Compilation of

                          GENERAL CONFERENCE

                     RESOLUTIONS

 

                                                                    1852‑1915

 

                                PUBLISHED BY ORDER OF GENERAL CONFERENCE

 

Published by the Board of Publication of the Reorganized

Church of Jesus Christ of  Latter Day Saints

Lamoni, Iowa, 1916

 

 

                                       Electronically Scanned by Elder Gary R. Whiting

                                  Text formatted and compiled by Elder Robert E. Giertz

                                                                         1 9 9 5

 

 

                                                         Committees on Compilation

 

1852‑1885, H. A. Stebbins, Rudolph Etzenhouser, D. F. Lambert.

1886, H. A. Stebbins, J. H.Hansen, A. S. Cochran.

1886‑1892, H. A. Stebbins, R. S. Salyards, Columbus Scott.

1893‑1900, E. L. Kelley, R. S. Salyards, H. A. Stebbins.

1900‑1907, R. S. Salyards, F. B. Blair, J. A. Gunsolley.

1907‑1912, R. S. Salyards, F. B. Blair, Daniel Macgregor.

1913‑1915, R. S. Salyards, F. B. Blair, Daniel Macgregor, H.C. Smith. 


                                      Compilation of General Conference Resolutions

Adopted June 12, 1852. 

 

No. 1. Resolved, That this conference regards the pretensions of Brigham Young, James J. Strang, James C. Brewster, and William Smith and James Wood's joint claim to the leadership of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints as assumptions of power in violation of the law of God, and consequently we disclaim all connection and fellowship with them. 

 

No. 2. That the successor of Joseph Smith, Jun., as the presiding high priest in the Melchisedec priesthood, must of necessity be the seed of Joseph Smith, Jun., in fulfillment of the law and promises of God. 

 

No. 3. That, as the office of First President of the church grows out of the authority of the presiding high priest in the high priesthood, no person can legally lay claim to the office of First President of the church without a previous ordination to the presidency of the high priesthood. 

 

No. 4. That we recognize the validity of all legal ordinations in this church, and will fellowship all such as have been ordained while acting within the purview of such authority. 

 

No. 5. That we believe that the Church of Christ organized on the sixth day of April, A. D. 1830, exists as on that day, wherever six or more Saints are organized according to the pattern in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants. 

 

No. 6. That the whole law of the Church of Jesus Christ is contained in the Bible, Book of Mormon, and Book of Doctrine and Covenants. 

 

No. 7. That in the opinion of this conference, there is no stake to which the Saints on this continent are commanded to gather at the present time, but that the Saints in all other lands are commanded to gather to this land, preparatory to the reestablishment of the church in Zion, when the scattered Saints on this land will also be commanded to gather and return to Zion, and to their inheritances in fulfillment of the promises of God. And it is the duty of the Saints to turn their hearts and faces towards Zion, and supplicate the Lord God for such deliverance. (This resolution was reaffirmed April 7, 1863.)

 

No. 8. That this conference believe it the duty of the elders of this church, who have been legally ordained, to cry repentance and remission of sins to this generation through obedience to the gospel, as revealed in the record of the Jews, the Book of Mormon, and Book of Doctrine and Covenants, and  not to faint in the discharge of duty.

 

 No. 9. That Elders Jason W. Briggs, Zenas H. Gurley, and  John Herrington be a committee of three to write a pamphlet  ["The Word of Consolation"] based on the foregoing resolutions.

 

 


                                                          Adopted October 7, 1852.

 

No. 10. That, in the opinion of this conference, the one holding the highest priesthood [Samuel Blair's original record says "highest officer"] in the Church of God is to preside and represent the rightful heir to the presidency of the high priesthood.  Amendment ── That the highest authority among the priesthood represents the legitimate President as a presiding authority.

 

No. 11. That Samuel Blair be the General Church Recorder.

 

                                                              Adopted April, 1853.

 

No. 12. On motion Jason W. Briggs was chosen Church Historian.

 

                                                          Adopted October 8, 1853.

 

No. 13. On motion J. W. Briggs was authorized to publish a pamphlet, the title to be, "The voice of the captives assembled at Zarahemla to their brethren scattered abroad."

 

No. 14. That Bro. Samuel Blair select and publish a hymnbook suited to the doctrines of the church.

 

                                                            Adopted April 6, 1854.

 

No. 15. That this conference authorize the twelve holding the highest authority in the priesthood, assembled at Zarahemla, as a council to try and examine all revelation and manifestations, that has or may come through any member of this church, male or female, and that such revelation or manifestations, after having been examined by this council and declared to be the word of God, may be taught as such until the next General Conference shall reject or receive it as the law. And if any member of the church assumes to teach, as law or doctrine, any revelation or manifestation before being presented to this council, shall be considered a transgressor of the law, and proceeded against as such.── [From original record.]

 

No. 16. That this council send copies of all revelations and manifestations to the several branches.

 

No. 17. On motion J. W. Briggs was sustained in the office of President of the Twelve and legal representative.

 

                                                          Adopted October 6, 1854.

 

No. 18. That this conference suspend from the exercise of their priesthood all holding the same, and also disfellowship all such as have departed from the faith and from the jurisdiction of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at Zarahemla, until they return and make satisfaction.

 

 


No. 19. That all holding priesthood are sent by the church to preach the gospel as the doors may open.

 

                                                            Adopted April 6, 1855.

 

No. 20. That all apostles, high priests, seventies, elders, priests, teachers, and deacons, whose hearts the Lord has touched for the work of the preparation for the restoration of the captives of Zion, be requested to report themselves in person or otherwise at the next conference.

 

No. 21. That Z. H. Gurley be appointed Church Recorder.

 

No. 22. That this conference fill the Quorum of the Twelve as far as at the organization.

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1855.

 

No. 23. On motion a resolution adopted at a conference held at Beloit [Newark], June 12 and 13, 1852, affirming that the successor of Joseph Smith must come from his seed, was reaffirmed.

 

                                                            Adopted April 6, 1857.

 

No. 24. On motion the first five resolutions adopted at a conference held at Beloit [Newark], Wisconsin, June, 1852 were reaffirmed and readopted.

 

No. 25. That it shall be the duty of all who are connected with us, holding priesthood, to report themselves personally or by letter once in six months, showing their faith and labor in this work.

 

                                                          Adopted October 6, 1857.

 

No. 26. On motion Bro. Owen and Headrace were received as the representatives of the Saints in Woodford County, Illinois, and vicinity and the right hand of fellowship was given them.

 

No. 27. That this conference raise funds for printing purposes, and the work of the ministry; said fund to be at the disposal of the church and under its control.

 

No. 28. On motion, J. W. Briggs was appointed to cooperate with Bro. Headrace in writing a pamphlet setting forth the true position of our doctrine.

 

                                                            Adopted April 6, 1858.

 

No. 29. That Jason W. Briggs be and is truly exonerated from acting in connection with Granville Headrace, of Bloomington, Illinois, in writing out matter for publication, as directed by the previous fall conference.

 


                                                            Adopted June 11, 1859.

 

No. 30. That a treasurer be appointed to receive moneys and property for the church and to disburse the same as he may be directed by the church, and that said treasurer give security for the faithful performance of his duty.

 

No. 31. That Elder Edwin Cadwell be appointed Church Treasurer.

 

No. 32. That Elder William W. Blair be appointed Church Recorder.

 

No. 33. That the Church Treasurer shall give such securities for moneys and properties put into his hands as the Church Recorder may require.

 

No. 34. That Elders William Marks, Z. H. Gurley, and James Blakeslee be appointed a committee to publish a hymn book.

 

                                                          Adopted October 6, 1859.

 

No. 35. That the church publish a monthly paper to be devoted solely to the interests of the church.

 

No. 36. That this church publish a monthly church paper, and continue it for six months.

 

No. 37. That Elders Z. H. Gurley, William Marks, and William W. Blair be a committee to supervise the publishing of said paper.

 

                                                            Adopted April 6, 1860.

 

No. 38. On motion of Isaac Sheen, Bro. Joseph Smith was unanimously chosen President and Prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and successor of his father.

 

No. 39. On motion Bro. Joseph Smith was ordained to the office of president of the Melchisedec priesthood.

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1860.

 

No. 40. Bro. Israel L. Rogers was ordained to be a high priest and Bishop of the church.

 

                                                          Adopted October 8, 1860.

 

No. 41. That Bro. W. W. Blair be released from the office of Church Recorder.

 

No. 42. That Bro. Isaac Sheen be appointed in his stead.

 


                                                          Adopted October 9, 1860.

 

No. 43. That the committee which were appointed to select hymns for a hymn book be discharged.

 

No. 44. That Sr. Emma Bidamon be appointed to make selection of hymns to make a hymn book.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1861.

 

No. 45. That the Saints are requested to assist the elder and their families by donations. ── Page 83, original record.

 

                                                          Adopted October 8, 1861.

 

No. 46. That traveling elders who may be in need shall call on the presidents of branches for assistance, and not on the members.

 

No 47. That the Bishop be instructed to call on the presidents of the different branches for the necessary means to carry on the work.

 

                                                          Adopted October 7, 1862.

 

No. 48. It was here decided that whoever  administers the ordinance of  baptism should use the precise words given in the law, and not substitute our own words in place of the words of God; and with respect to the forms in the Book of Mormon and the  Book of Covenants. There is in reality no difference, but it is proper to give preference to latter, it having been given expressly to us, but the  words authority and  commission are synonymous. [It is not clear from the record whether this is a resolution by the conference or a decision of the President. ── Committee]

 

No. 49. Bishop Israel L. Rogers, William Aldrich, Philo Howard, George A. Blakeslee, and Jonathan D. Heywood, were appointed a committee by the church to procure a press and printing materials, and locate the same.

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1863.

 

No. 50. That the members and ministry avoid alluding to, or discussing the subject of polygamy  when it is not imperatively necessary.

No. 51. That the seventh resolution in the "Word of consolation" be reaffirmed, which says:

  "7. Resolved, That in the opinion of this conference, there is no stake to which the Saints on this continent are commanded to gather at the present time; but that the Saints on all other lands are commanded to gather to this land, preparatory to the reestablishment of the church in Zion; when the scattered Saints on this land will also be commanded to gather and return to Zion, and to their inheritances in fulfillment of the promises of God. And it is the duty of the Saints to turn their hearts and their faces towards Zion, and supplicate the Lord God for such deliverance.”


                                                            Adopted April 8, 1863.

 

No. 52. That section 110 of the Book of Covenants on Government with a preface prepared by the committee be published as the political sentiment of this conference.

 

No. 53. That all the elders of this church, who have not been appointed on missions, are requested and directed by this conference to labor to the extent of their ability and opportunities.

 

                                                          Adopted October 8, 1863.

 

No. 54. That this conference authorize the committee of publication to publish the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, with such corrections in arrangement as may be necessary.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1865.

 

No. 55. That President Joseph Smith be appointed to take charge of the publishing and editorial department of the Herald and of all our publications.

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1865.

 

No. 56. That all the conferences of districts are advised to recommend the branches to receive donations monthly from members of the churches, for the purpose of assisting poor Saints to emigrate from Europe to this country, and send such donations to the Bishop.

 

No. 57. That the emigration fund remain in the hands of the Bishop until called for by a conference of the church in Europe, and indorsed by action of the General Conference of the church in America.

 

No. 58. That the necessities of the church require a concordance and synopsis, suited to the proper promulgation of the faith of the church.

 

No. 59. That the necessities of  the church require the publication of a series of tracts, for distribution.

 

No. 60. That the necessities of the church require the establishment of a church library.

 

                                                            Adopted April 6, 1866.

 

No. 61. That this body now assembled, is a body of spiritual authorities within the purview of the law found in the fifth paragraph of section 99 of Book of Covenants.

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1866.

 

No. 62. That the church ought, as speedily as possible, to publish the translation of the Scriptures made by Joseph Smith..


No. 63. That the time has arrived for the church to publish the New Translation immediately.

 

No. 64. That the church take immediate measures to release the hands of the Twelve, that they may carry the gospel to the nations of the earth.

 

No. 65. That the bishops be instructed to collect means for that purpose.

 

No. 66. That any member of this church having been lawfully married, and having put away their companions for any other cause than for the cause of fornication, is unworthy of the fellowship of the Saints of God; and that the church should be careful, with all inquiry, that they receive  none into the church who have put away their companions  for adultery, they themselves being the offenders.

 

 No. 67. That in view of the demand of the work in Utah, it is deemed advisable that, as far as practicable, the Saints in that region remain for the present.

 

 No. 68. That the elders be requested through the Herald, to report themselves in person at the next Annual Conference, for the purpose of organizing their quorum.

 

 No. 69. That every branch which has not reported a correct list of the names of official and nonofficial members, are hereby requested to send such list as soon as possible to the  General Church Recorder.

 

                                                            Adopted April 11,1866.

 

No. 70. That the relief of the poor of the church be more prominently brought before the church by apostles, high priests, presiding elders, elders, priests, teachers, and deacons.

 

No. 71. While we deeply deplore the great apostasy and turning the truth into lasciviousness, which has occurred in the Church of Christ in years gone by, resulting in the organization of numerous factions and schisms, yet we can not shut our eyes to the great truth that the priesthood which was conferred by the ministration of the angel of God, upon the head of our martyred prophet, Joseph Smith, and Oliver Cowdery, in May, A. D. 1829, when he said, "Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of the Messiah I confer this priesthood, which shall remain on earth that the sons of Levi may yet offer an offering to the Lord in righteousness," still remains, and has continued to remain from that day to this. Therefore we believe it to be our duty, as individuals having received that priesthood, to hunt up and minister to the spiritual wants of the scattered sheep of the house of Israel, those who manifest by their fruits that they have received of the Spirit of God and have maintained their integrity before him, therefore

   Resolved, That we recognize no other rules by which to test the validity of the baptism of persons who have embraced the gospel, except the fruit and manifestation of the Spirit. Therefore, the question of rebaptism is a matter of conscience.

 

 


No. 72. Resolved further, That a connection with those factions during the dark and cloudy day, does not necessarily invalidate the priesthood; holding as we do, that those factions could neither confer nor take away the priesthood.

 

No. 73. That baptisms administered by elders without going down into the water, as the law directs, are null and void.

 

No.74. That members disfellowshiped, by a branch, or  the legal authorities, shall make reconciliation, as far as practicable, to said branch or legal authorities, before being readmitted into the church.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1866.

 

No. 75. That the presidents of missions and of districts and branches, are hereby authorized to solicit subscriptions as donations, for the publishing of the New Translation of the Scriptures made by Joseph Smith, and forward the same to the Bishop; and it is agreed that each person subscribing for this object, shall receive one copy at cost.

 

No. 76. That William Marks, I. L. Rogers, and W. W. Blair be appointed a committee to confer with Sr. Emma Bidamon respecting the relinquishment of the manuscripts of the New Translation of the Scriptures, for the purpose of publishing the same to the church and to the world, and that said committee be empowered to enter into and fulfill the contract for the same.

 

No. 77. That the manuscript of the Scriptures be engrossed and the engrossed copy be put into the hands of the printer with a view to the preservation of the original copy.

 

No. 78. That President Joseph Smith, I. L. Rogers, and Ebenezer Robinson be appointed a committee to publish the New Translation, and that they may be empowered to act in the name of the church, and to take all necessary steps to secure its speedy completion.

 

No. 79. That the committee named as the Publication Committee of the New Translation, employ no person in writing, rewriting, proof reading, etc., who is not in the faith of the truth of the latter‑day work, and favors the coming forth of said translation.

 

No. 80. That the ordination of an high priest by the direction of a district conference is null and void.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1867.

 

No. 81. That the bishops or bishop’s agents of districts are responsible to the Bishop of the whole church for all moneys or other properties received by them for the church; but they shall make a report to the quarterly conferences of  their respective districts of  the receipts and disbursements of said funds, said report to be examined by an auditing committee of three appointed by said district conferences.

 


No. 82. That the Presiding Bishop shall present, in detail, to each Annual Conference, his accounts with the church, and that an auditing committee of three shall be appointed to examine and report the same, a summary of which shall be published in the church paper.

 

No. 83. That district conferences have no authority to send missions beyond or outside of their respective limits.

 

No. 84. That all the traveling ministry be under the direction and control of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve.

 

No. 85. That a committee of three be appointed to draft or adopt a set of forms applicable to representation and the general use of the church. That said committee report through the Herald.

 

                                                          Adopted October 7, 1867.

 

No. 86. Whereas, in the opinion of this conference, it is inexpedient that an apostle of the Quorum of the Twelve should have special local jurisdiction, except as the exigencies of foreign mission may require, be it Resolved, That each member of that quorum now holding presidency involving such jurisdiction, be and is hereby released.

   That the same rule be applied to the Quorum of the Seventies.

 

                                                            Adopted April 6, 1868.

No. 87. That all private members, male and female, have a right to vote on all questions that the elders may deem of sufficient importance to bring before the church.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1868.

 

No. 88. That the president of the High Priests' Quorum be requested to inquire into the spiritual condition of the high priests and report the names of those who have not magnified their calling, that they may be deprived of their office.

 

No. 89. That organized districts have the right to elect their own officers, their presidents included.

 

No. 90. That the legal official acts of elders, though in transgression, are valid until they are officially  silenced by proper authority.

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1868.

 

No. 91. That unbaptized persons, whether children or adults, are not entitled to partake of the sacrament of bread and wine.

 

No. 92. That this conference deprecates the use of intoxicating drinks (as beverages), and the  use of  tobacco, and recommends to all officers of the church total abstinence.


No. 93. That it is desirable that a more correct record should be kept by the several branches and districts of the church, and that more correct reports be sent to the conferences.

 

No. 94. That reports of branches are church property after being accepted by the conferences, and that no private individual has a right to them.

 

No. 95. That this conference would encourage the carrying out the provisions made for preaching the gospel to the Negro race, in the revelation of May 4, 1865.

 

                                                          Adopted October 7, 1868.

 

No. 96. That the moneys in the Bishop's hands, contributed to the Emigration Fund be subject to the committee appointed for their disposal.

 

No. 97. That this conference expects all the official members of the church to do their duties to the utmost of their abilities.  

 

No. 98. The President spoke respecting the great necessity of the Saints lending more aid to the press, after which it was

   Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to receive means, and that the presidents of branches  take the matter in hand and deliver to said committee all moneys collected for that purpose.

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1869.

 

No. 99. The compilation and publication of a new hymn book was authorized; and upon motion, the President appointed a committee of three, consisting of the following named brethren, to collate and compile said book: Mark H. Forscutt, David H. Smith, and, in ease of his absence before the completion of the work, Bro. Norman Smith; President Joseph Smith, by vote, being one of said committee.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1869.

 

No. 100. That it is not the true policy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, that the Twelve shall control the funds of the church in the hands of the Bishop, but that the Bishop shall be amenable to the General Conference alone.

 

No. 101. A motion prevailed recommending to the publishing committee the issuing of a Sunday school paper, monthly or semimonthly.

 

 

 

 

 


                                                            Adopted April 9, 1869.

 

No. 102. Resolved, That in the opinion of this conference, the true policy of the church, in this matter, is to be found in the epistle of the Twelve to the church on tithings and offerings, viz: through the branch presidents  as Bishop’s  agents, should all moneys come into the church treasury, and  that the spiritual authorities of the church should discountenance the paying of moneys directly to the Bishop, where that policy works to the injury of the poor in districts or branches. [The foregoing resolution was preceded by a preamble, but the resolution only was adopted.]

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1869.

 

No. 103. That the conference deprecate the circumstances which seem to surround many of the elders of the church, causing them to withdraw their presence from the different sessions of the conference, and request for the future a closer attendance.

 

No. 104. That brothers holding the priesthood, being convicted of inactivity in consequence of lukewarmness, may be silenced by the conference, or quorum of which they are members, and henceforth be reported as lay members, until such time as they reform and are reelected to fill their offices.

 

No. 105. Whereas, A period of nine years has passed away since the church was organized with a First Presidency;  and Whereas, There has never been a complete representation by report, it is hereby

Resolved, That this conference does hereby deem it imperative upon it to demand that hereafter, every mission, district and branch (where there is a branch not belonging to an organized district), send to every Annual and Semiannual Conference, such properly authenticated reports as the general church authorities may from time to time require, that a complete report may be had.

 

No. 106. That a bishop for the Saint Louis District be appointed and ordained.

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1870.

 

No. 107. That this conference do appoint a committee of five to draft and present before this conference shall adjourn a memorial to Congress in which shall be embodied an epitome of our faith, and especially a setting forth of our views on government, church policy, and polygamy.

 

   (Said memorial, as approved by the conference, is as follows):

 

   Memorial to Congress from a committee of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, on the claims and faith of the church.

 

   Printed at the True Latter Day Saints' Herald Steam Book Office, Plano, Illinois.

 

 


To their Excellencies, the President and Vice President, and the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives of United States, in Congress Assembled:

   Having learned that counter influences are at work to prevent or thwart the action proposed by Congress to remedy evils existing in the territory of Utah, and knowing that a claim to be "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints" has been made by a large portion of the inhabitants of Utah Territory, and by other religious bodies than that which your memorialists represent, by whom doctrines are held and practiced which are at variance with the proper usages of civilized nations, and opposed to the law of our common country; and that these doctrines are claimed by those who practice them to be made binding upon them, as Latter Day Saints, by the revelations governing said church we, your memorialists, would respectfully call your attention to the following statement of facts:

1. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was organized on the sixth day of April, 1830, and was subsequently represented by its ministry and by the establishment of churches in many of the States, the Canadas, and Europe, under the ecclesiastical presidency of Joseph Smith, until June 27, 1844, when he and his brother Hyrum were killed at Carthage, Illinois.

 

2. At the time of the organizing of the church, and at all subsequent time prior to the dispersion of its members from Nauvoo, the church was simply an ecclesiastism; and, as such, could confer no privileges before the law not contained in the provisions of the law; nor authorize as a tenet that which was forbidden by the law of the State where the church might exist, or in contravention of the constitutional basis on which the church was built ── the word of God.

 

3. Under the presidency of Joseph Smith, the church became a corporate body, and adopted as a constitution or form of church government and discipline, the Scriptures, the Book of Mormon and Book of Doctrine and Covenants. The Bible and Book of Mormon have ever been the foundation on which the church has rested its faith, and there has been added to them the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, first published in the year 1835, and republished in 1845; the former edition during the presidential term of Joseph Smith, the latter edition under the regime of Brigham Young, as "President of the Twelve." This book, the "Book of Doctrine and Covenants," was, on the seventeenth day of August, 1835, presented to each and all the quorums of officers belonging to the church, separately, and acted upon by them; it was also presented to the Church in General assembly, and was adopted unanimously. It then became a part of the law of the church, and the church became bound by its provisions, equally as by those of the Bible and Book of Mormon. The doctrines and law of the church so established must ever remain the basis of its government; the endorsement of them an endorsement of the church, the departure from or denial of them a departure from or denial of the church.

 

4. We would respectfully urge our conviction that there can be no true Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints excepting that which is based on the law of the church, and that the observance of the law is not only the contradistinctive feature of the church, but of every individual member thereof. That we may not present an unsupported statement on so important a point, we most respectfully call attention to the following quotations from the Book of Covenants, which we submit as evidence:


   Section 42, paragraph 5: "The Elders, Priests and Teachers of THIS CHURCH shall teach the principles of my gospel which are in the Bible and the Book of Mormon, in the which is the FULLNESS OF THE GOSPEL, and they shall observe the covenants and church articles to do them, and these shall be their teachings." (Old edition, section 13.)

 

   Section 42, paragraph 21: "Every person who belongeth to this church of Christ shall observe to keep all the commandments and covenants of the church." (Old edition, section 13.)

 

5. Having, we trust, set forth sufficiently clearly the binding character of the church, state and national law upon whoever may claim to be "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints," your memorialists would beg permission to refer to the following items of church law found in the Bible, Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants, touching matters in which there is a direct antagonism between the church your memorialists represent and the church in Utah with which the government is at issue, and presenting the actual law on those points which are in disputation; ── and more especially upon the duties and privileges of the marriage relation:

 

                                                                        BIBLE.

 

   Malachi 2:14, 15: "Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the Lord hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy Youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously; yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant. And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the Spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth."

 

   Matthew 19: 4‑6: "And he answered and said unto them Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, and said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder."

 

   1 Corinthians 7 2: "Nevertheless, to avoid fornication let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband."

 

                                                           BOOK OF MORMON. 

 

   Jacob 2: 6: ."Wherefore, my brethren hear me, and hearken to the word of the Lord; for there shall not any man among you have save it be ONE WIFE; and concubines he shall have none."

 

                                                   DOCTRINE AND COVENANTS. 

 

   Section 42, paragraph 7: "Thou shalt love thy wife with all thy heart, and shall cleave unto her and none else; and he that looketh upon a woman to lust after her, shall deny the faith." (Old edition, section 13.) 

 


   Section 49:3: "And again, I say unto you, that whoso forbiddeth to marry, is not ordained of God, for marriage is ordained of God unto man; wherefore it is lawful that he should have one wife, and they twain shall be one flesh."  (Old edition, section 65.) 

 

6. Again, and to conclude our direct evidence upon this point from the church law, we submit the following extract from the article on marriage, in which the minister officiating is required first to ascertain if there be any legal objections, and on becoming satisfied that there are none, the law thus instructs "He shall say, calling each by their names: 'You both mutually agree to be each other's companion, husband and wife, observing the legal rights belonging to this condition; that is, keeping yourselves WHOLLY FOR EACH OTHER AND FROM ALL OTHERS during your lives.' And when they have answered 'Yes,' he shall pronounce them 'husband and wife,' in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ,  and by virtue of the laws of the country and authority vested in him." 

 

7. The claim put forth by the advocates of polygamy that a subsequent revelation authorizes the practice of polygamy, is rendered invalid by the law of the church in Book of Covenants, section 27, paragraph 4, which reads: "Neither shall anything be appointed unto any of this church contrary to the church covenants, for all things must be done in order and by common consent in the church." (Old edition, section 51.)

 

8. That polygamy could not become a tenet of the church while the church existed in the several States of the Union, is plainly indicated by a clause of the law governing the church from an early day, which reads: "Let no man break the laws of the land for he that keepeth the laws of God hath no need to break the laws of the land." Book of Covenants, section 58, paragraph 5. (Old edition, section 18.) 

 

9. In a careful examination of the publications of the gospel church from its earliest existence to the present time your memorialists have not found one single clause authorizing, justifying, or even

permitting polygamy. The New Testament; the Book of Mormon; the Book of Covenants 

the standard works of the Latter Day Saints' Church; the periodicals of the church, embracing the

Evening and Morning Star, the Messenger and Advocate, the Gospel Reflector, the Nauvoo

Neighbor, the Times and Seasons, published in America; and the Millennial Star, published in

England, are all silent on the question of polygamy, except wherein they refer to it historically, or to condemn either impliedly or directly its practice. The Scriptures are opposed to it, and the works published in the church of Latter Day Saints most unqualifiedly condemn it. Not even the body that now practices and teaches polygamy made any public profession of it till the year 1851, and not officially to the outside world before 1852. 

 

10. Four months before the death of Joseph Smith, and seven months after polygamists date the receiving of a revelation which they assert came through him, authorizing polygamy, this same

Joseph Smith published in the Times and Seasons a notice of the excommunication of a man for

"preaching   polygamy  and  other  false  and  corrupt  doctrines  in  the county  of  Lapeer, state of

 

 


Michigan," in the following terse language: "This is to notify him and the church in general that he has been cut off from the church for HIS INIQUITY, and he is further notified to appear at the special conference on the 6th of April next to answer to these charges. ( Signed) 

JOSEPH SMITH, 

HYRUM SMITH,

    Presidents of said Church. 

 

   This expulsion, we submit, could not have taken place had polygamy been made a church tenet seven months previously

 

11. In addition to this, Mr. John Taylor, now one of the apostles of the polygamic doctrine, in a public discussion held in Boulogne, France, July 11, 1850, impliedly denied the doctrine of polygamy and. condemned it in the following language: "We are accused here of polygamy, and actions the most indelicate, obscene and disgusting, such than none but a corrupt and depraved heart could have contrived." (Taylor’s Discussion, p. 8.)

 

12. We, your memorialists, would therefore submit for the consideration of Congress in its action on the Utah question, and in its legislation on the question of the right of Congress to interfere with polygamy as being a part of the faith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints:

 

   1st. That the law of the church found in the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and the Book of Covenants, books accepted by the polygamists themselves, expressly forbids to one man more than one living wife.

 

   2nd. That the law contained in those books is the constitution of the church; that no law can obtain in the church in contravention thereof, and that therefore the pretended revelation on polygamy is illegal and of no force.

 

   3rd. That in the "Remonstrance" presented to Congress from the polygamists of Utah, dated March 31, 1870, the non‑publication of this pretended revelation till the year 1852 is admitted in the following language:

 

   "Eighteen years ago, and ten years before the passage of the anti‑polygamy act of 1862, one of our leading men, Elder Orson Pratt, was expressly deputed and sent to Washington to publish and lecture on the principles of plural marriage as practiced by us ──  For ten years before the passage of the act of 1862, the principle was widely preached throughout the Union and the world, and was universally known and recognized as the principle of our holy faith."

 

   4th. That the plea of polygamy not being at variance with the law of the land because not expressly in violation of any law on the statute book of the territory of Utah, is not admissible, for this reason, the polygamic revelation claims to have been given in 1843, when the church as a body was in Illinois, in which State bigamy, or polygamy, was then, as now, a crime.

 


   5th. That polygamy, being a crime against the law of the state of Illinois, could not have been authorized by revelation from Him whom polygamists themselves affirm gave the revelation found in Book of Covenants section 58, paragraph 5, which declares: "Let no man break the law of the land, for he that keepeth the laws of God hath no need to break the laws of the land; therefore be subject to the powers that be." (Old edition, section 18.)

 

   6th. That the pretended revelation on polygamy was not published till 1852, is strong presumptive evidence that it was not in existence but even if it were, it would still be of no force in the church, as it contravenes revelations previously given to and accepted by the church, and is therefore precluded from becoming a church tenet by that clause of the church law before quoted, which declares, "Neither shall anything be appointed unto any of this church contrary to the church covenants."

 

13. It is known throughout the nation, and in many parts of the Old World, that there is an influential and rapidly growing organization of Latter Day Saints, separate and distinct from, and in this matter of polygamy, in church polity, and in the relations of the church to the Government entirely dissimilar and opposed to that which the Cullom Bill requires Congress to legislate upon.

 

14. This organization, known as the "Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints," is now being represented in conference at Plano, Illinois, by delegates and visitors from many of the eastern, southern and western States from the Pacific States, the Territories, including Utah, and Great Britain. Your memorialists are a committee appointed by this conference, and as such, would respectfully present to their Excellencies, the President and Vice President of the United States, and to each of the Honorable Members of the Senate and House of Representatives in Congress assembled our views on the questions herein set forth and accompany them with an abstract of the Faith of the true Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in relation to governments and laws in general as published in 1835 and in 1845, and affirmed by the Reorganized Church at as early a date as 1853 and again in 1864; which faith, as so affirmed, is based upon the Bible, Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants:

   [Here was quoted in full section 112 of the Book of Doctrine and Covenants.]

 

15. We, your memorialists, regret that a necessity exists for the faith of the Reorganized Church being presented in contradistinction to that of other churches claiming the same name that we bear; but there is so manifest a tendency to confound the Reorganized Church with the polygamic factions, that we deem it but just that we be placed aright upon the record, theologically, socially and morally, as well as politically. We therefore respectfully submit the following:

 

   [Here was inserted a copy of the "Epitome of faith and doctrine of the Reorganized Church of Jesus  Christ of Latter Day Saints."]

 

 

 

 

 


16. In some States of the Union the church has not been without representatives for the past forty years, or nearly, and in these churches neither the theory nor practice of polygamy has ever obtained. The body which your memorialists represent is mostly composed of churches and members scattered throughout the land from Maine to California and from Florida to Minnesota ── all subscribing to the constitution of the church ── all opposed to polygamy.

 

17. In view of the foregoing facts, we your memorialists, would urge the validity of the claim of the Reorganized Church to be the Church of Latter Day Saints, and in urging this claim, declare unqualifiedly the faith of the body your memorialists represent that, according to the law of the church given under the presidency of Joseph Smith, no body of people can be properly considered "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints" but that body which recognizes the constitutional provisions of the law under which the church obtained an existence; and as loyalty to the Government and a monogamic institution of marriage are absolutely and imperatively demanded by the law of the church, as necessary to govern it in its political and social relations, we do most fully, freely and unreservedly affirm that there is nothing required by the law or polity of  the church that can render its members violators of the laws of the land in any of their legal provisions.

