than he could overcome.
The Temple was filled to the utmost capacity. People from everywhere had come to witness the dedication of the first temple. After the dedication the people were anxious to become workers in the Temple. There was not very many temple clothes prepared, but the people worked hard and before long people were going into the Temple and doing their temple work. Those who did not have clothes borrowed them from their friends, thus making it possible for many to get their demple work done.” (Interview of Maggie Cragun, ca. 1934; LC Collection)
“Jan. 1st 1877 I with my husband was present at the preliminary or partial dedication of the St. George Temple, and on the 11th Jan. 1877 he was married to Roseinia Sylvester at the opening of the Temple for Endowments, I being present. All three of us were endowed for quite a number of names that winter, and the following April the Annual Conference was held in the Temple, the final Dedicatory services were held President Young had been very anxious to have the temple completed that he might bestow Keys of Power upon the Twelve which could be bestowed in no other place.” (Eleanor C. W. Jarvis autobiography, LC Collection)
“I cannot consent in my feelings to retire from this house without exercising my strength, the strength of my lungs, stomach and speaking organs, in speaking to this people. I hardly dare say what is in my heart to say to this people. Perhaps it would not be prudent, but I will say a few encouraging things to the Latter-day Saints, that is, they ought to be encouraging. We that are here are enjoying a privilege that we have no knowledge of any other people enjoying since the days of Adam, that is, to have a Temple completed, wherein all the ordinances of the house of God can be bestowed upon his people. Brethren and sisters, do you understand this? It seems that a great many of the people know nothing about it. It is true that Solomon built a Temple for the purpose of giving endowments, but from what we can learn of the history of that time they gave very few if any endowments, and one of the high priests was murdered by wicked and corrupt men, who had already begun to apostatize, because he would not reveal those things appertaining to the Priesthood that were forbidden him to reveal until he came to the proper place. I will not say but what Enoch had Temples and officiated therein, but we have no account of it. We know that he raised up a people so pure and holy that they were not permitted to remain with the wicked inhabitants of the earth, but were taken to another place. We as Latter-day Saints have beedn laboring for over forty years, and the revelations given us in the first were to establish the kingdom by gathering the Saints, building Temples, and organizing the people as the family of heaven here on the earth. We reared up a Temple in Kirtland, but we had no basement in it, nor a font, nor preparations to give endowments for the living or the dead. It was left by the Saints before it was completed, they going to Missouri. Joseph located the site for the Temple Block in Jackson County, Missouri, and pointed out the south-east corner of the Temple in the year 1831,–also laid the corner stone for a Temple in Far West, Caldwell County, Mo. These Temples were not built. We built one in Nauvoo. I could pick out several before me now that were there when it was built, and know just how much was finished and what was done. It is true we left brethren there with instructions to finish it, and they got it nearly completed before it was burned, but the Saints did not enjoy it. Now we have a Temple which will all be finished in a few days, and of which there is enough completed to commence work therein which has not been done since the days of Adam, that we have any knowledge of. Now those that can see the spiritual atmosphere can see that many of the Saints are still glued to this earth and lusting and longing after the things of this world, in which there is no profit. It is true, we should look after the things of this world and devote all to the building up of the kingdom of God. According to the present feelings of many of our brethren, they would arrogate to themselves this world and all that pertains to it, and cease not day nor night to see that it was devoted to the building up of the kingdom of the devil, and if they had the power they would build a railroad to carry it to hell and establish themselves there. Where are the eyes and the hearts of this people? Where is their interest for their own salvation and that of the forefathers? We enjoy privileges that are enjoyed by no one else on the face of the earth. Suppose we were awake to this thing, namely, the salvation of the human family, this house would be crowded, as we hope it will be, from Monday morning until Saturday night. This house was built here in this place purposely, where it is warm and pleasant in the winter time, and comfortable to work, also for the Lamanites, and also those coming from the south, and other places to receive their endowments, and other blessings. What do you suppose the fathers would say if they could speak from the dead? Would they not say, ‘We have lain here thousands of years, here in this prison house, waiting for this dispensation to come? Here we are, bound and fettered, in the association of those who are filthy?’ What would they whisper in our ears? Why, if they had the power the very thunders of heaven would be in our ears, if we could but realize the importance of the work we are engaged in. All the angels in heaven are looking at this little handfull of people, and stimulating them to the salvation of the human family. So also are the devils in hell looking at this people, too, and trying to overthrow us, and the people are still shaking hands with the servants of the devil, instead of sanctifying themselves and calling upon the Lord and doing the work which he has commanded us and put into our hands to do. When I think upon this subject, I want the tongues of seven thunders to wake up the people. Can the fathers be saved without us? No. Can we be saved without them? No, and if we do not wake up and cease to long after the things of this earth, we will find that we as individuals will go down to hell, although the Lord will preserve a people unto himself. Now we are ready to give endowments, do you have any feelings for those who have died without having the Gospel? The spirit was awakened in the people in the north when we gave the word that we should do no more work in the Endowment House–they came to us crying and pleading to be baptized for their dead. What else could they do? They can come here and do the work for their dead, and put these poor prisoners on the ground where they will be free. Do we realize this? As long as we tarry here, we are subject to the world. But now go to, like men and women, and say, we will embrace the truth and enter into the covenants of God and carry them out. Then the bonds are broken, and the hearts of the people are united in the Father. Perhaps, brethren and sisters, you will not get my meaning, but now go to work and let these holes in the ground alone, and let the Gentiles alone, who would destroy us if they had the power. You are running after them, and some of our brethren are putting their wives and daughters into their society, and will go to the devil with them too, if they do not look out. I would not have a dollar on the earth if I had to get it there. It has been the kingdom of God with me. What I have, I have got in this kingdom. Well, now, some of the Elders are running after these holes in the ground, and I see men before me, in this house that have no right to be here. They are as corrupt in their hearts as they can be, and we take them by the hand and call them brother. You will go to hell, lots of you, unless you repent. You may think this is plain talk, it is not as plain as you will find by and by. If you should ever go to the gates of heaven, Jesus will say he never knew you. While you have been saying your prayers and going to your meetings and are as corrupt in your hearts as men can be. You had better stop now and repent of your sins and sin no more, while there is yet time, and before the doors are closed against you. I want to wake you up, and if I haad the power to lift the veil from your eyes and let you see things as they are, you would be astonished. Not but what there are a great majority of the people as good as they know how to be. Now I will say, bless the people, that they may do better, but show some of the Elders of Israel according to their present conduct a dollar on one side and eternal life on the other, and I fear they would choose the dollar. We are now prepared to attend to baptizing and givine endowments, and shall appoint Tuesdays and Wednesdays for baptisms, and Thursdays and Fridays for endowments and sealings, as a standing appointment for the present.
God bless you. Amen.” (Brigham Young, remarks at the St. George Temple dedication, 1 Jan., 1877; JD 18:303-305)
“Remarks by President Brigham Young At the Temple, St.
George, January 1, 1877.
I cannot consent in my feelings to retire from this house without exercising my strength, the strength of my lungs,
stomach and speaking organs, in speaking to this people. I hardly dare say what is in my heart to say to this people. Perhaps it would not be prudent, but I will say a few encouraging things to the Latter Day Saints, that is they ought to be encouraging. We that are here are enjoying a privilege that we have no knowledge of any other people enjoying since the days of Adam. that is, to have a Temple completed, wherein all the ordinances of the House of God, can be bestowed upon His people. Brethren and Sisters, do you understand this! it seems that a great many of the people knew nothing about it. It is true that Solomon built a Temple for the purpose of giving Endowments, but from what we can learn of the history of that time, they gave very few, if any Endowments, and one of the High Priests was murdered by wicked and corrupt men, who had already begun to Apostatize, because he would not reveal those things Appertaining to the Priesthood, that were forbidden him to reveal until he came to the proper place. I will not say, but what Enoch had Temples and officiated therein, but we have no account of it. We knew that he raised up a people so pure and holy that they were not permitted to remain with the wicked inhabitants of the earth, but were taken to another place. We as Latter Day Saints have been laboring for over forty years, and the revelations given us in the first, were to establish the Kingdom, by gathering the Saints, building Temples, and organizing the people as the family of heaven here on the earth, We reared up a Temple in Kirtland, but we had no basement in it, nor a font, nor preparation to give Endowments for the living or the dead. It was left by the saints before it was completed. they going to Missouri; Joseph located the site for the Temple Block, in Jackson County Missouri, and pointed out the southeast corner of the Temple in the year 1831. also laid the corner stone for a Temple in Far West, Caldwell County, Missouri. These Temples were not built. We built one in Nauvoo, I could pick out several before me now, that were there when it was built, and knew just how much was finished and what was done. It is true we left brethren there with instructions to finish it, and they got it nearly completed before it was burned, but the Saints did not enjoy it. Now we have a Temple which will be finished in a few days, and of which there is enough completed to commence work therein, which has not been done since the days of Adam, that we have any knowledge of. Now those that can see the Spiritual Atmosphere, can see that many of the Saints are still glued to this earth, and lusting and longing after the things of this world, in which there is no profit. It is true we should look after the things of this world and devote all to the building up of the Kingdom of God. According to the present feelings of many of our brethren, they would arrogate to themselves this world and all that pertains to it, and cease not day nor night to see that it was devoted to the building up of the Kingdom of the devil. and if they had the power, they would build a rail-road to carry it to Hell and establish themselves there! Where are the eyes and hearts of this people? Where is their interest in their own Salvation and that of their forefathers? We enjoy privileges that are enjoyed by no one else on
the face of the earth. suppose we were awake to this thing, namely the salvation of the human family, this house would be crowded – as we hope it will be – from Monday Morning until Saturday night. This house was built here in this place purposely, where it is warm and pleasant in the winter time, and comfortable to work, also for the Lamanites and all those coming from the South and other places to receive their Endowments and other blessings. What do you suppose the fathers would say if they could speak from the dead! Would they not say, We have lain here thousands of Years, here in this prison house, waiting for this dispensation to come. Here we are bound and fettered in the Association of those who are filthy” What would they whisper in our ears? Why! if they had the power the very thunders of heaven would be in our ears, if we could but realize the importance of the work we are engaged in. All the Angels of heaven are looking at this little handful of people, and stimulating them to the Salvation of the human family, so also are the devils in hell looking at this people too. and trying to overthrow us, and the people are still shaking hands with the servants of the devil. instead of sanctifying themselves and calling upon the Lord and doing the work which he has commanded us. and put into our hands to do. When I think upon this subject, I want the tongues of Seven thunders to wake up the people. Can the fathers be saved without us? No. Can we be saved without them? No. and if we do not wake up and cease to long after the things of this earth, we will find that we as individuals will go down to hell, although the Lord will preserve a people unto Himself.
Now we are ready to give Endowments. Do you have any feelings for those who have died without having the Gospel? The Spirit was awakened in the people in the North. When we gave the word that we should do no more work in the Endowment House, they came to us crying and pleading to be baptized for their dead. What else could they do? They can come here and do the work for their dead. and put these poor prisoners on the ground where they will be free. Do we realize this? As long as we tarry here, we are subject to the world. But now go to, like men and women, and say, we will embrace the truth and enter into the covenants of God, and carry them out. Then the bonds are broken and the hearts of the people are united in the Father. Perhaps, brethren and sisters, you will not get my meaning, but now go to work and let these holes in the ground alone, and let the Gentiles alone, who would destroy us if they had the power. You are running after them, and some of our brethren are putting their wives and daughters into their society, and will go to the devil with them too, if they do not look out. I would not have a dollar on the earth if I had to get it there. It has been the Kingdom of God with me. What I have, I have got in this Kingdom. Well, now, some of the Elders are running after these holes in the ground, and I see men before me in this house, that have no right to be here, they are as corrupt in their hearts as they can be, and we take them by the hand and call them brother. You will go to hell [unreadable] [if you do not ?] repent. You may think this is plain talk, it is not as plain as you will find by and by. If you should ever go to the Gates of heaven, Jesus will say he never knew you, while you have been saying your prayers and going to your Meetings and are as corrupt in your hearts as men can be. You had better stop now and repent of your sins, and sin no more while there is yet time. and before the doors are Closed against you. I want to wake you up, and if I had the power to lift the Vail from your eyes, and let you see things as they are, you would be astonished. Not but what there are a great majority of the people as good as they know how to be. Now I will say, bless the people, that they may do better, but show some of the Elders of Israel according to their present conduct, a dollar on one side, and Eternal life on the other, and I fear they would choose the dollar.
We are now prepared to attend to Baptizing and giving Endowments, and shall appoint Tuesdays and Wednesdays for
baptisms, and Thursdays and Fridays for Endowments and Sealings, as a standing appointment for the present,
God bless you. Amen.
I do not know whether the people are satisfied with the
services of the dedication of the Temple or not. We should be satisfied, but I do not mean to and never expect to be satisfied until the devil is whipped and driven from off the face of the Earth.
The Choir sang the Hymn, ‘Glorious things of thee are
Spoken,” and the Assembly was dismissed by prayer by Elder B. Young Jr.
The People passed out at the east door.”
(“St. George Temple. Account of Building and Dedication
1873-1877″; Church Archives; Restricted Document; CR/343/19/Vol 1(?); 27608 (vault); January 1, 1877.)
“In a dedicatory prayer used in the St. George Temple is the following beautiful invocation:
We thank thee, O Lord, that (p.2) Thy people who Thou hast led to this distant land and whom Thou hast preserved by Thine own right arm, have been permitted to establish themselves in the home which Thou hast given them, and that, through Thy continued blessings, they have been enabled to gather together the materials of which this building is composed; to put together and erect the same, even a Temple, which we dedicate and now consecrate to Thee, that it may be Holy unto Thee the Lord our God, for Sacred and Holy purposes, and that the blessing, even Life forevermore may be commanded here from Heaven, even from Thy presence and may flow through the Ordinances which appertain unto Thy Holy Place unto us Thy children.”
(“St. George Temple. Building and dedication services,
1877–1927.”; Church Archives; Restricted Document; CR/343/19/Vol. 2; January 1, 1877.)
Church Archives; CR 343/19 (vault) contains book with
information about building, dedication and beginning of temple work. A dedication was conducted January 1, 1877 in the sealing room w/ Brigham Young, Wilford Woodruff, Erastus Snow, and Brigham Young Jr. present. At the occasion Erastus Snow, Brigham Young Jr. and Wilford Woodruff gave dedicatory prayers and Brigham Young spoke–all recorded in this book and in journal of
Wilford Woodruff. From the Temple Book (Apparently this was prepared by Wilford Woodruff himself using his diary as one source. It closes “Salt Lake City March 26, 1883 signed. Wilford Woodruff.” Prepared by him and copied into the St. George book.); 1 January 1877.
<1> pp. 23-24 from WW’s dedicatory prayer:
“that Thou wilt lay Thy hand upon Thy servant Brigham unto the renewal of his body and the healing of all his infirmities, and the lengthening out of his days and years. Yea, Oh! Lord, may he live to behold the inhabitants of Zion united and enter into the holy order of God. And keep the Celestial Law. that they may be justified before Thee. May he live to behold Zion redeemed, and successfully fight the devils, visible or invisible, that make war upon They [sic] Saints. May he live to behold other Temples built…. that Thy Servant Brigham may stand in the flesh to behold the nation which now occupies the Land upon which Thou Oh! Lord, hast said the Zion of God should stand in the latter-days, that Nation, who has shed the blood of Prophets and Saints, which cries unto God, day and night for vengeance [sic]…, that he may live to see that Na[t]ion, if they will not repent and serve God, broken in pieces like a potters vessel, and swept from off the face of the earth, as with a leson [sic] of destriction [sic] as were the Jaredites and Nephites, that the land of Zion, may cease to groan under the wickedness, and abominations….” [p. 27] “bless all the organizations of the Church and Kingdom. May Thy people accomplish the work unto which they are ordained; build up the Zion of God and prepare the earth for the coming of the Son of Man. Bless the Female Relief Societies throughout the land of Zion. May they fully accomplish the object of their organization by thy servant Joseph, may they influence the daughters of Zion to deeds of virtue, holiness, righteousness and truth, may the blessings of Sarah, Huldah, Hannah, Anna and Mary, the ancient Prophetesses and holy women rest upon them.”
<2> pp. 33-34 from Erastus Snow’s dedicatory prayer:
“Bless especially they [sic] servant Brigham Young, whom Thou has given us for a leader and President over all thy people. by whose hand Thou didst lead them into this land, and plant their feet in the tops of the mountains, inspired him to build this house unto Thee with all the Apartments and appointments thereoff. [sic] Comfort him in his old age, heal up his body, relieve him of aches and pains, fill him with the revelation of thy Spirit to speak they [sic] word unto thy people. and that he may be able to order all things in this Thine House, and among thy people as thou wilt. Bless also his wives and children and all that Thou hast given him.”
<3> pp. 38 from Brigham Young Jr’s prayer:
“Bless thine aged Servant Brigham Young, with strength to labor in this building, as seemeth good unto Thee righteous Father.”
Jan.: No manifestations at St. George Temple dedication.
“I attended the dedication of the St. George Temple, a dedicatory prayer being offered in the basement, on the first floor and also on the second floor. Having read and heard of the great manifestations of the power of God at the dedication of the Kirtland Temple, I could not repress a certain feeling of disappointment; although I heard no words spoken, yet I thought the feeling was general.” (Jan., 1877; The Journal of Jesse Nathaniel Smith, Provo, Jesse N. Smith Family Organization, 1970; p. 219)
Similarity of St. George to Nauvoo and Kirtland.