 

18. We, your memorialists, would therefore petition that in the consideration of the questions of polygamy and disloyalty, as affecting a body calling themselves the Church of Jesus Christ of  Latter Day Saints, in the territory of Utah, the crimes of polygamy and disloyalty may not be made to stain the mantle of the pure faith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, by such official sanction and legislation of  your honorable bodies as shall, in order to legalize the crimes of a few hundreds of polygamists in Utah (many of whom we trust will yet abandon their folly), enstamp with infamy and disloyalty the faith of many thousands throughout the United States, whose bold stand in the hour of the Nation's trials, whose integrity of purpose and life, whose loyalty is unquestioned, and whose faith is that of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. And for the peace, prosperity and perpetuity of the Government your memorialists will ever pray.

 

JOSEPH SMITH,

ALEX. H. SMITH,

MARK H. FORSCUTT,

WM. W. BLAIR,

JOSIAH ELLS

         Committee on Memorial.

 

   Presented and read before the Annual General Conference of  the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, held at Plano, Illinois, on the eleventh day of April, 1870, and adopted by said  conference.

JOSEPH SMITH, President.

 

HENRY A. STEBBINS,

WM. H. GARRETT,

Clerks.


No. 108. That this conference do appoint a committee of six to prepare and present such resolutions to this conference as in their judgment may be deemed practicable for the removing the financial disabilities now existing, and providing a  plan whereby the families of missionaries may be supported, and means secured to conduct the work of the Lord.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1870.

 

No. 109. That all presidents of quorums, and counselors to presidents of quorums, be set apart to their offices by ordination.

 

No. 110. That the School of the Prophets be organized at as early a time as practicable. 

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1870.

 

No. 111. That the law does not make it necessary for high priests to preside over branches, although they have the right to preside when chosen by the branch.

 

No. 112. That the Bishop shall publish in the Herald quarterly, an exhibit of  all church moneys coming into his hands, with the names of parties paying the same (unless otherwise ordered), also a quarterly exhibit of all moneys disbursed, to whom or for what purpose, except the names of the poor.

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1870.

 

  [Committee on Finance reported, and the following concerning the Board of Publication was        adopted]:

 

No. 113. That the officers of the board be composed of a president (who shall be the President of the church), a secretary, and a treasurer, who shall give suitable bonds for the faithful performance of his duties, such as shall be agreed upon by the board.

 

   That said board have the management of the publication interests of the church, and shall publish  quarterly a statement of the financial condition of said board.

 

   That the board be incorporated according to the laws of the State of Illinois as the Board of Publication of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

 

   That the Board of Publication issue certificates of indebtedness in amounts of from five to fifty dollars each, said certificates to be redeemable within five years from date of issue, and none to be payable in less than one year, after which time said certificates to draw legal rate of interest of the State in which said certificate may be issued.

 

 


   That all holders of said certificates as issued by the Board of Publication may at their option after the term of one year from date, take up publications issued by said board to the amount in full of their certificates.

   That an immediate contribution of one dollar per head be asked by the board, of such as can possibly give it, and that all presidents, whether of districts or branches, bring this before their respective charges as early as possible.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1870.

 

No. 114. That this conference recognize the movement being made in the Order of Enoch as a good one.

 

No. 115. That there be appointed a Secretary of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, whose duty it shall be to sign all documents authorized by general provisions of General Conference, to sign licenses and certificates issued by the First Presidency, and to perform any and all other duties coming properly within the province of an organized government.

 

No. 116. That Mark H. Forscutt be that Secretary.

 

No. 117. That all presidents and clerks of quorums be authorized to issue licenses to the members of their respective quorums, and that the President and Secretary of the church be authorized to issue licenses to the general officers of the church.

 

No. 118. That all branches of the church should have all the names of their members on the General Church Record, and that all the district conferences should attend to this duty in connection with the branches.

 

                                                            Adopted April 6, 1871.

 

No. 119. That we receive and approve of all reports not objected to, without further motion.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1871.

 

No. 120. That the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints shall not be counted in good standing who will contract debts without a fair prospect of being able to pay the same.

 

No. 121. That it is understood by the reading of paragraph 4, section 72, Book of Covenants, that all persons removing are enjoined in every instance to take with them certificates of their standing from the church where they had previously resided.

 

 

 

 


                                                           Adopted April 10, 1871.

 

No. 122. That this conference send out no elders to labor or represent this church except they are out of debt, or make satisfaction with their creditors, and this to be a precedent to act upon in the future.

 

No. 123. That the bishops have no right to take accounts from elders who have collected money as tithing, and have used the same without being authorized by the bishops to do so.

 

No. 124. That this conference considers it very improper for branches to ordain men not belonging to their branch or district, and more especially when it is done without the knowledge or consent of the branch to which they belong, and that we hereby condemn all such action as unwise, and request all churches to be governed by the spirit of this resolution in the matter of ordinations in the future.

 

No. 125. That an appeal from the decision of a branch to a quarterly district conference of which said branch forms a part is proper, and should be had previous to an appeal to the High Council, and that such appeal gives the district conference the right to examine, and, if necessary, to retry all questions that may be so appealed.

 

No. 126. That this conference proceed to appoint a publishing committee of five to carry on the printing and publishing department, and that this committee shall proceed to organize and commence business as speedily as possible, according to the law of the state of Illinois.

 

No. 127. That the first resolution of last Annual Conference as touching the officers of the Board of Publication be amended by striking out the clause in parentheses, "who shall be the President of the church," leaving the board to elect its own president.

   That the resolution as amended be affirmed.

 

No. 128. That as the Sunday school cause forms an important feature in the great work of the last days, the officers and teachers thereof are hereby sustained in their calling to care for the lambs of Israel's fold.

 

                                                       Adopted September 22, 1871.

 

No. 129. That this conference appoint and authorize a committee on music to compile a tune‑book for the use of the church, adapted to the hymns and anthems in the Saints' Harp; that said committee consist of members, to be nominated by the president of this conference, who shall collect or write music, and forward it to the president of the committee; that two years from the date of their appointment shall be given for the compilation of the work that the money expended for music paper, postage stamps, and necessary stationery, for the carrying out of this resolution, not exceeding $50, be advanced by the Bishop from the general church fund, and returned from the sales of books; that the committee report progress through its president at each General Conference until the work be completed, and that it then be at the disposal of the publishing committee of the church, or the next ensuing General Conference.


                                                       Adopted September 23, 1871.

 

No. 130. That this conference does hereby reaffirm the decree of the Grand Council held at Kirtland, Ohio, in 1835, Joseph Smith, Jr., presiding, which council asserted the exclusive jurisdiction of all branches, regarding the right to labor only by permission within their own recognized limits.

 

No. 131. That all baptisms, confirmations, ordinations, and blessings, which may be attended to in this district, outside of branches, should be reported to the next ensuing district conference thereafter, so they may be recorded in the General Church Record. [Presented by the Northern Illinois District and adopted.]

 

No. 132. That in the opinion of this conference the law of the Lord does not authorize the administration of the ordinance for the healing of the sick to be performed by any person in the church, except those holding the Melchisedek priesthood, and that any officer teaching otherwise should be and is hereby reproved and instructed to teach only what the word of God commands according to the spirit and letter of the passage: "Is any sick among you, let him call for the ELDERS of the church."

 

No. 133. That when a person, already a member of the church is baptized to satisfy the demands of his conscience, or because of informality in the first baptism, his membership and his priesthood  if he hold any priesthood, should be again confirmed upon him by the laying on of hands.

 

No. 134. Whereas a diversity of opinion exists among the spiritual authorities of the church in relation to a resolution which passed at the Annual Conference of 1869, which reads:

 

  "Resolved, That it is not the true policy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, that the Twelve shall control the funds of the church in the hands of the Bishop, but that the Bishop shall be amenable to the General Conference alone;" it is hereby resolved, That this conference reconsider that resolution.

 

  Resolved, That the resolution of General Annual Conference of 1869, respecting the authority of the Twelve, in relation to tithing, be and is hereby repealed.

 

No. 135. That this conference does hereby affirm the Appendix to the Epistle of the Quorum of the Twelve, given October 7, l861, which reads: "ln order to place the church in a position to carry on the promulgation of the gospel, and as a means of fulfilling the law, the Twelve will take measures in connection with the Bishop, to execute the law of tithing; and let them before God see to it, that the temporal means so obtained is truly used for the purposes of the church, and not as a weapon of power in the hands of one man for the oppression of others, or for the purposes of self‑aggrandizement by any one, be he whomsoever he may be. As I live, saith the Lord, in the manner ye execute this matter, so shall ye be judged in the day of judgment," and recommend to the Twelve and Presiding Bishop the issuing of such instructions as they may deem proper for the more perfect execution of this law.


                                                            Adopted April 8, 1872.

 

No. 136. That all questions for the consideration of conference be presented in writing, except permissive questions, motions for adjournment, motions determining the order of business, or motions calling the question.

 

No. 137. That this conference does  hereby request every branch of the church throughout the world to forward to the General Church Secretary an annual report, on or near the 31st of December of each year, embracing all the items required by the Secretary for each year, from January 1 to December 31 inclusive.

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1872.

 

No. 138. That the church adopt the order taught by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 16:1, 2, "Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galacia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come;" and in the Book of Covenants, section 59, paragraph 2, "Remember that on this, the Lord's day, thou shalt offer thine oblations and thy sacraments, unto the Most High, confessing thy sins unto thy brethren, and before the Lord," to raise moneys for legitimate church purposes. And that, whereas we have assembled, believe that the church should put forth a greater effort, financially, than in the past, therefore be it resolved, That we consider it to be the duty of the presiding officers of missions, districts, and branches to teach the law of tithing and free‑will offerings, presidents of branches to act as the Bishop’s agents in collecting and disbursing such tithing and offerings, keeping an account of all moneys received and forwarding the same to the Bishop to carry on the work of the ministry, etc.

 

No. 139. That in the event of any suitable and effective minister desiring a foreign mission at any time when General Conference is not in session, the First Presidency or the Quorum of the Twelve are hereby authorized to grant them letters of appointment, the persons so appointed to report to and labor under the direction of the president of the mission where they may go.

 

No. 140. That in consequence of the appointment of Bro. Mark H. Forscutt to the presidency of the English Mission, he be released from the secretaryship of the church.

 

No. 141. That Bro. Henry Goodcell, Jr., of California, be appointed to succeed Bro. Mark H. Forscutt as General Church Secretary.

 

                                                       Adopted September 14, 1872.

 

No. 142. That a Utah Chapel Fund be established, and that contributions be solicited thereto, and that the erection of a suitable building be authorized, said building to be erected as soon as practicable. That the presidents of branches be requested to take up collections immediately for the Utah Chapel Fund, and remit the same to Bishop I. L. Rogers, and continue to do so until a sufficient amount be obtained.


                                                    Adopted September 14, 15, 1872.

 

No. 143. The original Articles of Incorporation of the Church under the laws of the state of Illinois. were adopted.

 

  [They are omitted here, because of their length, and having been published formerly in pamphlet form, and because superseded by the Articles of Association adopted April 10 and June 6, 1891; see Rules of Order and Debate, chapter 17.]

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1873.

 

No. 144. That the two quarterly reports of the Bishop made between the General Conferences, be considered his semiannual report to said conference, and that all resolutions or parts of resolutions conflicting with this resolution, be and are hereby repealed.

 

No. 145. Whereas, The String Prairie and Nauvoo District conference at its last session, as published in the Herald, adopted a resolution expressive of their opinion, to the effect, that none had a legal right to vote on the business before the body except the elders, or Melchisedec priesthood; and whereas, The General Conference of 1868, resolved and decided affirmatively, "That all private members, male and female, have a right to vote upon all questions that may be brought before the General Conference;" it is hereby

 

   Resolved, That this conference considers the action of the String Prairie and Nauvoo District conference, on the suffrage question, premature, and disrespectful to the entire body, and that said conference is hereby respectfully requested to reconsider and rescind said resolution at their next quarterly conference session.

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1873.

 

No. 146. That in the opinion of this conference, the organization of a quorum of elders in foreign lands is impracticable, impolitic and unwarranted in the law of God.

 

  That the names of all elders in foreign lands should be enrolled in quorums in the land of Zion.

 

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1873.

 

No. 147. That the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles travel and labor in the ministry of the gospel, severally, as directed by that quorum, under the direction of the First Presidency, according to the revelations of God.

 

 

 


No. 148. That the mission which now includes all the Southern States, be divided into at least two departments, one to be known as the Southeastern Mission, bounded on the north by the Ohio River and West Virginia and Pennsylvania; south by Gulf of Mexico; east by the Atlantic Ocean, and west by Mississippi River. The other, bounded north by Missouri and Kansas; south by the Gulf of Mexico; east by the Mississippi River; west by Mexico and Colorado Territory, to be called the Southwestern Mission.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1873.

 

No. 149. That Schuyler County, Missouri, be added with Clark and Scotland counties to the String Prairie and Nauvoo District.

 

No. 150. That the Quorum of Seventy travel in the ministry and labor under the direction of the Traveling High Council, according to the law of God.

 

No. 151. The high priests after the order of the Melchisedec priesthood have a right to officiate in their own standing under the direction of the Presidency, in administering spiritual things.

 

No. 152. That high priests, when traveling in the ministry, are subject to the direction of the Traveling High Council.

 

No. 153. That this conference accept and sustain Elder Joseph Smith as President of the High Priesthood of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, by virtue of which office he is Prophet, Seer, and Revelator to the church.

 

                                                        Adopted September 5, 1873.

 

No. 154. [The resignation of Bro. Henry Goodcell as Church Secretary was accepted and he was released.]

 

                                                        Adopted September 6, 1873.

 

No. 155. That this conference order that the First Presidency and the Twelve, the Bishop and his counselors, take steps to furnish for the church, suitable tracts for distribution, both in America and in foreign lands; and that the expenses thereof be defrayed by the Bishop.

 

 

No. 156. That the Emigration Fund, now in the hands of the Bishop, be turned over to the general fund of the church, subject to draft as per resolution creating the fund, when it shall be required.

 

 

 

 


                                                            Adopted April 7, 1874.

 

No. 157. That Utah, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and Colorado be stricken off the Pacific Slope Mission and constitute a separate mission to be known as the Utah Mission. (In April, 1880, the name was changed to the Rocky Mountain Mission. )

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 187.4.

 

No. 158. That should the brethren of the church in Wales deem it wise to publish a periodical to circulate among those speaking the Welsh tongue, we shall feel it to be a proper duty to give such periodical what support we may do legitimately, without involving the church pecuniarily.

 

No. 159. Elder Henry A. Stebbins was unanimously chosen to the office of Church Recorder.

 

No. 160. That the elders of the Quorum of Seventy use all practicable means to be at liberty to labor in their calling, and that the tithing fund, as far as practicable, be applied for the sustaining of their families while in the field.

 

No. 161. On motion . . . Bro. John Scott was chosen Church Librarian.

 

No. 162. That hereafter all motions offered to the house shall be put in writing, with the name of the mover, except such as are privileged questions.

 

No. 163. A committee of three was appointed to draft a style and form of church seal.

 

   On the same day the committee reported a design for the church seal, with legend, date, and motto as follows:

 

   “‘Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.’ Emblem, a lion and a lamb lying down at rest. Motto, ‘Peace.’ ‘Incorporated 1872'." The report was adopted, and the committee empowered to purchase the seal.

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1874.

 

No. 164. Whereas, The committee on tracts appointed by the Semiannual Conference finds its labors restricted by the absence of some portion of its number; and whereas, it is desirable and necessary that the tracts contemplated by the appointment of said committee be put in print as soon as possible; therefore be it

 

 

 

 

 


   Resolved, That said committee be continued; and that by and with the consent of its own members, be empowered to act by any number that they may decide upon, as a subcommittee, to examine, revise, and prepare for the press any and all manuscripts, tracts, and writings now in their hands, or that may hereafter be written or offered to them in pursuance of the resolution by which they were appointed; and that said committee be requested to bring their labors to an early and effectual conclusion, as contemplated by their appointment.

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1874.

 

No. 165. Whereas, There is a great necessity for a history of the rise and progress of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, in order that all who desire can have correct and suitable information in relation to said church, therefore be it

 

   Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed by this conference to collate, write, compile, and edit said history at an early date as practicable.

 

No. 166. That we recognize the necessity of a call for a General Assembly of all the quorums of the church authorities, so far as practicable, and we refer this matter to the President of the Church, praying that the Lord may direct respecting the proper time and place for said meeting. We further believe that the President has a right to call the meeting contemplated in this resolution.

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1874.

 

No. 167. That the Board of Publication be and are hereby empowered to purchase all books as are deemed necessary for church purposes, the same to be paid by the church, and such purchases not to exceed seventy‑five dollars per annum.

 

No. 168. That in distinguishing between official and nonofficial members, the term lay member be not used.

 

No. 169. That until a Church Secretary be appointed, the Church Recorder be authorized to act, ex officio, in case occasion so require.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1875.

 

No. 170. That the Church Recorder be Church Secretary also.

 

                                                                             

 

 

 

 

 


                                                           Adopted April 10, 1875.

 

No. 171. That it is the opinion of this assembly that the gospel is to be offered to all mankind, irrespective of color, nationality, sex, or condition in life; and that elders in Christ are not justified in making, or insisting on being made, any separation in church privileges, worship or sacrament, other than is made in the church articles and revelations in regard to ministerial ordinations and labor; and that we advise all officers of the church to be governed by the spirit and tenor of this teaching and this resolution.

 

No. 172. Whereas, Believing, that the bread and wine used at the sacrament are simply blessed for the use of those who at the time, and with an understanding of its purpose, partake of it, in no way relating to its subsequent use, therefore be it

 

   Resolved, That we rescind a former resolution of General Conference making necessary the passing of the bread until all be taken.

 

No. 173. That it is the duty of the Quorum of the Twelve to take charge of all important missions, especially those to foreign countries.

 

No.174. That the law of tithing is binding upon the church in its scattered condition.

 

No. 175. That in the opinion of this body, this church has no right to subvert the liberties of its members by prohibiting their membership with what is known as “a secret society,” unless such society shall first be condemned by either a decision of the General Assembly of the church, or by the law of the land.

 

                                                      Adopted April 9 and 10, 1875.

 

No. 176. Whereas, The impression seems to be gaining ground, and it is believed that this impression results from the prevalence of the spirit of the gathering, that the circumstances of the country and the condition of the church indicate the time is come that there should be a gathering of the Saints into a more centralized condition, and that such centralization is demanded by the necessities of  the church and the genius of the latter‑day work; and

   Whereas, The spiritual condition is favorable to such gathering; and whereas, Such a gathering contemplates the centralizing of the chief authorities of the church at as early a day as practicable, in order to the more effectual work of the ministry, and building up of the Church of Christ and the locating of the "Publishing Department," press and fixtures within the limits of such gathering place; therefore, be it

   Resolved, That a standing committee of five be appointed by this conference, whose duty it shall be to select and make such location as is contemplated in the foregoing preamble and arrange for and effect the purchase of lands, locate a town site, and perform such other acts as are consistent with the making of such locations, and consummating such purchases; and that said committee make report of their labor; to a General Conference of the church at as early a time as they shall deem prudent.


                                                       Adopted September 10, 1876.

 

No. 177. That Brn. P. Cadwell, H. J. Hudson, and J. M. Briggs are hereby appointed a committee to draft a petition for the consideration of this conference, asking Congress to inaugurate more decisive measures in the suppression of misrule and tyranny in Utah, embodying such statements of fact and documentary evidence as the interests of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints demand; that the world may be warranted in believing that Mormonism does not indorse nor favor in any degree the criminal policy of Brigham Young and assistants; and further, that we request the press of the United States to keep the matter before the public continually, and to make such statements as are due us as a corporate body, desiring the welfare of our beloved country, and the just and supreme administration of the laws thereof.

 

                                              Committee report adopted April 12, 1876.

 

No. 178. Report of the committee on Memorial to Congress being called for, Bro. Jason W. Briggs verbally reported that after it had been approved by the First Presidency it had been sent to the member from this congressional district the Hon. Alexander Campbell, and his reply was read:

 

                                       House of Representatives, WASHINGTON, D. C.,

March 2, 1876.

   Elder J. W. Briggs, Plano, Illinois, Dear Sir: Your letter, petition and Memorial reached me in due course of the mails, and were this day referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. They would have been presented when they came to hand, but I was in doubt as to whether they should be referred to Committee on Territories or on the Judiciary. I called on Mr. Page this morning and learned from him that his bill was referred to the Judiciary Committee, consequently I had the Memorial, &c., sent to that Committee, which hope will be satisfactory.

I am very truly yours,

A. CAMPBELL.

Also the following:

 

   Extract from the Congressional Globe for March 3, 1876:

 

   Presented by Mr. Campbell. Memorial of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, in Conference assembled at Council Bluffs, Iowa, that more decisive measures be inaugurated in the suppression of alleged misrule and tyranny in Utah, referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

 

   Conference accepted the report and discharged the committee.

 

 

 

 

 

 


                                                     MEMORIAL TO CONGRESS.

 

   From a Committee of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, petitioning Congress to inaugurate more decisive measures in the suppression of misrule and tyranny in Utah; setting forth, with documentary evidence, that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints does in no wise favor the criminal policy of Brigham Young, etc., etc., etc.

 

   To their Excellencies, the President and Vice President; and the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives, of the United States, in Congress Assembled:

 

   At the Semiannual Conference of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, held at Council Bluffs, Iowa, on the eighth day of September, 1875, the following resolution was adopted:

 

 Resolved, That Phineas Cadwell, H. J. Hudson and Jason W. Briggs be hereby appointed a committee to draft a petition for the consideration of this conference asking Congress to inaugurate more decisive measures in the suppression of misrule and tyranny in Utah, embodying such statements of fact and documentary evidence as the interests of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints demand; that the world may be warranted in believing that "Mormonism" does not indorse nor favor in any degree the criminal policy of Brigham Young and assistants, and  further that we request the press of the United States to keep the matter before the public continually, and make such statements that are due us a corporate body, which desires the welfare of our beloved country and the just and supreme  administration of the laws thereof.

 

   The committee to whom was referred the foregoing resolution, would most respectfully present for your consideration, and action, the necessity for "Congress to inaugurate more decisive measures in the suppression of misrule and tyranny in Utah." That there is a distinctive line of demarcation between the tenets and practices of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, under the leadership of  Joseph Smith, and those under the leadership of Brigham Young, in Utah, has been fully set forth before your honorable body in a former memorial, and presented to the Senate of the United States by the Hon. Lyman Trumbull, May 5, 1870, and was referred to the Committee  on Territories.

 

   Your Memorialists do not deem it necessary to recapitulate those doctrines at this time; but in brief, would say that in Utah, "doctrines are held and practiced which are at variance with the proper usages of civilized nations, and opposed to the law of our common country;” whilst on the other hand, "we do most fully, freely, and unreservedly affirm, that there is nothing required by the law or polity of

the church, that can render its members violators of the laws of the land in any of their legal provisions.”

 

   We would respectfully represent that from our knowledge of the teachings and practices of the leaders of the Utah church organization, it is opposed to all free governments, and especially to the government of the United States; in proof of which we refer to the following declarations from their leading men, and published by themselves:


   “Our ecclesiastical government is the government of heaven, and incorporates all governments in earth and hell.  It is the fountain, the mainspring, the source of all light, power and governments that ever did, or ever will exist. It circumscribes the governments of this world." ── Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, vol. 7, p. 141.

 

   "The kingdom of God is an order of government established by divine authority. It is the only legal government that can exist in any part of the universe. All other governments are illegal and unauthorized ── any people attempting to govern themselves by laws of their own making and by officers of their own appointment are in direct rebellion against the kingdom of  God." ── Orson Pratt's Kingdom of God, part 1, page 1.

 

   And in accordance with the above teachings, the government of the United States is considered illegal; and in Utah, an intruder. In proof of which, we refer to the forcible resistance to the entry of United States troops and federal officers, and the obstacles thrown in the way of the Federal Courts, and the constant evasion of the United States law.

 

   We further represent, that in accordance with the foregoing statement of belief respecting all governments, (except  their own,) being illegal; it is held, that oaths administered by officers of such courts, or governments, are not binding upon jurors, or witnesses and to this may be attributed the

well known fact that not one criminal in fellowship with that "ecclesiastical government," in Utah, has ever been found guilty and punished by jurors in the same fellowship, however clear the evidence has been; and that it is the cherished design, and hope of these leaders, to throw off, what they call the shackles of the United States; and to this end they urge the emigration to Utah of all their adherents,

which are mainly of foreign birth, and from the humbler class; who, on arriving in Utah, are sent into the far off settlements, that they may not come in contact with any who entertain other views. The results are, that communities are forming, and the young are growing up, all over the Territory, with just such sentiments respecting the Government as its sworn enemies and haters inculcate. And while no territorial statute law exists in Utah regulating marriage, there do exist territorial laws respecting property; which, by the ruling of the Probate Courts, places the wives of Utah, and their children, upon a level with mistresses and their illegitimate children; and, under certain circumstances, discriminating in favor of the latter, against the former; the design of which, is apparent; viz, to disarm and discourage the wife, and protect polygamy. Further; that the mail service is practically abridged to publishers of newspapers and periodicals opposed to this polygamous oligarchy, at some post offices through which it is impossible to transmit such mail matter, with regularity and certainty; preeminent among them, is the post office at Ogden. 

   We, your memorialists, while representing the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, throughout the United States; we, also, represent those members of the said church now resident in Utah, which constitutes no inconsiderable part of the population of that Territory, as before stated, in common with those of other sects, and of no sect; have felt, and still feel, the pernicious effects of unwarranted and unnatural union of Church and State, sought to be forced upon us by an oligarchy of priests; who, declaring against human governments, assume to be the government of God, and rule the legislature and territorial courts, to the detriment of all law‑abiding citizens. 


   We ask on the part of (Congress) your Honorable Body:

 

   Firstly: An examination of the statutes of Utah; and the disapproval of all such enactments as are

inconsistent with the Constitution and laws of the United States, justice and republicanism in its true sense.

 

   Secondly; To provide for the untrammeled exercise of the right of franchise, by disallowing the present practice of so marking the ballot, and numbering the votes as to show how each votes.

 

   Thirdly; To so amend the jury law, as to exclude from the jury box, such as are confederates with

criminals on trial; this would, among other results, throw open to actual settlers thousands of acres of land now fraudulently held by Brigham Young, and others of the ruling oligarchy in Utah.

 

   Fourthly; The placing of the post offices in the hands of persons who recognize the authority of the

Government, and the sanctity of the oath of office. 

 

   And we further implore Congress to apply the needed remedy for the "suppression of misrule and

tyranny in Utah," and thus bring to justice criminals of every character; as Congress has the

unquestioned power to legislate over the Territories. 

 

   And for the peace, prosperity, and perpetuity of the Government of the United States of America, we, your memorialists, will ever pray. 

 

P. CADWELL,

H. J. HUDSON,

   J. W. BRIGGS, 

Committee.

 

 


                                                       Adopted September 10, 1875. 

 

No. 179.  That the Board of Publication be authorized to furnish Heralds and Hopes for the European Mission at the cost of publication. That said bills be referred to the Bishopric for adjustment and payment in the future.

 

No. 180. That each organized district of the church and each branch not in an organized district,

throughout the world be requested to make out an annual statistical report, covering and designating all changes up to the last day of the week.

 

                                                       Adopted September 11, 1875. 

 

No. 181. That until it shall be otherwise decided by revelation or act of a General Assembly, the ordination of seventies prior to April, 1873, shall be held as legal, and those so ordained authorized

to act as such officers; but that this action does not warrant the further ordinations of seventies except as  provided by the rules and precedents of the April session of 1873; and further that it be ordered that the secretary of the quorum record the names and issue licenses to those seventies acting under the ordination referred to in the reorganization. 

 

                                                            Adopted April 6, 1876. 

 

No. l82. That said book be adopted as a manual of practice and Rules of Order and Debate to govern the legislative assemblies of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. 

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1876. 

 

No. 183. Whereas, The members of the church have not sufficiently responded to the call of the locating committee in furnishing the means adequate for the purchase of land for the location of the press, and the gathering together more closely the spiritual authorities of the church; therefore, be it 

   Resolved, That the report be accepted, [except that portion which relates of the appointment of another committee.] and that the money already in the hands of the committee be refunded. 

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1876. 

 

No. 184. Whereas, The Articles of Incorporation of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter

Day Saints locate the present business center of the church at Plano, Illinois, and 

 

   Whereas, Provisions are made in said Articles of Incorporation for the changing of said business center to some other place; and, 

 

   Whereas, We believe that upon grounds of economy, convenience, the common good, and a wise reference to coming wants of the church, such change should be made at an early day; 


   Therefore be it resolved, That this conference does hereby recommend that active steps be taken by those having the matter in charge, to make such change, at such time, and to such place, as they in their wisdom may think best. 

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1876. 

 

No. 185. Whereas, Much unpleasantness has occurred through members leaving one branch,  and joining another without a certificate of membership; therefore, be it

 

   Resolved, That members leaving one branch, shall not be permitted to join another without a certificate of membership.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1876. 

 

No. 186. That this conference look with favor upon effort to build a chapel, as a house of worship, in Salt Lake City, when found practicable, and that we will encourage erection. 

 

No. 187. Whereas, The conferences in the past have firmed that there is at present no place of gathering, therefore, be it 

 

   Resolved, That any elder teaching contrary to the resolutions of General Conference is censurable.  

                                                          Adopted October 7, 1876. 

 

No. 188. That the practice of citing members to trial, on their church membership, through the Herald, be discontinued. 

 

                                                          Adopted October 9, 1876. 

 

No. 189. That the action of the session of April, 1870. Be amended by making the meetings of the  Board of Publication half yearly instead of quarterly, and by inserting the may before the word issue, in regard to certificates of indebtedness authorized. [Substance of action on committee reports.] 

 

No. 190. Whereas, the committee on music has repeatedly failed to report to the General Conference; and, whereas, it is important that the work assigned them be performed, therefore it is hereby resolved, That the present committee be released from further duty. 

 

No. l91. That this conference reaffirm a resolution passed by the Annual Conference of 1871, touching the Sunday school cause, which reads, That the Sunday school cause forms an important

feature in the work of the last days, and the officers and teachers thereof are hereby sustained; and

furthermore it is hereby 

 

 


     Resolved, That we request the presidents of branches, throughout the world, to use their utmost endeavors to organize Sunday schools in their respective branches, and to make reports to their several district conferences of the condition and progress of said schools; and that districts make reports to the Annual Conference; and that presidents of districts and the traveling ministry be also requested to use their influence to establish and sustain Sunday schools. 

 

No. l92. That this conference reaffirm the resolution passed at The semiannual conference of 1875, . . .  that the districts and scattered branches make statistical reports but once a year; the resolution, hereby reaffirmed, reading as follows: Resolved, That each organized district of the church, and each branch not in an organized district, throughout the world, be and are hereby requested to make out regularly full annual statistical reports, covering and designating all changes up to the last day of each year. 

 

No. 193. That a committee on music be now appointed, and that M. H. Forscutt be the chairman thereof, with power to choose two assistants. 

 

No. 194. That the Bishop be, and hereby is, instructed to report to the General Conference whether

the necessary measures have been taken to have the title of the Kirtland Temple transferred to the church corporation, as provided for in Article six of the Articles of Incorporation of the church. 

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1877. 

 

No. 195. That the Bishop be, and is hereby instructed to pay all moneys now in his hands for the

Utah chapel to the present building committee, on their order.

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1877.

 

No. 196. That the committee, who have labored so diligently in this matter, complete the tune book, and submit the same to the Board of Publication for their further investigation before publishing the same. That when the Board of Publication have determined upon what form they will publish the tune book they will give notice through the columns of the Herald.

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1877.

 

No. 197. That this conference request the Board of Publication to issue in pamphlet form the article written by Bro W. H. Kelley, and published, some time since, in the Herald entitled "Presidency and priesthood," subject to revision by Bro. W. H. Kelley, if desired.

 

No. 198. Whereas, B. Winchester's "Synopsis of the Holy Scriptures" has proven a benefit to many in the search of truth, therefore be it

    Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to consider the advisability and practicability of republishing said synopsis or a revision of it, or a similar one, and report at this or the next General Conference.


                                                           Adopted April 11, 1877.

 

No. 199. Whereas, The General Conferences have the power to authorize the organization of quorums, Resolved, there fore, That said conferences have the power, and the right also, to authorize such changes or transfers of the members of such quorums as the interests of the church may demand.

No. 200. That hereafter the Bishop be requested to incorporate with his annual reports a list of all real estate deeded to the church from time to time.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1877.

 

No. 201. The Presidency presented their replies to the matters referred to them yesterday.

 

    First one read:

 

To the Brethren in Conference Assembled: Whereas, A certain elder and priest having been ordained by an elder whom they subsequently thought to be an unworthy man at the time of said ordination, and feeling dissatisfied with their ordinations and their usefulness in the church being impaired thereby, they have requested me to present to the General Conference such questions as would cause such action to be taken as shall remove from their minds the present doubts regarding the validity of said ordinations, all of which is respectfully submitted.    Signed,       J. S. PATTERSON..

 

To the Conference of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, in session at Plano, Illinois: The Presidency to whom the question couched in the affixed paper, referred by you on yesterday, submit:

 

     We decide that the legality of the ordinations referred to is not affected by the subsequent feelings of the parties so ordained; but, in order that unanimity of feeling and action may be obtained, we deem it proper, or permissible, that such ordinations may be reconferred by the direction and action of the branch, or district conferences to which the parties belong, a record of such reconferring of authority by reordination to be kept by the branch or district.

                                                                          Respectfully submitted,

                                                                                              JOSEPH SMITH

                                                                                              W. W. BLAIR,

                                                                                                 Of the Presidency.

 

PLANO, ILLINOIS. April 12, 1877.

 

Upon motion the report and recommendations were adopted..

 

 

 

 

 


No. 202. The following was read:

 

    Whereas, I have been informed by the president of the London (Canada) Branch, that two elders (at a time when they were silenced) did profess to have received revelation commanding or instructing them to seal up to eternal life a young sister of said branch, which command they did put into action by performing something like an ordinance, we therefore present this paper to the conference, desiring that the matter be investigated, as to the nature of the ordinance, and also as to the rights of elders to perform such ordinances, if such there be in the church.

            Signed,                                                                                   JOHN S. PATTERSON

 

  To the Conference of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, in Session at Plano, Illinois: The First Presidency, to whom your honorable body referred the question respecting "sealing unto eternal life," propounded in the paper attached hereto, submit the following in reply:     We know of no law of the church creating or authorizing “sealing up to eternal life," as an ordinance; other than such sealing as may be found in the "laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost," in confirming members into the church. We therefore decide that such persons as may have performed such a rite supposed to be one of "sealing unto life," as an ordinance of the church, have erred, but such error is not of such a nature as to become a crime against the law governing the church, as the fact of such "sealing up unto eternal life" cannot be determined as to its truth, or falsity,

except at the judgment day, when the acts of all are to appear for arbitration and decision; therefore the act of those men referred to in the inquiry submitted to us, and of which complaint is made, is not such an act as demands official inquiry and condemnation.

    While this is our decision, we decide, while there is no ordinance of the kind referred to known to the law, the written law of the church, it. is therefore of the things of the unwritten law, if the right exists at all to seal up unto eternal life , other than in confirmation by the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, the performance of such an ordinance, or the solemnizing of such a rite is of doubtful propriety, and should in no case be done except upon unqualified directions of the Spirit. Further, that elders should not teach nor Practice such rites as a rule of the church

   All of which is respectfully submitted.

                                           JOSEPH SMITH,

                                           WM. W. BLAIR,

                                              Of the First Presidency

 

Done at PLANO, ILLINOIS, April 12, 1877.

 

    Resolved, That the conference adopt said report as the voice of the body.

 

                                                       Adopted September 22, 1877.

 

No. 203. Whereas, We believe that the History of Joseph Smith as contained in the Times and Seasons, and in other publications of the church, should be revised and published by the Reorganized Church in book form, therefore be it be Resolved, That a committee be appointed to prepare it for publication. [Substance of item reported by the Board of  Publication and adopted.] 


                                                            Adopted April 8, 1878.

 

No. 204. That the report [of the music committee] be received and the committee; discharged, with instructions that all matter in their hands belonging to the church be turned over to the Bishop.

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1878.

 

No. 205. That the report of the committee on Winchester's Synopsis be referred to the Board of Publication, with instructions to revise and enlarge in such manner as will best serve the use of the church, and that they publish the same when practicable, in the name of the church.

 

                                                           Adopted April 10,.1878.

 

No. 206. That those having charge of church property be required to value the same and forward to the Bishop the report of such valuation, and that all property not yet deeded to the church, as given in the Bishop's report, be alike valued, and proper deeds made, as provided in the church articles.

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1878.

 

No. 207. That section 169, chapter 13, Book of Rules, be affirmed by this conference, as the proper construction to be put upon the church law respecting the powers of elders' courts, as stated therein, and that we enjoin its observance.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1878.

 

No. 208. That the Bishop, the legal trustee of the church, be authorized and instructed by this conference to take the proper steps to secure the church In its rights to said property [Kirtland Temple].

 

                                                           Adopted April.13, 1878.

 

No. 209. That at the present time or hereafter, the First Presidency be excused from sitting on committees, if so desired by them.

 

                                                       Adopted September 11, 1878.

 

No. 210.  That the law of tithing as given in the revelation of 1838, and referred to in the revelation of 1861, is applicable to the church in its present condition, and should be observed.

 

No. 211. That the building of houses of worship in the various branches of  the church is in keeping with the law, and an excellent aid to the preaching of the word.

 

 


No. 212. That all baptisms, in order to be legal, must be legal, must be done by both the administrator and the candidate going down into the water, according to the instructions in the Bible, Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants; and  if  there are any now numbered with the Church who have received the ordinance with any less than the above requirements, that they are hereby required to receive the administration of the ordinance in the above form

 

                                                       Adopted September 13, 1878.

 

No. 213. That the music committee (Brn. M. H. Forscutt, N. W; Smith, and J. T. Kinnaman, discharged last April) be reappointed, with Bro. S. I. Smith added to the number, and that we recommend that the work be given to the public at as early a day as practicable; Further, That said committee are requested to report to the Board of Publication their work and its accomplishment as early as practicable, the committee being authorized to retain the books and documents in their hands. [Statement of substance of committee report adopted.]

 

No. 214. That this body, representing the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, does hereby authoritatively indorse the Holy Scriptures, as revised, corrected and translated by the Spirit of revelation, by Joseph Smith, Jr., the Seer, and as published by the church we represent.

 

No. 215. That this body, representing the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, recognize the Holy Scriptures, the Book of Mormon, the revelations of God contained in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, and all other revelations which have been or shall be revealed through God's appointed prophet, which have been or may be hereafter accepted by the church as the standard of authority on all matters of church government and doctrine, and the final standard of reference on appeal in all controversies arising or which may arise in this Church of Christ.

 

No. 216. Whereas, We accept the revelations heretofore given to the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, through the present presiding officer thereof, as being the word of the Lord to his church, equally with those published in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants; therefore, be it

   Resolved, That the revelations received by the President of the church in 1861, 1863, and 1865, be received as from God, authoritative and binding on us as a body; and in connection with the revelation of 1873, that they be hereafter compiled with that book. 

 

No. 217. That this body declares that the use of tobacco is expensive, injurious and filthy, and that it should be discouraged by the ministry.

 

No. 218. That the building committee of the Utah chapel, or other competent body, be requested to send a report of all receipts and expenditures, to the next April conference, and that said committee be also requested to say whether or not they think the building of the chapel expedient and should be continued.

 

 


                                                            Adopted April 9, 1879.

 

No. 219. Whereas, The present system of reporting the church finances by the Bishop and agents is not uniform, neither satisfactory, but is discriminating and partial, in that the means received by the Bishop direct, is properly itemized and reported through the Herald, giving the names of the parties paying in the means and to whom paid, but that which is paid to the agents is not itemized in their reports, neither the names of the donors, nor of the ones to whom money is paid, but only the aggregate is given, therefore be it

   Resolved, That we require of the Bishop of the church a report through the Herald, or in a supplement sheet, an itemized report of the means received and paid out by the agents, with the names of the donors and to whom paid, and that this report be made annually.

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1879.

 

No. 220. That it is the opinion of this conference that when a member has been legally excommunicated from the church, he can be received back into the fold only through the door, baptism.

 

                                                       Adopted September 25, 1879.

 

No. 221. That the labors of the music committee be accepted and that they be discharged; that Bro. M. H. Forscutt be appointed musical editor, and that the material in the hands of the committee be turned over to him; that measures be at once taken to prepare the manuscript for publication by said musical editor; that the book be published as soon as the Board of Publication may direct and that it be called the Saints' Harmony. [Summary of part of committee's report amended and adopted.]

 

                                                       Adopted September 29, 1879.

 

No. 222. The report of the First Presidency, concerning the resolution from Decatur District, in reference to the Book of Doctrine and Covenants was read and adopted as expressing the view of the conference:

 

   To the Elders and Saints in Conference Assembled, Greeting: In the matter of preamble and resolution from the Decatur District, referred to us on a previous day of the session, we beg leave and submit:

 

    It is our opinion that the free rendering and meaning of the resolution passed at the semiannual session of 1878, and referred to in said resolution from Decatur District, is that:

 

 

 

 

 


   Whereas, Certain rumors had obtained currency that the church had not at any time so attested the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, and the later revelations given to the church, by vote and affirmation, that they should form with the Bible and the Book of Mormon, a standard of reference in case of controversy and difference of opinion upon questions of doctrine and practice in the church; therefore to remedy this defect if it existed, the resolution referred to was introduced and passed.

   We are further of the opinion, that it is not the intent and meaning of the said resolution to make a belief in the revelations in the Book of Covenants, or the abstract doctrines possibly contained in it, a test of reception and fellowship in the church; but that the things therein contained relating to the doctrine, rules of procedure and practice in the church; should govern the ministry and elders as representatives of the church.

  We are further of the opinion, that, while it is not intended, or indeed practicable to bind or proscribe the liberty of conscience, whereby violence is done to the honesty and integrity of the people by prescribing dogmas and tenets other than the plain provisions of the gospel, as affirmed in the New Testament, Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants, and set forth in the Epitome of Faith and Doctrine; it is clear to us that it is destructive to the faith of the church, and inconsistent with the calling and dignity of the ministry, to decry, disclaim, preach or teach contrary to the revelations in said Book of Covenants, or to arraign them in such a way that the faith of the people of the church is weakened and they thereby distressed.

   We are further of the opinion, that the elders should confine their teaching to such doctrines and tenets, church articles and practices, a knowledge of which is necessary to obedience and salvation; and that in all questions upon which there is much controversy, and upon which the church has not clearly declared, and which are not unmistakably essential to salvation, the elders should refrain from teaching; or if called upon, in defense of the church, or when wisdom should dictate, they should so clearly discriminate in their teaching between their own views and opinions, and the affirmations and defined declarations of the church that they shall not be found antagonizing their own and others' views as a conflict in teaching upon the part of the church.

   We are further of the opinion, that the advancing of speculative theories upon abstruse questions, a belief, or disbelief in which cannot affect the salvation of the hearers is a reprehensible practice; and should not be indulged in by the elders; especially should this not be done in those branches where personal antagonisms must inevitably arise, to the hindering of the work of grace; and should be reserved for the schools of inquiry among the elders themselves.

   We are further of the opinion, that until such time as vexed questions now pending are definitely settled by the competent quorums of the church the discussion of them should be avoided in all places where the elders labor, in the world and in the branches, and should only be had in solemn conclave when necessary to examine them for settlement, under proper rules of restraint.

 

J. SMITH,

W. W. BLAIR,

Presidency

 

GALLANTS GROVE, September 29, 1879.

 

 


No. 223. That President J. Smith, and those whom he may call to his aid shall he a committee to prepare and present to the publishers of the Encyclopedia Britannica, Johnson's, and other encyclopedias, an article setting forth the lending facts touching the rise and progress of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, embracing its distinctive doctrines and principles.

 

No. 224 That no quorum is authorized to enroll a brother without his consent.

 

No. 225. Whereas; The constitution of the Board of Publication requires the Bishop to nominate the members of the board; and whereas, In the opinion of this conference it would be in harmony with the spirit of his office, that he be one of the members of that board; and whereas, further, We believe him to be eminently qualified for the position, be it

 

   Resolved, That we hereby request him to act as a member of that board.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1880.

 

No. 226. That in the opinion of this conference the ministry who neglect or refuse to be members of branches or districts, are disqualified for serving on missions.

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1880.

 

No. 227. Whereas, We believe that the practice of dropping the names of absent members from the branch rolls works injury to the cause and confusion to the Church Record, therefore be it

 

   Resolved, That this conference instruct that the names of all scattered members be retained on the branch rolls; and that branch clerks hereafter be required to report the number of resident and the number of scattered members; until such scattered members be removed from the rolls according to law concerning the granting of letters of removal.

 

   That hereafter blank reports for branches be so changed by adding blank space providing for so reporting.

    And we further recommend that an Assistant Church Recorder be appointed, or that we empower the Recorder to select such assistant. [Preamble in foregoing summarized from lengthy report.]

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1880.

 

No. 228. Whereas, The extended growth of the church in the various States and Territories of the United States and in all parts of the world, separates its membership by distances of hundreds and thousands of miles from each other, and renders any one place of meeting in a body for the transaction of general church business impracticable, and

 

 

 


    Whereas, By reason of this and other obstacles, it is impossible to secure the presence of members and officers at the general church gatherings in such numbers as to obtain the consent, and a fair and true expression of the will of the entire church on questions which arise in the transaction of the business of the same, and

   Whereas, The only General Assembly of the church as at present represented are its General Conferences, which fail to afford an effectual means of ascertaining the general wishes and expressions of the church at large, by reason of the danger of advantages being taken to defeat the will of the body as a church by persons unscrupulous or ambitious influencing the masses who form the majority of the present voting membership in the localities where such conferences are, or may be held, and

   Whereas, It is necessary and desirable to obtain the full and free expression of the entire church membership upon all questions of general interest relating to the transaction of the business of the church and thereby maintain inviolate the great principle held sacred by all free men, viz: "Action by common consent under the law," and

   Whereas, Under the laws of the church we recognize the right of the body to adopt such rules and regulations in the calling and organization of General Conferences as shall tend to subserve the general good and advance the highest interests of the whole body, therefore be it

    1.  Resolved, by the General Conference now assembled at Plano, Illinois, That all conferences and assemblies which shall hereafter he held for the transaction of business for the church as a whole, whether such conference or assembly be special or annual, shall be composed of members having one or more of the following qualifications: (1) Persons ex officio members of such conference or assembly. (2) Members made such by reason of their being under appointment from General Conference.  (3) Delegates to General Conferences.  Provided however, that nothing herein contained, shall relate to, or prevent the calling of a conference of the quorums of the church for the transaction of business as authorized by the laws of the church, the General Assembly, proper, and provided further, that nothing herein shall prevent any quorum of the church transacting such business as may legally come before it and the right to present the same to such General Conference or Assembly for its action thereon.

    2. Resolved that a committee of five (of whom the President of the church shall be the chairman) be appointed by the president of this conference to arrange and report a system of representation in accordance with the foregoing preambles and resolution.

   A motion to defer was made and amended, the whole reading as follows:

   Resolved, That these preambles and resolutions be spread Upon the record, and their further consideration be laid over till the next meeting of the conference, but the committee shall be appointed at this conference, and requested to report at the next fall conference.

 

No. 229. That the Board of Publication is hereby requested to have the Concordance and Reference Guide revised and printed in or bound with the Book of Covenants, omitting from said concordance, etc., only such revelations as were ordered by the last fall conference to be hereafter added to the Book of Covenants.

 

 

 


                                                       Adopted September 16, 1880.

 

No. 230. Whereas, first, The revelations accepted by the church make it the duty of the church to liberate the hands of the Twelve and the Seventy; and

   Whereas, second, The Twelve and the Seventy, as the especial witnesses of the church to the world, should first go as missionaries into all the world, and

  Whereas, third, We believe that the funds of the general church treasury should be first used to supply the families of the Twelve and Seventy, before the families of the high priests, elders or priests are supplied, or money employed to send high priests, elders or priests to distant fields of labor, therefore be it hereby.

   Resolved, 1st, That no member of this, or of any quorum other than that of the Twelve and Seventy, should be sent out as missionaries under General Conference appointment, until all members of these two quorums shall have been sent, or shall have been excused for cause by proper authority, or shall have positively declined to go.

   2d. That the members of the Twelve and the Seventy should be all assigned to missionary labor, in harmony with the law; the funds of the church be used for the prosecution of their missions, and the support of their families.

  3d. That if the number of the Twelve and Seventy are insufficient to supply demands for general ministerial labor, and there be funds to sustain other families than those of these quorums, then members of other quorums may be chosen and sent by General Conference, and their families also supplied from the church treasury, impartially, with the families of the Twelve and the Seventy. (Above article presented by the High Priests' Quorum.)

 

No. 231. Whereas, The general church funds have heretofore been used in sending out elders and priests as missionaries, instead of sending those whom the law directs as the proper ones who should have precedence; therefore be it

   Resolved, That we recommend to this conference that the funds for missionary purposes be used to release, first, the quorums of the Twelve and Seventy, who should, properly, be the general and leading missionaries of the church to the world as the law directs. (Above presented by the Quorum

of Seventy.)

 

No. 232. Whereas, Action has been had that moneys shall only be paid out of the church treasury to members of the Quorum of the Twelve and of the Seventy; therefore, be it

    Resolved, That if there are any elders laboring in distant fields who are not members of the above quorums, they shall receive, if necessary, aid to return home.

 

                                                       Adopted September 19, 1880.

 

No. 233. Whereas, Injury may result to the cause and perhaps also to individuals, in that the labors of some of the ministry may be lessened through misunderstanding as to the action of this conference in regard to sending only the Twelve and the Seventy into the field (unless sufficient means be in the church treasury to do otherwise), therefore be it

 


   Resolved, That those of the ministry who were under General Conference appointment, but who are not named in the list of missions appointed at this session, neither have been individually released, nor otherwise provided for, are hereby recommended to district and mission authorities and conferences for appointment, either in those fields to which they were formerly assigned by the General Conference, or to other districts and regions where they may profitably work; and we also recommend such authorities or conferences to receive them in the same spirit as though they were sent by the General Conference; and furthermore we recommend that such districts and missions sustain such laborers with the necessary means, so far as is practicable and just, and this in order that the work of God may be prosecuted with no less vigor and success than has been heretofore. And we also recommend that all others who can labor to the benefit of the cause, be also in like manner appointed and sustained, according as the Spirit may direct and means and circumstances may justify or permit.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1881.

 

No. 234.

                                  REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON REPRESENTATION.

 

   To the Conference in Session Assembled: Your Committee on Representation, beg leave and report:

 

   Whereas, The method and fact of church representation in General Conferences, as at present practiced, seem not to be within the law, and are made inadequate to secure the common consent contemplated in that law. Therefore,

   Resolved, That a more clearly defined method of representation should be adopted, and that to secure that system your committee recommended [recommend?] the adoption of the following rules on Representation:

 

   1. That the general officers of the church known as the Presidency, the Twelve, the High Council, the Seventy and the Bishopric (proper), are ex officio members of conference, and entitled to a voice and vote as representatives of the spiritual authorities of the church at large.

 

   2. That high priests, elders and priests engaged in the ministry and under missionary appointment of General Conference, or the general authorities of the church, and not laboring in and by the authority of organized districts, are hereby declared to be entitled to voice and vote in General Conferences when present.

 

   3.  That organized districts be authorized to appoint from their members, at their last quarterly session of district conference next preceding the session of the annual and semiannual General Conferences, delegates to said annual and semiannual sessions, who shall be entitled to represent said districts, which delegates so appointed shall be declared members of said General Conferences entitled to voice and vote.

  


   Provided: That the choice and appointment by said districts shall be made by a majority of those present and voting, in regular or called session of district conference, of the holding of which due notice shall have been given, as to time and place within the district, to each and every branch composing said district; together with a statement of any important business or action that is to be presented to, or likely to be had by said general session, affecting said district, and to which their consent or denial is desired, that instructions to said delegates may be given as to their action.

   And provided further: That the only qualifications to eligibility to the office of delegate from district to General Conference shall be membership and good standing.

   Provided further: That no less than one, nor more than five delegates may be sent from any one district; but that said delegate, or delegates, shall be entitled to voice and vote in such General Conferences to which they may be appointed, upon a presentation of a certificate from the clerk of district conference to the said General Conferences, upon their organization at the times specified for their assembling.

   And provided further: That said delegate or delegates shall be entitled to cast one vote for each branch of six members; and one vote for each twenty members in excess of six, that there may be in the branches of their said districts, in all cases where such a vote may be necessary, or desired, to secure the common consent designed in the law but that in the common routine of business said delegates may vote as units each in his own right, and in cases of division, the majority of the delegation from a district shall cast the whole vote of said district.

   4. That each branch of six or more members, not included in an organized district, be authorized to appoint one delegate to the General Conferences, who may or may not be a member of said branch, but who shall be a member of the church and in good standing, whose qualifications to eligibility shall be the same as those required in districts, and who shall represent said branch and be entitled to voice and vote in said conferences to which he may be appointed; and who shall be entitled to cast one vote for the six members required to appoint and one for each twenty members in excess of six composing said branch

   Provided further: That two or more branches in near proximity to each other, not in organized district, may unite in choosing a delegate, who shall cast their vote, one vote for six members of each branch, and one vote for each twenty members in excess of the number six, multiplied by the number of  branches represented; the manner of casting their votes in cases of importance and common routine of business to be as provided in cases of districts.

  Provided further, that due general notice to the members of branches of the time and place of meeting for the choosing of said delegate be properly given, as required in cases of districts; certificate of appointment of branch delegate to be signed by the president or clerk of branch, and to be presented as provided in cases of districts.

   5.  That in all questions of grave importance, affecting the polity and faith of the church; districts and branches may instruct delegates to cast a majority and a minority vote for and against; but in no case shall the number of the votes cast by said delegates so instructed, exceed the number to which the district appointing him or them shall be entitled as hereinbefore provided, and in cases of a tie in districts or branches on questions presented to them, certified to said delegates, the votes of said districts or branches shall be cast in equal numbers by the delegates.

 

 


   6. In all questions of debate, incidental motions, and routine business, representatives, ex officio, and delegates, appointed, shall speak and vote as units and in their own separate and personal right. 

JOSEPH SMITH, Chairman

 

   That the foregoing rules on representation may be altered and amended at any General Conference

of the church, and that all the provisions of said Report on Representation may be altered or amended at the next conference of the church to be held at           , on          , which shall be composed of members as provided by the rules adopted for the purpose of obtaining the voice of the whole people of the church. 

   Provided, That at least two months' notice of the nature of such amendment or amendments shall

be given in the Herald, before the date of the sitting of the session of conference at which such amendment or amendments will be presented, giving manner and form in which such amendments are desired. 

 

                                                           Adopted April 13, 1881. 

 

No. 235. That this conference discourage the use of tobacco, and of strong drinks, as a beverage, by the church, and especially by the ministry. 

 

No. 236. That we approve of the translation and publication of tracts and other printed matter in the Scandinavian and German languages, such translation, etc., to be hereafter regulated by an understanding between the Bishopric and the Twelve. 

 

                                                           Adopted April 15, 1881. 

 

No. 237. Whereas, It is desirable that the greatest possible amount of efficient ministerial labor be performed, and, whereas, there are elders and priests who are prepared and willing to take the field,

provided they have evidence that their labors will be accepted to the church; therefore we [the Quorum of the Twelve] petition your honorable body to adopt the following resolution: 

   Resolved, That the Twelve and Seventy, when in charge of fields, have the privilege and right to take with them elders and priests as traveling companions, or to appoint them to labor in their respective fields, provided that such elders or priests require nothing from the general church treasury to keep them in the field. 

 

No. 238. Epistle of the Twelve and the Bishopric. 

   To the Church of Christ, Called to be Saints in all the World. Greeting: 


   It has been apparent to the Saints, everywhere, that there has been a misunderstanding for some time between the Bishopric and the Twelve on financial matters, and that considerable injury to the cause has arisen thereby. Therefore it was deemed wise and expedient that these two quorums should meet and confer together, and, if possible, agree upon the proper construction to be put upon the commandment of the Lord, given in 1861, whereby it appears that they should unitedly “take measures" to execute the "law of tithing:" and to adopt such rules as would place the financial affairs of the church on clearer and more effectual bases than have hitherto obtained. The commandment is as follows: 

   In order to place the church in a position to carry on the promulgation of the gospel, and as a means of fulfilling the law, the Twelve will take measures in connection with the Bishop, to execute the law of tithing; and let them before God see to it, that the temporal means so obtained is truly used for the purposes of the church, and not as a weapon of power in the hands of one man for the oppression of others; or for the purposes of self‑aggrandizement by any one, be he whomsoever he may be.  As I live, saith the Lord, in the manner ye execute this matter, so shall ye be judged in the day of judgment. 

JOSEPH SMITH,

President of the Church

 

SANDWICH, ILLINOIS, October 7, 1861. 

 

   To this end, on Wednesday, April 17, 1878, these two bodies met in Plano, Kendall County, Illinois,

at the house of Bro. Joseph Smith; the First Presidency being present by invitation. 

   The following paper, designed mainly as an explanation of the scope and meaning of the commandment referred to, was submitted by the First Presidency to the Council: 

 

                                                        BASIS OF ADJUSTMENT. 

 

   1. The word execute, as used in the revelation of 1861, is, in our view, to be construed to mean to "carry into effect,” to set in motion legitimate forces, to put existing laws into active operation. To execute any given law may, and in this instance does, involve different offices, or the administration of different officers. 

   2. The charge to the Twelve is intended to define their duty as an advisory and judicial body, with

whom lies the "regulating" of "the affairs of the church," according to law. 

   3. The part to be performed by the Twelve in carrying into effect the "law of tithing," is precedent and subsequent, and involves both teaching the law and administering it; administration and teaching to be upon principles agreed to by the Twelve and the Bishopric.

   4. The Bishopric are the legal custodians of all the temporalities of the church, upon whom devolves the duty of gathering, safely keeping, and disbursing the moneys and properties of the church, in keeping with the law, and agreeably to the rules mutually agreed to by the Twelve and the Bishopric.

   5. In the receiving and disbursing of church funds, all persons who may be intrusted therewith are in fact, or ex officio, agents for the Bishopric, and should account to the Bishopric; and in disbursing general church funds should do so by the direction of the Bishop, or in accordance with an agreement and understanding with the Bishopric previously had; specific, in regard to objects before determined upon; general, in regard to objects incidental to the prosecution of missionary labor, for which, in the nature of things, no specific directions can be given.

   6. The Bishopric being created by and responsible to the church for the proper administration of their duty, should not, in justice, be made finally responsible to the Twelve, in any other sense than all other church officers are responsible to the same quorum; that is, by proper charge and adjudication before the general church officers, or by decision of General Conference.


    7.  Discretionary power to receive and disburse church funds, and dispose of church property for the uses of the church, according to the laws of the church, and subject to inquiry by the Twelve and the church, must rest in the Bishopric only, as, by law, the Bishopric only are legal custodians of such properties; but the Twelve may and should exercise such supervisory jurisdiction, according to previous arrangement and agreement with the Bishopric, as will prevent unnecessary delay and injury to the work of the ministry, and will facilitate the proper expenditure of funds in the church treasury for the purpose of carrying on the preaching of the word, in which is included the support of the families of traveling ministers in the field; the publication and distribution of such books and tracts as may be deemed expedient, for which no other provision is made; the erection of houses of worship; purchase of lands, together with the care and uses of them in missions assigned by conferences.

   8. The Twelve being by law a traveling, spiritual, ministerial body, supposed to be in the missionary field, cannot in justice be expected to act as a council exercising local and decisive direction in the disbursement of church moneys in the sense that no expenditure could be had, except upon their consent or order, first obtained; it is necessary that there be a full understanding between that quorum and the Bishopric, as to the scope of the law demanding their attention to the temporal affairs of the church; also as to the rules which may govern both parties; which, rules once agreed upon shall obtain until modified by mutual agreement and understanding; no power being given to either party to dictate those rules.

   These principles were adopted singly, and afterward as a whole, by the council of the several quorums assembled,

   On the day following, the Twelve and the Bishopric, being assembled in council, adopted the following principles and rules, after each quorum had separately considered and acted upon them.

 

                                            PRINCIPLES AND RULES OF ACTION.

 

   1. We believe the duty of the Twelve to be to teach the law of tithing, viz: Explaining to the church the necessity, and the mode of complying therewith, in order that the financial interests of the church shall be properly supported, and that they may receive tithing and forward the same to the Bishop, who is the acknowledged treasurer of the church or to his appointed agents.

   2. That it is devolvent upon the Bishopric and their authorized agents (such agents to be elders*), to travel among the churches from time to time, to teach the law of, and collect tithing and free‑will offerings; and see that the financial interests of the church are duly cared for, and the wants of the poor duly administered to, and use their best and earnest endeavors to keep the ministry in the field, as appointed by General Conference, especially the members of the Quorum of the Twelve and of the Seventy, and to see to it that families of such receive proper support.

   3. That officers in charge of missions appointed by General Conference, receive necessary support in the prosecution thereof, from the agents of the Bishop in said missions, and that said agents in the disbursing of moneys be not subject to the direction of district conferences, or branches (yet said conferences may advise or recommend), but should make itemized reports to said conferences, who may audit and approve the same, and said reports as certified to, be forwarded to the Bishop.

 

*”By act of General Conference, September 27, 1882, the proviso that the agents should be elders was repealed.”


     4.  And that in all missions there is no agent to represent the Bishop, the officer in charge of said mission may receive tithing and free-will offerings, and use such sums as shall be considered necessary for said mission, keeping an account thereof, together with the names of persons from whom received, and forward a quarterly account thereof, together with whatever moneys may remain in his hands as a residue, and not needed by him, to the Bishop; and upon receipt thereof, the Bishop should enter the same upon his books, crediting and debiting the church with said amounts, received and paid out, together with the names of those from whom received and to whom paid; and that all such itemized reports to be published by the Bishop from time to time with his regular report.

   5.  In all missions where the officer in charge cannot consult with the agent (though one may have been appointed thereto), he may receive tithings and free-will offerings and use the same (as hereinbefore provided for in Article 5, of Basis of Adjustment), or only part thereof for said mission, accounting thereof for the agent and to the Bishop in his quarterly reports.

   6.  We advise the utmost care and economy in the expenditure of money; that the first of all objects to be attained by the church is the promulgation of the gospel, and all other interests are but secondary compared with it, which object must ever demand our first attention; next to which is the support of the poor.  And believing that moneys have been extravagantly expended in the publication of books, and unnecessarily so, we advise, the utmost care in that direction, and the strictest economy.  And we recommend that the Bishopric encourage so far as seems wise and is practicable, the building of church houses, and that they take the advisory oversight thereof; and also the erection of storehouses in such localities where the interests of the church do now or may hereafter demand it; believing that through this channel the families of traveling elders would receive more ready support, and which means does not now come into the church treasury.

   7.  Members should be taught the moral obligation that rests upon them, to put forth an effort to do something of some moment, during the year, either in tithing, free-will offerings or donations, according to their financial ability.

   8.  Where branches, districts or individuals wish labor in any special locality, the needed funds to sustain such effort should not be taken from the means designed for or belonging to the general treasury.

   9.  When means are given to ministers of the church for their benefit, by persons in and out of the church, such “means” should be reported to the Bishop, that he may be cognizant of the help that each receives and that said report be made to the Bishop on the 1st of March, annually.

   We present the foregoing principles of action to all the Saints as being the rules and regulations adopted by us for the government of and administration in the financial affairs of the church, and we respectfully commend them to the consideration of and observance by the church in all circumstances and cases included in and covered by the above specification of principles.

WILLIAM H. KELLEY,

THOMAS W. SMITH,

JAMES CAFFALL,

JOHN H. LAKE,

ALEXANDER H. SMITH,

ZENAS H. GURLEY,

JOSEPH R. LAMBERT,

Of the Quorum of the Twelve,


ISRAEL L. RODGERS,

HENRY A. STEBBINS,

DAVID DANCER,

The Bishopric of the Church,

PLANO, ILLINOIS, April 8, 1878

 

                                          AMENDMENT ADOPTED IN APRIL, 1881

 

   Whereas, The General Conference in September, 1880, adopted resolutions requiring that the moneys in the general church treasury should only be used to send out such of the ministry as are appointed and sustained, from time to time, by the General Conference; and

    Whereas, A difference of opinion seems to prevail since the above action, as to its effect upon the means received by the agents of the Bishop, and some of the latter hold themselves as subject to the above resolutions, the same as the Bishop, while others do not hold themselves, but continue to pay out for the district purposes just as they formerly did; and

   Whereas, the agents were created as agents of the Bishop and not of the districts, nor accountable to them, therefore whatever rulings of the General Conference govern the Bishop and the general funds  of the church in his hands also govern the agents and the funds in their hands as tithes and offerings; therefore

   Resolved by the Twelve and the Bishopric, conjointly, that the Bishop's agents cannot rightly, under rule of said resolutions of General Conference, pay from the funds received by them as said agents of the Bishop for district purposes or to sustain missions appointed by the districts. But the district may, if they wish and find it necessary, appoint a district treasurer (who may be the Bishop's agent, or another as may be agreed), who shall keep a separate account of moneys paid him for district purposes, and be' under the instruction and accountable to the district conferences only, all of which ought to be made plain to every member, so that everyone giving may do so understandingly, their offerings being placed for the general use of the church with the Bishop or his agent, or otherwise for the support of the work in the district, as the giver may direct.

   Provided, however, That it be understood by all, that the district conferences are still authorized and requested to appoint committees quarterly to audit the books and report of the Bishop's agents, as heretofore; and further, that any and; all instruction to the agents, as to the use of general church funds in their hands, shall be obtained from the Bishopric only.

 

ADOPTED BY TWELVE AND BISHOPRIC.

 

 

PLANO, ILLINOIS, April 13, 1881.

 

 

 

           


                                                            Adopted April 16,1881.