“The interior as built came closest of all the temples to the original plans for Salt Lake City. The basement contained the font and was entered by four doors, two on either side. Before the first floor was remodeled in 1938 and converted into endowment rooms, both stories had simple halls supported on cast-iron bundled columns similar to those drawn by Angell for the Salt Lake City temple. The floor plans were nearly identical with those of Kirtland and Nauvoo.” (Laurel B. Andrew, The Early Temples of the Mormons, p. 174)
ca. 1877: Questions concerning temple procedures.
“How shall little children be dressed in attending to the Temple Ordinance of being sealed to their parents?
They should be clothed in White.
Can a brother or sister who has received Endowments in Salt Lake City or in Nauvoo, have the privilege of passing through the degrees in the St. George Temple; and if so, are they [p. 21] to be clothed with Temple Clothing, or in the ordinary manner?
They may have the privilege of passing through as visitors; and not wearing Temple clothing.
If a person die without having had endowments, is it well to bury them in garments without [p. 22] marks?
Such person may be buried with garments if their friends choose, but not marked, nor with robes or other Temple Clothing.
(Questions submitted to Prest. B. Young by the Elders who have recently been out as Temple Missionaries. The answers are written in Brigham Young’s own hand; Ms/f/219/reel 22; pp. 18-22; c. 1877)
1 Jan.: Specified days for temple ordinances.
“appointing Tuesday & Wednesday for Baptizing for the dead and Thursday & friday for endowments & sealings. of each week as a standing appointment for the present.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 1 Jan., 1877)
1 Jan.: No written recommend for dedication.
“door Keepers & Ushers having been apointed to admit none but what were recognized by them as good Latter-day Saints.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 1 Jan., 1877)
1 Jan.: This endowment different than ancient ones.
“‘We see something today that man has not seen since Adam was on the earth’ although there had been Temples erected & Solomon had a Temple yet they did not have many endowments and no such opportunity had been enjoyed by the children of men as we now enjoy.” (Brigham Young, quoted in L. John Nuttall diary, 1 Jan., 1877)
1 Jan.: Sealing of “man to his fellow man.”
“Our Father we have assembled in this upper room wherein we anticipate performing the ordinances of Sealing woman to man, children to their parents and man to his fellow man, that the bond may reach unto heaven thy dwelling place.” (Brigham Young, dedicatory prayer of sealing room of St. George Temple. Quoted in L. John Nuttall diary, 1 Jan., 1877)
1 Jan.: Regarding closing of Endowment House.
“When we closed the Endowment House many of the people of the north came to us crying. they begged the privilege to be baptized for their dead. they can now come here, do the work and bid the prisoners go free.” (Brigham Young remarks at the dedication of the St. George Temple, 1 Jan., 1877. See Cowley, Wilford Woodruff History of His Life and Labors, p. 491)
2 Jan.: Preparation of baptismal font.
“A.M. called at St George House to see the Brethren. At 9 oclock, called for Bro John L. Smith and with Bro L John Nuttall and Windsor went to Temple and cleaned and fixed up Basemment Font and adjoining Rooms. Bro William Smith came in and helped.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 2 Jan., 1877)
2 Jan.: Written recommend required for endowment.
“Joseph E. Mangum called on me for a Recomend to go through the Temple for his endowments. I told him to get himself ready & I would enquire as to his Tithing.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 2 Jan., 1877)
3 Jan.: Helped prepare records of the dead.
“I then went to Bro John Angus for supper and helped him, Bro Milne & others with their records for the dead returned Home at 10. P.M.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 3 Jan., 1877)
7 Jan.: Fixing record of his dead.
[Sunday] “A.M. at Bro Milo Andrus fixing record of his dead.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 7 Jan., 1877)
7 Jan.: Concerning recommends from Bishops.
“Pres Snow spoke of the importance of Bishops giving Reccomends to those going the House of the Lord.” (Charles L. Walker diary, 7 Jan., 1877)
7 Jan.: Instructions given on Endowments.
“I attended meeting at the Tabernacle in the afternoon. Jacob Gates Prayed. B Young Jr spoke 28 M, W. Woodruff 24 M, E Snow 20. W. Woodruff gave some instruction on the Endowments.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 7 Jan., 1877)
8 Jan.: Preparations for baptisms for dead.
“Bro Wm. Frost took Breakfast with us. I then went to the Temple*, was there most of the day getting ready for work. Baptisms &c took supper at Bro David Milne then attended the Seventies Meeting.
*as I was appointed by Prest Young to take charge of the Book records &c I prepared for business this day.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 8 Jan., 1877)
“I spent the forenoon going through the Temple to prepare for Endowments or Baptisms for the dead.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 8 Jan., 1877)
9 Jan.: Preparatory ordinances for endowments for dead.
“This is the day that the first ordinances of the Endowments for the dead was performed in the Temple of God in St George at 12 oclok Presidet Brigham Young being present we Commenced to Baptized for the dead. W. Woodruff Baptized the first 141 persons and Confirmed the first persons Presidet Young laying on hands at the same time. John L. Smith Baptized the next 83 person making 224 Baptized on this day.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 9 Jan., 1877)
“I Wilford Woodruff, bear testimony, that Prest. B. Young, told me to go to work and prepare the Temple for giving Endowments and I had made the preparations according to his acceptance. And on the 9th of Jan. 1877 we repaired to the Temple, and for the first time the Ordinance of baptism for the dead was performed in the Temple of St. George. Wilford Woodruff went into the font, by the direction of Prest. Brigham Young, and administered the ordinance of baptism for the first 141 persons. and confirmed the first person. Prest. Young laying on hands at the same time.” (Church Archives; CR 343/19 (vault) contains book with information about building, dedication and beginning of temple work. From the Temple Book (Apparently this prepared by Wilford Woodruff himself using his diary as one source. It closes “Salt Lake City March 26, 1883 signed. Wilford Woodruff.” Prepared by him and copied into the St. George book.); 9 January 1877.)
“Early Morn at Temple, the Apostle Wilford Woodruff. Baptised for the dead. President B Young present. I with others confirmed 44 of those who were baptised by Bro Woodruff, he 141 83 by John L. Smith making a total 224 of the dead. we got through about 4 P.M.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 9 Jan., 1877)
About noon Br Willford Woodroof Went into the Font and Baptized Susie Amelia Young Dunford for and in behalf of her friend, Mary Sheppard (an English girl). This is the first Baptism in the St George Temple and an event loked forward to with intense intrest and long to be remembered in the Heavens and on the Earth. Br Brigham, lame as he was, by the aid of his crutch and stick ascended the steps up to the Font and witnessed the First Baptizim. I staid near the Font and watched them baptize many and Could not refrain from sheding tears of joy on beholding the commencement of so great a work in the Temple of our God. Hossanna God and the Lamb.” (Charles L. Walker diary, 9 Jan., 1877)
“Tuesday, Jan. 9th [1877] For the first time in the St. George Temple the ordinance of baptism for the dead was performed. Apostle Wilford Woodruff by the direction of President Brigham young went into the Font and administered the ordinance for one hundred and forty persons, and confirmed the first person, Mary Shepherd, dead, President Young laying on hands at the same time. Sister Susa Amelia young Dunford was proxy in the baptism of the first [word illegible] baptized.” (9 Jan., 1877; Annals of the Southern Mission, Book B, p. 689)
9 Jan.: Brigham makes changes in baptisms for dead.
“Elder Woodruff officiated in the Baptisms. . . . [We] found every thing very agreeable, yet the President suggested a few changes for the better working.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 9 Jan., 1877)
11 Jan.: 1st endowments for dead.
“To day was the first day in which Endowments were given in the Temple at St George. We gave Endowments for 63 for the living and 10 for the dead Total 73.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 11 Jan., 1877)
“At the Temple from Early morn until dark. We gave 73 Endowments 10 of them for the dead, then returned home 6 1/2 P.M. this day after Recording for Endowments. I officiated in the part of L [Lucifer?].” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 11 Jan., 1877)
“I quote to you from my dairy [sic], 11th January, 1877:
Remarks by President Young; ‘This endowment was revealed to us in the brick store in Nauvoo by the Prophet Joseph Smith. . . . Today is the first time that an endowment has been given to the dead, of which we have any knowledge. It is possible that something may have been done in the days of Enoch of which we have no account.’ This is what I wrote at the time in my own language, and not just in the words used by the president.” (David H. Cannon diary, 11 Jan., 1877. Quoted in “Need of Temples,” RS Magazine 7:600, 1920)
“Thurs. Jan. 11th [1877] Endowments for the dead were first administered in St. George Temple. On this day also the first sealing of woman (dead) to man took place, Apostle Wilford Woodruff doing the sealing. The second sealing for the dead was done by President Brigham Young. The first four sealings of living men and women, this first endowment day in St. George Temple, were done by Apostle Woodruff and the fifth living sealing was done by President Young.
This date one baptism into the United Order, Roseinia Sylvester, took place, Elder Charles L. Walker, baptizer.” (11 Jan., 1877; Annals of the Southern Mission, Book B, p. 691)
“The work of giving endowments for the dead in the St. George Temple was commenced.
Elder Wilford Woodruff journalized as follows under this date:
This was the first day in which endowments were given in the Temple at St. George. Endowments were given for sixty-three of the living and for ten of the dead, total seventy-three. Thirty-two couples were sealed. President Brigham Young sealing three and Wilford Woodruff twenty-nine couples. Twenty-two persons were ordained Elders.
Referring to the same subject Elder James G. Bleak of St. George recorded the following:
Thursday, Jan. 11. Endowments for the dead were first administered in St. George Temple. On this day also the first sealing of woman (dead) to man took place, Apostle Wilford Woodruff doing the sealing. The second sealing for the dead was done by Pres. Brigham Young. The first four sealings of living men and women this first endowment day in St. George Temple, were done by Apostle Woodruff and the fifth living sealing was done by Pres. Young.”
(JH 11 Jan., 1877)
11 Jan.: First woman to do endowments for dead.
“‘Sister Lucy Young’s name was at the head of the list of workers chosen to officiate in the St. George Temple and she was the first woman to perform the endowment ordinance for the dead,’ so far as is known. In conversation with President Young the evening after the first day’s work in the temple at St. George, Sister Young relates, that as she was telling her husband that as the brethren were not ready to begin as soon as the sisters, and having an applicant, who was taking the name of a dead friend, she had been the first one to officiate in the work in this generation, ‘or in any other that we have any account of,’ added the President, ‘for history does not give us to understand that the ancient saints ever worked for their dead in the giving of those higher gifts and blessings. As to the case of Enoch, I have wondered if they had these ordinances among them.'” (Emmeline B. Wells, “Lucy Bigelow Young,” YWJ 3(4):146, Jan., 1892)
12 Jan.: Additional endowments for dead.
“At the Temple just after day light. we put through 25 for Endowments, 9 of them for the dead.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 12 Jan., 1877)
13 Jan.: Instructions to those receiving endowments.
“Saturday, 13th [Jan., 1877] the following Circular was issued:
St. George, Utah, Jan. 13th, 1877.
Special Instructions to the Bishops
Brethren: We herein embody a few instructions which we wish you to strictly enjoin upon the brethren and sisters who come to the Temple to officiate for themselves or their friends: Those who wish to receive endowments for themselves, or friends, should be provided with oil, or means to purchase it. The sisters should be provided with two or three white skirts; and the brethren should have their garments to button from the back clear round and up the front; and shirts made to reach down to the knees, or a little below, or one may be pieced to this length for the occasion.
Before the brethren or sisters go into the Temple to receive their endowments, they must wash themselves, all over, perfectly clean, so as to enter the temple clean.
Men and women should have no sexual intercourse for a week or more previous to their going into the Temple to receive their endowments.
Signed.
Brigham Young
Jno. W. Young
Wilford Woodruff
Erastus Snow
Brigham Young, Jr.”
(13 Jan., 1877; Annals of the Southern Mission, Book B, pp. 694-695; also in Notes from the Journal of James G. Bleak)
“Notes from the Journal of James G. Bleak.
Saturday, 13th, the following circular was issued:
St. George, Utah, Jan. 13, 1877.
Special Instructions to the Bishops, Brethren: We herein embody a few instructions which we wish you to strictly enjoin upon the brethren and sisters who come to the Temple to officiate for themselves or their friends: Those who wish to receive endowments for themselves or friends should be provided with oil or means to purchase it. The sisters should be provided with two or three white skirts and the brethren should have their garments to button from the back, clear round and up the front, and skirts made to reach down to the knees or a little below or one may be pierced to this length for the occasion.
Before the brethren and sisters go into the Temple to receive their endowments; they must wash themselves all over, perfectly clean, so as to enter the Temple clean.
Men and women should have no sexual intercourse for a week or more previous to their going into the Temple to receive their endowments.
Signed Brigham Young, John W. Young, Wilford Woodruff, Erastus Snow and Brigham Young Jr.”
(JH 13 Jan., 1877)
14 Jan.: Brigham requests writing of endowment.
“MEMORANDA
—***—
In January 1877, shortly after the lower portion of the St. George Temple was dedicated, President Brigham Young, in following up in the Endowments written, became convinced that it was necessary to have the formula of the Endowments written, and he gave directions to have the same put in writing.
Shortly afterwards he explained what the Lecture at the Veil should portray, and for this purpose appointed a day when he would personally deliver the Lecture at the Veil. Elders J. D. T. McAllister and L. John Nuttall prepared writing material, and as the President spoke they took down his words. Elder Nuttall put the same into form and the writing was submitted to President Young on the same evening at his office in residence at St. George. He there made such changes as he deemed proper, and when he finally passed upon it said: This is the Lecture at the Veil to be observed in the Temple.
A copy of the Lecture is kept at the St. George Temple, in which President Young refers to Adam in his creation &c.
/s/ L. John Nuttall
For Presidents W. Woodruff
Geo. Q. Cannon
Jos. F. Smith.
June 3, 1892
Salt Lake City”
(Letter Press Book # 4; BYU Special Collections; Mss 188,
L. John Nuttall Papers, Container #4; p. 290; c. January 1877.)
“Spent the Evening with Presidet Young. He requested Brigham jr & W Woodruff to write out the Ceremony of the Endowments from Begining to End.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 14 Jan., 1877)
[J. D. T. McAllister was a regular worker at the Endowment House from the time of his return from his European Mission, in 1862, until his release on 17 Apr., 1876: “Went to E[ndowment]. H[ouse]. received word from Prest Young by his son Brigham to Prest Wells to get another Clerk in my place for the E. H.” The following from his diary illustrates the extent of his experience at the Endowment House:]
“Commenced the year [1869] by laboring in the Endowment House & Temple Block. On Monday the 11th [Jan.] was Elected sergeant at arms in the Council of the Legislative Assembly, and my time was spent nearly every day of the year in the Endowment House, from early morning until late in the day; when not there, on the Temple Block, and looking after the Tabernacle.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary; Huntington Library)
Jan. – Mar.: Writing of endowment ceremony.