 

No. 239. That the utmost care be used by all missionaries, laboring under appointment of General Conference, in the use of means placed in their hands for the benefit of the work; and we discourage and condemn the leaving of distant fields which have been occupied by them but for a little season, and the expenditure of time and means in going to and from conference; unless special and important reason justify such a course. 

 

No. 240. That the Church Secretary be authorized t enroll the names of such elders as may apply to him for the purpose, and that the Fifth Quorum of Elders he organized at the fall conference of 1881, if enough of those enrolled shall be present at that time to effect such organization.

 

                                                        Adopted September 1, 1881.

 

No. 241. That his name [one chosen to represent a district] be recorded upon the record of some branch of the district, as a member.

 

                                                        Adopted September 5, 1881.

 

No. 242. That the Bishop and his agents are hereby instructed to solicit aid for the erection of the Utah Chapel.

 

                                                        Adopted September 6, 1881.

 

No. 243. That a committee of three be appointed to take into consideration the feasibility of some general plan of conducting Sunday school, and. if found feasible, report said general plan to the coming Annual Conference; and

   That they also take into consideration the feasibility and practicability of using one page of the Hope as a lesson sheet, or of using an extra sheet for such purpose.

 

No. 244. Whereas, There exists a resolution which as interpreted by some prohibits the sending out of any of the ministry from General Conference but the Twelve and Seventy; and

   Whereas, This has had a tendency to keep out of active labor a number of our most efficient men; therefore,

   Resolved, That said resolution be so interpreted to mean that at each session of conference, if it shall be found by a consultation by the Twelve and Bishopric that there are more means in the treasury, and likely to be, than which will be required to send the Twelve and Seventy known to be available, that others of the ministry available, may be sent as may be thought wise by the Twelve and Bishopric.

 

 

 

 


                                                        Adopted September 8, 1881.

 

No. 245. That paragraph two of “Report of committee on representation” be amended by striking out all after the word that and insert all high priests and elders are entitled to voice and vote in General Conference when present.

                                                       Adopted September 10, 1881.

 

No. 246. That in the efforts made by the church, in the year 1863, and since said time, to plant and maintain a missionary society in Utah to oppose the abominable practices of that people, and teach them the principles of the gospel of Christ, we recognize great and revolutionary work, which has already been the means of calling hundreds and thousands out from among those practicing so great evils, and blessing them under a work of righteousness.

   That we also now deem it the duty of the church to redouble its efforts to maintain its missionaries in the prosecution of that mission, and

   Whereas, We have seen in the proceedings of assemblies of other societies, resolutions showing that the efforts of their ministers to meet and oppose the ministers of the Utah organization in the past, in public preaching, have been unsuccessful; be it

   Resolved, That inasmuch as such denominations and societies will aid and assist us with means to maintain a larger missionary force in said mission, we will furnish the men to meet and oppose that abominable order established in the West, and we believe that if said aid is proffered, there will be an early solution of the Utah problem.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1882.

 

No. 247. Whereas, The Edmunds Bill, originating in the Senate of the United States, has become a law, by which it is intended on the part of the Government to extirpate the practice of polygamy which practice is by this act recognized as a crime and not as a religion; and

   Whereas, In the discussion and consideration of this question in Congress it was frequently stated by Senators and members of the House of Representatives that the object of this measure was not intended; as an attack on Mormonism, but against the evil practices in the Territories of the United States, enjoined by the loathsome incumbrance upon that faith; therefore, be it

   Resolved, That we, the Reorganized Church of Christ, do hereby tender our sincere thanks to President Chester A. Arthur and all the Senators and members of Congress who took an active part in passing such laws, by which the "twin relic" is to be removed from the institutions of the country, to the honor and dignity of the Nation, and to the especial good of all true Mormons, who abide in the original faith of the church.

   On April 12 a committee was appointed "to attend at Washington, D. C., in case our interests as a church should demand it."

 

 

 

 

 


                                                           Adopted April 10, 1882.

 

No. 248. The Committee or Board of Location reported having purchased land, in Decatur County, Iowa, erected a building for church offices and publishing plant, disposed of former plant at Plano. Illinois, and removed the Herald Office and fixtures to Lamoni, Decatur County, Iowa; as authorized by General Conference. The Board had filed a copy of the Church Articles of Incorporation in the office of the county clerk of said county.

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1882.

 

No. 249. That it is the judgment of this body, that the sense to be conveyed in paragraph 4, of "Rules on Representation,” beginning with line sixty‑one and ending with line sixty‑eight, that the aggregate of members in districts shall be counted, from which the product of the number of branches, multiplied by six, shall be taken and the remainder divided by twenty, in order that no fractional vote may be lost in any branch of the district.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1882.

 

No. 250. Whereas, There are certain German tracts written and published which are not in harmony with the doctrines of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ; be it

   Resolved, That all tracts be submitted to the German committee, appointed by conference of September, 1881, for correction.

   (The committee on compiling conference resolutions find that certain preambles and resolutions were presented at the September conference of 1881 on this subject, also that they were referred to the Bishopric and Twelve; but the minutes of said conference show no further mention of the subject, nor as being reported upon by the Twelve and Bishopric at any time since then.)

No. 251. That paragraph 4 of the "Report of the committee on representation" be amended by substituting the word six for the word twenty wherever it occurs.

 

                                                           Adopted April 13, 1882.

 

No 252. Elder G. A. Blakeslee was appointed Presiding Bishop of the church, and Elders E. L Kelley and Elijah Banta as his counselors; vice Bishop I. L Rogers, and Elders 1. A. Stebbins and David Dancer, counselors, resigned.

 

                                                       Adopted September 22, 1882.

 

No. 253. Whereas, The ministry of the church in the several quorums seem to be in a measure inadequate to the pressing demands made upon them, and believing this [they?] should by virtue of their calling take the lead in establishing the work in the regulating of its affairs in general; therefore, be it

 

 


   Resolved, That we do hereby ask the church to engage in solemn, earnest prayer, asking the Lord to reveal his will concerning these various quorums, that they may be properly filled, and that in so doing we may act agreeable to that will.

 

No. 254. That the report [of the Committee on Danish Publications] be received, . . . . and pamphlet ordered printed under the direction of the Board of Publication, in the Danish language.

 

                                                       Adopted September 23, 1882.

 

No. 255. Whereas, The Book of Covenants issued by authority of the church at Salt Lake has been materially changed from that accepted by the church; be it

   Resolved, That this conference advise the Danish brethren against the use of the same.

 

No. 256. That the Kirtland Temple Committee be continued, with instructions to solicit subscriptions and make such repairs as the money so raised will enable them to do.

 

No. 257. That Joseph Smith, E. L. Kelley, J. W. Gillen, J. C. Crabb, and W. C. Cadwell, be a committee to revise and enlarge the Rules on Representation, and so far as practicable make the same applicable to district conferences and branches; reporting to the church the results of their labors as soon as convenient.

 

                                                       Adopted September 25, 1882.

 

No. 258. That when this conference adjourns it do so to meet April 6, 1883, and annually thereafter.

 

                                                       Adopted September 26, 1882.

 

No. 259. That we request the Presidency of the church to nominate persons to fill the vacancies now existing in the Standing High Council, agreeable to section 99, paragraph 5, in Book of Doctrine and Covenants.

 

No. 260. That the action in the appointment of district treasurers, aside from the general agents in the church, we find is working injury to the cause and defeating the placing of funds either in the hands of the district treasury or Bishop's agents; therefore

   Resolved, That the action authorizing it be and is hereby repealed.

 

No. 261. That under the present system of reporting to the Bishop, on the part of the ministry, injury is wrought in this, that in some cases all funds are sent to the Bishop or his agents, and in others not so done, but kept by the ministry, and privately reported to the Bishop, and so never known to the church, which fact causes complaints on the part of those who contribute; therefore we recommend that hereafter all persons under general church appointment, report all church moneys received to the Bishop, together with the names of persons paying, so far as possible, and that they draw for their expenses directly from the Bishop or his agents.


No. 262. We believe that it will be to the interest of the church and the good of all, if the Bishop's reports are published annually instead of quarterly, and they will be in a shape to be better understood by the Saints, and the transactions for the year are then in such shape as to be properly considered and criticized.

 

No. 263. That to prevent doubt and distrust, and the abuse of the discretion now exercised by the Bishop, all persons under appointment of general church authorities, requiring expenses paid by the church, should before appointed, state to the Twelve and Bishopric, the probable amount required for expenses per annum.

 

No. 264. By resolution all rules and conjoint agreements heretofore obtaining, which conflict with the operation of any of these rules and agreements be declared to be rescinded. (The above five rules were presented by the Twelve and Bishopric and adopted by the conference.)

 

                                                       Adopted September 29, 1882.

 

No. 265. Whereas, The circular letter of Hon. William M. Evaits, while Secretary of State, asking all foreign governments to prevent the immigration of Mormons (so‑called) to this country, as they come to practice crime, being polygamists; and, Whereas, This has conduced to the injury of the body of Latter Day Saints who affirm the original faith under which no such practice is tolerable, and because such distinction has not been had, and we have been confounded with that people whom this letter very properly brands as criminals; therefore, be it

   Resolved, That we ask the present Secretary of State to correct this error, and place us in our proper light before the world.

   A committee was appointed to present the preamble and resolution to the Secretary of State.

   On April 7, 1883, the committee reported, including a copy of document presented to the Secretary of State.

   On April 4, 1883, the Secretary of State replied, declining to request foreign governments to discriminate between "polygamous Mormons of Utah and the nonpolygamous Mormons of the reformed church;" stating that "law‑abiding immigrants are secure against interference. 

 

No. 266. That the Church Secretary be instructed to take the necessary steps toward arranging the different quorums mentioned in the revelation received September 28, 1582. 

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1883.

 

No. 267. That it is the wish and desire of this body that President Joseph Smith, be retained as editor of the Herald and Hope, but that no work be required of him by the Board of Publication, but that which comes strictly under the duties of editor; so that he may have more time to devote to his duties as President of the church. 

 

 

 


                                                           Adopted April 13, 1883. 

 

No. 268. That this conference advise that mission and district authorities arrange for such reunions for religious services, when and where it may be by them deemed best. 

 

                                                           Adopted April 14, 1883. 

 

No. 269. That the Quorum of the Twelve be requested to meet at least ten days prior to the sitting of the next spring conference, at the place appointed for its meeting; and further, that the appointees of the conference be requested to report to the secretary of the Quorum of Twelve in time to allow action in their several cases. 

 

No. 270. That we request the Board of Publication to issue in tract form, as soon as practicable, the reply of the editor of Herald to the pamphlet of Rev. R. Patterson, of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, on the origin of the Book of Mormon. 

 

No. 271. That California, Western Nevada and Oregon constitute a mission, the districts therein remaining intact.

 

                                                             Adopted April 9, 1884

 

No. 272. Whereas, We believe that marriage is ordained of God, and that the law of God provides

for but one companion in wedlock, for either man or woman ── except in cases where the contract is broken by death or transgression; therefore

   Resolved, That it is our understanding that in case of separation of husband and wife, one of which

is guilty of the crimes of fornication, or adultery, the other becomes released from the marriage bond, and if they so desire may obtain a divorce and marry again.

 

No. 273. That the boundary lines of the Des Moines District be established as follows: "Beginning

at southwest with Madison County, and extending to the east line of Washington County; on the east to along the line of Johnson, Linn, Buchanan and Bremer Counties, on the west to along the western line of Wright, Hamilton, Boone, Dallas and Madison Counties, to the place of cemmencement (Sic)." [Summarized from petition granted.] 

 

No. 274. Whereas, In the past, California was considered as a general mission, and provided for in

appointment to such missions; and Whereas, A change was made a few years ago, and the mission discontinued and divided into districts, each district choosing its presiding officer, and reports therefrom show that the change has not worked advantageously; therefore be it

   Resolved, That California, Nevada and Oregon, be restored to their former condition as a mission,

and that a missionary be assigned to said mission. 

 

 

 


No. 275. The committee call attention to the fact that on April 8, 1874, the Eastern and New England States and Nova Scotia and New Brunswick were formed into three missions, divisions specified, which order has not been repealed but seems to have been forgotten. 

 

No. 276. The committee would also mention that in September; 1880, the following matters were

presented, discussed, and finally referred to the General Assembly of the Quorums, namely: 

   The question as to what is the rock upon which the church is built; the question as to whether any

elder can be a true representative of the church and reject any of the revelations found in the Book

of Covenants; and the subject of the ministry going out literally without purse or scrip to proclaim

the gospel. 

 

No. 277. On April 12, 1880, certain preambles and resolutions concerning a revelation said to have  been given in 1853 through Bro. Henry H. Deam, were referred to the First Presidency, but we find no reply or decision upon the subject.

 

                                                            Adopted April 10, 1884

 

No. 278.

 

                                                   RULES OF REPRESENTATION. 

 

   Sec. 1. That the general officers of the church, known as the Presidency, the Twelve, the High Council, the Seventy, and the Bishopric (proper), are ex officio members of conference, and entitled to a voice and vote as representatives of the spiritual authorities of the church at large.

  Sec. 2. That all high priests and elders are, ex officio, entitled to voice and vote in General Conference when present. 

   Sec. 3. That organized districts be authorized to appoint at their last quarterly session of district conference, next preceding the session of General Conference delegates to said session of General Conference, who shall be entitled to represent said districts; which delegates so appointed shall be declared members of said General Conference, entitled to voice and vote.

   Provided 1st. That the choice and appointment by said districts shall be made by a majority of those present and voting in regular or called sessions of district conference, of  the holding of which due notice shall have been given as to time and place within the district, together with a statement of any important business or action that is to be presented to, or likely to be had by said general session, affecting said district, and to which their approval or disapproval  is desired; that instructions to said delegates, may be given as to their action.

   Provided 2d. That the only qualification to eligibility to the office of delegate from district to General Conference shall be membership and good standing in the church.

    Provided 3d, That each district shall be entitled to one delegate for every twenty‑five members of said district, and one vote in conference for each delegate to which they may be entitled. The delegates present at conference from any one district shall be entitled to cast a full vote of the district of which they are delegates, unless otherwise instructed by their district conference: Provided, that in case of a disagreement of views among the members of said delegation, the full delegation not being present they shall be entitled to cast only their individual votes as said delegates.


     Provided 4th. That no one delegate shall represent in the same conference more than one district.

   Sec. 4. That each regularly organized branch of the church not included in an organized district, shall be entitled to one delegate, who shall have the same privileges as delegates of districts.

   Provided 1st. That due general notice to the members of branch of the time and place of meeting for the choosing of said delegate be properly given as in the case of districts.

  Provided 2d. That delegates shall be entitled to act as such as hereinbefore provided, upon presenting certificates of appointment signed by the presidents, or clerks of districts or branches appointing them.

   Sec. 5. That in all cases of grave importance, affecting the polity and faith of the church, districts

and branches may instruct delegates to cast a majority and minority vote for and against; but in no

case shall the number of the votes cast by said delegates so instructed exceed the number to which the district appointing shall be entitled as hereinbefore provided; and in case of a tie in districts, or branches, on questions presented to them, certified to said delegates, the votes of said districts or branches, shall be cast in equal numbers by the delegates.

   Sec. 6. That districts may organize their sessions of conference agreeably to the above rules, by providing for delegate conferences, of which the basis of representation shall be one delegate for each six members in each branch or fraction thereof. And that districts may constitute priests, teachers and deacons as members of their conferences as well as the elders if they choose. 

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1884.

 

No. 279. That by virtue of their office and calling, as declared by the organic law of the church, the members of the Quorum of Twelve are the lawful presidents of the church abroad in all the world, to preside over, regulate and set in order the same, and that in all the branches of the church and districts, this presiding authority should be acknowledged and acquiesced in by the presidents of its branches and districts. And when one of them is present at a district conference or branch meeting, it should be left discretionary with him, as to whether it would best serve the cause by presiding. 

 

No. 280. That the Quorum of the Twelve, as a judicial body have the right, collectively or individually, to render decisions involving the law and usage s of the church, in their various fields of labor, and when such decisions are made by individual members of the quorum, said decisions are binding on the church, and should be respected until brought before the quorum and its decision had. 

No. 281. That a committee from our number be appointed for the purpose of comparing the present and Palmyra edition of the Book of Mormon, with the manuscript in the hands of David Whitmer, and that William H. Kelley, T. W Smith,, and A. H. Smith compose said committee. That the  committee be requested to report the result of their labors through the Herald.

 

No. 282. That it is the sense of this quorum that the commandments of a local character, given to the first organization of the church are binding on the Reorganization, only so far as they are either reiterated, or referred to as binding by commandment to this church. [The preceding four resolutions were presented by the Quorum of Twelve and were adopted by the General Conference.]

 


No. 283. Whereas, By joint action of the Quorum of the Twelve and the Bishopric, a resolution was passed, authorizing the publication of the moneys given to the elders in their various mission fields through the Herald, the same as the means given directly into the hands of the Bishop, and his  agents; and which was indorsed by the conference; and

   Whereas, The editor of the Herald, or Board of Publication, refused to publish these statements when submitted to them; therefore,

   Resolved, That this assumption of power is without authority of law and usage and dangerous to the liberties of the people.

 

No. 284. Resolved, That in the opinion of this council, no person's name should be stricken from the Church Records until specific charges have been preferred against them, and lawful action had in the case, and that the cause or causes of action and expulsion should be stated upon the Church Record.

 

No. 285. Resolved, That from the meager information that has been, presented before us, concerning the publishing of a periodical in the Danish language, we are unable to make any recommendations concerning it.

   (The above motions were presented by the Quorum of the Twelve and were adopted by the conference, with the proviso that the editor attach his reasons for not publishing the financial reports referred to in the first resolution. The minutes show that the editor made the following statement:

   “The editor of the Herald states that the fault of refusing to publish the reports referred to was his, and not the Board's. His reasons for refusing are: (1) It was not ordered to be done specifically in the resolution referred to.  (2) He did not consider that the order to publish the Bishop's report included the reports of elders referred to in the resolution. ( 3 ) That the reports which he refused to publish were sent him detached from the Bishop's report, and were not incorporated in it; if they had been, he could not have refused, although he believed then, and believes now that a publication of the totals of the amount each received and reported to the Bishop is all that is necessary.")

   (The resolution referred to by the Twelve and the editor was published in the minutes of September 26, 1882, and under that date will be found in this book.)

 

No. 286. Whereas, Since the reports of the elders to the Bishop to this date have been made out and handed to the auditing committee in totals, and not by giving the names of the contributors, by reason of the failure to publish names of the past year; therefore, be it

   Resolved, That a publication of the totals only of such reports already made be considered a compliance with the rule.

 

No. 287. Whereas, The question has been raised with regard to the publication of the work entitled, The Life of Joseph the Prophet forestalling the history of the church, as before contemplated by it through its appointed "Historian." And Whereas, It cannot be considered that the book entitled, Life of Joseph the Prophet was intended to forestall, or take the place of the history of the Reorganized Church, which Elder Jason W. Briggs, Church Historian, was appointed and expected to prepare for publication,

 

 


   Therefore, be it Resolved, That he be hereby requested to proceed to prepare said history, which when completed shall be presented to the next ensuing conference thereafter for examination and approval upon its merits, by a proper committee then to be appointed; and that without regard on his part, or further action by us in reference to what may be contained in the work entitled. Life of Joseph the Prophet.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1884.

 

No. 288. That the nature of the calling of the First Quorums of the church is of such a character as to prohibit them, or any one of them, engaging in secular pursuits which in their nature demand the time and talent of the same.

 

                                                           Adopted April 14, 1884.

 

No. 289. "The Church Secretary and Recorder was authorized to permit the Church Historian the use of such records as may be necessary to the latter in the performance of his work."

 

No. 290. That the Board of Publication be requested to take such measures as they shall deem proper to furnish for Sabbath schools suitable lesson papers, and if practicable, reduce the size of the Hope, making it a weekly, and publish through it the lessons, and that W. C. Cadwell, Sr. Alice Cobb and D. F. Lambert, be a committee to prepare and furnish said lessons for publication.

 

No. 291. That the committee on repairing the Kirtland Temple be authorized to continue the collection of funds for the finishing of the Temple, and that they proceed with the work as found practicable.

 

No. 292. That Brn. James Caffall, Peter Anderson and Hans N. Hansen, be a committee to look after the interests of publishing a Danish periodical, as contemplated in a resolution adopted by the Semiannual Conference held at Lamoni, Iowa, in the fall of 1882, whose duty it shall be to receive names and moneys of those to become subscribers to said periodical when published, with all free-will offerings given in the interests of said publication, reporting their action at the soonest practical opportunity to the Board of Publication.

   That the Board of Publication shall proceed to publish said periodical as soon as the prospect shall justify them in so doing.

   That Bro. Peter Anderson, in connection with the editor of the Herald, take charge of the editorial department of said publication.

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1885.

 

No. 293. That a committee, consisting of Brn. W. W. Blair, S. Maloney and I. L. Rogers, be appointed to confer with the committee appointed by the brethren of the Church of Christ known as Hedrickites.

 


                                                            Adopted April 8, 1885.

 

No. 294. That this conference present the case of Bro. D. H. Smith and the condition of the first quorums of the church, before the Lord in special prayer, and that information be sought from him, through the President of the church, in relation thereto, that we may act wisely concerning the matter.

 

No. 295. Whereas, Some of the acts of the General Conferences have at least been lost sight of, for a time, and there is a possibility of transcending the rules, as enacted by the body; therefore, be it

   Resolved, That measures be taken for the compilation of all resolutions and acts now binding, and that all of these be numbered, and kept in schedule form from time to time and be it further

   Resolved, That a committee of three, of which the Church Secretary shall be one, be appointed to make such compilation, and report to this body in April, 1886.

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1885.

 

No. 296. That it would be expedient that elders, branches and conferences when ordaining brethren to the office of an elder, be requested to indorse across the licenses of such elders the words: "The holder of this license should seek to join some quorum at his earliest opportunity, and present his license to be exchanged for a new one from the quorum he unites with;" or words to that effect. (Presented by the Second Quorum of Elders.)

 

No. 297. Inasmuch as some of the members of this church are in the habit of visiting saloons and drinking intoxicants which habit seems to hinder the spread of the work, therefore be it

   Resolved, That . . . it be made a test of fellowship for any member of this church who will persist in this practice (This presented by the Third Quorum of Elders.)

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1885.

 

No. 298. A committee having been appointed on the 8th to consider a preamble and resolution from the Pottawattamie District concerning controversy and discussion in the Herald upon the revelations and doctrines governing the church presented the following opinions. They were adopted by the body and Resolution No. 6 was added to them, all reading as given below:

   The committee to which was referred the resolution presented by the Pottawattamie District conference, relative to the adoption of certain measures which shall govern in the publication of articles through the Saints' Herald, submit the following:

1. That in its opinion, the enforcement of iron‑clad rules and arbitrary decisions by persons who were not governed in their work by broad and liberal principles of toleration, as is shown by the history of societies in the past, has had such a tendency to subvert the liberties and retard the progress of the race, as to make the enactment of any set of rules to be followed under all circumstances of doubtful propriety and final good.


2. That in our opinion there is a just and proper line to be drawn between the positions of permitting a fair hearing of the views of any and all through the church paper, and the abuse of the sacred principle of toleration and freedom adhered to by the church by using to excess the columns of  the church paper, in making a series of attack upon the life of the body, or an undue effort to enforce personal views upon the people, when they are clearly in part antagonistic to the accepted faith of the body; and that the responsibility is upon the editor and Board of Publication to see that this line is truly made in their discrimination, the improper exercise or abuse of such discretion, or agency, to be remedied by the selection of such persons for these positions as will fill them in wisdom and fairness to all.

3. That where radical differences of opinion occur between leading representatives of the body, the discussion of them should take place in quorum capacity, and not through the columns of the Herald.

4.  That in our opinion in the acceptance of articles for publication through the Herald, the parties doing the same should exclude all such as make special attack upon the supposed private views and character of the dead, or that impugn motives and question the integrity of the living; there being neither sound argument nor wisdom attained by such methods.

            5. The committee has not deemed it within its duty to pass judgment upon the right or abuse of the exercise of privileges in the extended controversy of the past few months, but to point out the proper steps to be taken in case the rights of the body are left unguarded in the future.

E.L.KELLEY,

J.T.KINNAMAN,

J. W.GILLEN,

C.SCOTT,

G. T. GRIFFITHS.

 

6. Resolved, That it is the sense of this body, that any man who accepts appointment and ordination as a representative of the church is under obligations to teach, sustain, and seek to establish the faith of the church; and no one, be he whosoever he may be, has any right to attack the divinity of the faith in part, or as a whole, as said faith is set forth in the Bible, Book of Mormon, and Doctrine and Covenants.

 

No. 299. That the Secretary be requested in giving the names of the parties speaking upon all questions discussed hereafter, to record those speaking as they may appear for or against the same.

 

No. 300. Whereas, The amount paid to the elders, and expended otherwise for church purposes, by the Bishop of the church, stands against the elders, and the several accounts for which they were expended, and there is now no provision made to balance those accounts in the Bishop's ledger, be it hereby

   Resolved, That when elders shall have reported labor done for the church, on account of which labor such expenditures were or shall have been made, and when their reports of labor done shall have been accepted and approved by conference, and the Bishop's report to conference shall have been audited and approved, the several accounts so presented and approved shall be balanced on his ledger by means of entries that shall cover the amounts charged, each credited entry being a statement in effect that account is closed by services rendered.

 

 


                                                           Adopted April 11, 1885.

 

No. 301. That Joseph Smith, J. R. Lambert and E. L. Kelley be appointed as a committee to formulate a set of rules to govern in cases of trial and appeal in the church.

 

                                                           Adopted April 13, 1885.

 

No. 302. That we request the Bishop to organize a quorum of teachers and a quorum of deacons, also another quorum of priests.

 

No. 303. Whereas, This body requested that the concordance be bound with future editions of the Doctrine and Covenants, and as this has not been observed, therefore be it

   Resolved, That the attention of the Board of Publication be called to this omission.

 

No. 304. Whereas, There are books in the Church Library which are rare, and valuable to the office of publication; and whereas, Said books are becoming worn and defaced by handling; and whereas, It is important that said books be preserved and kept in the office of publication for the use of those who control the literary concerns of the church; therefore be it

   Resolved, That the editor be and is hereby instructed to select and control such books as he may choose.

   "It was amended by including the Church Librarian with the editor to carry out the resolution."

 

No. 305. That the true names of all contributors to our publications be attached in good faith.

 

No. 306. That it is not necessary to publish the names of contributors to articles in the Herald, unless requested by the writers.

 

No. 307. "Bro. E. L. Kelley asked a question as to the appointment of the Bishopric to travel, and a motion was adopted that the law fully provided as to that, and they were instructed to so travel."

 

                                                             Adopted April 9,1886.

 

No. 308. . . . And the committee are of the opinion that the matter of the presentation of individual opinions by elders, or others of the body, such opinions not having been affirmed by the body as a rule of faith or practice, does not make them a part of the faith or belief of the body; but relate to us individually upon the issue of toleration, which toleration we believe as was manifested in the action of Jesus while dealing with men here in his ministry, should be so broad as to make no occasion for persons to wish to withdraw from the body by reason of these individual differences of opinion.

3. The committee noticing specifically some of the alleged entertained views set forth in the reasons given, state:

   That as to the alleged "temple building and ceremonial endowments therein," that we know of no temple building, except as edifices wherein to worship God, and no endowment except the endowment of the Holy Spirit of the kind experienced by the early saints on Pentecost Day.


4. "Baptism for the dead" referred to belongs to those local questions of which the body has said by resolution:

   "That the commandments of a local character, given to the first organization of the church are binding on the Reorganization only so far as they are either reiterated or referred to as binding by commandment to this church: ' And that principle has neither been reiterated nor referred to as a commandment.

5. "Tithing as a law applicable to the church" is accepted in the sense set forth by the Savior in the sixteenth chapter of the Gospel recorded by Luke, that we are stewards of our heavenly Father so far as the riches of this world are concerned and that as such we should render an account of our stewardship here; the rendition is in all cases, however, necessarily voluntary on the part of the member complying with the law.

6. We know of no "consecration" by which individuals are made legal heirs to the kingdom of God, or Church of Christ, when the rewards are apportioned; except, that of a life consecrated to the service of the Master as ordained in his word together with the consecration of properties for the aid of the poor, preaching of the gospel and establishment of the said kingdom, as a member of the same has so to impart.

7. "The sole mouthpiece of the church," is Jesus Christ We are to receive commandments as a church only as Christ communicates the same; and we are entitled, as a church, to be first satisfied that Christ did give any commandment purporting to come from him, before accepting, or receiving the same.

8. "Plenary inspiration" has never been affirmed by the church; but we believe in the so named "authorized" books of the church as true and proper standards of evidence in the determination of all controverted doctrines in theology.

9. The doctrine of "cursing" and "avenging enemies," we accept only as explained in paragraphs 3 and 4 of section 102, Doctrine and Covenants, the section referred to by the brethren, wherein the Lord is made the sole executor in behalf of the children of Zion as follows . . . . .

10. So far as the necessity and failure on the part of the church is concerned to convene the quorums in General Assembly, the wisdom of the majority of the body as to the practicability and necessity of such a step seems to have been adverse thereto in the past.

11. That part of the reasons in the addenda to the application referring to providing a place of living for certain officers of the church is incorrect and misleading; for said revelation provides for the erection of a boarding‑house, a hotel for strangers, in which house the President of the church as such, and his successors, were to "have place"; but neither he nor they were to own said house, neither were he or they to be its "governor," or keeper; and further the commandment to build is largely of a local character; has never been reiterated to this church and consequently under the resolution of the body, before referred to, not made binding upon us.

 (2) We further believe in an “imperial dynasty" only, wherein Christ is to be King, and the reigning of such of his servants who keep the faith here, with him when he shall come with his rewards . . . . 

 

 

 

 


                                                           Adopted April 10, 1886.  

 

No. 309. That we grant the request of those desiring to withdraw from the church, and that their names be stricken from the Church Records. (The names thus acted upon by conference were those of J. W. Briggs, Z. H. Gurley, E. H. Gurley, Margaret Gurley, Grace Gurley, and Mida Gurley.) 

 

No. 310. That hereafter when any five members shall demand that the vote be taken by yeas and nays it shall be so taken, providing they shall not be demanded when a vote is part is partially taken.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1886.

 

No. 311. The Bishopric presented the following report:

   "The work referred to the Bishopric at the last conference of organizing and setting in order the lesser quorums of the church, has been duly considered by us; and after an examination of the law, we are led to conclude that this is a duty s enjoined upon the Quorum of the Twelve. 

   “We therefore refer the matter back to the conference, together with all applications for membership to the quorums, lest we should transcend our duties and interfere with that of our brethren, and await your further action in the premises."

     “It was ordered that the matter be referred to the Twelve.” 

 

                                                           Adopted April 13, 1886.

 

No. 312. That in organized districts, no one be ordained to the office of an elder, without the voice of the district or conference be had ordering such ordination, or by sanction of the missionary in charge.

 

                                                           Adopted April 14, 1886. 

 

No. 313. Whereas, In past years Elder J. W. Briggs was appointed Church Historian; and whereas, By action of church in granting his withdrawal, such appointment is canceled. Therefore, be it resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to wait upon J. W. Briggs, authorized to request and receive from him all or any books or papers belonging to said church in his hands as such historian. 

 

No. 314. That provision four, of section three, of the Articles of Representation, which reads:

   "Provided 4th; That no one delegate shall represent in the same conference more than one district,"

be stricken out, and the following inserted in lieu thereof: "Provided 4th; That no one delegate shall

be entitled to cast, as representative, in the same conference, more than twenty votes." 

 

                                                           Adopted April 16, 1886. 

 

No. 315. That the Bishop of the church be authorized to transfer to the business manager of the Board of Publication the sum of $500, from moneys now due the church by the board, for the purpose of furnishing tracts for free distribution, such as the Bishop and business manager may direct. 


No. 316. Whereas, Much confusion and disappointment are experienced by the present method of

enrolling elders in the several quorums of the eldership; therefore, be it resolved, That all applications for enrollment be made to the Secretary of the church. 

 

No. 317. Resolved, That the practice of dancing should be discouraged, and that members of the church should be urged to avoid the practice, as being one likely to lead their minds from Christ and his gospel. 

 

No. 318. That no one in the future who has been placed under silence, appear as an elder in any sense in public, representing in any shape the claims of the church. 

 

No. 319. That all that part of Wyoming west of Cheyenne, be annexed to the Rocky Mountain Mission. 

 

                                                           Adopted April 17, 1886. 

 

No. 320. Whereas, Inequality and loss to the church result from the practice of taking up collections for the support of the ministry; and whereas, such practice is in opposition to the recommendation of the Twelve and the Bishopric, with the indorsement of the General Conference thereon (see minutes of September conference, 1882), 

   Therefore, be it resolved by this council, That we call the special attention of all General Conference

appointees, branch presidents and all whom it may concern, to this matter, and we declare in harmony with the expressed views of the Twelve, Bishopric, and church, that none but the Bishopric, their agents, or some one either authorized by them, or holding an ex officio right, are authorized to take up collections for the ministry. 