“. . . accompanied Bros. Woodruff & B. Young J. for a drive – Bro Young not feeling well – on our return engaged in writing mode of procedure in the Temple. accompanied Bro Woodruff & L Snow to Prest Youngs. they to sign circulars to the Bishops. I read a letter of instructions to the Mexican missionaries – also so much of the mode of proceedure at Temple – as we had gotten up. he felt well – had an agreeable visit.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 15 Jan., 1877)
“Spent most of the day writing with Woodruff and Nuttall.” (Brigham Young, Jr. diary, 15 Jan., 1877)
“Brigham Young jr & Myself wrote out a part of the Ceremony of the Endowment.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 15 Jan., 1877)
“Busy writing with bros. W[oodruff] and N[uttall] on ceremonies.” (Brigham Young, Jr. diary, 16 Jan., 1877)
“Assisted on Mode of Proceedure at Temple.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 16 Jan., 1877)
“Spent the evening reading to father what we–Bro. Woodruff, and Nuttall and myself have written in relation to endowments. He made a number of corrections.” (Brigham Young, Jr. diary, 17 Jan., 1877)
“I spent the day writing and the Evening at Presidet Youngs.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 20 Jan., 1877)
“I spent the day in writing and the Evening at Presidt Youngs.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 22 Jan., 1877)
“also amend our forms for Baptism & Endowments at the suggestion of Prest Young who came down to day.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 27 Jan., 1877)
“I dressed in pure white Doe skin from head to foot to officiate in the Priest Office, white pants vest & C[oat] the first Example in any Temple of the Lord in this last dispensation. Sister Lucy B. Young also dressed in white in officiating as Eve. President [Young] was present and deliverd a lecture at the veil some 30 Minuts.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 1 Feb., 1877)
“President Young was present and gave some instructions not previously given which I wrote for safe keeping and reference hereafter.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 1 Feb., 1877)
“At the Temple 32 endowments Living 35 for the dead. we Got through at 6 P.M. Prest Young was with us, and made some remarks concerning our labors &c in the Temple of our God.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 1 Feb., 1877)
“at Temple copying Prest. Youngs remarks of Thursday [1 Feb.].” (L. John Nuttall diary, 3 Feb., 1877)
“At the Temple all day, with Bro L John Nuttall copying and &c we got through at 4 P. M. Bro. Nuttall left.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 3 Feb., 1877)
“At the Temple writing until 4 P.M.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 5 Feb., 1877)
“after supper went to President Youngs. present [were] Prest Young. W. Woodruff. E. Snow. B. Young Jr. I. G. Bleak. E. M Greene & myself. works in the Temple being under consideration Prest Young was filled with the spirit of God & revelation & said when we got our washings and anointings under the hands of the Prophet Joseph at Nauvoo we had only one room to work in with the exception of a little side room or office were we were washed and anointed had our garments placed upon us and received our New Name. and after he had performed these ceremonies. he gave the Key Words signs, togkens [sic] and penalties. then after we went into the large room over the store in Nauvoo. Joseph divided up the room the best that he could hung up the veil, marked it gave us our instructions as we passed along from one deparment to another giving us signs. tokens. penalties with the Key words pertaining to those signs and after we had got through. Bro Joseph turned to me (Prest B Young) and said Bro Brigham this is not arranged right but we have done the best we could under the circumstances in which we are placed, and I . . . Recorder [sic] wish you to take this matter in hand organize and systematize all these ceremonies with the signs. tokens penalties and Key words I did so and each time I got something more so that when we weht through the Temple at Nauvoo I understood and Knew how to place them there. we had our ceremonies pretty correct –
In the creation the Gods entered into an agreement about forming this earth. & putting Michael or Adam upon it. these things of which I have been speaking are what are termed the mysteries of godliness but they will enable you to understand the expression of Jesus made while in Jerusalem. This is life eternal that they might know thee the only true God and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent. We were once acquainited [sic] with the Gods & lived with them but we had the privilige of taking upon us flesh that the spirit might have a house to dwell in. we did so and forgot all and came into the world not recollecting anything of which we had previously learned. We have heard a great deal about Adam and Eve. how they were formed &c some think he was made like an adobie and the Lord breathed into him the breath of life. for we read ‘from dust thou are and unto dust shalt thou return’ Well he was made of the dust of the earth but not of this earth. he was made just the same way you and I are made but on another earth. Adam was an immortal being when he came. on this earth he had lived on an earth similiar to ours he had received the Priesthood and the Keys thereof. and had been faithful in all things and gained his resurrection and his exaltation and was crowned with glory immortality and eternal lives and was numbered with the Gods for such he became through his faithfulness. and had begotten all the spirit that was to come to this earth, and Eve our common Mother who is the mother of all living bore those spirits in the celestial world. and when this earth was organized by Elohim. Jehovah & Michael who is Adam our common Father. Adam & Even had the privilege to continue the work of Progression. consequently came to this earth and commenced the great work of forming tabernacles for those spirits to dwell in. and when Adam and those that assisted him had completed this Kingdom our earth he came toil and slept and forgot all and became like an Infant child. it is said by Moses the historian that the Lord caused a deep sleep to come upon Adam and took from his side a rib and formed the woman that Adam called Eve – this should be interpreted that the Man Adam like all other Men had the seed within him to propagate his species. but not the Woman. she conceives the seed but she does not produce it. consequently she was taken from the side or bowels of her father. this explains the mystery of Mose’s dark sayings in regard to Adam and Eve. Adam & Eve when they were placed on this earth were immortal beings with flesh, bones and sinues. but upon partaking of the fruits of the earth while in the garden and cultivating the ground their bodies became changed from immortal to mortal beings with the blood coursing through their veins as the action of life. Adam was not under transgression until affter he partook of the forbidden fruit this was nesesary that they might be together that man might be. the woman was found in transgression not the Man – Now in the law of Sacrifice we have the promise of a Savior and man had the privilege and kshowed forth his obedience by offering of the first fruits of the earth and the firstlings of the flocks – this as a showing that Jesus would come and shed his blood.
Father Adam’s oldest son (Jesus the Saviour) who is the heir of the family is Father Adams first begotten in the spirit World. who according to the flesh is the only begotten as it is written. (In his divinity he having gone back into the spirit world. and come in the spirit to Mary and she conceived for when Adam and Even got through with their Work in this earth. they did not lay their bodies down in the dust, but returned to the spirit World from whence they came.
I felt myself much blessed in being permitted to associate with such men and hear such instructions as they savored of life to me. (L. John Nuttall diary, 7 Feb., 1877)
“W. Woodruff Presided & gave the lecture at the veil & was witness at the Sealing Altar.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 8 Feb., 1877)
“with Bro W. Woodruff engaged in writing the lecture for the Endowments to be read to Prest Young. spent the eving at Prest Young’s house – did not finish our work.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 10 Feb., 1877)
“I spent the day writing on the Ceremonies & we spent the Evening with President Young reading the Ceremony.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 12 Feb., 1877)
“I wrote on a Mode of Proceedure to be observed in the giving of endowments also assisted by Bro J. D. T. McAllister & a H Raleigh – by invitation we all eat supper at the house of Bro Crane – and spent the evening with President Young reading what we had written. he accepted & corrected the same.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 12 Feb., 1877)
“A.M. at Temple fixing Records then went to Bro Woodruffs at Bro McArthurs. took Dinner there and busy writing until 6 P.M. Bro Raleigh & Nuttall there also and all engaged with the same buisness for the Temple we went to Bro Cranes for supper, we then went to Prest B Youngs, was there until 10. o clock.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 12 Feb., 1877)
“after wards worked on the Mode of Proceedure as I call it – until 6 P. M. at 7 went to Prest youngs and read over our writing which he approved.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 13 Feb., 1877)
“At the Temple. Bro Anson P Winsor officiated in the Font 299 of the dead Baptised for. After which, I was writing and fixing papers for Temple until 6 P.M. Evening, Bros Woodruff A H Raleigh L John Nuttall John L Smith and myself at President Young reading and fixing papers until 9. o. clock.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 13 Feb., 1877)
“Evening at Bro Walter Grangers for Supper with Matilda. Bro Woodruff Raleigh & L John Nuttall there. Bros Raleigh Nuttal and myself went to Bro L Browns found him better, we then went to Prest Youngs.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 17 Feb., 1877)
“called up to Prest Youngs office the Prestdent gave us Bro. W. Woodruff, J. D. T. McAllister & myself instruction on the endowments sealings &c.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 19 Feb., 1877)
“Went to the Temple and with Bro Nuttall writing and reading, Organization &c &c for the Brethren who officiate there in.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 19 Feb., 1877)
“John Pulsipher & wife at President Youngs copied answers & questions pretaing [pertaining] to endowments.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 21 Feb., 1877)
“Questions submitted to President Young.
1. At What age can children have their Endowments?
If of a naturally ripe and early development of Mind and body, as early as twelve years: but as a general rule fifteen years old is early enough.
2. How shall little children be dressed in attending to the Temple ordinance of being sealed to their parents?
They should be clothed in white.
3. Should children who die before they attain the age of eight years be baptized for, or receive any Temple Ordinance, other than being sealed to their parents?
Nothing more than to be sealed to their parents.
4. Shall still born children who the mothers state have quickened have any thing done for them?
No: they are all right without having anything done for them.
5. Shall children born outside of the Marriage relation, and who are dead, be sealed to their father, or to their Mother?
They should be sealed to the one who has received the Gospel and lived it.
6. Are children who have been born to parents who have been sealed, but not had endowments, born in the covenant, or will they have to be sealed to their parents?
They will have to be sealed to their parents.
7. How Young may a dead female be sealed to a husband?
Not too young; say not less than ten or twelve Years.
8. Is it absolutely necessary that all the children born out of the covenant, in a family whether those children be married or single, should be present at the same time to be sealed to their parents?
Yes, all should be present.
9. Is a woman who has been born out of the covenant, and who is Married, to be sealed to her husband and his family, or to her own parents?
She should be sealed to her own parents, unless they Yield up their right to her as a daughter, and wish to surrender her to some other family.
10. Shall the Work done for the dead in the Endowment House in Sale Lake City, be done over again in the Temple?
No.
11. Can a brother or sister who has received Endowments in Salt Lake City or in Nauvoo, have the privilege of passing through the degrees in the St George Temple, and if so, are they to be clothed with Temple clothing, or in the ordinary manner?
They may have the privilege of passing through as visitors; and not wearing Temple clothing.
12. Can an Indian Woman, who is in good standing in the church, receive her endowments and have her children sealed to herself and husband (a White Man) also in good standing?
Yes.
13. Can a person who is physically unable to receive their own baptisms &c be officiated for by proxy?
Wait until we see one that is.
14. Can a person demented by fits, or other cause, have any thing done in Temple Ordinances for him while living?
No. such persons are not held accountable.
15. If a person die without having had endowments, is it well to bury them in garments without marks?
Such person May be buried with garments. if their friends choose, but not Marked nor with robes or other Temple clothing.
A question submitted by J. D T McAllister My father fed and lodged the Elders for my sake. he died without embracing the Gospel. Mother received and embraced the Gospel, gathered with the church, received her Endowments, and lived the Gospel, and was sealed to Father, he having been baptised for by his Son. According to your answer to question 5 I must be adopted to Mother, Father being out of the Church I must not be sealed to him, what shall I do? Mother McAllister mst be Sealed to a man in the Priesthood faithful in the church, and the children adopted to them.
A question submitted by L. John Nuttall. Is it proper to seal a Woman that has died out of the Gospel and who was never Married; to a Man who died out of the Gospel, they being unknown to, or not having any claim on each other in this live. Yes. where the dead have been Known to be good and Moral, give them this privilege. There may be cases when it would not be proper, but upon general principles it would – all women as well as men will be judged for their Acts.” (L. John Nuttall diary, entry following 24 Aug., 1877)
“Bro McAllister & myself moved the office and was afterwards engaged in writing the Mode of proceedure for our workings.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 24 Feb., 1877)
“in the Temple writing.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 24 Feb., 1877)
[Sunday] “At the Temple most of the day writing instructions &c for the Brethren officiating therein.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 25 Feb., 1877)
“At the Temple until half past 4 P.M. writing.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 26 Feb., 1877)
“finished writing our Mode of proceedure . . . spent the Evning at Prest Youngs reading Mode of Proceedure.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 27 Feb., 1877)
“At the Temple writing recording &c 107 of the dead officiated for Winsor baptised. we got through at 1/2 past 5 P.M. spent the evening at Prest Youngs.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 27 Feb., 1877)
“went to the Temple and wrote on the parts of workers in small books.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 4 Mar., 1877)
“At the Temple with Bro Nuttall writing parts &c.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 4 Mar., 1877)
“At the Temple all day fixing records &c Evening at Prest Youngs with Bros Woodruff & L John Nuttall. Spent a nice time. returned home at 10. P.M.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 5 Mar., 1877)
“At the Temple writing & fixing Records for Josiah Hardy & Thomas Allman and Bro W Woodruff Bro Nuttall assisting with the latter.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 11 Mar., 1877)
“spent the evening at President Youngs got his mind and views in regard to the proper manner of giving the tokens. and presenting the man at the veil & which were very essential & gave all further light.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 16 Mar., 1877)
“At the Temple reading & comparing passages of Scripture – not having concluded my research. wrote on the Mode of Proceedure of Temple Workings.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 17 Mar., 1877)
“At the Temple writing.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 17 Mar., 1877)
“Made a draft of Letter with questions & my views thereon to Prest Young.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 18 Mar., 1877)
“at the Temple wrote my letter to Prest B. Young. also wrote on other matters – in the evning went to Prest Youngs handed my letter to Bro Jas. G. Bleak to read to the Prest on a favorable opportunity.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 19 Mar., 1877)
“At the Temple fixing Records and writing.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 19 Mar., 1877)
“at the Temple – officiated as Recorder at the Font – also copied part of Lecture at the Veil. . . . Prest Young called in & gave us further instructions as to our workings.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 20 Mar., 1877)
“Presidet Young has been laboring all winter to get up a perfect form of Endowments as far as possible. They having been perfected I read them to the Company today.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 21 Mar., 1877)
“Evening at President Young’s spent a very nice time John W & B. Young Jr just arrived from the north.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 21 Mar., 1877)
“the first Adoptions in the Temple this day. Prest B. Young gave the form of service which I wrote.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 22 Mar., 1877)
“In January 1877, shortly after the lower portion of the St. George Temple was dedicated, President Brigham Young, in following up in the Endowments, became convinced that it was necessary to have the formula of the Endowments written, and he gave directions to have the same put in writing.
Shortly afterwards he explained what the Lecture at the Veil should portray, and for this purpose appointed a day when he would personally deliver the Lecture at the Veil. Elders J. D. T. McAllister and L. John Nuttall prepared writing material, and as the President spoke they took down his words. Elder Nuttall put the same into form and the writing was submitted to President Young on the same evening at his office in residence at St. George. He there made such changes as he deemed proper, and when he finally passed upon it said: ‘This is the Lecture at the Veil to be served in the Temple.’
A copy of the Lecture is kept at the St. George Temple, in which President Young refers to Adam in his creation, etc.
L. John Nuttall
For Presidents W. Woodruff
Geo. Q. Cannon
Jos. F. Smith
June 3, 1892
Salt Lake City”
“‘The Lecture,’ which is given in the Temple from time to time, as circumstances require, was first delivered by President Young in this Temple [St. George]. It was written down as he spoke it, and was subsequently revised by him. The ordinances were written by Presidents Wilford Woodruff and George Q. Cannon, under the direction of President Young and, when completed, he said, ‘Now you have before you an ensample to carry on the endowments in all the Temples, until the coming of the Son of Man.'” (David H. Cannon to President Joseph F. Smith and Counsellors, 21 Oct., 1916. Bergera notes)
15 Jan.: Temple clothing not necessary for 2nd anointing.
“I spent the Evening with President Young. He told me their was No Necessity of dressing in the Temple Clothing while giving the second Anointing any more than in administering the first Anointing or Ordaining. He also said that we should use the Bible in the garden & Bible & Book of Mormon in the Telestial room and add the Covenants to it in the Terrestial Room.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 15 Jan., 1877)
16 Jan.: 2nd anointing given in St. George Temple.
“I spent the day in the Temple of God. I gave the seconed Anointing to Philemon Christopher Merrill & Syrena Dustin Merrill.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 16 Jan., 1877)
Jan.: “Sword” as part of endowment.
“at Temple. 28 endowments for Living & 17 dead 15 & 7 = 22 Sealed I officated as Recorder – used the sword – and at the Vail.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 18 Jan., 1877)
“at Temple fine day – 18 endowments. for dead 1 Living – 12 Sealed – I was Recorder & used Sword.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 19 Jan., 1877)
“At the Temple officiated as Recorder with the Sword.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 26 Jan., 1877)
21 Jan.: Importance of work for the dead.
“P.M. At Meeting. Br Snow and Woodroof preached very powerful discurse on the importance of the saints availing themselves of the opportunity now offered, and do the work necesary for the dead. Some Missionaries were called to visit the adjacent settlements and stir up the people in remembrance of these important things.” (Charles L. Walker diary, 21 Jan., 1877)
22 Jan.: “Forms” for baptisms for dead [?].
“At Temple ruled out some forms for Baptisms for the dead. to be takin as a sample by the Missionaries so as to put the Saints in a Way of getting ready for Work.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 22 Jan., 1877)
25 Jan.: Oil consecrated for endowments.
“At the Temple. 33 Endowments for the dead and 36 for the living we got through at quarter past 4 P.M. consecrated 6 bottles of oil for Endowments.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 25 Jan., 1877)
28 Jan.: This earth formed from remnants of others.
“Elder John Taylor, alluding to the notions of skeptical scientists, touched upon by Elder Richards, related some of the ideas which Joseph Smith expressed to him forty years ago, showing that the earth was formed from remnants of pre-existent worlds which might have existed for millios of years, and that the solar system revolved around another and that around another and so on, until the central body which governed lesser systems required a thousand years for one revolution, thus ‘one day with the Lord was a thousand years, and a thousand years as a day.’ He went on to show that all truth is eternal and it never conflicts with itself. If we were taught of God we should comprehend things as they are, and be led to glorify him for ever.” (Dedication of the basement of the Logan Tabernacle, 27-28 Jan., 1877; DN 26(1):4, 7 Feb., 1877)
Feb.: Missionaries to teach about temple work.
“With my family, I participated in the dedication of the St. George Temple and in the 9th work for the dead was commenced; but it appeared by the number that came to the Temple that the people generally had not been sufficiently instructed upon the subject of work for their dead. It was deemed necessary by the Presidency to send missionaries through all the settlements south from Beaver, to wake up the people and teach them their privileges and duties, pertaining to them and their dead. Among others, I was called upon to accompany Brother Bentley and Brother Judd of St. George to visit the more northern settlements, the largest district and the coldest, it being then mid-winter.” (Benjamin F. Johnson, My Life’s Review, n.p., n.d.; p. 260)
7 Feb.: When Joseph gave the first endowment at Nauvoo.
“When we got our washings and anointings under the hands of the Prophet Joseph at Nauvoo, we had only one room to work in with the exception of a little side room or office where we were washed and anointed, had our garments placed upon us and received our New Name. After he had performed these ceremonies, he gave the key words, signs, tokens and penalties. Then after this we went into the large room over the store in Nauvoo. Joseph divided up the room the best that he could, hung up the veil, marked it, gave us our instructions as we passed along from one department to another, giving us signs, tokens,
penalties with the key words pertaining to those signs. After we had got through, Brother Joseph turned to me and said: `Brother Brigham this is not arranged right, but we have done the best we could under the circumstances in which we are placed, and I wish you to take this matter in hand and organize and systematize all these ceremonies with the signs, tokens, penalties and key words.’ I did so and each time I got something more; so that when we went through the Temple at Nauvoo, I understood and knew how to place them there.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 7 Feb., 1877; Brigham Young speaking)
8 Feb.: Temple missionaries.
“The following named missionaries have been visiting the settlements in the Temple interests–R. Bentley, B. Johnson, and J. Judd, as far north as Paragoonah; Charles Pulsipher and John R. Young as far east and south as Long Valley and Kanab; M. P. Romney and Jos. Orton west to Shoal Creek, Pinto and Pine Valley; W. Nixon and Doctor Higgins up the Virgin River to Rockville.” (“Amram” to Deseret News Editor, 8 Feb., 1877; DN 26(4):58, 28 Feb., 1877)
14 Feb.: First 2nd anointings in St. George Temple?
“At the Temple Bro John L Smith officiated in the font 535 of the dead Baptised for, and A. P. Winsor officiated in the Font 257 of the dead Baptised for making a Total of 792 today, & 28 second anointings, we got through at 6 P.M.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 14 Feb., 1877)
“I recd. 2nd. anointing in connection with the rest of the family. Also I recd. that sacred ordinance for & in behalf of Father who died before receiving it.” (John Pulsipher diary, 14 Feb., 1877; LC Collection)
15 Feb.: Temple Song.
“Hark, hark, angelic minstrels sing,
A sweet melodious strain:
Heav’n’s high, celestial arches ring
With joyful news again,
Lo! now another key is turn’d;
‘Tis God’s divine behest,
and those for whome our hearts have yearn’d,
Our dead, again are blessed.