 

No. 321. Whereas, There have been, from time to time, numbers of elders in the field, in addition to General Conference appointees, some with and some without the permission of the missionary in charge; and whereas, Many, if not all, of said elders have received money, but failed to report the same to the Bishop, as required by him; therefore, be it

   Resolved, That while we look with favor upon and shall ever seek to encourage the efforts made by the elders to preach the gospel as their circumstances will permit, we deprecate their failure to properly account for all moneys received and advise that all elders receiving help while laboring in the Master's vineyard be required to report the same in full to the Bishop of the church.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1887.

 

No. 322. That the request of the Northern California District touching a lack of ministerial aid be supplied at the earliest time those in charge of such work find it practicable; and that it is the mind of this conference that all moneys coming into the church treasury are to be expended at the discretion of those who are held responsible before the Lord therefore; subject to inquiry by the body in cases of misappropriation.

 


                                                            Adopted April 9, 1887.

 

No. 323. That the Board of Publication be requested as soon as practicable to publish a cheap edition of hymns and tunes, for use by the church.

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1887.

 

No. 324. That there be "an annual examination of the books and management of the Herald Office, by a committee duly appointed by the body for that purpose." (Substance of committee report adopted.)

 

No. 325. Upon motion to sustain the Board of Publication, a subsidiary motion was introduced to reaffirm the report of a committee adopted April 10, 1885, found as No. 298 in this compilation. The motion to so reaffirm prevailed.

 

No. 326. That this conference as a body accept and indorse the revelation presented to us as being the word of God, and additional direction by which we should walk in faith and truth before him.

 

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1887.

 

No. 327. We, the members of the Quorum of the Twelve, believing that the President of the church should be furnished with additional facilities for the performance of important duties made imperative by virtue of his high and holy calling; respectfully suggest to your honorable body, that the Bishop be requested to confer with the President concerning this matter; and that he be authorized to expend means from the church treasury, so far as it may be prudent to do for such facilities at the earliest possible time which in his judgment shall be practicable and wise.

   We further suggest the propriety of relieving the Presidency from editorial labor, except that which is necessary in the exercise of a supervisory watch care as soon as it can be done, without jeopardizing the welfare of the work;

 

 

                                                         Adopted April 9, 10, 1888.

 

No. 328. Lengthy amendments to chapter 13 of the Book of Rules were adopted, for which, with later amendments, the committee on compilation refers to the "Rules of Order and Debate.”

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1888.

 

No. 329. 1. Whereas, The Lord has spoken against the  use of tobacco and strong drink on different occasions; and whereas, In all our appointments we ought to show respect unto said counsel. Therefore, resolved, That henceforth we recommend no man for General Conference appointment whom we know to be addicted to either of the above evils, and that this decision take effect one year from date.

   2. Whereas, There is a divided opinion in the church regarding the meaning of the clause in Doctrine and Covenants 42:22, which says: "And the church shall lift up their hands against him or her," and the right to take a negative vote on the question of expelling members when so recommended by an elders' court; and whereas, Said division of opinion has prevented uniformity of action by the branch presidents and others. Therefore, resolved, That it is our opinion that both affirmative and negative vote should be taken in all cases of the kind referred to.

   3. Resolved, That in the event of a necessity for baptism, for a renewal of the gospel covenant, the former ordination of the individual thus baptized becomes null and void.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1888.

 

No. 330. The Twelve and the Bishopric met April 10, and after examination and discussion, the following was unanimously adopted:

   "Resolved, That we reaffirm the Basis of Adjustment, and Principles and Rules of Action obtained

in our joint epistle of 1878 as subsequently amended." This resolution does not include the preface

to said epistle, but it is understood that said preface shall be dropped. The subsequent amendment referred to is the striking out of the words said agents to be elders.  

   "The following was adopted as the unanimous decision and request of the quorums: Resolved, That

the Secretary be instructed to prepare a proper introduction to the Epistle of the Twelve and Bishopric and furnish the same with the request that it be published; and incorporated in the Book

of Rules when that is revised. 

   "It was also ordered that the names of all members of each quorum, who are present should be attached to said joint epistle when published." 

   The foregoing was adopted by the General Conference, with the proviso that said principles and

rules be amended to read, "That the ministry shall report annually to the Bishop instead of semiannually." 

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1890. 

 

No. 331. Whereas, The recognized duty of the church is to care for and provide for the poor; and

whereas, It is admitted that in their scattered condition they cannot be cared for as they should be,

therefore be it 

   Resolved, That we now take some active measures towards providing a home for the poor; such a home as will be in accord with the Savior's injunction, "Do unto others as you would that they should do unto you." 

   This was discussed and then referred to the Bishopric, and they were authorized to act in this matter as found practicable. 


                                                           Adopted April 11, 1890. 

 

No. 332. That the First Presidency and the General Church Secretary be authorized to prepare a blank form upon which, all ministers are hereby requested to report, and as briefly as possible. Be it further     Resolved, That the Board of Publication be requested to hereafter publish said reports, together with the minutes of future General Conferences in pamphlet form, as supplements to the Herald instead of in the Herald columns as at present published. 

 

No. 333. That a committee of two be selected by this body to prepare an article representing the

faith and principles of the church, for standard encyclopedias and school histories.

 

No. 334. Whereas, The undertaking of building a place ample to accommodate the Saints for public

worship at Independence, Missouri, has required an outlay of means greater than the Saints of the

Independence Branch have been able to raise themselves; and 

   Whereas, The services of Bro. Joseph Luff have been for the past three years and are now restricted in great measure to looking after this work, and under the present outlook will necessarily by reason of this be further kept from his ministerial work for a long time; and

   Whereas, The Bishopric of the church is the proper department to take charge of and see after the

construction of buildings and expenditure of church funds generally. 

   Therefore, be it resolved, That this conference instruct and authorize the Bishop of the church to

take such steps as they shall deem proper, and as they may satisfactorily arrange with the local committee of said church, to take charge of said work and raise such special fund as shall be necessary to meet the indebtedness and completion of said structure, and that the said Luff shall as soon as such arrangements are perfected in a satisfactory manner to the Bishopric and local committee be released from personal oversight, so as to enable him to discharge the duties of his office as one of the Twelve. 

 

No. 335. Resolved, That in the opinion of this conference, the time has arrived when it may be expedient to establish an institution of learning under the control or influence of our church organization, and to this end there shall be a committee appointed (by the body) to receive proposals for a location and take such other preliminary measures as may be necessary; and said committee are empowered after receiving such proposals to make all necessary arrangements for the establishment of such institution. 

 

No. 336. That a committee of three be appointed by this body to revise the Rules of Order, suggesting whatever amendments are necessary, and collate for publication therewith the principles

and rules governing in church representation and arranging the whole ready for publication, upon indorsement of the next Annual Conference. 

 

                                                             Adopted April 12, 1890.

 

No. 337. The committee on college reported having organized, choosing Bishop G. A. Blakeslee as

president, David Dancer as treasurer, and Robert Winning as secretary, and that they had adopted the following resolutions:


   That the committee take measures to secure a proper fund for carrying into effect the resolution relative to the establishment of an institution of learning passed by the conference on yesterday and to this end that we open proper subscription books and arrange for a special fund to be known as the "College Fund," for this purpose.

   That E. L. Kelley and Robert Winning be a committee to prepare the necessary subscription lists and books.

   That the personal canvass be under the direct supervision of the Bishopric, they appointing suitable persons to solicit subscriptions.

   That all authorized canvassers be instructed to report monthly to the secretary whose duty is to collect all moneys and to turn over same to the treasurer, taking his receipt therefor.

   That when committee adjourns it shall be subject to the call of the president or that of a majority of the committee.

 

   That we adopt the installment plan of subscription, one fifth of the amount subscribed to be due and payable six months from April 6, 1890, and the balance in equal Payments every three months thereafter. All subscriptions made after October 6, 1890, will be due and payable, the first installment of one fifth three months from date of said subscription, and the balance in equal installments each three months until paid.

   That the secretary communicate with Lamoni College Committee and subscribers, and if possible secure the turning over to this committee of all cash and other subscriptions made.

   That the treasurer and secretary be called upon to give bonds in such amounts as the Bishopric may determine; said bonds to be subject to the approval of the Bishopric.

   The report of the committee was adopted by the conference.

 

No. 338. The revelation given to the church through President Joseph Smith, April 8, 1890, was accepted by the several quorums present, after which it was unanimously approved by the body.

 

No. 339. Whereas, The Sunday school movement in the church, which is becoming an important part of the work of the body of Christ, has now arrived at that period of its existence that it invites and needs assistance and encouragement as well as recognition in a more general and definite way, therefore, be it

   Resolved, That this conference appoint a committee whose duty shall be to devise ways and means towards the further establishment of the Sunday school work, with a view to making it a department of regular church work and care.

 

                                                           Adopted April 14, 1890.

 

No. 340. That the revelation received by the President of the church April 8, 1890, be compiled in future editions of the Book of Covenants, and that the Board of Publication be requested to issue the said revelation as a supplement to the Herald as section 120, of  Doctrine and Covenants, and properly paged; and also the revelations of 1882 and 1887 be published in the same supplement.

 

 


                                                           Adopted April 15, 1890.

 

No. 341. Twelve high priests were chosen to form a High Council, in harmony with the revelation received during the conference, and it was

   Resolved, That the First Presidency call the council and attend to the matter of organization as soon as they can conveniently.

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1891.

 

No. 342. On call the committee appointed September 22, 1877, to revise and publish the History of Joseph Smith, as contained in the Times and Seasons and in other publications of the church, reported. The report was received and the committee continued with request for further action.

 

No. 343.

 

                                               WITNESSES IN ADULTERY  CASES.

 

Whereas, There is a difference of opinion existing in the minds of the Saints regarding the requirements of Doctrine and Covenants 42:22, relating to the trial of parties charged with adultery, some holding that two or more eye witnesses to the act charged are necessary before conviction, and others believing differently,

   Resolved, That . . . the law referred to does not require eye witnesses to the act charged, but if there are found members of the church who as witnesses testify concerning facts or circumstances bearing upon the case, whose evidence is of a character to remove all reasonable doubt as to the guilt of the parties charged, from the minds of the elders trying the case, it is sufficient. If one eye witness be found willing to testify in addition to the above it is better, though not absolutely necessary.

 

No. 344. Upon receiving the report of committee on general Sunday school organization, the conference by vote recognized their work. 

 

No. 345. Elder E. L. Kelley was appointed Presiding Bishop, vice Bishop G. A. Blakeslee, deceased. He selected Elders   G. H. Hillard and E. A. Blakeslee as his counselors. 

 

No. 346. The branch at Keb, near Ottumwa, lowa, and the counties of Jefferson, Wapello, and Davis in the state of Iowa were annexed to the "Nauvoo and String Prairie District." 

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1891. 

 

No. 347. The subject of the reincorporation of the church was taken up and the following was moved  and adopted: "That a committee of three be appointed to prepare Articles of Incorporation in harmony and in conformity with the present incorporation under the laws of the State of Illinois, the

same to be used to further incorporate the society In the State of Iowa and other States by vote of

any large branch or stake in such States as provided by the laws of the same.”


No. 348. Whereas, The publication of the financial reports of the ministry is attended with great expense; and, whereas, The law only provides for elders making reports to the Bishop, therefore be

it resolved, That hereafter, only the totals of receipts and expenditures by the ministry be published. 

No. 349. That the Bishopric be authorized to take such steps to remove the cloud of title to real estate in Independence, Missouri, as may be deemed wise and proper by them. 

 

No. 350. Whereas, By reason of the disorganization of branches and districts there have been valuable records lost to the church, therefore be it resolved, That hereafter when branches become disorganized, either by the removal of members or the act of conference, that those having possession of such branch records are hereby requested and instructed to deposit them with their district clerks; and that if the district clerks do not need them that they send these records to the General Church Secretary and Recorder for deposit in the vaults of his office; and furthermore, That upon the disorganization of districts their records should also be sent to the same place for safe keeping

 

Adopted April 11, 1891. 

 

No. 351. 1. Whereas, The growth of the church has been attended with an increase of responsibilities and cares, making necessary the liberation of our chief officers from all burdens not necessarily included in their office and calling; and

   2. Whereas, We have witnessed with deep consideration the effect of over anxiety and work upon

the Presidency of the church; and

   3. Whereas, The law provides that they should be so cared for by the church as to enable them to

devote their time and energy exclusively to the duties of the office held by them, and 

   4. Whereas, We believe that the editorial or other management of the Herald is not comprehended

in their official calling, but is an added burden imposed without command of the Spirit, or being necessary under the law. 

   Resolved, That the Quorum of the Twelve and the Bishopric be authorized to take such steps and

provide such means as in their judgment shall be proper to relieve the members of the Presidency from their present financial burdens and encumbrances (if any shall be found) and provide for the support of themselves and families according to the law, thus leaving them free and untrammeled to attend exclusively to the duties of the office of the Presidency. 

   Resolved, That the Board of Publication be requested to act in accord with the foregoing and release said brethren from all obligations connected with the editing of the Herald

 

No. 352. We, your committee appointed to examine and report upon the petition from the annual conference of the English Mission, held at Birmingham, August 2‑4, 1890, beg leave to report as follows: 

   Resolved, That this committee recommend that mission and district conferences may be composed of both the ministry and members residing within the limits of said conferences and that such shall be entitled to voice and vote; or that they may, if such bodies shall deem it best for their interests, adopt the rules governing the composition and organization of General Conferences as set forth in the Rules of Order and Rules of Representation. 


No. 353. We, your committee appointed to examine and report regarding petition from the

Nodaway, Missouri, District, asking the conference to define the duties of a missionary in charge,

submissionary in charge, and of district presidents, would respectfully submit the following: 

   Resolved, That we recommend that all parties interested in these and similar questions be referred

to the law of the church, especially to the revelation of April 8, 1890, and the missionary in charge; and in case a mutual understanding is not had they may appeal to the First Presidency.

 

No. 354. "The committee on credentials reported, advising that hereafter, when practicable, the credentials [of delegates to the General Conferences] be written out and sent to the Church Secretary in time for him to make up his yea and nay forms prior to the conference session, as he also himself has suggested that it be done."

 

                                                         Adopted April 13, 14, 1891

 

No. 355. Various amendments to the Rules of Order and Debate, recommended by the committee on revision and by the First Presidency, together with a provision that the Articles of Incorporation be included in said book, were adopted: See edition of 1891.

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1892.

 

No. 356. That in the preparation of the Church Secretary's report, this body desires that of the Church Secretary, and not those of district clerks, who are not under direction of the body.

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1892.

 

No. 357. That a committee be appointed to take the steps necessary, and to make arrangements to properly represent the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ and its standard works at the World's Fair in Chicago, in 1893.

 

No. 358. Resolved, That the reply of Bro. J. R. Lambert in advocacy and defense of the Book of Mormon and Book of Doctrine and Covenants, as offered to the church in his report to this body, be referred to the Board of Publication, with request that it be published in the Herald, or in pamphlet form if they deem best.

 

No. 359. Whereas, Should the Bishop of the church be able to close his fiscal year on March 15, at the same time that the Herald Office year closes, the committee on auditing Herald Office accounts could, without additional expense, audit the Bishop's books also; and

   Whereas, Such audit of accounts would enable the Bishop to present his report for direct action without delaying conference by committee work, be it hereby

   Resolved, That in the year 1893, and thenceforward the Bishop's books and accounts be audited prior to the convening of each April Conference, by the above named committee.

 

 


                                                           Adopted April 12, 1892.

 

No. 360. The following was adopted, as presented by the Board of Publication, together with the proviso for a committee of revision that follows:

   "That an authentic history of the rise and progress of the church should be compiled and published, and we therefore recommend that the conference of the church shall now take action authorizing the Board to cause such compilation and publication to be made."

   Resolved, That we appoint a committee of examination and revision, consisting of Brn. Joseph Smith, W. H. Kelley, Charles Derry, and J. R. Lambert, in connection with the Board of Publication.

 

                                                           Adopted April 13, 1892.

 

No. 361. Resolved, That we instruct the elders of the church who are not under general church appointment to not report to this body, unless the labor performed has been outside of all districts and branches; and that the Secretary of the church be authorized to reject all ministerial reports which do not properly belong to the General Conference of church.

 

No. 362. Whereas, The Quorum of the Twelve deem it wisdom to appoint none as church missionaries who do not honor the Lord in "avoiding the use of tobacco," etc., as enjoined in the revelation of April, 1887, and

   Whereas, Branch, and especially district presidents, are important church servants, therefore be it

   Resolved, That we do respectfully call the attention of all Saints to the propriety of observing the example of the Twelve in appointing such officers, especially where others equally competent are available who do thus honor the Lord.

 

No. 363. Resolved, That ministers who are eligible to the law of tithing, and refuse to comply with it; or who ignore the law by neither paying nor making proper effort to pay, are not justly entitled to claim upon the church for family support.

 

No. 364. Resolved, That the work done by a committee appointed to compile acts of General Conferences binding upon the body, accepted by the conference of 1887, and referred to the Board of Publication, "with authority to publish if deemed best by them," be completed, including similar acts that this conference has passed or may pass, that a committee be appointed to so complete the compilation, said committee to report its work for examination to the Board of Publication, which is requested to publish the complete work if practicable.

 

No. 365. A report was presented from the Young People's Mutual Improvement Society, of St. Joseph, Missouri, asking that action be taken toward completing an organization of the young people's societies. The matter was "left with the society for such further action as they may deem best.”

 

 

 


No. 366. The Presiding Bishop presented a special report, calling attention to the effort of the Bishopric "to provide for a special fund to aid the church in its work as emergency might arise, and provide for a suitable home for Saints, when circumstances demanded the same,” etc.

   "A motion was adopted that this body approves of the movement for the object stated "

 

                                                           Adopted April 15, 1892.

 

The four following resolutions were presented by the Quorum of the Twelve:

 

No. 367. 1st. Whereas, A question has arisen in regard to the right of a missionary in charge to move a missionary placed under him from one subdivision of his field to another, after the General Conference has ratified his appointment to the first subdivision, and, whereas, The missionary in charge is expected to direct the labor of all under him for the best good of the cause throughout his mission, resolved, That in our opinion the authority is vested in the missionary in charge to make all such changes of the above character as in his judgment are necessary to advance the church work, and in so doing he does not violate the sense of the General Conference action regarding the missionary whose field of operation is thus changed.

 

No. 368. 2d. Resolved, That we recognize the Bible, Book of Mormon, and Doctrine and Covenants as the only standard works of the church; and it is our opinion that every other book, pamphlet, or other publication, should simply rest upon its own merits, the church being responsible only for that which it authorized to be done, or which it accepts after it is done.

 

No. 369. 3d. Sunday school and branch entertainments:

   The young, middle‑aged, and aged, are alike under obligations to shun the evils of the world, and adhere to the teachings of the word of God. They are not their own, but having been "bought with a price," they belong to Christ That which is immoral in its tendency, or that which will in any wise interfere with the performance of duty as presented to us in the sacred word, or that which tends to prevent us from rising to that high standard of thought and action to which all the Saints of God should aspire, should be excluded from the entertainments held in different branches of the church. And we believe that the enactment of tragedies should be avoided, and that purely frivolous display, or farces which embody no moral, as a prominent feature, are improper.

 


While in the very nature of the case, it is difficult, if not impracticable, for us to denounce in a wholesale manner any class of performances known by a specific name, yet we may safely condemn all that we are unable to harmonize with the teachings of the sacred books of the church; that is, the Holy Scriptures, the Book of Mormon, and Doctrine and Covenants. That which is harmless and pure in its character and tendency may safely be admitted; that which is not should be excluded. The holding of Sunday school and church entertainments for laudable purposes, when of a proper kind, are not only permissible, but commendable. The exercises, however, should be of such a character as will tend to develop the latent powers of mind in the young, and those of riper years, imparting broader views of morality and social enjoyment, thus imparting that innocent pleasure which Inspires those who possess it to reach still higher after all that is elevating and instructive. We are further of. the opinion that those who are in charge of Sunday schools and branches where these entertainments are to be had, may with proper care, be qualified to choose between that which is innocent and beneficial, and that which is not. All should so live as to enjoy that measure of the Spirit of truth which will prevent them from indulging in that which would lead them away from God.

 

No. 370. 4th. Action on Book of Rules:

   Whereas, We find certain portions of the "Rules of Order to be in conflict with the revelation of 1890, and whereas, Said conflict has occasioned difficulty in certain quarters, and is likely to cause trouble hereafter, resolved, That we ask General Conference to order the following amendment; viz:

   1. To strike out the last seven lines of section 4 and instead thereof insert the words, organizations  may be effected by the missionary in charge, or by the district president with the consent, knowledge, and direction of the missionary in charge, when circumstances prevent the latter from being present; or by order of the conferences.

   2. By striking out the first sentence of section 11, and inserting the following words in the place thereof: Districts should be organized by the direction of the conferences, or by the personal presence and direction of the Twelve, or some member of that quorum who may be in charge, if practicable.

 

No. 371. Resolved that . . . when conflict of authority, or difficulty arises in regard to branch boundaries, the matter be referred to the missionary in charge, for adjudication, and that his decision be final.

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1893.

 

No. 372. That the boundary lines of the Northern Illinois District be as follows:

   Beginning at the Wisconsin line at the northwest corner of Winnebago County, Illinois, and running south, straight with the west side of said county to a line running due east from Pekin City, following said line to the Indiana State line, thence north to Lake Michigan, thence following the west shore to the southeast corner of Wisconsin, leaving the north boundary undefined.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1893.

 

No. 373. That the Central Missouri District be disorganized . "That Ray County and all the territory lying west of said county, in said district, be added to the Far West District, and that Carroll County and all the territory lying east and north of said county, in said district, be added to the Northeastern Missouri District."

 

No. 374. Resolved, That the committee on encyclopedias be authorized to present the matter prepared by them to each publisher, or publishing company, of the standard encyclopedias and school histories, with request for publication; also to such of the magazines, journals, and papers as they may deem best calculated to accomplish the object of their appointment.

 

 


                                                           Adopted April 10, 1893.

 

No. 375. Resolved, That hereafter all reports of the general ministry, the Bishopric, and the Presidency, be sent to the Church Secretary at least ten days prior to the time of assembling of any General Conference, and that the same may be presented to the publishing board, who shall publish the same in supplemental form, and send out with the Herald and present a copy to each member of the conference and that the reading of reports to the conference be dispensed

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1893.

 

No. 376. Resolved, That this conference favor the active prosecution of the work in the city of Chicago during the time of the Columbian Exposition, and that we encourage and sustain the missionaries in charge in making such special efforts in this direction as shall be deemed proper by them with the means the Bishop may be able to supply for the purpose.

 

No. 377. Resolved, That we consider the practice of dancing and card playing as unbecoming true Christians, and should be avoided by all Saints.

 

                                                           Adopted April 13, 1893.

 

No. 378. "Resolved, That in the opinion of this quorum general church ministers who labor in the literary concerns of the church should conform to the provisions of the law in the Millennial Star and also in Times and Seasons is of extremely doubtful character, and cannot be safely relied upon; therefore it should not be employed as authority in matters affecting the government of the church.

 

                                                           Adopted April 14, 1893.

 

No. 379. Presented by the First Seventy:

   “Resolved, That in the opinion of this quorum general church ministers who labor in the literary concerns of the church should conform to the provisions of the law in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, as found in the sections quoted as follows: (70: 3; 72: 4). . . . ."

   "Resolved, further, That the Board of Publication be instructed to carry this resolution into effect in its management of the Herald Office.

 

                                                           Adopted April 15, 1893.

 

No. 380. That we use our influence, and, so far as possible aid the General Sunday school Association.

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1894.

 


No. 381. We your committee appointed to examine the resolution of the Eastern Iowa District relating to the term Mormon, beg to report: That in view of the fact that the church has already officially placed itself on record as to name, designation, or title, and by incorporation in the States of both Illinois and Iowa has the stamp of legality affixed thereto, we see no necessity for this conference to take other action than to discourage the use of such term in both writing and speaking.

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1894.

 

No. 382. That Brn. E. L. Kelley, R.S. Salyards, and H. A. Stebbins be appointed to revise the acts of General Conferences that have already been compiled,  and make them ready for publication, and report to this body.

 

                                                            Adopted April 10, 1894

 

No. 383. Substance of committee report on boundaries of St. Louis District:

   That the counties so included be designated as Lincoln, Montgomery, Warren, St. Charles, St. Louis, Franklin, Gasconade, Osage, Maries, Phelps, Crawford, Washington, St. Francois, St. Genevieve, Perry, and Jefferson . . . .

   We find that in Illinois the Illinois Central Railroad line is already the eastern boundary of the St. Louis District, and we recommend that the northern boundaries of the following counties; to‑wit: Christian, Sangamon, and Morgan be the northern boundary of the St. Louis District, from the Illinois Central Railroad line west to the Illinois River, and that the Illinois River be the western boundary of the district south to the southern boundary of Pike County, and thence the southern boundary of Pike County form the northern boundary to the Mississippi River.

   Correction; We further recommend that all that part of Illinois lying west of the Illinois Central Railroad line and south of the northern boundary herein defined be included in the St. Louis District.

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1894.

 

No. 384. The following was adopted in response to a request from the Western Wisconsin District that the State be divided into two districts:

   "That their petition be granted and the organization of said districts be provided for; that the northern boundaries of Vernon, Sauk, Columbia, Dodge, Washington, and Ozaukee counties be the dividing line between the two districts.”

 

No. 385. Resolved, That a committee on American archeology be appointed, who shall report their labors to the General Conference, and as they deem necessary through the Herald, so that the church can have the benefit of their labors; that said committee be composed of five, three of whom shall be appointed by this conference, the remaining two to be selected by the committee at their discretion.

 

 

 

 

 

 


                                                           Adopted April 12, 1894.

 

No. 386

                                                    REPORT OF JOINT COUNCIL.

 

   The Joint Council of the First Presidency, Twelve, and High Priests, which has been holding sessions during this conference, made report, reading:

   To the Conference: The Joint Council, in compliance with your request, presents the following report, which embraces what has been agreed upon.

1. Office in the Church of Christ is not conferred to distinguish, or glorify, or increase the importance of the person on whom it is conferred.

2. Office in the church is conferred for the purpose of accomplishing certain results designed in the instituting and establishing the church.

3. All offices in the church come properly under the head of the priesthood. Under this general head all the officers are arranged, there being two orders of priesthood; the Melchisedec and the Aaronic.

4. The scope of the present council is confined to an inquiry into the calling, duties, and prerogatives of the First Presidency, Twelve, and the Quorum of High Priests.

5. The President of the church is primarily appointed by revelation.

6. This appointment is confirmed by the vote of the church properly taken.

7. That the Presidency is the leading quorum in the church. That the duty of presiding over the church devolves on that quorum. That it is the prerogative of the President to preside over the whole church, to bear the responsibility of the care and oversight of the work of the church, in all its different departments, and through the constituted officers of the church in their various callings, according to the laws, rules, and regulations in force and recognized by the church.

8. That it is the prerogative of the President to receive revelations from God and give them to the church for the direction and government of the affairs of the church.

9. That the members of the Presidency are leading interpreters and teachers of the laws and revelations of God, and are of right presidents of the General Assemblies of the church.

10. That the members of the Presidency are to Preside over the High Council, and in the exercise of this duty to render decisions on important causes submitted to that council.

11. That it is the prerogative of the Presidency, to receive revelations from God through the President and present them to the church.

12. That the Presidency are the counselors of the Twelve and exercise the right of presidency by direction and council to that quorum.

13. That the calling and duties of the High Priests are those of standing or local presidency of branches, districts, conferences, or stakes, to the presidency of which they may be called, or appointed by the constituted authorities of the church, in accordance to the law.

14. That "the Twelve" are the second quorum in authority and importance in the general work of the church; and is the leading missionary body of laborers, under the direction and counsel of the Presidency, whose duty it is to preach the gospel, win souls to Christ, administer in the rights of the gospel, carry the gospel to this and every other nation, take charge of and direct other missionaries;

 


and to do any work within their calling, which the necessities of the work and general welfare of the church may demand.

 

JOSEPH SMITH

President of Council.

 

HEMAN C. SMITH,

HENRY A. STEBBINS,

Secretaries of Council.

 

                                                           Adopted April 14, 1894.

 

No. 387. That it is the sense of this conference that our ministry should confine themselves to the preaching of the gospel, and that they desist from preaching that which cannot be fully sustained by the standard works of the church.

 

No. 388. A blank form for ministry reports, also a form of summons to appear, before elders' courts, were adopted, with a provision that the Board of Publication furnish such forms.

 

                                                           Adopted April 17, 1894.

 

No. 389. Whereas, In the prosecution of the Temple Lot Suit, questions and settlement of title and property interests are likely to further arise requiring attention, therefore be it

   Resolved, That the Bishopric be authorized and instructed to look after the same, if found necessary, and to take such steps as shall be deemed necessary for the good of the body and in justice to all Parties concerned.

 

                                                           Adopted April 19, 1894.

 

 No. 390. Resolved, That Lamoni, Iowa, be considered and declared to be the seat of the First Presidency of the church.

 

No. 391. The Presidency to whom the resolution on the subject of the resurrection was referred, report

   That, While we are of the opinion that the standard books of the church clearly teach the unconditional resurrection of man, we believe it to be of doubtful propriety for the church to put unnecessary restrictions upon the ministry as to the manner of their teaching those doctrines and matters of faith which are of secondary importance; for, while possible injury may accrue to individuals, here and there, who may be inquiring for the word, from the advocacy of individual  views held by some of the laborers in the field; we think such  injury less hurtful to the general work, than that which would result from the creation of a creed, or the putting restrictions upon the ministry in the form of resolutions restraining the liberty of inquiry and investigation, and censuring  those who may venture into such investigation, upon what seems to them to be fair grounds.


   We therefore recommend that the conference go no further than to say that it is the belief of the church that the doctrine of the resurrection provides for the rising from the dead, of all men, each in his own order, through the atonement wrought by Jesus Christ.

   We cite from the Scriptures such passages as may be aids to understanding upon the subject: Doctrine and Covenants 28: 7, 8; 43: 5; 45: 10; 63: 13; 76: 3, 4, 7; 85: 6, 29.   Book of  Mormon, 2 Nephi 6: 4, 6, Mosiah 8: 9; 11: 16. Alma 8: 10; 9: 3; 19:4. Book of Nephi 11: 7; Book of Mormon 4:6. Bible, John 5: 28; Acts 24: 15; 1 Cor. 15: 21, 22, 23, 25, 26; Rev. 20: 5, 12, 13: 21: 8; 22: 15.

 

No. 392. Presented by First Seventy:

   "Resolved, That we request President Joseph Smith to insert in section 121 Doctrine and Covenants a statement of the instruction given to the Seventy in 1885 ── that directing them to choose presidents of Seventy and instructing the presidents thus chosen to choose other Seventy ──  that it may be preserved with other important instruction given to the church and published in that section."

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1895.

 

No. 393. The Quorum of the Twelve presented all the following resolutions under the above date:

   Resolved, That while we recognize the Seventy as the missionary force which is subject to the appointment and demand of the Twelve, yet under existing circumstances, we find it impracticable to appoint in complete harmony with the preambles and resolutions of one year ago.

   Resolved, further, That we now proceed to appoint as nearly in harmony with our action of one year ago as the circumstances now confronting us will permit.

   The action of the Twelve in 1894, referred to above, it as follows:

   "Whereas, High priests, elders, and priests are local or standing ministers to the church, (Doctrine and Covenants 107: 42; 120 : 3; 17 : 10, 25; 83: 2,) and, ── 

   "Whereas, The local ministry are not under the law subject to appointment as general missionaries, and, ──

   "Whereas, The law says that 'it is the duty of the Traveling High Council to call upon the Seventy, when they need assistance to fill the several calls for preaching and administering the gospel, instead of any others,' (Doctrine and Covenants 104 :16,) and, ──

   "Whereas, The law provides for as many traveling ministers as 'the labor in the vineyard of necessity requires,' (Doctrine and Covenants 104: 43; 120: 3,) and, ── 

   “Whereas, We deem it unwise that the Twelve should be burdened with anything more than that which is necessary in order to fulfill the duties of their calling, and, ── 

   "Whereas, We believe that the church has reached that juncture in the progress of the work which will enable us now, or very soon, to more fully harmonize with and carry out these provisions of divine law, therefore be it,

   "Resolved by this council, That we take this method of notifying this conference and the whole church, that at the next convening of the General Conference we shall expect to appoint in harmony with the above statements and the law cited therein." 

 

 

 


No. 394. Whereas, It is understood that ministers who are appointed to labor as their circumstances permit, have no claim upon the treasury of the church for financial support; and whereas, It is the privilege and duty of all ministers to labor in their respective callings, in harmony with local authority,  wherever and whenever they can, without an appointment from General Conference; therefore be it resolved, That we take this method of informing the church and ministry that hereafter we will discontinue the practice of so appointing, unless special and extraordinary reasons be furnished in favor of such appointments.