Chorus:
From the valleys of Ephraim hosannas arise,
And new hallelujahs descend from the skies,
Glad shouts of redemption from bondage resound
From the shades where the spirits in prison are bound.
In eighteen hundred seventy-seven,
Let holy records tell,
A Temple’s finish’d–bolts are riven
In twain, where spirits dwell.
We’ve been baptized for them, and now,
As agents in their stead,
We’re washed and we’re anointed too–
The living for the dead.
Within a Temple’s sacred court–
Beneath its royal tower,
Let humble, faithful Saints resort
To wield salvation’s power.
Salvation’s work! O, glorious theme,
Too high for mortal tongues;
Seraphic hosts its grace proclaim
In everlasting songs.
Of great, momentous times at hand,
Portending signs appear:
The wise will see and understand
The day of God is near.
Ye heavenly gates, nor more ajar–
Henceforth stand open wide;
The Bridegroom’s voice is heard afar,
Prepare, prepare the Bride.”
(Eliza R. Snow, “Temple Song,” JI 12(4):47, 15 Feb., 1877)
21 Feb.: 2nd anointings for dead.
“Matilda received her 2nd anointings and anointed for her sister Serena Helena, by Bro Woodruff.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 21 Feb., 1877)
22 Feb.: Sealing of deceased woman as new plural wife.
“At the Temple as usual Matilda recd Endowments for Sarah Harris who was seald to me by the authority of [illegible–could be “Relatives”]. I took the parts of L and busy writing until 6 P.M.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 22 Feb., 1877)
22 & 24 Feb.: Charles Walker’s 2nd anointing.
“[22nd] At work on the Temple. At night talked with Br Woodroof concerning certain blessings in the Temple. Then went up to Pres Brigham Young and asked him for permission to go in the Temple to receive certain blessings which he granted. I must have record that before going I asked the Lord to open my way that I might receive this blessing if it was his will, if not his will be done. I felt truly overjoyed at that another manifestation of Gods goodnes to me, his weak creature, and in the stilnes of the night I poured out my soul to God and thanked him for Hearing and answering my Prayer which no one heard but Me and my God. Oh blessed by his name forever and ever for great is his goodnes and loving kindnes.
[24th] Went into the Temple and received certain blessings to do me good both now and forever. My heart felt full to overflowing for this great privellige.” (Charles L. Walker diary, 22 & 24 Feb., 1877)
24 Feb.: Henry Eyring’s 2nd anointing.
“February 24th 1877 myself and wives received our sec’d anointing under the hands of Elder Wilford Woodruff, to whom we were subsequently adopted as son and daughter.” (Henry Eyring Journal, p. 38; Mor/M270.1/Ey67/BYU Spec Coll; February 24, 1877. Bergera collection.)
1 Mar.: 5 Bathtubs in St. George Temple.
“When this record was All made out the Sisters occupied all five of the washing Bathes in the Temple. All the sisters were washed and anointed.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 1 Mar., 1877)
1 Mar.: 1 proxy endowment per person per day.
“Now in this matter you Can be baptized for any number on the same day, but when you come to giving Endowments one person Can ownly attend to one in a day.” (Wilford Woodruff speech, in Wilford Woodruff diary, 1 Mar., 1877)
2 Mar.: OK for friends to officiate for your ancestors.
“In 1877, just before Brother [Wilford] Woodruff was seventy years old, he was greatly exercised about his Temple work. He had come into possession of a large printed record of his ancestors, containing many thousands of names.
With the ardent desire of a faithful heart, he wished to redeem these dead relatives. What should he do? Always a poor man, working hard to support his large family, alone in St. George, the rest of his family being in Salt Lake county, he looked forward with dismay to theyears of unremitting labor for himself and his family which would be necessary to the accomlishment of the work. Indeed, even then, he could not hope to live to see it accomplished.
With solemn prayer, he went before the Lord in the newly dedicated Temple of which he was the president and laid the whole matter on the altar. His prayer was answered. He was told that he would be justified in accepting the help and service of all his friends, and that their work in his behalf would be accepted of the Lord. This revelation was received by President Brigham Young as correct doctrine, and accordingly on Brother Woodruff’s birthday, March 2nd, 1877, all the workers and many others celebrated the day by giving to the beloved President of the Temple the first ‘Temple benefit’ ever given on earth, so far as we know.” (Susa Young Gates, “President Woodruff’s Letter,” YWJ 9(10):438-439, Oct., 1898)
5 Mar.: Fresh shrubbery for Garden Room.
“I went to the Temple in the Afternoon & took in shrubery from Br Johnson Garden for the Garden of Eaden in the Temple of the Lord.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 5 Mar., 1877)
6 Mar.: Sealing of deceased woman as new plural wife.
“Sister Sarah Melissa Granger Baptised for Daxalia [?] Marble a friend of hers to be sealed to me.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 6 Mar., 1877)
7 Mar.: “Lower Main Room” of St. George temple.
“Our General Conferences have of late years been held in the New Tabernacle in Salt Lake City, and spacious accommodation has been afforded the people; but in the approaching Conference we contemplate assembling in the lower main room of the Temple in St. George, which, being without galleries, affords but about one-sixth of the seating to be found in the New Tabernacle in Salt Lake City.” (Brigham Young, Wilford Woodruff, Erastus Snow: “A Word of Counsel to the Latter-day Saints, Concerning the Conference at St. George,” DN 26(5):72, 7 Mar., 1877)
7 Mar.: Temples made for ceremonial purposes.
“Could the people at large be accommodated with room in the Temple, we should be very pleased to have them present to take part in the dedicatory proceedings and to receive such information direct as the Spirit of the Lord may have for us. But as temples are made for ceremonial rather than for congregational purposes, the number present at any temple dedication will necessarily be limited.” (Brigham Young, Wilford Woodruff, Erastus Snow: “A Word of Counsel to the Latter-day Saints, Concerning the Conference at St. George,” DN 26(5):72, 7 Mar., 1877)
7 Mar.: Nature of temple dresses for women.
“in relation to what kind of dress sisters should have with their Temple clothes in attending to the Ordinances. We reply just what kind they have a mind to have, but must be white amd must be plain.” (Brigham Young to Sister Cooper, 7 Mar., 1877. [See Bergera notes; xerox of letter very poor quality])
8 Mar.: Sealing of deceased woman as new plural wife.
“Matilda received endowments for Caroline Buck who was Sealed to me in the E. H. Salt Lake by her niece Eliza Parrott acting for her.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 8 Mar., 1877)
9 Mar.: Concerning the new name.
“St. George, Utah
March 9th 1877
To
Abraham Washburn,
Monroe, Sevier Co.
Dear Brother,
In reply to your questions: as you and your wife received your Endowments before being sealed as husband and wife there is no need of the children being sealed to you.
As to the New Name when you and your wife get to the Temple and to the proper place you can get it from your wife, but not till then.
Your Brother in the Gospel.
Brigham Young.”
(Letter from Brigham Young to Abraham Washburn; CHO;
Ms/f/219/reel 22/p. March 9th 1877.)
11 Mar.: Pitched tents next to St. George Temple.
“We stayed at Gunlock a day or two to visit, arriving in St. George on Sunday the 11th and pitch our tent on the east side of the temple block. And on Monday the 12 we prepare ourselves to go through the temple. And on Tues. 13th some of them go in and attend the baptism while I go up town to look after some business affairs. The next three days we attend to the endowments.” (Orson W. Huntsman diary, 11-16 Mar., 1877; LC Collection)
14 Mar.: Sealing of deceased woman as new plural wife.
“Took Sister Elizabeth John Durry Townsend through the Veil who had received endowments for Sophia Marble a friend of Sarah Melissa Granger Smith who desired to have here sealed to me Sophia was drowned in the Chagrin River 3 miles from Kirtland.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 14 Mar., 1877)
16 Mar.: Temple wine.
“Made arraingments with Bro Hall to store wine donated to the Temple.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 16 Mar., 1877)
19 Mar.: Need to search genealogies.
“He [F. D. Richards] expressed his gratification at the completion of the Temple at St. George, in which the ordinances of salvation could be administered, and referred to the magnitude of the work to be performed therein by the Latter-day Saints. Not only were they to receive the ordinances for themselves, but they were required to officiate for their ancestors back to the remotest period of their history. To aid in this matter the Lord has inspired learned men to hunt up the genalogies of their forefathers until some hundreds of families had been enabled to trace their lineage for centuries back and had records containing the names of thousands of their kindred. Quite a number of families of the Saints had thus obtained the record of their ancestry and several had already gone forth in the labor of love for their dead.” (“Two days’ meetings at Fillmore,” 19 Mar., 1877; DN 26(10):147, 11 Apr., 1877)
22 Mar.: Woodruff witnesses first adoption.
“I also Adopted two Couple to Presidet B Young. E Snow sealed 41 Couple. This day was the first time in my life that I Ever herd or performed the Ceremony of Adoption.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 22 Mar., 1877)
22 Mar.: Cumulative rules for adoptions.
“The sealing rooms of the St. George Temple were dedicated in January, 1877; and Wilford Woodruff, president of the temple, then recorded on March 22 that he had that day adopted two couples to President Brigham Young. Thousands of persons were thereafter adopted at St. George as well as in temples subsequently constructed. With the beginning of adoption on such a scale, it became necessary to establish policies to govern the practice. The principal rules under which adoptions were performed are here summarized.
1. Sealing or Adoption. Church policy directed that children of faithful members of the Church not ‘born in the covenant’ be sealed to their natural parents, whether any or all of those involved were living or not. If natural parents had not been baptized Mormons during life or had apostatized from the Church, their children were to be adopted to someone else. The sealing of a person to a dead non-Mormon was seen as being risky since the departed parent might not accept the gospel in the spirit world. Such uncertainty about one’s position in the next life was unacceptable, especially to converts whose parents had been strongly opposed to Mormonism during life.
The same ruling applied in part to sealings of husbands and wives. If both were dead, the sealing could be performed whether the two had been members of the Church in life or not. But if the widow of a non-Mormon came to Utah, as so many did, she was to be sealed to some good brother in the Church rather than to her late husband. Again the reasoning was that the ladies risked their exaltation by being sealed to those who might not accept the gospel. In many cases this meant that women become plural wives. Had the Church permitted widowed converts to be sealed to dead husbands who never joined the Church, there might have been a good many fewer women participating in polygamy. Children of such widows were to be sealaed, rather than adopted, to their mother and her new husband. The dead husband was often adopted to his wife’s second husband to keep him in the family. [J. D. T. McAllister to John Watson, 27 May 1887, St. George Temple Letterbook, pp. 255-56, holograph, C.A.; McAllister to J. L. Dalton, 15 January 1889, St. George Temple Letterbook, pp. 211-12; Wilford Woodruff sermon, “The Law of Adoption,” The Deseret Weekly 48 (1894):542-43; Wilford Woodruff to Lorenzo Snow, 24 April 1894, Wilford Woodruff Letterbook, p. 347, holograph, C.A.; Woodruff to Marriner W. Merrill, 15 May 1894, Woodruff Letterbook, p. 406. Some were even uneasy about being sealed to their parents who were in the Church whose way of life would not qualify them for the celestial kingdom. J. D. T. McAllister to Franklin Spencer, 17 December 1883, St. George Temple Letterbook, p. 115; D. H. Cannon to Wilford Woodruff, 19 August 1892, St. George Temple Letterbook, p. 23]
2. Free Choice in Selecting a New Father. Those to be adopted were allowed to choose whomever they liked as their new fathers. Church leaders were emphatic that one’s freedom of choice was not to be abridged, going so far in a few cases as to cancel adoptions because the person adopted had not been advised of his rights. Not only was the choice to be freely made, but the initiative was also to be left with the person seeking adoption. [James G. Bleak to L. John Nuttall, 5 July 1893; St. George Temple Letterbook, pp. 156-57. John Taylor wrote the following to J. S. Morris, 15 February 1887: “You ask me to recommend you to some good Man to whom you can be Adopted. The better way will be for you to select some one for yourself, and if he be a man in full fellowship it will be agreeable to me.” Manuscript copy of letter in Samuel Roskelley Genealogical and Temple Record, p. 121, microfilm of holograph, C.A.] A man could be adopted either to a living or dead person. If he chose a living father he would then write or speak to the man. If he chose to be adopted to someone who had died, he would apply to that person’s heir.
3. Heirship. Members of families in the Church were to agree on a worthy male member of the family to be designated ‘heir’ who would then manage the family temple work for dead ancestors. [J. D. T. McAllister to Abraham Kimball, 17 January 1882, St. George Temple Letterbook, pp. 14-15; Kimball to McAllister, 20 April 1882, pasted to p. 15 of St. George Temple Letterbook.] In families of deceased general authorities of the Church, where so many applied for adoption, the heir had a special importance as at first he had to approve such applications. With the opening of new temples and the increase in applications, heirs were later permitted to delegate such authority to the temple presidents. [See the following letters in St. George Temple Letterbook: McAllister to Brigham Young, Jr., 19 January 1882, pp. 15-17; McAllister to Wilford Woodruff, 20 January 1882, pp. 18-19; McAllister to Joseph F. Smith, 16 February 1882, pp. 29-30; Brigham Young, Jr. to McAllister, 22 February 1882, pasted to p. 17; statement of H. J. Richards, 24 October 1882 and statement of A. A. Kimball, 30 September 1882, both on p. 57.]
4. Presidential Control and Approval. Joseph Smith’s basic revelation regarding the sealing power vests full control of temple work in the president of the Church. Inasmuch as the first three temples built in Utah were at some distance from Church headquarters, Presidents Young, Taylor, and Woodruff had to delegate a certain amount of this authority, although they attempted to maintain a close supervision and control of temple work by selecting apostles as temple presidents. President John Taylor further tightened presidential control by ruling that recommends for adoptions and some other ordinances were not acceptable unles countersigned by him. [J. D. T. McAllister to L. John Nuttall, 24 January 1882, St. George Temple Letterbook, p. 22; John Taylor to McAllister and David H. Cannon, 13 September 1884, John Taylor Letterbook, pp. 633-34, holograph, C.A.]
5. Adoptions of Dead Relatives. Once the Saints had their own temple work taken care of, they were eager to bring loved ones into God’s family as well. But a Mormon could have adoptions performed back only one generation beyond the first member of the family to join the Church. Thus a convert could have only his dead parents, brothers, and sisters adopted to some family in the Church while the son of convert Mormons could go back one generation further to grandparents, uncles and aunts, [See the following in St. George Temple Letterbook: J. D. T. McAllister to John Rowley, 21 February 1882, p. 88; McAllister to Wilford Woodruff, 27 February 1889, pp. 229-30; D. H. Cannon to the First Presidency, 15 May 1894, p. 284.] had his parents not done the work. Many adopted Mormons chose to have dead relatives adopted into the same family into which they had been adopted so all could be together in the celestial kingdom.
6. Adoptionary Practice. An understanding of adoption after 1877 is to be sought not only in the consideration of policies but also in the study of statistics. [The data upon which this discussion is based are found in annual statistical summaries of temple work on file in the Church Archives. Data relating to numbers of persons adopted to general authorities were collected through examination of temple records on film at the Genealogical Society Library, Salt Lake City.] Over the period more persons, both living and dead, were sealed to their own parents than were adopted, although there were important differences between the sealing patterns for the living and for the dead. Through 1893 there were approximately 19,000 living persons sealed to their own parents while only 1,200 were adopted. Many of those sealed were young children, the rest being the adult children of Church members. Living persons adopted were in almost all cases adults whose parents had never joined the Church. While it is possible that a significant number of Mormons after 1877 were second generation in the Church, it is also possible that many who under Church policy should have been adopted to someone failed to have the ordinance performed for some reason.
With regard to work for the dead, about 16,000 sealings were performed through 1893 as compared with slightly over 13,000 adoptions. This sharp divergence from the pattern of sealing work for the living can largely be accounted for by the nature of the groups for whom the work was done. The dead who were sealed were generally those who had died during infancy or childhood while the dead who were adopted were usually parents, brothers and sisters, and other relatives of Church members, of whom there would be large numbers. . . .
Because of the great mass of data only the simplest statistical aspects of adoption will be examined here. The records show that 66 percent of the living and 77 percent of the dead who were adopted were adopted to general authorities. Roughly half of those who were not adopted to general authorities were adopted either to temple officials who were not general authorities or to other prominent Church officials living in the area.
Most of the general authorities to whom considerable numbers of persons were adopted were apostles, many having also served in the First Presidency. Of the seventeen apostles who died in the faith prior to 1894, fourteen had persons adopted to them. Of sixteen (including the First Presidency) living in 1894, only nine were so favored, while none of the four chosen between 1894 and 1900 had people adopted to them. Related to this is the fact that of those adopted to general authorities 60 percent of the living and 68 percent of the dead persons were adopted to deceased general authorities. Partly this reflects the respect of Church members for the heroes of the Mormon past, but also it results from temple procedures. If a person were to be adopted to a living general authority, that Church leader would have to be present for the ceremony, which was often difficult, especially when none of the temples was particularly close to Salt Lake City. If no general authority were living or visiting in the area of the temple, it was much easier to choose a dead apostle or member of the First Presidency since someone else could stand proxy for him. Convenience also partially explains why so many were adopted to temple officials.
Of course other considerations besides convenience motivated the saints in their choice of fathers in the priesthood. Local popularity and devotion had a part to play, as evidenced by the large number of adoptions to Apostle Erastus Snow at St. George, where he was the area’s spiritual leader, and at Manti, where so many Scandinavians honored him as the man who opened their homelands to proselyting. In several cases large numbers were adopted to dead general authorities in the first year or two following their deaths, reflecting a special expression of devotion evoked by their passing. More timeless and general was the feeling for Joseph Smith, the Church’s greatest hero, who led all others in the number of persons choosing to be adopted themselves or to have their dead adopted to him.” (Gordon Irving, “The Law of Adoption,” BYU Studies 14(3):306-310, Spring, 1974)
24 Mar.: Proxy marriages for the dead.
“at Prest Young’s in the evening I propounded the following question to him Is it proper to seal a woman that has died out of the Gospel and who was never married; to a man who died out of the Gospel they bing unknown to, or not having any claim on each other in this life — Answer Yes. where the dead have been Known to be good and moral give them this privilege. There may becaus [sic] where it would not be proper, but upon general principles it would. all women as well as men will be judged for their acts.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 24 Mar., 1877)
27 Mar.: Expectation of NEW temple ordinances.
“The Lord had said there were certain blessings which could not be received, except during the poverty of the Saints, unless it was in a temple. The Endowment House in which we had officiated in the ordinances was only temporary; but now it was no longer acceptable for that purpose, for our condition was such as to make it imperative on our part to build temples. He esteemed it a great and glorious privilege to journey with his brethren to the House of the Lord. Many blessings never conferred upon any peoples in former temples had been reserved to be revealed in this dispensation of the fullness of times. The speaker [Orson Pratt] felt fully persuaded that as far as the Lord was concerned, he was waiting to bestow those blessings upon us; in fact he was willing to confer them in the Kirtland Temple. He there revealed to the Prophet Joseph the dedicatory prayer, and many of the faithful there received great and glorious manifestations; the ordinances of washing of feet and anointing of the head with oil were given there. At the dedication of the second temple, which was built in Nauvoo, still greater blessings were received. Many in the first temple had testified that they saw the heavens opened, and that angels appeared to them, and in divers other ways were his glories manifested. That temple was constructed according to revelation.
A few weeks after the dedication Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery entered into the Temple and prayed to the Lord, and great and glorious things were made manifest to them on that occasion. Bro. Pratt here referred to page 369 of the new edition of the Doctrine and Covenants, which contained a record of what was seen and heard at that time. Referred to the vision that Joseph had, in which the Prophet Moses appeared to him, revealing and bestowing on him the keys of the gathering, this being the dispensation when scattered Israel would be gathered together from the four quarters of the earth, which had never before been done. After this Elias appeared to him, committing the gospel of the dispensation of Abraham, saying that in us and our seed all the generations after us should be blessed. After this vision had closed, another glorious vision burst upon the, when Elijah stood before them, saying, ‘Behold the time has fully come,’ &c.
The dispensation of the fullness of times brought in all the keys and authorities and glories and promises made in all the former dispensations, concentrating them, as it were, in one, to bring about the union of all the former and latterday Saints, both of heaven and earth.
As temples had been built, so God had increased his blessings in number and magnitude. Should we not now hope in faith that God would accept our present Temple at our hands, and unveil the heavens to those who were pure in heart, and also hope that in this house ordinances never before revealed might be administered?” (Orson Pratt, 27 Mar., 1877; DN 26(11):170, 18 Apr., 1877)
30 Mar.: Ordained proxy HIGH PRIEST.
“This is the first day I ever went [to] the [Temp?]le to get Endowments for the Dead. I got Endowments to day for the Prophets Robert Mason. We gave Endowments to 150. There was 52 Elders ordained. W Woodruff ordained 2. I was ordained a High Priest & Patriarch for the Prophet Mason.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 30 Mar., 1877)
2 Apr.: Record of 2nd anointings at St. George Temple.
“[Statistics from Jan 9. to Mar. 31. 1877:]
No of Second Anointings. Jan Feb Mar Total
2 73 52 127”
(Journal of L. John Nuttall; April 2, 1877; St. George Temple. Bergera collection.)
4 Apr.: AP officiated in Jerusalem temple.
“God had conferred on us the priesthood and taught us to officiate therein, for the living and the dead. The children of Israel had a tabernacle in the wilderness and the Temple in Jerusalem, but we were living in a time that embraced all dispensations that had existed among men. The Temple at Jerusalem was officiated in principally by the Aaronic Priesthood. Enoch had the Melchizedec Priesthood, and we had every reason to believe he built temples in Zion, and that dispensation had to gather the people from the nations of the earth, as we had to do in this dispensation. We had a Zion to build up, and hundreds and thousands of temples.” (John Taylor, “Two days’ meetings at St. George,” 4 Apr., 1877; DN 26(10):156, 11 Apr., 1877)
5 Apr.: Officiated in temple work w/o being High Priest.
“At Meeting [General Conference in Temple] all day at the close of the afternoon meeting I was chosen to Preside over the St Geo. Stake of Zion. Prest B Young ordained me a High Priest and set me apart to this calling. [Note that he had been officiating in temple ordinances for several weeks without being a High Priest.]” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 5 Apr., 1877)
6 Apr.: General Conference in St. George Temple.
“Quite early this morning [April 6th] I and family started to St. George to attend the general conference and also the dedication of the St. George Temple. Where we arrived about noon and put up at Bro. Winsors and then attended the remaining two days and a half of the conference which was held in the temple. Much valuable preaching and teaching was given by President Brigham Young, his counselors and the Twelve Apostles who were most all present at these meetings.” (Orson W. Huntsman diary, 6-8 Apr., 1877; LC Collection)
6 Apr.: Dedication prayer for St. George Temple.
“. . . We pray that the blessings pertaining to our eternal salvation and to the establishing of thy kingdom upon this thine earth may be poured out upon thy holy Priesthood and thy people, who shall worship and officiate in this thy holy House. . . .
We also present to thee the Baptismal Font, in which is performed the ordinance of baptism for the living and the dead . . .” (Daniel H. Wells, 6 Apr., 1877; JD 18:368-369)
7 Apr.: First adoptions of children to parents.
“after Meeting attended at 5 Sealings for Prest B Young. and adoption of Wilford Woodruff Jnr & his Sister Phebe Amelia Woodruff to Wilford & Phebe Whitmore Carter Woodruff. these are the first adoptions of children to parents in this generation.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 7 Apr., 1877)
7 Apr.: If the dead could speak to us.
“Br Brigham said if the dead could speak to us they would speak in a voice louder than ten thousand thunders to release them from the prison house where they had lain for thousands of years.” (Charles L. Walker diary, 7 Apr., 1877)
8 Apr.: Qualifications for recommends.
“to the Bishops I say give no recommends to any persons to get their blessings in this house unless they have Kept their covenants, said their prayers, paid their Tithing donations and lived their religion.” (Brigham Young, in L. John Nuttall diary, 8 Apr., 1877)
10 Apr.: Sealed to mother but not father–awkwardness.
“My Mother Sealed to Prest B Young my Wife Matilda acting for her. And myself with all our family our Wives and children were sealed to them. Also my Father was sealed to President Young myself Heir & Representative of the family acting.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 10 Apr., 1877)
10 Apr.: Certificate of 2nd anointing.
[2nd Anointing certificate, prepared approximately 20 years later] “Second Anointing 10th April 1877. #1 Eliza Thompson Young dead Lewis, Sussex, Del. Anointed to President Brigham Young who was Anointed in Nauvoo.
Matilda Christina Nielsen McAllister Proxy.
Wilford Woodruff Anointed.
John D. T. McAllister Held Horn.
John D. T. McAllister Recorder.”
(J. D. T. McAllister diary, inserted adjacent to 10 Apr., 1877 entry)
11 Apr.: Sealings for living and dead.
“At the Temple Recording &c 117 Endowments for the dead, 13 Living Total 130. 49 Ordained. 4 Adoptions, 15 Second Anointings, 577 Baptisms for A P. Winsor 366 Jos. Hammond 211 26 Sealings 19 Dead & 7 living.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 11 Apr., 1877)
13 Apr.: ORDAINED and set apart to be sealer.
“this day I was ordained and set apart to Officiate in the Sealing of Women to Men children to Parents and Man to Man in the 2nd Anointing and to Officiate in all the Ordinances of the Temple.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 13 Apr., 1877)
15 Apr.: No compensation for Temple Workers.
“At the Tabernacle at St. George, Washington County, Utah, in the morning Junius F. Wells and Prest. Daniel H. Wells preached. In the afternoon President Brigham Young and Elders Geo. Q. Cannon, John Taylor, John W. Young, Bishop Wm. B. Preston, Erastus Snow and Wm. Gibbs preached. . . .
Pres. Brigham Young said: ‘I have been with you more than five months. I have this to say to those present and those of this stake of Zion, you have done an excellent work. This Temple has sprung up almost as Jonah’s gourd. We shall want a good many to work in the Temple but we shall not pay a dime as compensation, to those who work therein. If they are hungry we should feed them, if naked, we should clothe them. We must labor for the salvation of the dead and not for the dimes.'” (JH 15 Apr., 1877)
22 Apr.: St. George 1st ever in which all ordinances done
“I have been spending the winter in St. George. Our Temple there is finished, which is the first completed Temple built to the name of the Most High, in which the ordinances for the living and the dead can be performed, since the one built by Solomon in the land of Jerusalem, that we have any knowledge of. The Nephites may have built Temples, and in all probability they did, but we have no account of them. We enjoy privileges that no other people enjoy, or have enjoyed. In the days of Solomon, in the Temple that he built in the land of Jerusalem, there was confusion and bickering and strife, even to murder, and the very man that they looked to to give them the keys of life and salvation, they killed because he refused to administer the ordinances to them when the requested it; and whether they got any of them or not, this history does not say anything about.” [DOES THIS COME DIRECTLY OUT OF MASONIC LORE?] (Brigham Young, 22 Apr., 1877; JD 19:220-221)
22 Apr.: Joseph, Hyrum and John Taylor not wearing garments.
“The prophet Joseph Smith pulled off his garments just before starting to Carthage to be slain and he advised Hyrum and John Taylor to do the same, which they did; and Brother Taylor told Brother Willard Richards what they had done and advised him to take off his also, but Brother Richards said that he would not take his off, and did not; said he was not harmed.
Joseph said before taking his garments off, that he was going to be killed. . . . ‘was going as a lamb to the slaughter’ and he did not want his garments to be exposed to the sneers and jeers of his enemies.
These facts all came from President John Taylor’s lips after he was president of the Church.
Elder John Morgan had told them to me as stated to him by Brother Taylor. Sister Lucy B. Young said that Brother John Taylor told her in answer to direct questions, the same, all except with regard to Willard Richards.” (Oliver B. Huntington Diary, Vol II, p. 406; April 22, 1877)
25 Apr.: Manti Temple Hill dedicated by Moroni.
“Early on the morning of April 25th, 1877, President Brigham Young asked Brother Warren S. Snow to go with him to the [Manti] Temple Hill. Brother Snow says: ‘We two were alone: President Young took me to the spot where the Temple was to stand; we went to the southeast corner, and President Young said: “Here is the spot where the Prophet Moroni stood and dedicated this piece of land for a temple site.”‘” (Orson F. Whitney, The Life of Heber C. Kimball, pp. 446-447)
27 Apr.: Sealing keys bestowed by Woodruff, not Brigham.
“I Ordained David Henry Cannon and set him apart to seal at the Altar and give all ordinances in the Temple as He shall be directed by Him who presides over the Temple.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 27 Apr., 1877)
12 May: Only in temples, except in peculiar circumstances
“There are also certain ordinances essential to our exaltation in our Father’s kingdom that can be performed only in Temples, except in certain peculiar circumstances; and in order that we should derive their benefit we are called upon to erect these sacred edifices.” (Charles C. Rich, 12 May, 1877; JD 19:28-29)
13 May: Full blessings of priesthood not yet enjoyed.
“The Melchisedec priesthood held the power and privilege of receiving the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, and enjoying the communion and presence of God the Father and his Son. The lesser, or Aaronic priesthood, was simply an appendage to the Melchisedec, and ministered in the temporal ordinances of the gospel, such as baptism, &c. Since the introduction of these two priesthoods, the Church had passed through many modifications, and the full blessings of the priesthood had not yet been entered into and enjoyed up to the present time.” (Orson Pratt, Minutes of a Special Conference in the New Tabernacle, Salt Lake City, 13 May, 1877; DN 26(15):236, 16 May, 1877)
15 May: Baptisms for health in St. George Temple.
“At the Temple fixing Records. one Sealing for Time. 701 Baptisms for the dead. 26 for health and renewal of covenants.” [Was this the first time baptisms for health were performed in the St. George Temple?] (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 15 May, 1877)
18 May: Logan Temple can be built in 2 1/2 years.
“If we will go to work with all our hearts and with all our souls, we can accomplish it within the time the President has given us. Yes, I will venture to say we can do it in two and a half years, instead of three and a half years. If we can lay aside our narrow, contracted ideas and feel that we are servants of the living God, that we are operating and co-operating with him and with the holy priesthood behind the veil for the accomplishment of this object, then the power and blessing of Almighty God will be upon us and be within us, and we will feel like giants refreshed with new wine, and the work of God will roll on, Zion will arise and shine, and the glory of God will rest upon her.” (John Taylor, at dedication of Logan Temple site, 18 May, 1877; DN 26(20):306, 20 Jun., 1877)
18 May: Brethren to be sealed to brethren.
“Into this house, when it is completed, we expect to enter to enjoy the blessings of the priesthood, and receive our washings, our anointings, our endowments, and our sealings; and the brethren will be sealed to brethren to connect the links and make perfect the chain from ourselves to Father Adam.” (Brigham Young, 18 May, 1877, at the dedication of the temple site at Logan; JD 19:33)
20 May: Why build temples?
“We are commanded to build Temples? Why? what is the great object of building Temples in this dispensation? It is to effect the accomplishment of the very work I have hinted at; the very work of organization that must be completed, by the time the Ancient of Days shall come; the very work that must be introduced, that the children may be more perfectly connected with the fathers of all the former dispensations; and that the Saints of all former dispensations may understand the work that is being done by their children on their behalf, so that when the heavens shall reveal them, they will find things ready to receive them. Before that time, I have no doubt, the generation will have passed away that were living in 1829; but all things will be added to those revelations that the Lord gave to that generation, namely, the records of the ancient Nephites; they existed in great numbers and are of great importance, records kept by their Kings, records of the history of the Nephites for over a thousand years, records of their proceedings and of the things that God had revealed to them, records that were secret, and not permitted to come forth in the days of weakness, records that revealed all things from the foundation of the world to the end thereof, records that were kept when Jesus administered to the Nephites, the ninety-ninth part of which was not written by Mormon, all of which are to come forth. What for? To teach the Latter-day Saints how to organize, how to be prepared for the things that are coming.” (Orson Pratt, 20 May, 1877; JD 19:13-14)
20 May: Stepwise revelation of the temple ordinances.
“The Lord told us, when we were living in the State of New York, to go to the Ohio; there to build a Temple to the name of the Most High. And there the Lord condescended to bestow upon his servants and people a great endowment, a blessing such as was not known among the children of men. And from thence they should go [to] the nations of the earth, and publish these tidings. We went to the Ohio; and after we had been sufficiently taught and instructed, the Lord commanded us through Joseph, to build a Temple, giving the pattern thereof, and the size thereof, the size of the inner and outer courts, the size of the several rooms and apartments, and the form of the pulpits and everything pertaining to it, was given by the inspiration of the Almighty that rested upon Joseph, and upon those associated with him.