 

No. 395. Resolved, That in the event of an order by the conference to publish the revelation of April, 1894, in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, we request the body to indorse and order published in connection therewith, the proceedings of the Joint Council which was provided for in the revelation.

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1895.

 

No. 396. That this conference authorize and instruct the college committee to incorporate, as provided by the laws of Iowa, for institutions of learning.

 

No. 397. As presented by the Bishopric, to whom the question had been referred:

1. That we fail to find any reference in the revelation of 1894 in regard to the support of families of district presidents, and hence nothing that could be construed to change in any regard the maintenance of any family from the plan set out in former church articles.

2. The common and universal rule of the church upon which any elder's family is supplied is based upon the law of necessity, and all are to be supplied according to their several needs under the supervision of the general church authorities, and can hardly expect any variation from the rule; for the revelation states, section 70, paragraph 3: "Behold, this is what the Lord requires of every man in his stewardship, even as I the Lord have appointed, or shall hereafter appoint unto any man." District presidents when under general appointment and giving their entire time, or, by agreement, a part, to church work in like manner, are supplied according to their needs.

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1895.

 

No. 398. "We indorse and recommend the use of tents for gospel work as being not only useful and economical, but as an available and effective means of reaching classes who would otherwise remain ignorant of the faith delivered unto us; therefore we recommend that district presidents and missionaries in charge be requested to aid and encourage the tent work throughout all their missions wherever it may be practicable."

 

No. 399. Whereas, In the prosecution of the college work it is likely that there will be need of a board of directors prior to the assembling of the next General Conference, therefore be it

   Resolved, That this body proceed to name a board of nine directors to be known as the College Board, who shall, under the articles of incorporation, have the usual authority of such boards, except as may be varied by such articles.


No. 400. In response to a petition from the St. Louis District, a committee was appointed to compile music and words for the Saints' Hymnal. The Hymnal was issued and subsequently approved by the conference.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1895.

 

No. 401. Resolved, That we go upon record as believing that the act of conveying the emblems to those partaking forms a part of the work of "administering the sacrament," and, under the law, neither teachers, deacons, nor laity have right to serve in that capacity.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1896.

 

No. 402. Resolved, That inasmuch as section 113 in Book of Doctrine and Covenants was not given by inspiration, but seems to be an individual statement relative to the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, and in some degree has a tendency to do the church harm when used by the enemy as it is now published, that the President of the church and the Board of Publication be instructed to prepare and publish an explanation with said section.

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1896.

 

No. 403. The committee on American Archeology was instructed to complete its report, and to publish therewith the map prepared by its direction, in pamphlet form.

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1896.

 

No. 404. Whereas, We are at a disadvantage with some railroads, the Pennsylvania lines and others, in reference to permits, therefore be it resolved, That the President, Secretary, and Bishop are hereby requested to make effort to secure our rights and privileges in such matters and that the action before passed by us in this conference be hereby placed in the hands of this committee, to be consummated or not as shall be found advisable.

 

No. 405. Resolved, That the Board of Publication be instructed to inquire into the feasibility of purchasing Zion's Ensign with its printing plant and property at Independence Missouri, and if the purchase shall be found possible at a price and terms suitable, the board be authorized to make said purchase as soon as found practicable.

 

No. 406. Whereas, The work attending the duties of General Secretary and Recorder for the church is increasing largely, and owing to the progress of the work will be still further increased, therefore be it

   Resolved, That the office be separated . . . .

 

No. 407. Elder R. S. Salyards was elected to the office of Church Secretary.

 


No. 408. Elder H. A. Stebbins was retained as Church Recorder.

 

No. 409. Whereas, There is a growing need that we have an authorized history of the church, therefore be it resolved that the body elect a General Church Historian.

   "The matter was then referred to the Board of Publication with instructions to choose a historian.”

 

No. 410. Whereas, It is believed by some that in the Voice of Warning there is archeological matter, good in its time but which can now be replaced with later and better matter; and

   Whereas, It is believed the Voice of Warning can be improved in several features;

   Therefore be it resolved That it be submitted to a committee of three for revision; and that the President of the Board of Publication with the committee review the work done, after which it be at once published by the board.

 

No. 411. On motion the office of the Church Secretary was designated as, “Secretary of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints."

 

                                                            Adopted April 11,1896.

 

No. 412. The statement on the question of "Marriage and Divorce,” reported by a committee to the General Conference of 1895, and deferred for consideration at this conference was amended and adopted, reading as follows:

   We your committee to whom was referred the preamble and resolution upon the subject of marriage and divorce, pending Friday, April 13, 1894. as found upon page 34 of the published minutes of the session of conference for 1894, beg leave and report:

   "Whereas, There exists in the church no definite and positive understanding on the law governing divorcement, therefore be it resolved that there be a committee of three appointed to draft a statement of the law together with an explanation thereof governing the relationship of husband and wife, touching the following features:

   "I. Justifiable causes for separation of husband and wife.

   "2. On what condition can husband or wife whose companion is still living be privileged to marry again? 

   "3. The lawfulness or unlawfulness of receiving individuals into the church when having one or more companions living from whom they have been separated.

   “4. The lawfulness or unlawfulness of expelling members from the church for separating from companions.

   "5. As to whether we as a church should recognize that the divorce law of the land separates and frees in a gospel sense."

   1. Marriage is a condition of life between the sexes instituted by God at the creation of man, in which two individuals, man and woman, enter into an agreement to abide with each other for the purpose of companionship, mental,  moral, and social, and for the purposes of procreation, named  in the word as multiplying and replenishing, that "the earth might answer the end of its creation and be filled with the measure of man.”

 


   2. This condition of life known as the domestic or marriage relation should not be entered into hastily, nor without due consideration upon the part of those being parties to it; and in all cases it should be understood that the covenant of marriage was to bind those entering into it for life.  See  (Note a.)

   3. The causes justifying separation between married persons are: (a) Adultery; (b) Abandonment without cause, constituting presumption of crime, referred to in Matthew 5: 32. (Note b.)

   4. Persons who have been married and who have afterwards been separated may marry other companions, on condition that the cause for separation was a justifiable one. When either party to a contract of marriage has so conducted himself toward the other that the presumptive cause referred to in Matthew 5:32, has occurred; the putting always being understood to be the act of either one, or both. (Note c.)

   5. Persons who have separated from their companions for cause may be received by baptism into the church. The church being under obligation to observe the law of the land, where persons who have been legally separated from former companions and have remarried present themselves for baptism it is to be presumed that the separation sanctioned by the courts was for cause. Persons who at the time of being received into the church are married should be required to keep the contract of marriage then existing sacred, and fulfill it to the end. (Note d.)

   6. Separation alone is not justifiable cause for expulsion from the church. (Note e.)

   7. The church should recognize the acts of the courts of' the land under the existing law governing divorcement when the acts of the offending party have been such that the putting away is the presumptive act of guilt referred to in Matthew 5:32. (Note f.)

 

                                                                       NOTES.

 

Note a. ── The church has already declared that there is but one sufficient cause for absolute separation of married persons; resolution presented at April session of conference for 1883 reads:

   "1. Whereas, We believe that marriage is ordained of God, and that the law of God provides for but one companion in wedlock, for either man or woman except in cases where the contract is broken by death or transgression: therefore,

   "Resolved, That it is our understanding that in case of separation of husband and wife, one of which is guilty of the crime of fornication, or adultery, the other becomes released from the marriage bond, and if they so desire may obtain a divorce and marry again."

   At the session of 1884, this resolution was, on April 9, on proper motion adopted and became the rule of the church.

   The law relied upon as the basis of this rule will be found in Genesis 2: 24; Matthew 19: 5; Book of Mormon, Book of Jacob 2: 6; Doctrine and Covenants 49: 3.

Note b. ──  The law of God as found in the books having no provision for divorcement, it is fair to presume that no separation of married persons was contemplated at the time marriage  was instituted. However, the necessity having occurred, through lapse of time and man's perversity, Jesus makes statement of cause justifying separation; this cause is, adultery, unfaithfulness to the bond of marriage; and is in an additional statement, covered in the terms putting away.

   In the sermon on the mount, Jesus, referring to the inadequateness of the law, declared:

   "Whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery; and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery." ──  Matthew.5:32. 


   It is stated by Matthew in 19: 9, that Jesus taught thus:

  "Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery."

   In Mark 10:11, 12, thus:

   “Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her. And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery.”

   Luke has it thus:

   “Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery; and whoso marrieth her that is put away from her husband committeth adultery." ── Luke 16:18.

   Any extreme rendition of these passages will do injustice in every case where the husband, or wife is put away being innocent of the offense of adultery. Neither Mark, nor Luke has the justifying provision of adultery, or fornication; but this is found in both passages in Matthew, fifth and nineteenth chapters.

   The declaration of the church in 1835 was that in "case of death,” either party was at liberty to marry again.

   The rule found in section 42, paragraph 7, Doctrine and Covenants forbids adultery, and makes the second offense one that the church may not forgive.

   These taken with the statement of Jesus, Matthew 5: 32, warrant the belief that the married man, or married woman that is guilty of adultery becomes dead to the law of marriage, and justifies putting away.

   A distinction must be made between "putting away" and divorcement; the last being but the legal recognition of the act of putting away.  Jesus clearly makes this distinction, in the sermon, and in the teaching to the disciples, Matthew 19.

   This "putting away" of either husband or wife, except for the one cause actually committed, is by the teaching of Jesus, Matthew 5: 32, made to be presumptive adultery; and in such case, the person so put away is sinned against; and if the person so putting away marries, the one put away is certainly free because the crime of adultery in fact has followed and the offending party is dead to the bond. The married man or woman, that puts away a companion being innocent of wrongdoing, is in the transgression, and is constructively guilty of adultery and causes the same wrong to attach to the one put away. If such act of putting away is followed by the marriage of either party the wrong is completed and the other, being innocent, is free.

   Paul impresses the sacredness of the marriage bond in his teaching to the Corinthians, seventh chapter, first letter:

   "And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband; but and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband; and let not the husband put away his wife." ── 1 Corinthians 7: 10, 11.

   However, Paul, realizing the unsatisfactory condition surrounding the church, adds:

   "But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace." ── 1 Corinthians 7:15.

   Paul's statement evidently means that the duty of marriage, obligation to the legal performance of all the covenants imposed by marriage has ceased, and the person so released is no longer bound.

 

 


   Note c. ── Putting away is the primary cause of offense, or primary wrong in case of separation; divorcement being but the legal inquiry into the cause, recognition of the fact that a separation has occurred, and a final bar to further association under the bond of marriage. In such cases the presumption is that the legal cause exists and the parties must be considered free to form other associations as if the separated companion was dead in fact, as in transgression, and in law.

   Note d. ── The church having been designed as the institution into which the sons and daughters of men may be received and assisted to overcome through grace, the evils of their nature and become worthy to live, should not deny any who may be penitent and needing salvation; hence should receive those who have been separated from their companions, being put away, themselves not having been the guilty ones in transgression; and those who having been married again before making application for baptism, if legally divorced.

   Note e. ── No one should be expelled from the church except for good cause; hence, though one may be separated from a companion, if such separation does not involve transgression worthy of condemnation, it should not be a bar to fellowship. Doctrine and Covenants 42: 20.

   Note f. ── Putting away precedes divorcement, and so long as persons having been married are content to remain undivorced and unmarried, there may be reconciliation and an end of the separation; but when recourse has been had to the arbitrament of the courts of the land, the separation, or putting away is complete; and where this is done before persons are baptized, the church cannot under existing conditions do otherwise than to assume that the divorcement has been for cause;  hence must recognized the decree of such courts, "provided that nothing in this article shall be so construed as to prevent the inquiry provided for in Doctrine and Covenants 42: 20.”

 

                                                            Adopted April 14,1896.

 

No. 413. Resolved, That the First Presidency and Bishop be appointed a committee to protect the interest of the church in the Independence Temple Lot property.

 

No. 414. Whereas, We have found it impracticable to continue the rule of appointing men to labor as circumstances permit, resolved, That we refer all of the ministry who wish to labor thus to the district authorities where they desire to work.

 

No. 415. That the request of the Second Quorum of Seventy "that Bro. Columbus Scott be transferred from the First Quorum to the Second Quorum, as its president, be granted."

 

No 416. That in the opinion of this council it is not advisable to organize an elders' quorum in the European Mission.

   The above was presented by a joint council of the Presidency and Twelve.

 

No. 417. Resolved, That in the opinion of this body it will be advisable to place Decatur District under the charge of the missionaries who are in charge of the territory in which said district is found.

 

No.. 418. The First Presidency presented the following  recommendation with their appointments of the Quorum of Twelve:


   "We recommend that the quorum, by agreement as to fields  and times of holding, appoint special conferences, visiting them two by two, in those places where it may be deemed such conferences may be productive of good results; at such conferences ascertaining the needs of the work in those places

and instituting measures to more effectually organize and set at work the local ministry."

 

                                                             Adopted April 6, 1897

 

No. 419. "The actions of a Joint Council composed of the President, a number of the Quorum of Twelve, and the Bishop, published with the minutes of 1896, in determining that Bro. A. H. Smith, President of the Twelve, should act as counselor to the President during the conference year, and in appointing Bro. J. F. Burton to have charge of the Society Islands Mission, were approved and ratified by the conference.

 

No. 420.  That the . . . General Conference . . .  authorize each district to issue letters of appointment to the missionaries laboring in the several districts who are spending their whole time in the ministry but who are not General Conference appointees.

 

No. 421. Bro. F. M. Smith was elected Church Librarian.

 

No. 422. That the sum of seventy-five dollars per year, already provided for the purchase of books, be expended by the Librarian with the advice and consent of the First Presidency.

 

No. 423. The committee appointed in 1896 to revise the Voice of Warning reported that for reasons good to them they had not proceeded with the work; among others, that if revised it would cease to be the work of the author. A statement of the President of the Board of Publication concurring in the conclusions of the committee was presented with the report.

   The report was adopted, the committee discharged.

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1897.

 

No. 424. The Board of Publication reported that in harmony with action of the General Conference of 1896 they had made provision for getting out the History of the Church by securing the services of Brn. Joseph Smith and Heman Smith to write and compile the history"; that one volume had been issued, the remainder being almost complete in manuscript, which in their judgment should be issued at the earliest practicable time; that they had "selected as Historian under the resolution referred to" them, "Bro. Frederick M. Smith, of Lamoni, Iowa, at a meeting of the board May 1, 1896.

   The action of the board in appointing a Historian, also its appointments providing for writing and compiling the Church History, were adopted."

 

No. 425. A German manuscript translation of the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, presented with request that it be examined and published if found acceptable, was referred to the Board of Publication.

 


                                                           Adopted April 10, 1897.

 

No. 426. Boundary lines of Pittsburg, Kirtland, and Ohio districts:

   The eastern boundary of the district, to be known as the Pittsburgh District, is the seventy‑seventh meridian.

   The northern boundary from the seventy‑seventh meridian westward to Erie County, Pennsylvania.

 The western boundary includes Warren, Venango, Butler, Lawrence, and Beaver counties, Pennsylvania; also Jefferson and Belmont counties, Ohio; also Ohio and Marshall counties, West Virginia.

   The southern boundaries to be the southern line of Pennsylvania to the seventy‑seventh meridian.

   The eastern line of the division, to be known as the Kirtland District, is the above‑described line of the Pittsburg District as herein described.

   The southern line is the fortieth parallel, the western boundary is the western line of the state of Ohio.

   The northern boundary is the northern line of the State of Ohio.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1897.

 

No. 427. A motion providing for the publication of the revelation [of 1897] in the Doctrine and Covenants was adopted.

 

No. 428. A resolution providing for publication of the revelation of 1894 in the Doctrine and Covenants, was also adopted. 

 

No. 429. Bro. Alexander H. Smith was ordained Counselor to the President, and Patriarch and Evangelical Minister to the whole church.

 

No. 430. Resolved, That we accede to the request of the [Church] Recorder that one be appointed to assist him.

 

No. 431. Elder W. H. Kelley was ordained President of the Twelve.

 

                                                           Adopted April 14, 1897.

 

No. 432. A form of license for the Seventy, reported by a  joint council of the Seventy, was approved and adopted.

 

                                                             Adopted April 15, 1897.

 

No. 433. "A resolution to adopt that portion of the Second Seventy's report pertaining to license, to grant the request, and authorize the President and Secretary to issue the licenses to the Seventy as general officers of the church, was adopted." That portion of the report is as follows:

   That we petition the body for a license signed by the President and Secretary of the church showing our ordination  and authority as seventies in the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.


No. 434. The Second Seventy presented the following:

  "Whereas, By our action at this conference district presidents have been authorized to issue certificates of appointment to local ministers, same to labor in their districts; and,

   “Whereas, The law locates the responsibilities of missionary work with the traveling councils of the church; be it

   "Resolved, That district presidents who contemplate making appointments as before provided, be required to consult with and secure the consent of the missionary in charge of their districts before making such appointments and issuing certificates."

   "It was moved to amend by striking out the word presidents in the preamble. This prevailed. The following was then moved and adopted as a substitute for the resolution":

   "Resolved, That districts be required to consult with and secure the consent of the missionary in charge before making such appointments."

   "The report of the Second Seventy, as amended, and as affected by the substitute concerning district appointments, was adopted."

 

                                                           Adopted April 15, 1897.

 

No 435. Resolved, That the Board of Publication be instructed to compile and publish a complete concordance of the Book of Mormon as speedily as possible.

   Suggestions Nos. 1 and 2, contained in the report of Bishop Kelley, were adopted, as follows:

No. 436. That the reports of Bishop's agents be closed the thirty-first day of December of each year, instead of the first day of March, under the present rule, so that ample time will be had to complete report and have same audited by the first of April.

 

 No. 437.The printing and sending out circulars known as:"Ministry Reports" has, together with the publication cf conference minutes for the year, amounted to the sum of $197.l2. It is a question of whether we can afford to pay for this matter each year an amount almost sufficient to keep an elder in the field for a year. If the reports necessary to the transaction of the business of the conference were made by those in charge of missions, with the provision that in case of any dissatisfaction on the part of any laborer in the field he should have the privilege of presenting his objections to the President of the Church or General Conference for consideration, it would answer the purpose as completely as does the present, and save the expense to the church.

 

No.438. Suggestion No. 4, that additional office room be provided for the department of the Bishopric, was referred to the Presidency and Bishopric with power to act.

 

No. 439. "A resolution was adopted authorizing the Bishop to provide blank forms for financial reports of the ministry." 

 

                                                           Adopted April 16, 1897.

 


No.440. Whereas, Vacancies sometimes occur in quorum organizations, by reason of ordinations or other causes, too late to be filled at regular meeting of such quorum; and, in consequence of the present system of filling vacancies, such vacancies must remain unfilled till such a time as a meeting can be held, and our quorums are thus crippled for one or more years, therefore be it,   

   Resolved, That when such vacancies occur in a quorum of elders, priests, teachers, or deacons they may be filled by the unanimous concurrence of the officers of such quorum: and that vacancies so filled must be filled from applications coming through the Church Secretary; members so enrolled to be subject to ratification of members of quorums.

 

No. 441. The Presidency, to whom was submitted the matter of the Nauvoo District and the boundary line between the Northern and Southern Illinois Districts, hereby report:

   That the Nauvoo District has never been considered as belonging to the Northern Illinois District, although the line of division between it and the Southern Illinois District runs south of Hancock and Adams Counties in Illinois, which counties are in the Northern Illinois District, as are Brown and Pike, the latter being in the Southern District.

   Part of the Nauvoo District lies in Missouri; the larger part of the district, however, lies in Iowa. We therefore recommend that the district be under the joint jurisdiction of the missionaries in charge of the Missouri and Southern Illinois, the Northern Illinois and Wisconsin and the State of Iowa, the three to confer and agree as to which one of the three the authorities of the district should report to, and  have immediate charge; and in case the three fail to agree, the Presidency will then decide; and appoint accordingly, subject to conference action and approval.

 

JOSEPH SMITH,

ALEX. H. SMITH,

E. L. KELLEY,

Of the Presidency.

 

LAMONI, IOWA, April 16, 1897.

 

No. 442. We your committee to whom was referred the defining of  the duties, powers; and privileges of the Auditing Committee," beg leave and report as follows:

   In our opinion it is the duty of the Auditing Committee to examine carefully all accounts, compare the several entries with the corresponding vouchers, and to determine as to the real possession of balance on hand, if any. If accuracy be found to so certify; if otherwise, to point out errors to the body appointing.

 

   It is the privilege of such a committee to determine the value of all stock, machinery, tools, and other appurtenances of the Herald Office plant, bringing to their aid such expert help as may be required to insure correctness, so far as possible. It is expected that they treat with courtesy the employees of the Herald and Bishop's offices, as they may expect from them the same, with such aid as can be bestowed by them without undue interference with duties otherwise imposed. The time and place of the work be left discretionary with the committee; provided, however, that the work be completed in time, that the duly certified report may be presented to the ensuing General Conference.

 

 


Respectfully submitted,

J, M. TERRY.

R.M. ELVIN

FRED B. BLAIR.

 

LAMONI, IOWA, APRIL 16, 1897.

 

No. 443. "In addition to the general licenses provided for the Seventy, the President and Secretary were authorized to issue licenses to the Patriarch and all other general officers of the church."

 

No. 444. Elder Heman C. Smith was elected Church Historian. He was authorized to nominate an assistant.

 

No. 445. "A request from the Fourth Quorum of Elders for a pamphlet in answer to Elder B. H. Roberts's work on 'Succession,' was referred to the Board of Publication."

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1898.

 

No. 446. That our present  practice of publishing an itemized account of all moneys placed in the hands of the Bishop be continued.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1898.

 

No. 447. "Instead of defining the boundaries of these districts [Southeastern Illinois and St. Louis] by railroad lines, we believe it would be better to establish boundaries by county lines. Hence we recommend that the following counties compose the Illinois part of the St. Louis District; namely, Morgan, Scott, Macoupin, Greene, Calhoun, Jersey,  Madison, Bond, Clinton, Saint Clair, Monroe, Washington, . Randolph, Perry, Jackson, Union, and Alexander; and that the Southeastern Illinois District be composed of the following counties: Sangamon, Macon, Moultrie, Douglas, Edgar, Clark, Coles, Cumberland, Shelby, Christian, Montgomery, Fayette, Effingham, Jasper, Crawford, Lawrence, Richland,  Clay, Marion, Jefferson, Wayne, Edwards, Wabash, White,  Hamilton, Franklin, Williamson, Saline, Gallatin, Hardin, Pope, Johnson, and Massac, all in Illinois."

 

No. 448. "We your committee, to whom was referred the resolution looking to a uniform system of reporting missionary work to the church, by the missionaries in charge, report as follows:

   "1. The cost of getting out suitable blanks to be used by the missionaries in charge, would largely defeat the purpose had in view by the conference when it abolished the practice of publishing all the reports of the missionaries in supplement form; namely, the saving of means.

   "2. In our judgment the mistake of making our reports too lengthy; and the lack of uniformity (so far as that lack may be undesirable and injurious), may be corrected without the use of blanks. A free interchange of thought among the missionaries in charge, together with a careful comparison of the reports already made, will go far to bring about needed reform. And so far as the general remarks of these reports are concerned, this is the only proper way in which the error of being too lengthy can be corrected.


   "3. As one means of greater uniformity we advise that  the missionaries in charge be instructed to report the total number of sermons, baptisms, ordinations, public debates, and hew openings made for preaching the word; also the number of General Conference appointees laboring in their respective missions, with the general average number of sermons preached by each missionary."

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1898.

 

No. 449. As presented by the Quorum of Twelve:

   As a quorum we have considered the question referred to us ── the right of teachers and deacons to publicly preach ──  and report as follows:

   Whereas, The law contained in section 17, paragraph 11, Doctrine and Covenants, clearly authorizes teachers and deacons to "take the lead of meetings, . . . to warn, expound, exhort, and teach, and invite all to come unto Christ;" and ,

   Whereas, In section 42, paragraph 5, teachers are required, together with elders and priests, to teach the principles of the gospel; and in section 120, paragraph 2, either of said officers is permitted to preside; and,

   Whereas, In our judgment said duties include in their performance what is commonly understood to be preaching, and,

   Whereas, In section 83, paragraph 22, teachers and deacons are limited in their duties to local service.

   Resolved, That in our judgment teachers and deacons are authorized by the law to labor as preachers within branches to which they belong, when they are presidents thereof, or with the advice and consent of the chief presiding officer. 

 

No. 450. "Whereas, There is in Shinn's School History of  America, pages 289 and 290, an extremely gross misrepresentation of the teaching and contents of the Book of Mormon;

   "Therefore be it resolved, That we take this opportunity to express our regret at such uncalled for treatment from one who could so easily have obtained a knowledge of the truth; and we hereby call the attention of our committee on encyclopedias and histories to this matter, and request them to take measures to provide at once that said history be corrected."

 

No. 451. Resolved, That the Secretary be and is hereby authorized to devise and have printed a blank form of delegate credentials; and that a copy or copies be sent to each district or branch entitled to representation, prior to the convening of each General Conference.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1898.

 

No.452. Resolved, That the Board of Publication be requested to publish the third volume of Church History as soon as practicable.

 

No. 453. We, your committee to whom was referred the  matter of members of elders quorums being dropped for failure to report for two years or longer, report as follows: 

 


   1. It is evident to us that quorum rules are not explicit and full in every particular, but as branches may make some rules affecting their procedure, so may quorums.

   2. We believe, under this head, your body has recognized such reports of quorums, and such procedure by them for ten years or more; the practice first having originated with the Fifth Quorum shortly after its organization in 1884.

   3. We call your attention to the fact that practically the effect has been to reconstruct and infuse new life into the quorums acting upon this rule, and therefore it seems to be a good one.

   4. We would suggest that in our opinion the man or men dropped from a quorum  for such cause loses his quorum standing and quorum license, and is merged among the mass of elders who are not organized.

 

                                                           Adopted April 13, 1898.

No. 454. That the conference minutes published in pamphlet form be numbered, in paging, in the ascending scale ── continuing from the last issue.

 

                                                           Adopted April 14, 1898.

 

No. 455. The scattering members not enrolled upon branch records be instructed to unite with branches most convenient to their places of residence.

 

No. 456. That members changing their residences from branches where enrolled, be instructed to unite with branches most convenient to places where they reside.

 

No. 457. Whereas, In the past members have obtained letters of removal which they have not presented to any branch, whereby such names have been removed from the general records of the church,

   Resolved, That letters of removal be issued only to persons actually changing residence from one branch to another, and that names of branches to which removals are made be included in said letters of removal.

 

No. 458. A petition from the Eastern Iowa District concerning boundary lines between that and the Des Moines District was referred to said districts with permission to establish said boundary lines.

 

                                                           Adopted April 15, 1898.

 

No.459. 1. That the west line of the Central and Southern Nebraska Districts be on the west line of Keyapaha, Brown, Blaine, Custer, and Dawson to the Platte River; thence east on the Platte River to the west line of Kearney County, thence south on the west line of Kearney and Franklin counties to the southern line of the State.

   2. That the south line of the Northern and Central Nebraska Districts shall be the Platte River, as formerly.

   3. That all that part of Nebraska west of the Central and Southern Nebraska Districts, be considered unorganized territory.


                                                           Adopted April 16, 1898.

 

Recommendations of the First Presidency accompanying appointments of the Twelve ;

 

No. 460. That suitable subdivisions of fields be made and competent men placed in charge as soon as practicable.

 

No. 461. It is to be understood if there should be any territory not included in these appointments, such territory is not exempt, but is still under the supervision of the missionaries thus appointed.

 

No. 462. Whereas, The financial report of the Board of Trustees of Graceland College shows a large indebtedness, to the proper payment of which the church is morally in honor bound; and believing that the church should use that department of its working forces which the law creates to be the financial agents for the accomplishment of its financial ends; therefore, be it

   Resolved,. That the Bishopric be hereby authorized and instructed to devise and make such arrangements for the collection of means as may be adequate, and out of such means so collected, and such funds of the church as are not otherwise appropriated, liquidate the indebtedness, and provide for the further carrying out of the desires of the church heretofore expressed in conference enactments directing the establishment of an institution of learning to be maintained by the church.

 

No. 463. Whereas, The Lord has spoken against the use of tobacco and strong drink on different occasions; and whereas, In all our appointments we ought to show respect unto said counsel. Therefore, resolved, That henceforth we recommend no man for General Conference appointment whom we know to be addicted to either of the above evils, and that this decision take effect one year from date.

 

                                                           Adopted April 18, 1898.

 

No. 464. Resolved, That the Church Librarian be authorized to choose an assistant if he shall so desire.

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1900.

 

No. 465. Resolved, That the Board of Publication continue the publication of Autumn Leaves, and that the executive committees of the Religio and the Sunday School Association be consulted in the choice of its editors.

 

No. 466. Moved, that this body indorse the appointment by the President, of the committee to meet the brethren of the Church of Christ at Independence, and that this report be spread upon the minutes and the committee continued.

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1900.

 


No. 467. Attention was called to Book of Rules, section 177, paragraph 1.

   The chair made the following ruling:

   Upon the subject of the report of committee on credentials on the Honolulu Branch, the President rules that a branch of more than twenty‑five members is entitled to one delegate for each twenty‑five of its membership, the same as a district.

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1900.

 

No. 468.  We your committee to whom a petition from parties from Central Illinois was referred, asking for the formation of a new district to be known as the Central Illinois District, including the four following counties now in the Nauvoo District: Pike, Brown, Adams, and Schuyler, beg leave to report as follows:

   After a careful examination of the petition and the map of the said district, we believe that it will be to the advantage of the work to grant the petitioners their request, and  in order that the boundary lines may be more easily determined, we recommend the following counties compose the new district: Bound northwardly as follows: Adams, Schuyler, Mason, Logan, Dewitt, Piatt, Champaign, and Vermillion counties, also Edgar on the east. Southwardly as follows: Coles, Shelby, Christian, Sangamon, Morgan, Scott, and Pike counties, including the interior counties, Brown, Cass, Menard, Macon, Moultrie, and Douglas. In this it became expedient to take two counties from the Saint Louis District; namely, Morgan and Scott, seven from the Southeastern District; namely, Macon, Moultrie, Douglas, Edgar, Coles, Shelby, and Christian; four from the Nauvoo District, Pike, Brown, Adams, and Schuyler Counties. This being done by mutual consent, we hereby recommend that the new district herein named be granted to the petitioners and ratified by this conference.

 

                                                            Adopted April 11,1900.

 

No. 469. We your committee to whom was referred the petition from the Northern Michigan and Southern Michigan and Northern Indiana districts asking that three counties be taken from the Southern Michigan and Northern Indiana District and given to the Northern Michigan District; viz,

Oceana, Newaygo, and Mecosta counties, beg leave to report.

   We find that this request has been agreed upon by both districts at their conferences, and believe it would be to the advantage of the work, therefore we recommend that the request be granted.

 

No. 470. Resolved, That this conference request each of the several quorums and all other departments to prepare a record of their work for the Church Historian for each year's report.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1900. 

 

No. 471.

 

                                                 REPORT OF JOINT COMMITTEE. 

 

                                                           DUTIES OF DEACON.


   The following report of the committee composed of the Presidency, the Twelve, and the Bishopric, upon the subject of the Duties of the Deacon, submitted at the session of conference held at Independence, Missouri, last April, will be the report of that committee to the next session of conference to be held at Lamoni, Iowa, according to the terms of resolution upon which the session adjourned.

   It will be understood that this report is not published as the final action of the church upon the subject named in the resolution referring it, but is the report of the action of the committee, and published as their report to the conference when it shall convene, and is subject to approval or disapproval at such session; the object of publication being that the subject matter of it may be taken cognizance of by all who may be interested in the subject, and may desire to take part in the discussion and action of conference upon it when it shall come up in its place before the conference, to be determined upon its merits:

 

                 REPORT OF THE FIRST PRESIDENCY, TWELVE, AND BISHOPRIC, ON

                                                    "THE DUTIES OF A DEACON." 

 

   The committee composed of the Presidency, the Twelve, and the Bishopric, to which the following resolution presented to the late session of conference held at Independence, Missouri, April 6 to 18,1898, was referred for consideration and report, do so report, as follows:

   The resolution presented to conference was:

   "Be it resolved by this body, in conference assembled, That we concur in and hereby adopt the definition of the duties of a deacon, as defined by President Joseph Smith in Herald of  June 15, 1871, and No. 25, vol. 31, of Saints' Herald.                   “C. H. Church.   C. E. Blair.”

   The resolution of the conference by which that matter was referred is:

   “Resolved, That a committee, consisting of the First Presidency, the Twelve, and the Bishopric, be appointed, to whom this matter be referred, with the request that they report as soon as practicable to the General Conference what in their judgment are the duties belonging to the office of deacon in the church." 

   This committee met in the church at Independence, Missouri, April 19, 1898, at 9 a. m., and proceeded to the duties assigned them. 