When the Temple was built, the Lord did not see proper to reveal all the ordinances of the Endowments, such as we now understand. He revealed little by little. No rooms were prepared for washings; no special place prepared for the anointings, such as you understand, and such as you comprehend at the period of the history of the Church! Neither did we know the necessity of the washings, such as we now receive. It is true, our hands were washed, our faces and our feet. The PRophet Joseph was commanded to gird himself with a towel, doing this in the Temple. What for? That the first Elder might witness to our Father and God, that we were clean from the blood of that wicked generation, that then lived. We had gone forth according to our best ability, to publish glad tidings of great joy, for thousands of miles, upon this continent. After this we were called in, and this washing of hands and feet was to testify to God that we were clean from the blood of this generation. The holy anointing was placed upon the heads of his servants, but not the full development of the Endowments in the anointing. These administrations in the Kirtland Temple were revealed, little by little, corresponding with what I have already been saying, that the Lord does not give the fullness at once, but imparts to us according to his own will and pleasure. Great were the blessings received. We were commanded to seek to behold the face of the Lord; to seek after revelation; to seek after the spirit of prophecy, and the gifts of the Spirit; and many testify to what they saw. But yet they were inexperienced; they had not proven themselves in their religion long enough. They obtained blessings greater than some of them were prepared to receive. They perhaps might have been faithful if they had exercised the agency which God gave them. But how easily are mankind toppled first this way, then that way, and are led astray, even after the heavens were opened and chariots and horses of fire, as well as angels were seen: still many of these brethren apostatized.
Now perhaps some of you may say, ‘Withhold these things; do not send angels; do not bestow the gifts of prophecy, if by being so blessed we are in danger of apostatizing from our religion.’ This is the other extreme; on the other hand, we are commanded to seek the face of the Lord always, that we may possess our souls in patience. Again, about three years after the organization of the Church, the Lord gave a revelation contained in the Doctrine and Covenants, saying, ‘It shall come to pass that every soul that comes to me, obeys my commandments, and hearkens to my voice, and calls upon my name, shall see my face, and know that I am.’ He has ordained that in his holy House, in a Temple built to his name, these great blessings shall be made manifest to his servants and people.” (Orson Pratt, 20 May, 1877; JD 19:15-17)
20 May: Temples are places to see the face of God.
“In another revelation given in an early period of the history of the Church, the Lord commanded his people to build unto him a House, promising that if they built a house unto his name, according to the commandment and pattern which should be given, and providing they suffered no unclean thing to enter it, so that it should not be defiled, the Lord himself would appear in it; his presence would be there; his glory would be there; and all that should go into that House, who were pure in heart, should see him. Here then you perceive that there are certain places appointed, and certain provisions to be complied with, before the face of the Lord can be seen. He has said that his people are always to build unto his name a house. What for? That his name might be there; that his angels might be there; that his presence might be there; and that there the fullness of the holy Priesthood might be more fully revealed, and that there all the ordinances might be performed, that were ordained from before the foundation of the world. This is the object of Temples. It is to connect the children to the fathers: it is to bring about an organization between the living and the dead. It is seen that when the seventh angel shall sound his trumpet, preparatory to the coming of the Son of Man; when the Saints shall receive their inheritances and be made equal with him, they, the dead, as well as the living, receive their inheritances; that will be a perfect organization. When Adam, and Enoch, and his Zion, and all the righteous men before the flood, and all the holy patriarchs and Prophets of the eastern and western Continents, men who lived on the earth as strangers and pilgrims, but who through the eye of faith were permitted to behold, that in the dispensation of the fullness of times, all things would be gathered in one that were in Christ, even all things which are in heaven and which are on the earth; I say that when all these receive their inheritances, this will be an organization that takes hold of eternity, that takes hold of the children of God in all ages, that unites all dispensations in one, that brings all the kingdoms, and authorities, and powers, of all other dispensations, and unites them in one; and upon whom knowledge like a flood will be poured out even upon the vast congregations of the Church of the First Born, the living and the dead, for the dead will then be living.” (Orson Pratt, 20 May, 1877; JD 19:18-19)
20 May: Future temples will have additional functions.
“By and by we will have Temples, with a great many things contained in them which we now have not; for with them, as with all other things, the Lord begins little by little; he does not reveal everything all at once. He gave the pattern of these things in Kirtland, Ohio, as the beginning; but there were not rooms for the washings, no rooms such as we have now, and such as were prepared in the Nauvoo Temple; and in other respects, there was something added to the Nauvoo Temple. Why? Because we had greater experience, and were prepared for greater things. There was no font in the basement story of the Kirtland Temple, for baptismal purposes in behalf of the dead? Why not! Because that principle was not revealed. But in the Nauvoo Temple this font was prepared, which was something in advance of the Kirtland Temple. We have, of late, constructed a Temple in St. George. Blessings have been administered in that Temple, that were totally unknown in the two former Temples, namely, endowments for the dead. Again, by and by, we build a Temple in Jackson County, Missouri. Will it be built according to the pattern of our present Temples? No. There will be, according to the progress of this people, and the knowledge they receive, and the greatness of the work that is before them, many things, pertaining to the pattern, that will then be given, which will differ materially, or will be, at least, in addition to that which is in these Temples now built. I think if you will go and search in the Church Historian’s office, you will find a plan of a Temple, that is to be built in Jackson County, which will be very different from the little Temples we now build. By and by there will be a Temple built at Jerusalem. Who do you think is going to build it? You may think that it will be the unbelieving Jews who rejected the Savior. I believe that that which is contained on the 77th page of the Book of Mormon, as well as in many other places, in that same book, will be literally fulfilled. The Temple at Jerusalem wil undoubtedly be built, by those who believe in the true Messiah. Its construction will be, in some respects different from the Temples now being built. It will contain the throne of the Lord, upon which he will, at times, personally sit, and will reign over the house of Israel for ever. It may also contain twelve other thrones, on which the twelve ancient Apostles will sit, and judge the twelve tribes of Israel. It will, very likely, have an apartment, with a table, on which food and drink will be prepared, such as are suitable to the taste and happiness of immortal resurrected beings, thus fulfilling the words of Jesus–‘Ye that have followed me in the regeneration shall eat and drink at my table, and sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.'” (Orson Pratt, 20 May, 1877; JD 19:19-20)
25 May: No seats for 12 and 70s in new temples.
“When temples are built you will not see seats provided for the Twelve, not in this temple at any rate. The upper seat on the stand in the east end of the building will be for the First Presidency; the next seat below will be for the presidency of the Stake of Zion, the next seat below will be for the presidency of the High Priests’ Quorum. The upper stand at the west end of the temple will be for those holding the Bishopric; the next will be for the presidents of the Quorums of Priests after the order of Aaron; the next below for the presidents of the Quorums of Teachers; and the next for the presidents of the quorum of Deacons. What, says one, no seat is provided for the Twelve, is not this their home? No, their homes are all over the earth, preaching the Gospel, building up the Kingdom, regulating the affairs of the Kingdom of God upon the earth; and we take them in as visitors. Are there places to be provided for the Seventies? No, the temples have seats provided for the First Presidency and the local authorities and not for the traveling ministry. The Twelve and the Seventies are traveling quorums to all the inhabitants of the earth. In the Stakes of Zion the Seventies should be willing to labor as directed by the bishops and the presidency of the Stake. They may meet with the High Priests or with the Elders as they may choose and they will always be welcome if the High Priests and Elders feel as they should do.” (Brigham Young, 25 May, 1877; LDS Archives, Pq M251.3 B855 195-?; see DN 6 Jun., 1877)
May: I knew my mother was there.
“Persons have told me of seeing their dead friends for whom they have officiated, manifesting themselves to them. In my own case, in May, 1877, when endowments were being given for my mother by Sister Harriet Y. Brown of Kanab, I knew my mother was there and remained all through the services. She went with us into the sealing room, and twice, while I was at the altar, I turned my head to look at her, for I felt her presence by me. Though I did not see her features, I knew she was there, and knew when she left the room after the ceremony was completed.” (M. F. Farnsworth, “Temple Manifestations,” Contributor 16(1):64, Nov., 1894)
2 Jun.: Recording forms for temples devised.
“‘St. George, June 2, 1877
Elder Frank Farnsworth,
Kanab, Utah.
Dear Brother: Your services are required as a Recorder in the St. George Temple. Come at your earliest convenience. Terms: Put your trust in God, and we will do the best we can for you and your family.
Wilford Woodruff.’
I immediately responded and arrived at St. George June 14, and was set to work. President Woodruff said to me ‘Brother Farnsworth, you may wonder why I called you here. When President Brigham Young went away, leaving me to preside over the temple, he left me a list of names from which I could call for all the help I needed. Your names was on the list. We have tried recorders but they soon tire and it seems a task to get those who will stay. If I was to offer four or five dollars a day I could perhaps get men, but we don’t want that class of men. I want men that will throw their whole heart into this work. Our records are crude, our boxes are full of papers piled up and I want you to take hold of them. Don’t work too hard, this is hot country. When you feel you need a rest, take it. Work when you want to work, and quit when you want to. Now, will you take hold of this work and stay with it?’ I replied, ‘I will try.’
At that time temple work was new to the people. There were no proper books and no good form adopted. We had to do our own ruling and heading. It was an almost Herculean task, but by close application we were enabled to get things into a proper shape. I ruled the forms which were adopted and books made.” [He spent 11 years as recorder at the St. George Temple, another 19 years as recorder at the Manti temple, until his death in 1906.] (Moses Franklin Farnsworth autobiographical sketch; in Our Pioneer Heritage, 3:222-223, 1960)
8 Jun.: McAllister performs 2nd anointings.
“2nd Annointings by myself 2 Living and 3 dead, total 5.” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 8 Jun., 1877)
13 Jun.: Jackson Co. Temple to be built this generation.
“Among the many other precious blessings to be obtained through the building of temples here, it may be very profitable in an educational point of view. By this present movement of building such structures, a large number of the young men are becoming skilled in work of that nature, preparing them, if required, to take part in the rearing of the magnificent structure which is to grace the Centre Stake of Zion, Jackson County, Missouri, in the present generation. Upon that house a pillar of cloud will rest by day, and a pillar of fire by night, and the glory of the Lord will fill it, and a people have to be prepared in the school of experience to rear it.
Many people may suppose that the prophecy given through the Prophet Joseph Smith in relation to that particular Temple will never be fulfilled. It has been demonstrated, however, that he was a true prophet. The numberless instances of the fulfilment of his predictions attest the validity of this position. These fulfilments stand, like the rock of ages, upon the foundation of truth, showing to all the world, who will not suffer their minds to be blinded with the murky clouds of prejudice, that Joseph Smith was what he claimed to be. Those proofs, like the evidences of the inteeligence and general virtues of the Latter-day Saints, stand as way marks that cannot be obliterated.” (Reprint of report of 13 Jun.; DN 26(20):305, 20 Jun., 1877)
15 Jun.: Baptism may improve health, even in the cold.
“Children sometimes when born in the winter are afraid of the cold water, but by encouraging them and teaching them the principle of faith they will have confidence that no injury will result from their baptism at such a time. Probably hundreds of persons have been baptized in this Church in the depth of winter when the ice has had to be cut for them to go in the water, and when their clothes have frozen upon them as soon as they came out, yet without the least injury resulting therefrom. In fact we have known delicate females baptized under such circunstances who have had their health improved by the baptism. But parents can easily arrange so as not to expose their children even though they should have to baptize them in the depth of winter. With the conveniences we now have for attending to such ordinances all risk can be avoided.” (George Q. Cannon, JI 12(12):138, 15 Jun., 1877)
17 Jun.: “Until every one is officiated for.”
“Never have I seen to so great an extent that willingness to labor for the cause of righteousness, as was witnessed in the Temple, at St. George, last winter. The Spirit of God pervaded the hearts of the brethren and sisters, and how willing they were to labor! This work will continue, and the brethren and sisters will go into the Temples of the Lord, to officiate for those who have died without the Gospel from the days of Father Adam to the winding-up scene, until every one is officiated for; who can or will receive the Gospel so that all may have the opportunity and privileges of live and salvation.
Don’t you think we have a work to perform? Yes, and it will take a thousand years to accomplish it.” (Brigham Young, 17 Jun., 1877; JD 19:45)
3 Jul.: Baptisms for health in St. George Temple.
“in the Temple as usual fixing Records &c 461 Baptisms for 12 for health 149 for the dead [sic].” (J. D. T. McAllister diary, 3 Jul., 1877)
4 Jul.: Genealogical Records.
“GENEALOGICAL RECORDS.
It is highly interesting for a man to be able to trace his relationship generations back to a remote ancestry, with the various collateral bearings of the same, or at least the more important and immediate of them, and some people are very assiduous and particular in gathering and recording every important particular of the kind that is conveniently accessible to them. Thousands of dollars and much time and labor have been spent in this country in hunting up genealogical links in various families, especially in New England of late years, many persons taking a very great interest in the same. But to no people is this subject of so great importance as the Latter-day Saints, who have before them the far-reaching task of administering and receiving the ordinances of the Gospel for their deceased relatives and progenitors who did not receive the Gospel and attend to those ordinances in this life. Consequently, to the Latter-day Saints the subject of their genealogical records is one of the greatest interest, and important particulars of the same should not be left to memory, but should be carefully committed to paper, as well as the family relations which they are entering into or which come upon them from year to year. In some families the family Bible has been made to do duty as a record of family relationships. But many have felt a pressing necessity for something better suited to the purpose, and of a durable nature.
In order to supply this much needed want we have prepared a record book which may be called a Family Record of Ancestors and Descendants, with different forms for different purposes. The first form is that of a ‘Family Record,’ with ruled and lettered spaces for births, marriages, and deaths, in each family, also for names, dates, and places, one page accommodating one family.
The second form is a ‘Church Record,’ with ruled and lettered spaces for blessings, baptisms, confirmations, ordinations, endowments, and patriarchal blessings and various particulars of the same.
The third form is a ‘Sealing Record,’ with spaces for name of persons sealed, birth, death, time, place, etc.
The fourth form is a ‘Baptism for the Dead Record,’ with spaces for names, dates, birth, death, baptism, confirmation, etc.
We have canvassing copies ready. These Records are well printed and ruled on good ledger paper, substantially bound in full sheep, English roan, or back. We can furnish them of any size, from one to five quires, or larger, but probably five quires is as large as will be desired. We can also fuirnish the various forms in a record, proportioned to each other to order.” (DN 26(22):344, 4 Jul., 1877)
9 Jul.: We will have an Aaronic Endowment.
“Prs. E. Snow said, when we can get time, we will give Endowment for Each Priesthood separate, and after a while when Temples is built we will give Endowment to each according to what Priesthood they hold; they we will give men the Endowment of the Aronic Priesthood and nothing else.” (Jans Christian Anderson Weibye Daybooks; CHO, Daybook #5, p. 60; July 9, 1877. Typed as in the original without use of [sic]. J.C.A. Weibye born Sept 26, 1824; died Feb 28, 1893.)
29 Jul.: To become Saviors on Mount Zion.
“Why are we building Temples here? Because it is part of our mission. Elias was to come to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to the fathers, lest, say the Scriptures, I come and smite the earth with a curse. In this is the wisdom of God made manifest, and the power of God displayed. In this he shows as he has represented in the revelations that he would show, that the wisdom of God was greater than the cunning of the Devil, for those that Satan thought he had destroyed, that were cast into prison, Jesus went and delivered, and preached unto those spirits in prison who sometime were disobedient in the days of Noah. Again, in relation to the position that we occupy here upon the earth. We are gathered to Mount Zion. We are spoken of as being saviors. ‘Saviors shall stand upon Mount Zion, and the kingdom shall be the Lord’s.’ How can men be saviors unless they save somebody? That would be a matter of impossibility; hence we may go to work and build our Temples. Why? That we may carry out that mission that Elias came about, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to the fathers; that our fathers, who have lived without the Gospel, and without the light of truth thereof, that we may administer for them in these Temples, and be baptised for them, as the Scriptures say: ‘If the dead rise not, why are ye baptised for the dead?’ and ‘Why,’ says the Apostle, ‘stand ye in jeopardy every hour?’ We go to work then and build Temples, and is this message that we have come upon a message of terror, trouble, misery, and confusion? No. It is a message of life to the people.” (John Taylor, 29 Jul., 1877; JD 19:81-82)
29 Jul.: Temple work for all worthy who have ever lived.
“God has introduced a plan whereby all that have lived upon the earth, that are worthy in any respect or honorable, and all that have desired to do right, who have lived without the Gospel, shall yet have the privilege of it, and they shall be baptised for, according to a certain order that God has indicated in relation to these matters to his Priesthood here upon this earth; and will God be thwarted? No.” (John Taylor, 29 Jul., 1877; JD 19:83)
10 Aug.: 2nd anointing by non-General Authority.
“Second Anointing. Living 6 dead 2 total 8. Sealings and second anointings by myself.” (John Daniel Thompson McAllister diary, 10 Aug., 1877. BYU Special Collections Typescript.)
11 Aug.: Linkage of priesthood reorg., temples, U.O.
“In consequence of tradition and the weakness of our human nature, we could not bring our feelings to obey this holy requirement [Order of Enoch]. The Spirit had prompted him [Brigham] to see if the brethren would do anything by way of an approach to it, and hence we had commenced to build Temples, which was a very necessary work and which was centering the feelings of the people for a still further union of effort. . . . He said that after something had been done towards Temple-building, the same Spirit whispered to perfect the organization of the Priesthood.” (Salt Lake Stake Historical Record Book, 11 Aug., 1877, HDC; in William G. Hartley, “The Priesthood Reorganization of 1877: Brigham Young’s Last Achievement,” BYU Studies 20(1):10, Fall, 1979)
19 Aug.: Why we fear death.
“Br Woodroof spoke on the influence the Temple had upon the People of St George and throughout the settlements of the Saints, and that those holy men and women who officiated in the house of the Lord for their kindred dead would have it to meet in the spirit world and would be looked upon with joy and as saviours on mount Zion. And on Friday last while speaking at the Funeral of Matilda Moody he said we should improve the present time and doo all we could for our dead ere death called us away. He refered to a saying of Joseph Smith, which he heard him utter (like this) That if the People knew what was behind the vail, they would try by every means to commit suicide that they might get there, but the Lord in his wisdom had implanted the fear of death in every person that they might cling to life and thus accomplish the designs of their creator.” (Charles L. Walker diary, 19 Aug., 1877)
22/24 Aug.: Famous men ordained High Priests by proxy.
“[22nd] Ordained 2 High Priest for George Washington and John Wesley, and 4 Elders. Total ordained 40. . . [24th] Ordained 2 High Priest One for Christopher Colombus.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 22 & 24 Aug., 1877)
2 Sep.: Tabernacle draped in black for Brigham’s funeral.
“The building was handsomely decorated. From the immense ceiling which arches over the whole interior without a pillar, strands of flowers were looped in rich profusion, a massive and elegant floral centre piece depending from the midst, while wreaths were festooned from column to column under the entire gallery, with basket bouquets pendant, and each column, with the organ, the stands and the whole front of the platform tastefully draped in black.”
(DN 26(31):489, 5 Sep., 1877)
2 Sep.: Brigham wanted a spacious coffin.
“Elder George Q. Cannon: Nearly four years ago President Young, in company with a number of other Elders, wrote his instructions which he and they desired to have left on record concerning their funerals. It was his written request that his instructions upon this subject be read at his funeral. They are as follows:
. . . .
When I breathe my last I wish my friends to put my body in as clean and wholesome state as can conveniently be done and preserve the same for one, two, three or four days, or as long as my body can be preserved in a good condition. I want my coffin made of plump 1 1/4 inch redwood boards not scrimped in length, but two inches longer than I would measure, and from two to three inches wider than is commonly made for a person of my breadth and size, and deep enough to place me on a little comfortable cotton bed with a good suitable pillow for size and quality: my body dressed in my Temple clothing and laid nicely into my coffin, and the coffin to have the appearance that if I wanted to turn a little to the right or to the left I should have plenty of room to do so; the lid can be made crowning. Sunday, November 9, 1873.”
(DN 26(31):493, 5 Sep., 1877)
2 Sep.: OK to wear black at Brigham’s funeral.
“Elder George Q. Cannon: Nearly four years ago President Young, in company with a number of other Elders, wrote his instructions which he and they desired to have left on record concerning their funerals. It was his written request that his instructions upon this subject be read at his funeral. They are as follows:
. . . .
At my interment I wish all of my familiy present that can be conveniently, and the male members wear no crape on their hats or their coats; the females to buy no black bonnets, nor black dresses, nor black veils; but if they have them, they are at liberty to wear them. Sunday, November 9, 1873.”
(DN 26(31):493, 5 Sep., 1877)
2 Sep.: Brigham wanted to be buried in Jackson Co.
“Elder George Q. Cannon: Nearly four years ago President Young, in company with a number of other Elders, wrote his instructions which he and they desired to have left on record concerning their funerals. It was his written request that his instructions upon this subject be read at his funeral. They are as follows:
. . . .
I wish this to be read at the funeral, providing, that if I should die anywhere in the Mountains, I desire the above directions respecting my place of burial to be observed; buty if I should live to go back with the Church, to Jackson County, I wish to be buried there. Sunday, November 9th, 1873.”
(DN 26(31):493, 5 Sep., 1877)
2 Sep.: Dedication of Brigham’s grave.
“The following Dedicatory prayer was offered by Elder Wilford Woodruff:
O God, our Eternal Father, we present ourselves before thee, in the name of Jesus Christ, to say that we have committed to this tomb the tabernacle of thy servant President Brigham Young, and before closing our labors and services and duties towards him, we wish to dedicate unto thee this vault, with all its contents and surroundings. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by authority of the holy priesthood and apostleship, we dedicate this ground and this vault with all the materials of which it is composed, that it may be holy unto the Lord our God. We dedicate this coffin, and the box which contains it, that it may be holy unto the Lord our God. We also dedicate the body itself, the tabernacle of thy servant, unto the Lord our God, that it may be holy unto thee. And we pray in the name of Jesus Christ that this body may sleep here in peace a few days, until the time shall come when by the power of God and the keys of the resurrection, it shall come forth clothed with glory, immortality and eternal lives, with crowns, kingdoms, principalities and powers, as they have been and will be appointed unto him. Yes, our Father, this same tabernacle, which has borne the burden and heat of the day, which ahs borne testimony through its life of the establishment of the kingdom of God, preached the gospel of Christ and performed its work faithfully, thjis mortal body which has suffered pain and sickness, persecution and death, may then arise in glory and power to attain to its throne, clothed in glory and immortality, in connection with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and the propehts, and all the holy men who shall then judge the inhabitants of the earth, even those who have lived in his day and generation, to whom he has been faithful in bearing testimony of thy word and work. . . .” (DN 26(31):496, 5 Sep., 1877)
16 Sep.: Joseph’s conferral of all keys to the Twelve.
“The Prophet Joseph was moved upon by divine inspiration in the establishment of this Church. And before his death he called the Twelve Apostles together, whom he had called to the ministry by revelation, intimating that he was going to leave them, that he would shortly be called home to rest. And he talked with them and instructed them for weeks and months in the ordinances and laws of the Gospel; and he sealed upon their heads all the Priesthood, keys and powers that had been conferred upon him by the angels of God. And then, in addressing them he said, ‘Brethren, no matter what becomes of me, or what my fate may be, you have got to round up your shoulders and bear of[f?] this kingdom; the God of heaven requires it at your hands. I have desired,’ said he, ‘to see the Temple completed, but I shall not be spared to see it, but you will.’ Although he spoke so plainly to us, intimating that his end drew near, we could no more get it into our hearts that he was going to be martyred, any more than the Apostles could comprehend the meaning of the Savior when he told them he was going away, and that if he did not leave them, the Comforter could not come.” (Wilford Woodruff, 16 Sep., 1877; JD 19:226)
16 Sep.: Dead will be after you to do their temple work.
“We have labored in the St. George Temple since January, and we have done all we could there; and the Lord has stirred up our minds, and many things have been revealed to us concerning the dead. President Young has said to us, and it is verily so, if the dead could they would speak in language loud as ten thousand thunders, calling upon the servants of God to rise up and build Temples, magnify their calling and redeem their dead. This doubtless sounds strange to those present who believe not the faith and doctrine of the Latter-day Saints; but when we get to the spirit-world we will find out that all that God has revealed is true. We will find, too, that everything there is reality, and that God has a body, parts and passions, and the erroneous ideas that exist now with regard to him will have passed away. I feel to say little else to the Latter-day Saints wherever and whenever I have the opportunity of speaking to them, than to call upon them to build these Temples now under way, to hurry them up to completion. The dead will be after you, they will seek after you as they have after us in St. George. They called uopn us, knowing that we held the keys and power to redeem us.
I will here say, before closing, that two weeks before I left St. George, the spirits of the dead gathered around me, wanting to know why we did not redeem them. Said they, ‘You have had the use of the Endowment House for a number of years, and yet nothing has ever been done for us. We laid the foundation of the government you now enjoy, and we never apostatized from it, but we remained true to it and were faithful to God.’ These were the signers of the Declaration of Independence, and they waited on me for two days and two nights. I thought it very singular, that notwithstanding so much work had been done, and yet nothing had been done for them. The thought never entered my heart, from the fact, I suppose, that heretofore our minds were reaching after our more immediate friends and relatives. I straightway went into the baptismal font and called upon brother McCallister to baptize me for the signers of the Declaration of Independence, and fifty other eminent men, making one hundred in all, including John Wesley, Columbus, and others; I then baptized him for every President of the United States, except three; and when their cause is just, somebody will do the work for them.
I have felt to rejoice exceedingly in this work of redeeming the dead. I do not wonder at President Young saying he felt moved upon to call upon the Latter-day Saints to hurry up the building of these Temples. He felt the importance of the work; but now he has gone, it rests with us to continue it, and God will bless our labors and we will have joy therein. This is a preparation necessary for the second advent of the Savior; and when we shall have built the Temple now contemplated, we will then begin to see the necessity of building others, for in proportion to the diligence of our labors in this direction, will we comprehend the extent of the work to be done, and the present is only a beginning. When the Savior comes, a thousand years will be devoted to this work of redemption; and Temples will appear all over this land of Joseph,–North and South America–and also in Europe and elsewhere; and all the descendants of Shem, Ham and Japheth who received not the Gospel in the flesh, must be officiated for in the Temples of God, before the Savior can present the kingdom to the Father, sayingk, ‘It is finished.'” (Wilford Woodruff, 16 Sep., 1877; JD 19:229-230)
1 Oct.: Temples lessen the influence of Satan.
“Every temple founded and completed is an additional power to lessen the influence and dominion of Satan upon the earth and over the souls of the children of men. The Latter-day Saints must become a temple building people. The great work of this last dispensation is to rear temples, in which ordinances can be administered for the salvation of the living and of the dead. This is a most important part of the great mission devolving upon us. It is a glorious work, and one in which all should take interest, both old and young, and devote their means and all that is necessary to carry it forward to completion.” (George Q. Cannon, JI 12(19):222, 1 Oct., 1877)
3 Oct.: Church policy on divorce.
“DIVORCE.
We publish, as an item of news, the report of the Grand Jury in relation to divorce matters in Salt Lake County. The particulars set forth in that document are of a remarkable character. Whether they are correct or incorrect we are not able to state. Reports have been previously made in this city from committees appointed by grand juries, which were absolutely false and evidently concocted with malicious intent. We have no doubt, after perusing the present committee’s report as adopted by the Grand Jury, that explanations from the Probate Judge would materially alter the appearance of the case, and demonstrate the fact that a similar animus to that which prompted the former garbled and mendacious report which was almost universally condemned some time ago, has had considerable to do with the present statement. However, we leave the facts in the matter to be explained by those who are personally interested, believing that the Probate Judge is abundantly able, if proper time is afforded him, to give a sufficient answer to every allegation.
But we deem it a duty we owe to the people of Utah, to correct the public mind upon the views of the ‘Mormon’ Church on the subject of divorce. It has been represented by many newspapers as well as by pulpit orators, that the putting away of wives is a common practise of the ‘Mormon’ people, and that it is fully in accordance with their religious doctrines. This statement is entirely without foundation in fact.
The teachings of this Church are utterly hostile to divorce. Marriage is represented as a sacrament. It is not only binding until death, but contracted for time and all eternity, and sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise under the authority of one holding the power to ‘seal on earth’ so that it shall be ‘sealed in heaven.’ There is nothing in any of the revelations believed in by the Latter-day Saints that encourages a man to put away his wife. The doctrine of the Church is that he is not justified in doing so except in case of adultery. And even in such cases, which we are happy to say have been of very rare occurrence, the husband has generally been advised, if the wife was repentant, not to cast her off, but to provide and care for her that she might not be impelled to travel in the path of evil.
And the general practice has been in accord with these teachings. Cases in which the husband has applied for a divorce from his wife are exceedingly scarce. Wives have applied for divorces from their husbands, and their request has been usually granted. And the women so sundering their family obligations have generally obtained such a pecuniary settlement as more than covered the demands of justice so far as they were concerned.
It may be asked, why grant divorces at all if the Church does not encourage them? The answer is for the same reason that Moses permitted them to the people in his day–‘because of the hardness of their hearts.’ And, under the system of plural marriage practised in this Church, it would be considered a system of bondage, if women desiring to sever their relations with a husband having other wives, were refused the liberty they might demand. But it has been clearly announced, and it is generally understood, that unless for the gravest offences committed by the husband, the wife is under transgression before God who becomes divorced from her earthly head, to whom she has been united by the most sacred covenants and holy obligations.
Any departure from this course marked out by the Church for its members, no matter by whom it is taken, is contrary to the letter and spirit of the gospel taught therein, and to the sayings of Christ and the holy prophets. In adding other wives to his family a man has no right to ‘deal treacherously with the wife of his youth.’ And, as the Bible declares, ‘God hateth putting away.’ His anger is denounced against those who violate their marriage vows by divorce, but not a single word of disapprobation can be found in the sacred records against a man’s marrying wives, providing it is done in the way marked out by Divine commandment.
The charge that the ‘Mormon’ Church encourages or connives at the granting of secret divorces for people not residing in this Territory is untrue. If anything of this kind has been practised it is not endorsed by the teachings of the Church nor the sentiments of the community. We have no hesitation in saying that they are utterly opposed to anything of this character, and consider it unlawful, unrighteous and indefensible. The law on divorce as it now stands on the Utah statute book is imperfect there is no doubt. Some changes might be made in it with advantage. That clause, particularly, which allows divorce under certain regulations, ‘If the court is satisfied that the person so applying is a resident of the Territory or wishes to become one.’ The words in italics, in our opinion, should be expunged from the law, and we believe this is the view of the matter held by a great many members of the Legisloature, who will no doubt take this subject up at the next sitting of the Assembly. But even this law, honestly administered, would admit of very little, if any, real evil. The court is to be satisfied of the facts in the case. True some persons may be more easily ‘satisfied’ than others in regard to any matter of fact, opinion or principle, but the law when framed meant bona fide satisfaction. And it is but very recently that any attempts have been made to take advantage of the loophole to be obtained by wresting and perverting that one phrase of the law. It was framed in 1852 and has stood in the statutes all these years without working injury, until within a very brief period.
We are not arguing in favor of the statute as at present worded; we do not wish to defend any one who has perverted its letter or spirit to do evil for dollars, if any such there be; we do know that any one is worthy of censure in this regard; we do not accept the one-sided unanswered statements of the Grand Jury, evidently inspired with a desire to make trouble for the Probate Court; but we do wish it to be distinctly understood by Jew and Gentile, ‘Mormon and anti’Mormon, Christian and Pagan, that divorce in general is repugnant to the feelings and faith of the Latter-day Saints, and contrary to the doctrine of the Church to which they belong; that such divorces as are obtained by fraud, intrigue and illegal schemes and methods, wherever and whenever secured, are viewed by the Church and its faithful members with abhorrence and disgust; and that they do not fellowship the deeds and doings of any persons in or out of this Territory, if such there by, who trade upon the passions and vices of erring humanity, and lend themselves to secret schemes for the disruption of family ties that should be held as sacred, inviolable and indissoluble.” (DN 26(35):552, 3 Oct., 1877)
6 Oct.: Chain of sealings and adoptions.
“The Lord has sent the prophet Elijah according to promise, with the power of turning the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to the fathers; that the children may begin to look after and to do the necessary works for the fathers; while the fathers, on the other hand, who receive the gospel in the spirit world, are influencing the heavens in our behalf, that we may be strengthened to accomplish this work and prevail over the enemy, and do for them what they are unable to do for themselves.