   After a consultation of several hours the committee by a majority vote adopted the following as their judgment upon the matter submitted to them: 

   "Resolved, That we approve of the duties set forth in the article referred to as a rule of action to aid the deacon in his labor, in addition to his duties as made plain in the law (Doctrine and Covenants 17:11) as a standing minister to the church, under the direction of the proper officers placed over him in the law." 

   The committee directed the Chairman and Secretary of the council to compile from the said article in the Herald, referred to in the resolution before the conference, the duties named therein and incorporate them in the report to be made of the action of the committee thereon. Those duties thus compiled from said article as stated in paragraphs 32 and 36, with the preliminary explanation at the beginning of paragraph 32, are as follows: 


   "We have elsewhere written that every branch must have a place of meeting. This place of meeting, if a public building, hall, or meeting house, or church, must be in the actual possession of the association of church members worshiping there, at least during its occupancy while worshiping; and if  the property is owned by the church, some one must have constructive possession at all times. What particular officer of the church has precedence of' right in this constructive possession? The right to carry the keys; open the doors; conduct visitors, either those belonging or not belonging to the church; to see that the floors, doors, windows, pulpit or stand, seats, table or stand, lamps and other fixtures are clean and in good order; to open the doors at the hour of gathering for preaching, fellowship, prayer, or business meetings; to see that the lamps or candles are trimmed, lighted, and burning, in time for evening meetings; to see that the members coming in find seats; to keep watch over the Saints during meetings, repressing loud talking, whispering and laughing, reproving the thoughtless, and rebuking the giddy; putting a prompt stop to rude, indecent, and boisterous acts, by which the propriety, solemnity, and peace of the meetings may be disturbed; to exercise kind and diligent supervision over the health and comfort of the Saints while in meeting, by securing a proper ventilation of the room; to light and keep burning the fires by which the room is kept warm; to have charge of the treasury; to receive, disburse, and account for the contributions of the Saints, intended for necessary and incidental expenses of the association of members;  to keep, preserve from damage, and account for all personal effects of the association; to visit the poor, ascertain their needs, and report the same to the church; and in fact, to perform any and all of those necessary duties by which the welfare of the Saints is secured through a careful administration of the outward ordinances, a faithful employment of the talents entrusted to that man. It follows then of a necessity that the right, the duty of the performing these acts, ── these unwritten. but essential things of the law, devolve upon the office of deacon."

 

                                  JOSEPH SMITH, Chairman.   J. W. WIGHT, Secretary.

 

                                                           Adopted April 13, 1900.

 

No 472. The request of the President, in his report, that he be authorized to employ an office assistant or secretary, and for office facilities, fixtures, etc., was granted.

 

No. 473. The request of the Patriarch, that he be furnished a stenographer, was granted. This was followed by a motion "that it be declared the sense of this body that such stenographer be placed on a ministerial basis."

 

                                                           Adopted April 14, 1900.

 


No. 474. Whereas, The report of the committee appointed to audit the Bishop's books shows that the books are not fully posted to date, and are therefore not in a satisfactory condition, and the publication of said report would no doubt be prejudicial to the Bishop and the financial interests of the church; and, whereas, The statements of the Bishop freely express the fact that because of the numerous demands made upon him he has not had time to place his books in a proper condition for a full report to this conference; and  whereas, The report of the committee of experts recommends  a more complete system of bookkeeping than has hitherto been in use in the Bishop's office; therefore, be it resolved, That the Bishop be and is hereby instructed to secure bookkeepers who shall assist him to make a complete examination of all his books, papers, and accounts of former years, and make a complete report from the time he became Presiding Bishop; that said report be presented to an auditing committee who shall be appointed by this conference, and that we suggest to the Bishop the advisability of adopting as far as practicable the method suggested by the expert committee; and be it further resolved, That the auditing committee herein referred to, is hereby instructed to report at as early a date as possible to a general committee which shall consist of the  President of the Church, three apostles to be appointed by the Quorum of the Twelve, and three high priests to be appointed by the Quorum of the High Priests, which committee under the chairmanship of the President shall have full power to act and make such published report as soon as possible.

 

                                                           Adopted April 16, 1900.

 

No. 475. Recommendations of committee appointed to audit report of Treasurer of Graceland College:

   We recommend that a complete system of bookkeeping by doubly entry be devised, suitable to fully show all transactions, the acquirement and disposition of all classes of property, the receipt and disbursements of moneys, the classification of accounts, in fact a complete history of the business, with such helps and forms as will most greatly facilitate the work of keeping such accounts, and their audit from time to time.

   We again urgently advise the opening up of perfect books of account of all transactions, and suggest the propriety of such books being formed, written up, and posted, so as to show all transactions, from the beginning of the organization.

 

No. 476. That part of the Church Recorder's report referring to an assistant in his department, was referred to the committee appointed by the conference of 1897 on the same matter.

 

No. 477. The committee to whom was referred the petition of the Maysville and Fairland branches .report as follows: After due consideration we recommend that the thirty‑sixth parallel of north latitude be the south boundary line of the Spring River District, both in Indian Territory and Arkansas, and that this be the north line of the Southwestern Mission.

 

No. 478. Proposed amendments to the Articles of Incorporation of Graceland College were referred  to a committee, which reported they had compared the amendments and Articles and indicated by pencil the corrections necessary to correct reading of the Articles as amended.

   On motion the reading of the Articles as they would stand if amended was waived.

   The report of the committee, and the amendments were adopted, also the Articles as amended. See Articles, No. 493.

                                                           Adopted April 18, 1900.

 

No. 479. Presented by the First Seventy:

 


The following action was passed upon and concurred in by the Second Seventy, which is herewith presented for your consideration and adoption upon missionaries reporting to General Conference:    Whereas, The old time long and tedious method was superseded by the printed pamphlet reports; and, whereas, The pamphlet system, because of its expense, and probable lack of being read by the masses, was also dispensed with; and, whereas, the present method of reporting it to missionaries in charge, and their summarizing of reports is irregular, because of its variations in the method of different missionaries, and in effect resulting in but little more than statistics, and that imperfectly; and, whereas, By letters to Herald and Ensign, and also by mutual correspondence to the field forces among themselves, and missionaries in charge with the Presidency, the conditions in the field are  sufficiently known so as to afford information for the appointment of missionaries; therefore we recommend that the reports of all missionaries be published in the Herald, previous to the convening of conference in the subjoined form: [See page 266 General Conference Minutes for blank form.] editor’s note: the reference in General Conference Minutes was not included in the published G.C.R.

 

No. 480. That the new Board of Publication be instructed and authorized to secure transfer of the Ensign office property and plant to the church as soon as practicable.

 

No. 481. Resolved, That the Board of Publication provide blanks to be sent to the missionaries as early as January 1 of each year, upon which they are to report to the Church Secretary not later than March 1, to compile for publication in the Herald, said blanks to be in accordance with the tabulated form of reporting as previously adopted.

 

No. 482. That we reaffirm the action of the conference of two years ago providing that the Bishopric take measures to liquidate the college debt.

 

No. 483. Elder F. E. Cochran was appointed Church Librarian, vice Elder F. M. Smith resigned.

 

No. 484. The following was referred to the Bishopric:

   Resolved, That a committee, consisting of the Bishopric, be appointed by the body to formulate a plan by which one a thousand subscribers of twenty‑five dollars each shall be secured towards paying off the indebtedness of Graceland College, with the understanding that no money shall be called for until the one thousand names are secured and the entire amount is thus pledged.

 

No. 485. The Bishopric reported as follows on the matter of making provision to liquidate the college indebtedness:

   For the purpose of paying off the debt against Graceland College, subscriptions to the number of one thousand shall be taken of $25 each, to be paid when the full number has been obtained. Persons who pay more than this amount shall be counted per amount subscribed on the $25 basis. Parties who cannot pay full amount of one shall be counted as a part in proportion to amount, until the full one thousand subscriptions are had.

E. L. KELLEY.

G. H. HILLIARD.

E. A. BLAKESLEE.

 

 


No. 486. That in making reports to the General Conferences, all quorums be instructed to include names of members received into or dropped from said quorums.

 

No. 487. We the officers of the Fourth Quorum of Elders ask that the names that were ordered to be enrolled and organized as the Seventh Quorum of Elders, which organization has never been effected, be turned over to the Fourth Quorum for enrollment.

 

J. W. GILBERT, Secretary.

A. BARR, President.

 

                                                           Adopted April 20, 1900.

 

No. 488. The committee on compilation of General Conference resolutions were authorized to publish as soon as possible.

 

No. 489. A motion prevailed that the Church. Secretary be authorized to cancel the enrollments of quorums reported to the General Conference of 1898, the organization of which was not then completed; viz, Sixth Quorum of Priests, Fourth Quorum of Teachers, Fifth Quorum of Teachers, and Fourth Quorum of Deacons; and those so enrolled to be permitted to join other quorums.

 

                                                           Adopted April 21, 1900.

 

No. 490. The First Presidency presented the following concerning the appointment of bishops, stating that the action has been concurred in by the Quorum of Twelve and the Quorum of High Priests:

   To the Brethren in Conference Assembled: Having been led thereto by the leadings of the Spirit, as we understand them, we feel assured that the time for the beginning of the appointment of bishops, as seems suggested by the revelation of 1873, has come; we present for consideration the following  names to be set apart for ordination as bishops: C. A. Parkin, San Francisco, California; C. J. Hunt, Deloit, Iowa; Ellis Short, Independence, Missouri; R. May, Independence, Missouri; William Anderson, Lamoni, Iowa; John Zimmermann, Philadelphia; R. Bullard, Boston, Massachusetts; William Leeka, Thurman, Iowa; George P. Lambert, Rock Creek, Illinois; Thomas Taylor, Birmingham, England.

   If approved, we request that such ordinations be provided for and attended to upon their acceptance of the appointment as named. 

Respectfully,

JOSEPH SMITH, for Presidency.

If approved, those not present can be referred to the Presidency for ordination as soon as found practicable.

LAMONI, IOWA, April 21, 1900.

 

No. 491. Resolved, That the First Presidency ordain these bishops at their earliest convenience.

 

 


No. 492. Resolved, That those selected as bishops, and ordained and those to be ordained, be authorized to select their counselors, to be ordained by direction of the Presidency of  the church.

 

No. 493.

                     AMENDED INCORPORATION AND ASSOCIATION ARTICLES OF

                       GRACELAND COLLEGE, LAMONI, DECATUR COUNTY, IOWA.

 

Statement: For the purpose of establishing an institution  of learning of an academical and collegiate character and providing a means of higher education and literary attainment, in the town of  Lamoni; Decatur County, Iowa, for the benefit of all persons who are able to enter the same as provided in the course of study, without distinction of sex, caste, or religion, the undersigned incorporators do hereby associate themselves together and make and adopt articles as follows.

   Article 1. The association assumes to itself all the powers and privileges conferred by chapter two (2), title nine (9), Code of Iowa, and such parts of chapter one (1), title nine (9), as are applicable to associations of an academical or collegiate character; and shall exist as provided therein for the  period of fifty years from the date of filing of these Articles of Association in the office of the Recorder of Deeds of Decatur County, Iowa; and said corporation may be renewed at the expiration of fifty years.

   Article 2. The association shall be named and known as Graceland College.

   Article 3. It shall be the purpose of the association to establish and maintain in the town of Lamoni, Decatur County, Iowa, a school of an academical and collegiate character; which may include collegiate, scientific, normal, law,  and such other departments with such course of instruction and elective studies as the Board of Trustees may determine, and transact all business, including the conferring of degrees,  which the Board may do, such as are usual to institutions of this kind; the principal place of business of which shall be at Lamoni, in county and State before named.

   Article 4. The officers of this association shall consist; first: Of a committee of seven, to be known as the Board of  Trustees, whose duty it is to look after the property of the institution, disposing of the same, as provided herein, and erect and maintain all buildings which are necessary to said institution for properly carrying on its work as may be determined by them. 

   The Board of Trustees shall be elected by the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at its General Conferences as the offices become vacant according to the order of classification herein set out and provided for. The officers of the Board of Trustees shall consist of a chairman, secretary, and treasurer, who shall hold their officers at the a pleasure of the Board; but the secretary and treasurer may or may not be members of the Board of Trustees. A majority of the Board of Trustees present at any meeting shall be a quorum for transaction of business.

   The committee duly appointed and authorized by the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, of which said College is under the patronage, to be known as Trustees, and to act, under these articles, for the year beginning April, 1895, are as follows:

   Class 1. For one year ── E. L. Kelley, Dan Anderson, Lamoni, Iowa; Robert Winning, Saint Joseph, Missouri.

   Class 2. For two years ── Joseph Smith and William Anderson, Lamoni, Iowa.

   Class 3. For three years ── E. A. Blakeslee, Galien, Michigan, and Ellis Short, Standley, Indian Territory.


   The officers duly selected and authorized to act by said committee are: Joseph Smith, Chairman; William Anderson, Treasurer; D. F. Nicholson, Secretary.

   Article 5. The Board of Trustees shall have power to perform the duties usual to such officers of similar institutions; except as they may be changed herein, and shall provide suitable buildings, rooms, library, apparatus, incidentals, etc.,  for use according to the demands and interests of the College work, and as may be determined by them in connection with the Board of Trustees of said College hereinafter named, from any funds provided by said incorporation for such purpose; but they shall not take or use any donation or fund made, given, or decreed to the use of certain special purposes ── such as the establishing or founding of any chair or professorship in said institution ── and appropriate for building or incidental purposes which may be inconsistent with or contrary to the terms of the gift or donation.

   Article 6. The members of said Board of Trustees shall be divided into three classes: three of whom shall hold their offices for the period of one year from the time of the first election; two for two years, and two for three years, and each member selected thereafter shall hold his office for three years unless removed for cause or such election is to supply or fill vacancy.  The members shall determine at the time of the organization of said Board the length of term to which each shall be at first entitled to act. Said Trustees shall have authority to provide for and call special meetings for the  furtherance of their work as they shall deem best, and to the interests of said institution.

   Article 7. The Board of Trustees shall employ and provide for such number of professors and teachers and such curriculum or course of study as shall fully meet the wants of those desiring the advantages of a good academical and collegiate education, and for the giving of diplomas and conferring of degrees as provided by the articles herein, in the manner usual to such institutions, and provide such rules and regulations as shall be necessary for the control and proper government of said College; and in case of a vacancy occurring in the office of the President of the College, the President of the Board of Trustees shall act as President pro tempore, until the vacancy is filled.

Editor’s note: Article 8 was not numbered and included in the published work. See No. 496 for amended articles of incorporation in their entirety.

   Article 9. ── The Board of Trustees shall annually during commencement week or immediately thereafter meet at the principal place of business noted herein, and shall perform the duties and work herein set forth of such officers; viz:

   Of the selection of professors and teachers for the ensuing year; providing for janitor; arrange or adopt course of study for said institution; and perform any and all other duties required for the good of the same not enjoined upon Board of Trustees herein.

   Article 10. ── In case of a failure at any time to elect or procure suitable officers or instructors, it shall be the duty of the Board of Trustees to meet on the first Monday thereafter at ten o'clock a. m., and proceed with such business, and so on each week until all necessary and proper officers and instructors are chosen. Special meetings of said Board may be had at any time by a call by the President and Secretary of the same, or by a majority of the said Trustees, which call shall be in writing and by notice given or mailed to each member; but a majority of said Board present at any meeting shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.


   Article 11. The Treasurer shall collect and receive all moneys belonging to the association or due from scholarships, tuition, or incidentals; report all collections at the time to the Secretary, and keep an accurate account of the same; pay out money only to the written order of the President and Secretary of the Board; and shall be the custodian of all the funds and personal property of the association, and shall report to the association annually, and at such other times as may be directed by the Board of Trustees.

   Article 12. The Secretary shall keep a true and accurate account of all proceedings of the Board, and perform such other duties as usually devolve upon secretaries of similar boards; and shall keep a true account of all collections, sales of real estate, donations, contributions, and stock, and turn over the same to the Treasurer and take his receipt therefor at the time of delivery. 

   Article 13. The Treasurer and Secretary of this association shall each, before entering upon the discharge of the duties of their respective offices, execute and deliver to the association a bond in a sum not less than two thousand dollars, to be fixed by the Board of Trustees, conditioned for the faithful discharge of his duties, with sureties to be approved by the Board, and for their services they shall receive such sum only as the Board shall fix at a regular meeting of the same .

   Article 14. It shall be the duty of the President of the College to take charge of and preside at all meetings and gatherings of the membership and faculty, and take an active supervision of all departments; and he may instruct in such branches of learning as he may deem properly in the interest of the school, and perform all other duties usually performed by presidents of colleges. He shall receive for his services, as also each member of the faculty, such salary as the Board of Trustees shall fix.

   Article 15.  All real property of this association shall be held by the said Reorganized Church; and donations, gifts, and bequests of real property may be made to this institution by conveying directly to said church. All deeds and other instruments of writing affecting title to real estate must be executed by the Bishop of the Reorganized Church aforenamed, who is the Trustee in trust of all real property of this association, and must be countersigned by the Secretary of the Board of Trustees, and previously authorized by said Board.

   Article 16. These Articles of Incorporation are also made by authority and instruction of a resolution passed by the General Conference of The Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, on the 9th of April, 1895, as follows:

   "Resolved, That this conference authorize and instruct the College committee to incorporate, as provided by the laws of Iowa for institutions of learning."

   I hereby certify that the above was adopted by the General Conference on April 9, 1895, while in session at Independence, Missouri.

Signed,                                                                                     H. A. STEBBINS, 

General Secretary of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

 

LAMONI. IOWA, May 2, 1895.

 

   These articles may be amended at any General Conference of said Reorganized Church, or at any meeting of the Board of Trustees herein named, providing sixty days’ published notice of said amendment and the nature of the same be given through the Saints' Herald prior to the time of such Annual Conference or meeting. It shall be the privilege of Board of Trustees to make such by-laws from time to for the carrying on of its work and duties and the facilitating of business as are not inconsistent with these articles.

 


   Article 17. The College shall never be sectarian in its work or instruction, but its advantages and privileges shall be open alike to all; and to guarantee this, it is herein provided, that the majority of the Board of Trustees shall be members of The Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints; and the President of said Society and College, if not of this domination shall be a scholar of broad and tolerant views, with readiness to canvass and compare religious or political news in a fair and Christian like manner with students and faculty. The professors and teachers shall be selected upon their merits and ability to impart instruction, irrespective of religion or politics.

   Article 18. The association shall provide a seal and may sue and be sued in its corporate name, and perform any and all work through its officers necessary to its corporate existence.

 

Witness our hands this first day of May, A. D., 1895.

 

JOSEPH SMITH.

E. L. KELLEY.

D. F. NICHOLSON, Secretary.

J. WILLIAM ANDERSON.

DAN ANDERSON.

E. A. BLAKESLEE.

ROB'T. WINNING.

ELLlS SHORT.

STATE OF IOWA,

                                  

{SS

Decatur County, 

 

   Before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public in and for said County, this day personally appeared, Joseph Smith, E. L. Kelley, William Anderson, Dan Anderson, E. A. Blakeslee, and D. F. Nicholson, who are personally known to me to be the identical persons whose names are affixed to the foregoing Articles of Association, and acknowledged the execution of the same to be their voluntary act and deed and for the purposes and in the manner therein set forth.

Witness my hand and seal this 4th day of May, 1895.

ASA S. COCHRAN,

Notary Public in and for the County of  Decatur, State of Iowa

 

County of Buchanan,

 

                                           

                                   }SS

 

STATE OF MISSOURI,

 


   Before me the undersigned notary public in and for said county and state, personally appeared this day Robt. Winning who is personally known to me to be the identical person whose name is affixed to the foregoing Articles of Association and acknowledged the execution of the same to be their voluntary act and deed and for the purpose and in the manner therein set forth. 

Witness my hand and notarial seal this 24th day of May, 1895.    

CHAS. M. STREET, Notary Public.

 

INDIAN TERRITORY,

 

                                         }SS 

Central District.,

 

   Before me the undersigned a notary public in and for said district, personally appeared before me this day Ellis Short, who is personally well known to me to be the identical person whose name is affixed to the foregoing Articles of Association, and he acknowledged that he had executed the same for the purposes therein set forth as his free voluntary act and deed. 

   Witness my hand and seal this 1st day of June, 1895.

EDWARD C. PICKERING,

Notary Public in and for said District.

 

 

 

STATE OF IOWA,

 

                                  }SS                                  

 Decatur County,

 

   Filed for record on the 6th day of June, 1895, at 3:30 o'clock p. m., and recorded in Book 86, pages 240 to 246.

J. J. EVANS, Recorder.

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1901.

 

No. 494. The published compilation of General Conference resolutions from 1852 to 1900 reported by the committee appointed to complete the compilation thereof was adopted.

 

No 495. The Committee on Encyclopedias and History was discharged, the work formerly done by said committee being turned over to the Historical Department.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1901.

 

No. 496. AMENDED INCORPORATION AND ASSOCIATION ARTICLES OF GRACELAND COLLEGE, LAMONI, DECATUR COUNTY, IOWA.


   Statement: For the purpose of establishing an institution of learning of an academical and collegiate character and providing a means of higher education and literary attainment in the town of Lamoni, Decatur County, Iowa, for the benefit of all persons who are able to enter the same as provided in the course of study, without distinction of sex, caste, or religion, the undersigned incorporators do hereby associate themselves together and make and adopt articles as follows:

  ARTICLE 1. The association assumes to itself all the powers and privileges conferred by chapter two (2), title nine (9), Code of Iowa, and such parts of chapter one (1), title nine (9), as are applicable to associations of an academical or collegiate character; and shall exist as provided therein for the period of fifty years from the date of filing of these Articles of Association in the office of the recorder of deeds of Decatur County, Iowa; and said corporation may be renewed at the expiration of fifty years.

   ARTICLE 2. The association shall be named and known as Graceland College.

   ARTICLE 3. It shall be the purpose of the association to establish and maintain in the town of Lamoni, Decatur County, Iowa, a school of an academical and collegiate character, which may include collegiate, scientific, normal, law, and such other departments with such course of instruction and elective studies as the Board of Trustees may determine, and transact all business, including the conferring of degrees, which the board may do, such as are usual to institutions of this kind; the principal place of business of which shall be at Lamoni, in county and state before named.

   ARTICLE 4. The officers of this association shall consist of a committee of seven; to be known as the Board of Trustees, Whose duty it is to look after the property of the institution, disposing of the same, as provided herein, and to erect and maintain all buildings which are necessary to said institution for properly carrying on its work as may be determined by them, and to pass upon all claims against this association; and order the same paid through the proper officers.

   ARTICLE 5. The management of the educational work and operation of said college shall be in their charge, and they shall have power to perform the duties usual to such officers of similar institutions, except as they may be changed herein, and shall provide suitable buildings, rooms, library, apparatus, incidentals, etc., for use according to the demands and interests of the college work, from any funds provided, but they shall not take or use any donation or fund made, given, or decreed to the use of certain special purposes ── such as the establishing or founding of any chair or professorship in said institution ── and appropriate for building or incidental purposes which may be inconsistent with or contrary to the terms of the gift or donation.

   ARTICLE 6. The Board of Trustees shall be elected by the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at its General Conferences as the offices become vacant according to the order of classification herein set out and provided for. The officers of the Board of Trustees shall consist of a chairman, secretary; and treasurer, who shall hold their offices at the pleasure of the board; but the secretary and treasurer may or may not be members of the Board of Trustees.

   A majority of the Board of Trustees shall be a quorum for transaction of business, at any meeting

   The committee duly appointed and authorized by the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, of which said college is under the patronage, to be known as trustees, and to act, under these articles, for the year beginning April, 1895, are as follows.


      ARTICLE 7. The Board of Trustees shall employ and provide for such number of professors and teachers and such, curriculum or course of study as shall fully meet the wants of those desiring the advantages of a good academical and collegiate education, and for the giving of diplomas and conferring of degrees as provided by the articles herein, in the manner usual to such institutions, and provide such rules and regulations as shall be necessary for the control and proper government of said college; and in case of a vacancy occurring in the office of the president of the college, the chairman of the Board of Trustees shall act as president pro tempore, until the vacancy is filled.

   ARTICLE 8. The Board of Trustees shall annually, as soon after the election of new members as practicable, consistent with the best interests of the college work, meet at the principal place of business noted herein, and shall perform the duties and work devolving upon such officers as herein set forth; namely, The selection of professors and teachers for the ensuing year; providing for janitor; arranging or adopting a course of study for said institution; and performing any and all other duties required for the good of the same, not enjoined upon Board of Trustees herein.

   ARTICLE 9. Special meetings of said Board may be had at any time by a call of the chairman and secretary of the same, or by a majority of the said trustees, which call shall be in writing, and by notice given or mailed to each member, but a majority of said board shall constitute a quorum for the

transaction of business at any meeting.

   ARTICLE 10. The treasurer shall collect and receive all moneys belonging to the association or due from scholarships, tuition or incidentals, report all collections to the secretary regularly as directed by the Board of Trustees, keep accurate account of the same, pay out money only on the written order of the chairman and secretary of the Board of Trustees; and shall be the custodian of all the funds and personal property of the association, and shall report to the association annually, and at such other times as he may be directed by the Board of Trustees.

   ARTICLE 11. The secretary shall keep a true and accurate account of all proceedings of the board, and perform such other duties as usually devolve upon secretaries of similar boards; and shall keep a true account of all collections, sales of real estate, donations, contributions, and stock as are reported to him by the treasurer, and of all disbursements and payments of money for expenses or for any other purpose.

   ARTICLE 12. The treasurer of this association shall before entering upon the discharge of the duties of his office, execute and deliver to the association a bond in a sum not less than two thousand dollars, to be fixed by the Board of Trustees, conditioned for the faithful discharge of his duties, with

sureties to be approved by the board, and for his services he shall receive such sum only as the board shall fix at a regular meeting of the same. 

   ARTICLE 13. It shall be the duty of the president of the college to take charge of and preside at all meetings and gatherings of the membership and faculty, and take an active supervision of all departments; and he may instruct in such branches of learning as he may deem proper in the interest of  the school, and perform all other duties usually performed by presidents of colleges. He shall receive for his services, as  also each member of the faculty, such salary as the Board of Trustees shall fix.

   ARTICLE 14. All real property of this association shall be held by said Reorganized Church; and donations, gifts, and bequests of real property may be made to this institution by conveying directly to said church. All deeds or other instruments of writing affecting title to real estate must be executed by the Bishop of the Reorganized Church aforenamed, who is the trustee in trust of all real property of this association, and must be countersigned by the secretary of the Board of Trustees, and previously authorized by said board.

   ARTICLE 15. These articles of incorporation are also made the authority and instruction of a resolution passed by the General Conference of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, on the 9th of April, 1895, as follows:


   "Resolved, That this conference authorize and instruct the college committee to incorporate, as provided by the laws of Iowa for institutions of learning."

   These articles may be amended at any General Conference of said Reorganized Church, or at any meeting of the Board of Trustees herein named providing sixty days published notice of said amendment and the nature of the same be given through the Saints' Herald prior to the time of such Annual Conference or meeting. It shall be the privilege of the Board of Trustees to make such by‑laws from time to time for the carrying on of its work and duties and the facilitating of business as are not inconsistent with these articles.

   ARTICLE 16. The college shall never be sectarian in its work or instruction, but its advantages and privileges shall be open alike to all; and to guarantee this, it is herein provided, that the majority of the Board of Trustees shall be members of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints; and the president of said society and college, if not of this denomination, shall be a scholar of broad and of tolerant views, with readiness to canvass and compare religious or political views in a fair and Christian like manner, with students and faculty. The professors and teachers shall  be selected upon their merits and ability to impart instruction, irrespective of religion or politics.

   ARTICLE 17. The association shall provide a seal and may sue and be sued in its corporate name, and perform any and all work through its officers necessary to its corporate existence.

 

No. 497. Provision was made for the publication of the report of the Committee on American Archaeology as a supplement to the former report of that committee.

 

No. 498. Whereas, the Church Historian recommended the appointment of district historians in districts, to assist him;  therefore be it resolved, That he be empowered to appoint such persons and in such places as he may deem proper, according to his discretion.

 

                                                           Adopted April 13, 1901.

 

No. 499. The fortieth parallel of latitude was established as the boundary line between the Southern Michigan and Northern Indiana, and the Southern Indiana District.

 

                                                           Adopted April 15, 1901.

 

No. 500. Concerning the Statement and Revelation, presented in open conference, the following was adopted: Resolved, That as soon as practicable the matter be prepared and placed before the quorums of the church, after which it shall be presented to the conference.

 

                                                           Adopted April 16, 1901.

 

No. 501. Concerning a pronouncing Book of Mormon vocabulary, presented by the Religio Society, the following was adopted: We recommend that the Board of Publication be authorized to fully authenticate the pronunciation by securing such assistance of linguists and philologists as the Board may deem necessary for such authentication, and then publish as soon as practicable.

 


                                                           Adopted April 17, 1901;

 

No. 502. Resolved, That the communication from the Lord, as presented to the assembly, Monday, April 15, by President Joseph Smith, be accepted as a revelation and instruction, and is hereby adopted as a law to govern the church; and the Board of Publication is hereby instructed to publish the same in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants.

 

                                                           Adopted April 18, 1901.

 

No. 503. Resolved, That it' is the sense of this council [Presidency and Twelve] that an elders' quorum should be organized in the British Isles.

 

No. 504. Resolved, That it is the sense of this council that all the elders in the British Isles, who may so choose, are eligible for enrollment in a quorum there, and that notice of such enrollment made to quorum authorities in America will authorize their names being dropped from such record.

 

No. 505. Resolved, That it is the sense of this council that the missionary in charge and the Bishop; if deemed wise, and desired on the part of the European conference, be authorized to organize the

lesser priesthood of that country into quorums.

 

                                                           Adopted April 19, 1901.

 

No. 506. Resolved, That it is the sense of this council [Presidency and Twelve] that Sandhedens Banner he republished.

 

No. 507. That the matter of organization of stakes be referred to the First Presidency and the Twelve, and they be authorized to proceed with such organization.

 

No. 508. A request of the Northern and Southern Nebraska districts, that the former boundary line between them ── the Platte River  ── “be now changed to the south line of Sarpy, Saunders, Butler, and Polk counties," was granted.

 

No. 509. Resolved, That when a member applies for a letter of removal in order to unite with nearest branch, said letter shall be granted, or if objection be made, that steps be taken as soon as practicable to deal with the member as the law directs.

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1902.

 

No. 510. The requests of the Northeastern and Northwestern Kansas districts, "that the eastern dividing line between the Northwestern Kansas District and Northeastern Kansas District be changed, and that the east line of Republic, Cloud, Ottawa, Saline, and McPherson counties, be the east line of the Northwestern Kansas District, and the territory thus cut off from the Northwestern Kansas District go to the Northeastern Kansas District," were granted.


No. 511. A petition of the Central Nebraska District, that Gregory County, South Dakota, be attached to said district, was granted.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1902.

 

No. 512. Whereas, the present boundary line in Wyoming, between the Rocky Mountain and the Colorado Missions, as fixed by General Conference Resolution No. 319, places all of Wyoming west of a line north from the city of Cheyenne in the Rocky Mountain Mission, leaving a strip of country to the Colorado Mission only forty miles wide and nearly four hundred miles long; therefore we believe it will be more convenient if the present boundary line is changed so as to more equally divide the State between the two missions, and we would recommend that the line be changed to a line running north and south, following the west nine of the counties of Sheridan, Johnson, Natrona, and Carbon.

 

No. 513. The action of the Chatham District, Ontario, concerning incorporation of the Church in the Dominion of Canada, was referred to a committee consisting of E. L Kelley, William Anderson, and R. C. Evans.

 

                                                          Adopted April 9, 10, 1902

 

No. 514. Amendments to sections 161 and 99 of the Book of Rules ── concerning appeals, and the taking of the previous question ── were adopted. They are included in the revised  edition of 1904.

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1902.

 

No. 515. Whereas, there has been a great deal of agitation and misunderstanding for some years past concerning the Bishop's books and the financial condition of the church;

   And whereas, The General Conference through a properly appointed committee secured the services of an expert accountant who examined the books and accounts of the Bishop from his call to the Bishop's office in 1891 until 1900, and from the report of said expert it is found that there would be a small balance due the Bishop;

   And whereas, There was appointed by the General Conference of 1901 a competent committee to audit the Bishop's reports from January 10, 1900, to January 10, 1902;

   And whereas, The said committee finds the Bishop's reports correct, the books of his office "simplified, comprehensive, posted to date, and properly representing the business of the church";

   Therefore, be it resolved, That we hereby adopt the report of said auditing committee as final in this matter, and that the honor and integrity of the Bishop is hereby fully vindicated.”

 

                                                           Adopted April. 14, 1902.

 

No. 516. The appointment by the Historian of Elder D. F. Lambert as Assistant Historian was ratified.

 

 


No. 517. Resolved, That we request the General Conference to publish report of Committee on Archaeology for 1901 as published in Ensign, and that it be uniform sized page with published report.

   Be it further resolved, That the second report issued in the body of Conference Minutes be republished so the entire report be preserved in uniform size of page, and that all future reports be made to conform to this size of page.