It was with the comprehensive view of this great work, and the connection of the fathers with the children, from the beginning of the world down to the end thereof, that the Apostle Paul spoke unto this subject, relating to the fathers who died in the faith, and what they accomplished while living. He sums up their mighty works of faith, closing with this remark: ‘God having provided some better things for us, that they without us shall not be made perfect.’ And we are now able to supplement the words of Paul, by saying, God having provided some better things for us the Latter-day Saints that they, the fathers, cannot be made perfect without us nor we without them; for the priesthood and the new and everlasting covenant wherewith we are bound together, is like a chain connecting the children to the fathers from the beginning of the world to the end thereof. And if any links have been broken through that sin which is unto death, which finds no forgiveness in this world, or the world to come, such links must be dropped out, and the next one welded in and the chain made complete. And these sealings or adoptions, whether of the living or the dead, must continue from this time forward, and also go back repairing the chain from the beginning; that if there is a link broken anywhere, there may be a new weld, and the chain of the priesthood be completed. And this is the work of that New and everlasting Gospel which is the same covenant that was from the beginning, but is revealed anew unto us. There must not only be a welding of the chain of priesthood, but a welding together of all dispensations, and keys, and powers and authorities that have come from God unto men from the beginning of the world unto the end thereof. And not only must this be done in form, according to the law, but it must be in spirit and in truth.” (Erastus Snow, 6 Oct., 1877; DN 26(44):690, 5 Dec., 1877)
7 Oct.: The urge to build Temples.
“There has been a feeling working gradually upon the minds of the Saints that many could not comprehend, nor tell where it came from, and that is to build Temples. President Young, the Twelve and the people generally have felt drawn out in their feelings with an almost unaccountable desire for the accomplishment of this object; and why? Can you tell me the reason? It is very difficult sometimes to explain some of these matters to the human mind. You heard this morning about Moses appearing in the Temple at Kirtland, committing to Joseph Smith the Keys of the Gathering Dispensation, over which Moses presided anciently, and over which he presides to-day. Unless those keys had been restored and you had partaken of that influence and spirit, would you have been here to-day? No, you would not. When the Gospel went forth among the people, after the appearing of Moses in the Temple, and the committing of the Keys of the Gathering, when you Latter-day Saints received the Gospel of baptism for remission of sins and the laying on of hands for the reception of the Holy Ghost, you also received the spirit of the gathering. You Elders before me to-day might have preached until your tongues had cleaved to the roof of your mouth, but if the Spirit of God had not accompanied your administration in this regard, you could have accomplished nothing of any worth. At the time this messenger came, there appeared another, even Elijah, whose mission was to turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest (says the Lord) I come and smite the earth with a curse. He committed these keys. But before they were committed, what was done in the Temple? Did we baptize for the dead there? No, we did not. Why? Because the keys were not given. When they were given and afterwards when the Temple was built in Nauvoo, then that spirit accompanied it, and we began to feel after our fathers behind the vail, and they likewise began to feel after their children. Brother Woodruff, who has been ministering in the St. George Temple, could relate to you if he had the time, many things of great importance, associated with these matters. Suffice it to say that the purposes of God pertaining to the human family, which he had in his mind before this world rolled into existence, or the morning stars sang together for joyk, all have to be accomplished in the salvation of the living and in the redemption of the dead. These things you are acquainted with: it is not necessary for me to talk much upon these subjects. But I merely wish to refer to the spirit and influence and power that have operated upon the Saints, and which are operating upon them throughout the length and breadth of this Territory. That comes from the Priesthood which existed before; it comes because the keys of that Priesthood have again been restored to man. What is the result? Why, a desire to build Temples. What for? That we may administer therein in those ordinances in which they and we are so greatly interested. You heard through brother Woodruff how many more administrations there had been for the dead than for the living. This is because Elijah has been here and has delivered the keys that turn the hearts of the children to the fathers, and we are beginning to feel after them. Hence we are building a Temple here, one in Sanpete, another in Cache Valley, and we have one already built in St. George, all of which I think will be quite creditable buildings, which the Lord and holy angels will accept. Do we devote our labor and our means? Yes, we do; and it is this spirit which rests upon us that is prompting us to do it, and it will not let us rest until these things are done. Why? Because the keys of the Priesthood have brough us in connection with the Priesthood in the heavens, of which we are a part, belonging to the Church of the First Born, whose names are written in heaven. They are interested in their children, whose children are our fathers. We have been called together for the purpose, among other things, of operating with them in this work; for they without us are not made perfect, as the Scripture tells us. Therefore it is necessary that we should be here, building Temples and ministering therein, that their seed and posterity may be hunted up and looked after. We without them cannot be made perfect, for we need the help and assistance and the power of God to sustain and guide and direct us in our labors and administrations. This is the thing Prest. Young has been engaged in with all his might, mind and strength; this is the thing my brethren of the Twelve had been engaged in, and what we are engaged in to-day. This is the thing that ll Israel ought to be engaged in, for we are living only for a short time here, and by and by we shall pass away, as our President has done; but it will only be to associate with another Priesthood, or the same, if you please, in the eternal worlds, for the one is combined and united with the other. The Priesthood that has lived before, and that which lives now are eternal, and administer in time and in eternity; and the principles which God has revealed to us draw aside the curtains of the eternal worlds, giving us a glimpse within the vail, where Christ, our Forerunner, has gone. We are gathered together, ‘one of a city and two of a family,’ as the Prophet said they should be. And he says, ‘I will bring you to Zion.’ What will he do with them when he has brought them there? ‘I will give them pastors after my own heart, which shall feed them with knowledge and understanding.’ Again, ‘Saviors shall come up on Mount Zion, to Judge the Mount of Esau; and the kingdom shall be the Lord’s.’ Some talk about empires and kingdoms being built up by man. This is the Lord’s kingdom and not man’s. The Lord is our God, he is our king and our lawgiver, and he shall rule over us; and we will seek for and obtain his help and power. Saviors shall come up on Mount Zion, say the Scriptures. What is a Savior? One who saves another, is it not? How could any man save people if he knew not how, and how could he know except the Lord teach him? The world often finds fault with us. There are no greater benefactors to the world in existence than the Latter-day Saints are. There are no persons who have done more for the benefit of mankind, according to their number, than this people have. President Young, who is dead, and a number of others who have passed away, as well as the Twelve and thousands of others who still tarry, have traveled the length and breadth of the earth, without purse or scrip, to preach the glad tidings of salvation which heaven revealed to them. Do you find anybody else that has done it, or that is doing it, outside of this Church? No, such a thing is unheard of. We have gone forth, as the Scriptures say, bearing precious seed, and have returned again rejoicing, bringing our sheaves with us. Is this anything to hurt anybody? Does it interfere in the least with the rights of any? No. Are there any in this city, who are not of us, that can show that their religious rights, privileges, or principles have been interfered with or infringed upon by the Latter-day Saints, or by the authorities of this Church? No, not one. If I knew of any that were in any way being interfered with, I would be the first to protect them. These are our feelings towards the world, and to those who say all manner of evil against us.” (John Taylor, 7 Oct., 1877; JD 19:125-127)
7 Oct.: Patrons should take offerings to St. Geo. Temple.
“[Wilford Woodruff speaking.] Those who contemplated going to St. George for their blessings in the Temple should not forget to take with them their offerings, for there were many engaged in that Temple day by day without any remuneration whatever.” (General Conference Minutes, 7 Oct., 1877; DN 26(36):572, 10 Oct., 1877)
15 Oct.: “Beautiful Day.”
“In many a temple
The Saints will assemble,
And labor as saviors of dear ones away;
Then happy reunion,
And sweetest communion
We’ll have with our friends in the beautiful day.”
(J. L. Townsend, “Beautiful Day,” JI 12(20):240, 15 Oct., 1877)
4 Nov.: Marriages might be performed outside St. George.
“The remainder of the time was used by Prest. John Taylor on the subject of the priesthood, setting forth the duties of the various quorums. He also referred to the subject of marriage; and as a matter of local interest intimated that proper arrangements would be made so that this ordinance might be performed at home instead of having to go to St. George.” (Minutes of Cache Valley Stake conference, 4 Nov., 1877; DN 26(41):653, 14 Nov., 1877)
7 Nov.: “Promiscuous marriages” before temple sealing.
“We have it in our mind, so soon as the addition to the temple is roofed in [Logan Temple], which will not be long, to place an altar therein and have sealings performed. As the need of a place where marriages can be legally performed according to the Holy Order of the Priesthood, somewhere near to our northern settlements than the St. George Temple is every day pressing itself more forcibly upon our notice. We realize that the avenues to lawful marriage should not be diminished amongst the Saints, but that it should be encouraged by every consistent means within our power, at the same time I am, in my own feelings, very much opposed to these promiscuous marriages for time that are being celebrated here, there and everywhere by the bishops and others.” (John Taylor to George Q. Cannon, 7 Nov., 1877. Bergera notes; John Taylor Letter Book, LDS Archives)
8 Nov.: Keys of endowments for dead.
“The word was given to President Brigham Young by the prophet Joseph Smith Jr. that the keys of the endowments for the dead would be given to him. This House was got ready under his immediate direction.” (James Bleak, St. George Temple Minute Book, 8 Nov., 1877)
11 Nov.: “Deviations from the rule.”
“Since the endowment house has been closed in Salt Lake City, those wishing to be married according to the laws of heaven have had to travel down to St. George, where they can be sealed together for time and all eternity; for a Temple is the proper place in which to perform these sacred ordinances. We learn from our past history and experience that there have been deviations from this rule from time to time, according to the circumstances of the people, and the attention of the Twelve has been called to the subject, and it has been taken under advisement. We learn that although a Temple stood in Kirtland, still the Prophet Joseph gave endowments and performed marriages in Nauvoo before the Nauvoo Temple was built. The same was done in Salt Lake City for many years, and those endowments and marriages were legally administered; and the way may be opened by which these ordinances can be performed among us without having to travel to St. George for that purpose. This no doubt will be gratifying to the Saints, particularly to the young. There are ordinances that can only be administered in a Temple, hence the importance of completing the Temple so that these ordinances may be administered for the living and for the dead. In relation to this deviation from this rule pertaining to sealings and endowments, we understand that the Priesthood is greater than the Temple, and that which is sealed on earth by those holding the keys, is sealed in heaven. Many cannot go to St. George to receive their marriages and endowments, and should the way be opened by which they may be performed without going there, it will be appreciated, for all who understand the Gospel and the sacred ordinances pertaining thereto, would prefer to be married in the proper manner. I don’t know how far these privileges may extend, whether they will extend to plural marriages or not; it will be as the Lord wills; should it be the case that we obtain these privileges, it will be no cause for slackening our labors on the Temple. Our dead friends are waiting for their baptisms and other ordinances, which can only be administered in a Temple. I cannot say any more on this subject until arrangements are more fully perfected.” (Charles C. Rich, JD 19:164, 11 Nov., 1877)
14 Nov.: All humanity to have equal chance for salvation.
“All men who have lived and died without a knowledge of the Gospel, shall be placed on the same plane as ourselves through the plan he has provided, giving all of his children, whether living or dead, an equal chance to avail themselves of the means of salvation; and that we are to operate in their behalf, working out certain ordinances for them which they are now incapable of doing for themselves.” (John Taylor, 14 Nov., 1877; JD 19:154-155)
14 Nov.: Our father have already begun to feel after us.
“What about the others, they who have died without a knowledge of the Gospel? They are amply provided vor. The Lord has shown us that we must build Temples in which to officiate for them. We have commenced to do so, and our fathers have already commenced to feel after us, manifesting themselves by dreams and visions, and in various ways to those most interested in their welfare. And having inaugurated this state of things for our guidance that we have to-day, with Presidents, Apostles, Presidents of Stakes, High Council, High Priests, Seventies, Bishops, Elders, Priests, Teachers and Deacons and the various organizations of the Church; it is for us each one to operate in our sphere under the direction of the Almighty; and feel not only for ourselves, but for others, as Abraham did, and as Isaac and Jacob did, we should have a desire to bless our posterity after us; and God has shown us how to do it, and has bestowed his Patriarchal authority with power to bless. He has appointed this through the Priesthood and sealing ordinances. That which is joined together no man can put asunder, and what is bound on earth is bound also in heaven; and also a great many other things of a similar nature in relation to ourselves. The moment a man gets enlightened by the Spirit of God and begins to comprehend himself, he begins to feel for the welfare of others. ‘I have a wife, what shall II do to save her? I have children, what can I do for them?’ And by and by his comprehension expands, and he commences at once to reach after his father, and his grandfather, and friends and relatives, who have passed away; and his feelings if they were expressed would be, What can I do for them to help them? Yes, he has revealed to us that we can render valuable aid to our dead friends and ancestors, and, as I have said, the Lord has shown us that in order for them to receive the benefit of our services, Temples must be built, and they must be dedicated to God and accepted of him; and through the medium of those sacred structures and the ordinances performed therein, there is to be a uniting and welding together of all principles and peoples, and without them this great work cannot be done.” (John Taylor, 14 Nov., 1877; JD 19:155-156)
14 Nov.: Visitors from the spirit world.
“Brother Woodruff has been operating a long time in the Temple at St. George; and you have perhaps heard him testify of visits that he has had from the spirit world, the spirits of men who once lived on the earth, desiring him to officiate for them in the Temple ordinances. This feeling is planted in the hearts of the people; and the Priesthood in the heavens are watching over us; they are ministering spirits sent forth to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation, says the Apostle; and if we were not the recipients of their ministrations and watchful care, we should be in a poor condition. They are operating in the heavens, and we are on the earth; they without us cannot be made perfect, neither we without them; it requires the combined and united efforts of both parties, directed by God Himself to consummate the work we are engaged in.” (John Taylor, 14 Nov., 1877; JD 19:157-158)
14 Nov.: Temple work in the Millennium.
“In the Millennium, a duration of one thousand years, we shall be actively engaged administering for the dead, and assisting God to fix up accounts with the inhabitants of the earth.” (John Taylor, 14 Nov., 1877; JD 19:159)
15 Nov.: Decision to re-open Endowment House.
“. . . it was unanimously resolved by the Councils of the Apostles to re-open the Endowment House in this city for the performance of certain ordinances of the House of the Lord, namely:
First, for the sealing of those in full fellowship in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who have been married for time by any Apostle, Bishop, Elder, Justice of the Peace, etc., since the close of the Endowment House in October, 1876.
Secondly, for the sealing of the members of the Church in good standing who have not been married but who desire to be sealed, and to whom a journey to the Temple at St. George for this purpose would not be convenient or practicable.
Thirdly, for the purpose of giving endowments to the very aged, sick, or infirm, such, and such only as their Bishop may think will probably not live until the Temple at Salt Lake City, Manti, or Logan is completed and opened.” (Letter from John Taylor to the Salt Lake, Davis, Weber, Box Elder, Cache, Bear Lake, Summit, Morgan, Wasatch, Tooele, Utah, Juab, and San Pete Stakes; 15 Nov., 1877. pp. 170-173 of John Taylor letter book)
“A communication was read from President John Taylor to President Angus M. Cannon that the Twelve had decided to open the Endowment House on the last Thursday in each month for marriage sealings.” (Journal History, 15 Nov., 1877)
“A Bishops meeting was held in the Council House, Salt Lake City, commencing at 6.30 p.m. President John Taylor and Elder Joseph F. Smith present. Bishop Edward Hunter remarked upon the necessity of keeping correct records, the favorable distribution of the emigration, the liberal hand extended to the emigrants. It was time vegetable tithing was paid in. It cost the Church a great deal to sustain Indians. He meant to request the heads of the departments in the Church to see that their employees paid their tithing. Counselor L. W. Hardy said he found at Coalville a good liberal spirit in paying tithes and offerings. A communication was read from President John Taylor to President Angus M. Cannon that the Twelve had decided to open the Endowment House on the last Thursday in each month for marriage sealings. President John Taylor said this was done because many young people and the aged and infirm could not arrange to go to St. George. The priesthood was not made for Temples, but Temples for the priesthood.” (JH 15 Nov., 1877)
“SEALINGS OUT OF THE TEMPLE
November 15, 1877
To all Stake Presidents
– Young people marry for time
– Deemed salutary to have the Priesthood discountenance wherever practicable the marriages of Latter-day Saints in any place not especially dedicated and set apart for the ordinances of the House of the Lord.
– To aid in the accomplishment of this object, it was unanimously resolved by the Council of the Apostles to re-open the Endowment House in this city for the performance of certain ordinances.
1. Sealing those married for time.
2. Sealing the living who could not go to St. George
because of inconvenience.
3. To give endowments to those not having received.
4. Giving endowments to the aged, sick or infirm – if Bishops thought they would not live until the Salt Lake, Manti or Logan temples were completed and opened.
Must have recommend. [Had to be re-baptized to receive these blessings.]” (John Taylor Letter, 15 Nov., 1877; LDS Archives)
29 Nov.: Endowment House re-opened.
“I spent most of the day in the Endowments House. We gave 40 Endowments. I sealed 5 Couple. It is the first time we gave Endowments in that House since we Stoped last fall.” (Wilford Woodruff diary, 29 Nov., 1877)
30 Nov.: Temple recommend dispute.
“recd telegram from Prest E Snow pertaining to a recommnd for Bro Alfred D Young or Kanab to the St George Temple. I answered that Bro Young had violated direct council to himself personally & in public. I should not have givin him a recommend without acknowledgment from him but as he is old & may do better in the future, all right I would not be in his way.” (L. John Nuttall diary, 30 Nov., 1877)
1 Dec.: Temples made for priesthood, not vice versa.
“The regular monthly priesthood meeting of this [Salt Lake] Stake met on Saturday morning, in the Fourteenth Ward Assembly Rooms. . . .
President John Taylor instructed the brethren in the nature and power of the priesthood. It was essential that the Saints should use every exertion to forward the construction of temples, that they might receive the blessings and ordinances thereof. Not that the power of the priesthood depended upon temples, for ‘temples are made for the priesthood and not the priesthood for temples.'” (Reprint of report of 3 Dec.; DN 26(44):697, 5 Dec., 1877)
3 Dec.: Professional genealogist.
“GENEALOGICAL.
To Latter-day Saints who are interested in Genealogical Matters:
By and with the consent of the proper authorities, I have concluded to go to the Eastern States during the present winter, to obtain the genealogies of such Saints as come from there who might desire to employ me. During my recent mission to those parts I acquainted myself with facilities that will enable me to procure genealogies with a fair degree of completeness, and in procuring those of a number of families at the same time, the expense will be but a very small portion of what it would cost each family separately. This is a rare opportunity for the Saints from New England, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania or Delaware, or Saints whose ancestors were natives of those States, to procure genealogies at a small cost. A circular, stating terms, will be sent on application.
B. F. Cummings, Jr.
Salt Lake City, U. T.
December 3rd, 1877.”
(DN 26(45):720, 12 Dec., 1877)
8 Dec.: Professional genealogist.
“Genealogical.–B. F. Cummings, jr., is making preparations to go to the eastern States, for the purpose of obtaining the genealogies of such members of the Church as came from that part of the Union, or whose ancestors were natives of that region, who may wish to secure his services. While on his recent mission there he did considerable work in that line and acquainted himself with such facilities as will enable him to obtain family genealogies with a fair degree of completeness.
Latter-day Saints from the eastern States will doubtless appreciate this opportunity to employ a competent person to obtain their genealogies, as it is a most important part of the work required at their hands by the Author of the gospel to perform the ordinances of salvation for their dead.
In another column Brother Cummings’ advertisement appears.” (Reprint of report of 8 Dec.; DN 26(45):713, 12 Dec., 1877)
16 Dec.: Temple offerings to assist temple workers.
“President Jacob Gates spoke to the bishops and people on the subject of making temple offerings to aid some of those who administer in the St. George Temple to live like the rest of us.” (St. George Stake Conference minutes, 16 Dec., 1877; DN 26(48):766, 2 Jan., 1878)