 

No. 518. Resolved, In view of the increasing demand for the time belonging to the work of General Conference, that hereafter entertainments, receptions, and socials shall not be permissible during the time set apart for the work of General Conference.

 

                                                           Adopted April 15, 1901.

 

No. 519. Whereas, The establishment of a regular order promotes unity and confidence, also facilitates business and saves time, therefore, be it

   Resolved, That hereafter the accounts of the Presiding Bishop, Board of Publication, and Graceland College, be audited as follows:

   A board of three auditors shall be elected by the General Conferences of the church. One of these shall be chosen each year and shall continue in office for a term of three years. Should a vacancy occur in the board between the sessions o f  General Conference the President of the church, and one of the Twelve selected by the Quorum of Twelve, and one high priest selected by the Quorum of High. Priests, shall appoint an auditor to fill such vacancy.

   They may examine the values which the aforesaid offices place upon the properties under their control, and suggest to them, or to the conferences, such changes as seem necessary.

   For the carrying into effect these resolutions this conference shall elect one auditor for a term of one year, one for a term of two years, and one for a term of three years.

 

No. 520. Whereas, It is currently reported that polygamy is still practiced in Utah and adjacent States and Territories, in defiance of the laws of God and laws of the land; and,

  Whereas, The laws enacted by State legislation seem to inadequate to prevent or prohibit the practice of polygamy without the intervention of Federal enactment; therefore, be it

  Resolved, That we, the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, in General Conference assembled, favor the enactment of an amendment to the Constitution of the United States prohibiting the practice of polygamy in all States and Territories under the jurisdiction of the Republic.

 

No. 521. In answer to question from Runnells, Iowa Branch; Where there is no elder in a branch, and several priests, can one priest be sustained or chosen as president the branch, an other as priest of the branch, or would the two be of equal authority?

   That such action of the branch, the priest so chosen would be the priest of the branch and preside, and the second priest so chosen would be his assistant priest.

 

 

 


                                                           Adopted April 19, 1902.

 

No. 522. Resolved, That the document as read [the vision presented by President Joseph Smith, April 18, 1902,] be accepted as indorsed by the quorums and be made a rule of action in connection with the laws and usages already accepted by the body.

 

No. 523. The missionary report blank was amended to provide for reporting the following items: Name; number services attended; times preached; number baptized; number confirmed; number ordained; branches and districts organized; marriages; children blessed; administrations to sick; field of labor.

 

                                                             Adopted April 6,1903.

 

No. 524. The name of the Northern Minnesota District was changed to read "Minnesota District.”

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1903.

 

No. 525. That the north line of said district [Southern Nebraska] be extended from the present northwest corner the district westward to the northeast corner of Colorado, then south on the Colorado‑Nebraska line to the southwest corner of Nebraska, then eastward on the Nebraska‑Kansas line to the present southwest corner of the district, and that these changes shall be in effect upon their approval by the Southern Nebraska District.

 

No. 526. A petition, that the counties of Winnebago, Worth, Mitchell, Hancock, Cerro Gordo, and Floyd, be attached to the Des Moines District, was granted.

 

No. 527. That each branch use the utmost discretion in the appointment of its clerks, and as far as possible appoint only those who are qualified for such callings and continue as much as possible those thus experienced.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1903.

 

No. 528. That the west and south lines of Worth County, Missouri, and the east line of Gentry County, be declared the boundary between Nodaway District and the Lamoni Stake.

 

No. 529. Your committee to which was referred resolution of the Burlington, Iowa, Branch, touching conference resolution number 284, respectfully reports:

   1. That in considering the same it is compelled to note the inconsistency in the statement of the alleged finding and report of the elders' court referred to, in holding that the parties asking to dissolve their connection with the church were in "good standing" in the body. They may not have been in any open violation of any moral precept or rule of the body, but it cannot be properly held that a person who has interposed a demand that he be separated from, and wholly withdrawn from any and all connection with, the church of Christ as we hold it, "still remains in good standing." The act to separate himself, and his continued refusal to hear the officers who have labored with him to reclaim and convince of the error of such a step, would necessarily enter into the question of his good standing.

   2. Your committee are of the opinion that much of the seeming trouble arising in cases where persons request to withdraw from the church is only from taking a one‑sided view of the matter, and a failure to comprehend the action necessary under the law of Christ to effect the object of separation. There is no provision in the law of Christ whereby separation may be had by voluntary withdrawal alone. The body must act in order to make effective the separation, and when it acts, to use the language of the Savior, it "cuts off," "severs" the individual from the body, as the branch is severed from the vine; and while in the case of persons it would be permissible for them to claim and say that they withdrew, yet when the body or church acted, they would in fact be cut off. There could be no alternate to this and give the party the benefit of his request.

   Since the law of Christ does not provide for a separation except by act of the body, should a party simply make the claim to withdraw and move out and the body not act, he would go out and continue a member in fact, notwithstanding the seeming separation. If, then, the provision for separating by its terms seems harsh, it is the harshness imposed by the law, and not the church; and whereas other societies may have adopted more liberal methods, it must not be forgotten that they have also adopted more liberal methods for the receiving of members than is provided in the law. We are not, however, privileged as a church to change the law in either case.

   3. In the matter of final action on the part of the body, it is advised as to the condition and state of its members through the findings of a properly constituted court. A branch in this way arrives at the place from which it may act. Your committee are of the opinion, however, that it is not necessary to formulate charges against a person who may wish to withdraw, either of apostasy or violation of the law in terms, in order to convene a court to hear such a case, but that the hearing should take place upon the act in question; viz: The persistent contention of the member to withdraw from the body, and should the court find that this claim is persisted in, and that due and diligent labor has been performed by the church officers to reclaim the member without effect, that the finding should be that the request be granted, and the member be severed from the body. This persistent claim to withdraw, in the opinion of the committee, is the only "specific charge" necessary, as referred to in Conference Resolution 284. 

Adopted April 9,1903.

 

No. 530. Resolution No. 520 concerning a constitutional amendment prohibiting polygamy, was reaffirmed. In connection therewith the following was adopted: That the Presidency of the church be authorized to compile or have compiled such portions of the actions from the conferences of the church upon this matter as may seem wise, and submit the same to the Board of Publication for publication.


   As a result of the foregoing action the Presidency and Board of Publication issued the following: 

   The Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and Proposed Constitutional Amendment Prohibiting Polygamy. 

 

   The rule governing the marriage relation in the Reorganized Church has ever been monogamic, in accordance with the standard books of the church, (Bible, Book of Mormon, and Doctrine and Covenants). The annual session of conference of, April, 1870, at Plano, Illinois, memorialized Congress affirming this rule. From this we quote: 

   “1st. That the law of the church found in the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and the Book of Covenants, books accepted by the polygamists themselves, expressly FORBIDS TO ONE MAN MORE THAN ONE LIVING WIFE. 

   “2d. That the law contained in those books is the constitution of the church; that no law can obtain in the church in contravention thereof, and that therefore the pretended revelation on polygamy is illegal and of no force." 

 

   At the annual session of conference for 1902 the following resolution was presented, discussed, and adopted: 

 

   "Whereas, It is currently reported that polygamy is still practiced in Utah and adjacent States and Territories, in defiance of the laws of God and the laws of the land; and 

   "Whereas, The laws enacted by State legislation seem to be inadequate to prevent or prohibit the practice of polygamy without the intervention of Federal enactment; therefore be it

   "Resolved, That we, the Reorganized Church of Latter Day Saints, in General Conference assembled, favor the enactment of an amendment to the Constitution of the United  States prohibiting the practice of polygamy in all the States and Territories under the jurisdiction of the Republic."

 

   This was readopted and confirmed at the annual session of 1903, held at Independence, Missouri, and is the affirmed position of the church at date.

   This repudiates the practice of living with more than one woman as wives at the same time. 

 

JOSEPH SMITH,

FRED'K M. SMITH,

R. C. EVANS,

Presidency. 

By order of the conference.

INDEPENDENCE, MISSOURI, April 11, 1903. 

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1903.

 

No. 531. Resolved, That in the matter of minutes and evidence before elders' courts, the clerks of said court shall be required to perfect from their notes a complete record, plainly written, so that in the event of appeal, the record of the case may be easily read.


No. 532. By separate motions a committee of three was appointed to revise the Book of Rules. Authority was granted to correct grammatical and rhetorical errors, and provision made "that proposed changes in the Book of Rules be published the prescribed sixty days prior to the action on the same.

 

No. 533. Concerning church offices: That we express our approval of the thought expressed by the

Bishop in this regard, and that we authorize him to proceed in the construction of such buildings as

are necessary and contemplated in his report, as fast as the finances will warrant him in proceeding. 

                                                             Adopted April 7, 1904

 

No. 534. That it be the sense of this conference that the statistical reports of the patriarchs must be included in the statistical reports of the other ministers in the tabulated report, and not come before the conference. 

 

No. 535. The action of the Presidency in accepting the resignation of F. E. Cochran, Librarian, and appointing I. A. Smith as Librarian, was approved. 

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1904. 

 

No. 536. Concerning the report of a committee appointed to consider a charge of heresy, originating in Australia, the following was adopted.

   Resolved, That this body adopt the report of the committee except that portion which may be construed as interfering with the right of anyone to publicly express his opinions on questions not passed upon by the church. 

 

No. 537. C. I. Carpenter was elected Librarian. He resigned later and at the conference of 1905 Heman Hale Smith was elected Librarian.

 

                                                           Adopted April 13, 1904. 

 

No. 538. That the conference include with the Southern Missouri District the following named counties in Missouri: Green, Stone, Christian, Taney, Webster, Laclede, Wright, Douglas, Ozark, Pulaski, Texas, Howell, Phelps, Dent, Shannon, and Oregon.

 

No. 539.To include in the Spring River District the following counties in Missouri: Barton, Jasper, Newton, McDonald, Lawrence, and Barry; and the following counties in Kansas: Crawford, Cherokee, Allen, Neosho, Labette, Woodson, Wilson, Montgomery, Greenwood, Elk, Chautauqua, Butler, and Cowley; also that portion of Oklahoma and Indian Territory lying east of the Arkansas River and north of the thirty‑sixth parallel; and in Arkansas, the counties of Benton and Carroll, and that portion of Madison and Washington counties north of the thirty‑sixth parallel. 

 

 


No. 540. That the Clinton District include in Kansas, Linn and Bourbon counties; and in Missouri, Bates, Vernon, Henry, St. Clair, Cedar, Dade, Benton, Hickory, Polk, Morgan, Camden, Dallas, Moniteau, Coal, and Miller counties. 

 

No; 541. That the following counties in Illinois be included in the Saint Louis District: Calhoun, Green, Jersey, Macoupin, Madison, Bond, St. Clair, Clinton, Washington, Monroe, Randolph, Perry, Jackson, Union, and Alexander; and in Missouri the counties of Montgomery, Lincoln, Warren, St. Charles, Osage, Maries, Gasconade, Franklin, Crawford, Washington, St. Francois, Perry, St. Genevieve, Jefferson, St. Louis, and city of Saint Louis.

 

No. 542. That that part of Pennsylvania east of the seventy‑seventh meridian be added to the Philadelphia District and that the Philadelphia District and the New York District be united and called the New York and Philadelphia District. 


No. 543. That all of the Indian Territory not included in the Spring River District be included in the

Northeastern Texas and Choctaw District, and that the western boundary in Texas be on the ninety‑eighth meridian west longitude. 

 

No. 544. That Carroll County be taken off the Northeastern Missouri District and added to the Far West District. 

 

No. 545. That in the Southeastern Illinois District be included the following counties in Illinois: Montgomery, Fayette, Marion, Jefferson, Franklin, Williamson, Johnson, Pulaski, Massac, Pope, Harding, Saline, Gallatin, Hamilton, White, Wayne, Edwards, Wabash, Clay, Richland, Lawrence,  Effingham, Jasper, Crawford, Cumberland, and Clark. 

 

No. 546. That the boundary of Kirtland District be so changed as to include all of Guernsey County; and that Maumee Branch in Paulding County, Ohio, which was formerly in the Indiana District, be added to the Kirtland District. 

 

No. 547. That the Independence Stake include Jackson, Fayette, Saline, Cooper, Pettis, Johnson, and Cass counties in Missouri; and Miami, Johnson, and Wyandotte counties in Kansas. 

 

No. 548. Concerning the Utah question, the following was adopted:  

   The committee to which has been referred resolutions adopted by the Saint Joseph Branch of the Reorganized Church, respectfully report: That in the opinion of the committee no good purpose can be served by the entry of the resolutions upon our records, or their publication, as we think the church should not engage in such proceedings as are outlined in the same. 

   While the committee regret to note that the attitude of some, as shown in their testimony before the Senate Inquiry Committee and who were formerly connected with the Latter Day Saints, is such as to throw discredit upon the original work of the church and themselves as citizens of the country  in which they live, the proceedings in effect can only relate to the Reorganized Church in much the same way as to any other Christian body. 

   We regret that in the testimony offered before the Senate Committee, to note that persons have undertaken to testify to things alleged to have occurred while in their childhood or before they were born. Testimony of this character may reflect upon those who undertake to impose it upon the public, but cannot affect the work or the underlying principles of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

   We can only hope that the Senate Committee will be successful in bringing every material fact relating to the question at issue to the light.

 

No. 549. Whereas, The maintenance of Graceland College is proving to be a serious burden in a financial way and is likely to so continue; and,

   Whereas, There seems to be but a minority of the members of the church who favor its continuance; and

   Whereas, The operation of a college of its character does not lie within the direct line of our appointed work as a church; therefore,


      Resolved, 'That we favor a discontinuance of Graceland College after the close of its present term, and recommend that the property be turned over to other uses such as may be agreed upon by the Bishopric of the church, and such other councils or persons as may be chosen by the General Conference until such time as the General Conference decides to reopen the college. (By subsequent action the Board of Trustees was appointed as said committee.) 

 

                                                           Adopted April 14, 1904.

 

No. 550. Resolved; That the writing and publishing of literature as private enterprises by parties whose time belongs to the church by virtue of ordination or appointment, where the profits of said publication are appropriated to their private ends, is unwise and should be discouraged.

 

No. 551. We are instructed by the joint council of the First Presidency and the Quorum of Twelve to report to the body the following resolutions:

   First, That stake officers when presenting themselves to the appointing powers for appointment may be appointed as missionaries, but to appoint the stake presidency or bishopric outside the limits of the stake, thus interfering with the operation of local organizations, would be unwise.

   Second, That for stake organizations to choose general church officers or men under General Conference appointment and ordain them stake officers without consent of the general body, is improper.

   Third, All missionaries under General Conference appointment, whether in stakes or out, are under the general direction of the minister in charge, but the stake presidency has the right to direct local laborers within the stake not under General Conference appointment.

 

                                                           Adopted April 16, 1904.

 

No. 552. Resolved, That in the sense of this quorum [First Seventy] that children under eight years of age are not eligible for baptism in the church.

 

No. 553. That the present missionary report blank be amended by adding, after "number ordained" a space for "patriarchal blessings"; that only those acting as spokesmen shall report number confirmed, ordained, and children blessed.

 

                                                           Adopted April 16, 1904.

 

No. 554. Concerning the report of the committee on revision of the Book of Rules, the following was adopted:

   Resolved, That the secretary be instructed to enter upon his record the fact that the committee on revision of the Book of Rules had reported, the report was considered, and the different portions approved and amended, and the book ordered published, leaving out the details by which it was provided for.

 

 


                                                            Adopted April 7, 1905.

 

No. 555. That said boundary line [Pittsburgh District] remain as adopted April 10, 1897, (see Conference Resolution  No. 426,) with addition of Brooks and Hancock counties in what is known as the Panhandle of West Virginia.

 

No. 556. That the resolution prohibiting entertainments, socials, etc., adopted by the conference of 1902 [No. 518], be rescinded.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1906.

 

No. 557. Concerning request from a seventy asking action in regard to acceptance of the position of counselor to a bishop, the following was adopted:

   Resolved, That the said Bro. Walter J. Haworth may accept the office of counselor to Bishop George Lewis, if he so elect, provided that the missionary in charge concurs in the necessity for the appointment.

 

No. 558. Presented by a council of the First Presidency, Twelve, and Bishopric:

   First, That after due consideration of the question of continuing the running of the college, and the importance of the same in giving proper training and educational facilities to the youth of the church, and such others as may care to avail themselves of its benefits, together with the present status of the financial condition of the same, we are of the opinion that the college should continue; and whatever minor changes as to courses of study and methods of development, if any, be left as provided by its Articles of Incorporation with the Board of Trustees, and such changes as may be made directly by the conference.

   Second. We favor recommending to the conference that the expenses of running the college be met by voluntary contributions for the purpose, and that one day in each year be set apart, to be known as College Day, upon which offerings, in the manner of collections, shall be taken up in all  districts and branches of the church, to aid the college work, the same to be forwarded to the Bishop of the church to be devoted to such purposes.

 

                                                           Adopted April 15, 1905.

 

No. 559. Whereas, it. is a part of the work and duty of  the Saints to do all in their power to redeem the waste places and establish Zion, in keeping with the commandments as revealed in the law of Christ, and

   Whereas, It is only by the fulfillment and administration of' the “celestial law” that the land of Zion can be sanctified and her children stand justified and made fully acceptable to God, therefore, be it    Resolved, That we commend the efforts of the Bishopric to administer the law touching all of the interests and work of  the church in the stakes, and so far as the same is applicable in all the branches of the church in every land and in every department of work, and believe it proper that a full compliance with the same be urged upon every member, so far as the same may be had in equality  and justice.


   Resolved,. That we recognize in the work and findings of the Joint Council of' the Presidency, Twelve, and Bishopric contained in the report of said council entitled, "An address to the Saints," a proper presentation of this law, and outlines upon which to carry forward such work.

 

No.560. Whereas, the general missionary list has those on it who by reason of age and other disabilities are unable to travel and perform satisfactory missionary labor in the active field; and,

   Whereas, it is our conviction that the list should be kept up to the best working condition possible, and the Presidency having advised removing from the list those who are not effective missionaries, the Bishop also requesting us to release those who by reason of lack of ability, infirmities of old age, physical condition, or family surroundings, that make it impracticable for them to do the work of an active missionary in the field; therefore be it

   Resolved, That we revise our list, retiring those who are incapacitated for active missionary work, from the general missionary list. Those aged ones, who by long and faithful services are entitled to our special consideration, should be placed on the retired list, known as superannuated ministers,  they to do such labor as their strength and circumstances will permit, in harmony with local authorities under the direction of the missionary in charge; and they should receive the same consideration as the general appointees in the field, if their circumstances require it, they to report their labors and financial condition to the minister in charge annually. 

   Appointments to this list should be made by the Presidency, Twelve, and Bishopric, in joint session, and published with the balance of the appointments.

 

No. 561. Whereas, Our church periodicals, the Saints' Herald and Zion's Ensign, are recognized as the "official organ" and the "missionary paper" of the church, and as such, whatever appears upon their pages is taken as representative of the faith advocated by them; and

   Whereas, For some time past there has appeared an advertisement in both of the papers referred to, including the current issues, which says that "Quit‑to-bac" “is a God‑given remedy” for the cure of the tobacco habit; and

   Whereas, We do not believe that God has either directly or indirectly authorized anyone to say that he has given "Quit‑to-bac" as a remedy for the tobacco habit; and

   Whereas, a statement of this kind appearing in our church  papers is taken (by some readers) as an indorsement of the church that "Quit‑to‑bac" is a God‑given remedy; and

   Whereas, Our church periodicals should not permit an advertisement of anything that is not strictly reliable and known to be as represented; and 

   Whereas, We believe that God has given a remedy for the cure of the tobacco habit in his word as recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 119: 3, where he says, "Avoid the use of tobacco"; and

   Whereas, We believe that the advertisement referred to is a disgrace to the church and a blemish upon the pages of every issue of  the above‑named papers in which it has appeared; therefore be it

   Resolved, That we disapprove of this advertisement, and that the Board of Publication be instructed to cease the publication of the same.

 

 

 

 


                                                           Adopted April 17, 1905.

 

No. 562. Concerning the original transcript of Book of Mormon characters, provision was made that it be mounted on a card, leaving a margin for handling, and covered with  glass and framed, and kept

from strong light, when not in use.

 

                                                           Adopted April 18, 1905. 

 

No. 563. College Day, provided for the taking of a collection for the benefit of the running expenses of Graceland College, was fixed as the first Sunday in September of each year.

 

No. 564. The First Presidency and Twelve, to whom was referred the matter coming from the Religio Society in the nature of a request from one of the missionaries asking that some action be taken looking to the ordination of women to do Sunday school, Religion, and church work, such ordination

being for the purpose of enabling them to secure better railroad rates than they now secure, report that the foregoing named quorums have considered the matter, and at a joint session held this forenoon the following was adopted as the opinion of the joint council:

   "Whereas, The women of the church are by qualification and desire eligible to office as workers in the auxiliary societies of. the church, and may be chosen by the respective societies to which they may belong; and

   "Whereas, There are no prescribed rules of the church, or provisions by revelation, directing ordination of women, and no divine recognition of women as pertaining to priesthood of either order; and  

   "Whereas, The apparent necessity for the ordination or setting apart of women as officers in the auxiliary societies would be a matter of sentiment, and a measure of economy to secure reduced rates on railway lines of travel which is practically secured by the delegate system for many; therefore

   "Resolved, That we, members of the joint committee, Presidency and Twelve, do not. now see our way clearly to report favorably upon ordination of women, as suggested in the paper submitted to us." 

 

No. 565. That the President be authorized to name the high priests to sit upon that council [the High Council] at the present time when it shall convene, and all others between now and  next conference, subject to ratification by the body.

 

No. 566. Whereas, the Presidency has suggested that the conference provide that the High Council be convened to dispose of all matters referred to it before the sitting of the General Conferences,

   Resolved, That in the opinion of this conference the Presidency are authorized to convene said council at such times as will enable it to hear all cases before the sessions of the General Conferences begin. 

 

 

 

 


                                                             Adopted April 6,1906.

 

No. 567. That the chair be authorized to appoint a committee of three to complete the compilation of General Conference resolutions. 

 

No. 568. Whereas, There are several editions of the Book of Mormon extant, differing in divisions

of chapters and paragraphs, thereby rendering it impossible to prepare concordance and works of reference, therefore

   Resolved, That we recommend to the conference the appointment of a committee composed of F.M. Smith, Heman C Smith, R. S. Salyards, F.M. Sheehy, C. Scott, E. L. Kelley, and F. B. Blair, to investigate and prepare a uniform plan for the division of chapters and verses, and, if thought advisable, to prepare or adopt a system of references. 

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1906.

 

No. 569. The Oklahoma District and the minister in charge were authorized to divide said district if found advisable.

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1906.

 

No 570. Whereas, The present blank forms used by the ministry to report to General Conference are inadequate, not properly representing the work done, therefore be it

   Resolved, That they be discontinued and instead thereof a uniform system such as the following be adopted. ( See blank attached.)

   [The form attached provided for a report of names of ministers and a summary of work done in each mission, by the minister in general charge.]

 

No. 571. C. I. Carpenter was appointed Recorder, vice H. A. Stebbins resigned. 

 

                                                           Adopted April 10, 1906.

 

No. 572. Concerning the action of the First Seventy in dropping one of its members and his request for reinstatement, the following was adopted:

   That in case the defendant is not satisfied with this report, he be privileged to appeal to the High Council.

 

                                                           Adopted  April 11, 1906.  

 

No. 573. That "College Day" be changed from the first Sunday in September to the first Sunday in October.

 

 

 


                                                           Adopted April 13, 1906. 

 

   In connection with the division of the Northern Michigan District, the following were adopted:

 

No. 574. The Northern Michigan District to be bounded on the south by the southern boundary lines of the counties of Antrim, Otsego, Montmorency, and Alpena.

 

No. 575. The Central Michigan District to be bounded on the east by Lake Huron, Saginaw Bay, and Tuscola counties; on the south by the southern boundary line of the counties of  Saginaw, Midland, and Isabella; on the west by the western boundary lines of the counties of Saginaw, Isabella, Clare, Roscommon, and Crawford.

 

No. 576. The Western Michigan District to be bounded on the east by the eastern boundary lines of the counties of Kalkasha, Missaukee, Osceola, and Mecosta; on the south by the southern boundary lines of the counties of Mecosta, Newaygo, and Oceana, on the west by Lake Michigan.

 

No. 577. On motion of the missionary in charge, the Northwestern Texas District was declared to be disorganized.

 

                                                           Adopted April 16, 1906.

 

No. 578. The revelation of April 14, 1906, was adopted.

 

No. 579. Resolved, That it is the opinion of this council of Seven Presidents [of Seventy] that a seventy when superannuated is thereby released from his quorum.

 

                                                           Adopted April 17, 1906.

 

No. 580. In the matter committed by you to the Presidency, as coming from the Pittsburgh District in regard to the question as to who shall preside at district conferences, we report:

   1. The primary right to preside at district conferences belongs to the district president.

   2. The courtesy which should exist in all organized bodies of the church and respect for the general officers of the church seems to point to the recognition of such general officers who may be present at district conferences and would require that one or more of these might be chosen to preside, either at the request of the president duly chosen or appointed, or by action of the body given or obtained through motion and vote.

   3. It would seem that though the right to preside primarily inures to the one who may have been chosen by the suffrages of the people of the district, a regard for the general organization of the church and its officers would justify the president to request any general or missionary officers of the church who might be present to take the chair and preside, or to place the matter before the assembly for their vote. This usage seems to have obtained; but it does not warrant, as we think, the arbitrary setting aside of a chosen president by a visiting officer or missionary of the church.

 


No. 581. Resolved, That nothing in the report of the Presidency on local presidency just adopted by this body is to be construed in antagonism to the action of the General Conference of 1884 as set forth in General Conference Resolutions, section No. 279.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1907.

 

No 582. The recommendation of the Committee on Compilation, "that provision be made to include the resolutions that may be adopted by the General Conference of 1907," was adopted.

 

                                                            Adopted April 9, 1907. 

 

No. 583. In view of the fact that the Zion's Religio‑Literary Society have pledged $800 for printing the Book of Mormon in the German language, we recommend that the conference authorize the printing of it, and the Board will appoint at once a committee on translation, and will push the work to completion as rapidly as practicable. [From report of Board of Publication.] 

 

No. 584. Resolution adopted by the Quorum of Twelve and concurred in by the First Presidency: 

   "Whereas, The present method of organizing quorums of elders and of the Aaronic priesthood renders impracticable the getting of their members together frequently for the purposes of their organization because of the scattered condition of the members enrolled.

   "Resolved, That we advise the disorganization of the quorums as at present existing (where it may be necessary) and organizations be effected in missions, stakes, districts, or large branches, where enough members shall be found to justify it." 

   The Joint Council adopted resolution recommending that the execution of this matter be referred by the conference to the First Presidency, Twelve, and Presiding Bishopric.

 

No. 585. Heman H. Smith, E. A. Blakeslee, and Albert Carmichael were appointed to act with committees appointed by Zion's Religio Literary Society, and the General Sunday School Association, all to form a joint committee on the subject of libraries for branches and districts. 

 

                                                            Adopted April 10,1907. 

 

No. 586. The Bishopric, to which was referred the action and resolution of the New South Wales District on Gospel Standard, respectfully report:

   That after careful consideration of the matter we recommend that the proposition made by the district conference to turn the property of the Standard over to the church, the brethren in Australia to take the immediate oversight and responsibility of managing the concern, be accepted by this conference, and that the four members of the Standard board of publication nominated by the bishop of Australia be confirmed and approved, with the addition of the name of Bishop George Lewis, as member of said board. 

 

No. 587. We are authorized by the Joint Council of the Presidency, Twelve, and Bishopric to present to you the following as adopted by the Joint Council this morning: 


   "We think it unwise under present conditions to remove the principal place of business from Lamoni, Iowa. 

   We recommend that the authorities provided for in the Articles of Incorporation under statutes of Iowa, establish other places of business as provided for in Articles of Incorporation and to further incorporate whenever and wherever the interests of the church may require. 

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1907. 

 

No. 588. That this conference accept with appreciation the kind offer and view with profound gratitude the friendly sentiments of the citizens of Lamoni, expressed in the citizens petition, and hereby express our hearty thanks for the same. 

   Resolved, That the authorities having the matter in charge be instructed to rebuild the Herald Office

and Bookbindery at Lamoni, Iowa. 

   Resolved, That the Trustee of the church be authorized  to accept the subscriptions offered by the citizens of Lamoni, Iowa. 

 

                                                           Adopted April 12, 1907. 

 

No. 589. Concerning the memorial fund in the Bishop's report, subscribed for the purpose of erecting a memorial or monument to the memory of the martyrs, Joseph and Hyrum  Smith, the following was adopted: 

   That the President of the church, the Bishop of the church the missionary in charge of that field [which includes Nauvoo, Illinois,] for the coming year, Presiding Patriarch A. H. Smith, and Elder G. P. Lambert, Bishop of the Nauvoo District, be appointed a committee to carry into execution the purposes for which this fund has been subscribed, and to devise such means as may seem best to them to increase the fund if found necessary; that the sum of one thousand dollars, or such portion thereof

as may be necessary, be appropriated in addition to the sum already donated  to assist in carrying out the memorial project. 

 

No. 590. We recommend that the conference provide, that hereafter reports be placed in the hands of the Board of Auditors before the work of auditing shall be begun.

 

No. 591. We further recommend that inasmuch as errors crept into the published report of last year, and inasmuch as the auditors have no opportunity of certifying to the published report, the conference require the publication in the Herald of the Bishop's summary statement, and that of the Board of Publication, prior to the convening of the General Conference.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


                                                           Adopted April 13, 1907.

 

No. 592. The Daughters of Zion reported the following:

  Whereas, A sufficient fund has been raised for the establishing of a children's home, and

   Whereas, the Bishopric has suggested to us that a committee should be appointed by the Daughters of Zion to act in conjunction with the Bishopric in the establishment of the home; whenever, in their wisdom this should be deemed advisable,

  Resolved, That we ask the conference to authorize the Daughters of Zion to appoint such committee.

   The conference authorized the appointment. The organization reported the appointment of the Advisory Board as such committee; viz:

   Srs. B. C. Smith, Callie B. Stebbins, Ruth L. Smith, Eveline Burgess, Emma Hougas.

 

                                                           Adopted April 16, 1907.

 

No. 593. That we discourage members of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints from holding membership in any society or order which requires the taking of oaths or the entering into covenant or obligation to guard the secrets, purposes, or doings of its organization.

 

No. 594. The committee of the Seventy, to whom was referred by your honorable body the question of the jurisdiction of branches, have been authorized to report to you that the question after being under consideration by the committee was decided as follows:

   "It is our opinion that members of the church are under the jurisdiction of, and amenable for their conduct to the branch and district where they are residents, temporarily or permanently, and must answer to complaints duly filed with the officers of the branch or district where they are residing at the time when the acts complained of are performed though their home and branch membership may be in some other branch.

   "And further, that all church members are amenable to the branch most convenient to the place where they may be residing or sojourning, and if there is no organized branch, then to the district, or general church authorities, and should answer to such local authority for their conduct.

 

                                                           Adopted April 17, 1907.

 

No. 594 ½. That we disapprove of our ministry giving their attention to speculative mining or other ventures or their promotion; and that we advise all persons who may decide to invest in any enterprises of this kind to do so only after such investigation as shall be fully satisfactory to themselves as to the safety of their venture, the same as in other business enterprises, and not upon their confidence in the ministerial position of those who seek to interest them therein.

 

No. 595. The recommendation in the Presidency's report concerning publication of matter to be issued by the historical department was referred to the Presidency, the Historian, and the Board of Publication, with power to act.

 


                                                           Adopted April 18, 1907.

 

No. 596. Joseph Smith, E. L. Kelley, and S. A. Burgess were appointed a committee "to prepare a set of necessary blanks, pertaining to charges, notice of service, and appeal, that will guide and assist the branches, districts, and stakes, in the courts of the church."

 

No. 597. The recommendation of the Historian that the fifth volume of the history of the church be published as soon as practicable, resulted in the adoption of a motion to authorize such publication.

 

                                                             Adopted April 6, 1908

 

No. 598. At the Fifty‑fourth General Conference of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, which convened at Lamoni, April 6, 1907, upon recommendation of the First Presidency, a library committee was appointed to meet with similar committees appointed by the General Sunday School Association and Zion's Religio‑Literary Society. The purpose of these committees was to formulate ways and means by which the library departments of the three separate organizations could be brought together under one general head.

   This joint committee chose three general officers: one from the church, one from the Sunday school, and one from the Religio, and appointed them a Library Commission, with full power to put into operation, as soon as practicable, the plans for the consolidation of the library interests of the church. It has been the experience of those engaged in library work in the different departments of the church, that the library departments of the branch, Sunday school, and Religio have in many places worked at cross purposes and to great disadvantage, by reason of having three separate libraries. The object of this movement is for the betterment of this department by the consolidation and unification of all our library interests, thus doing away with unnecessary duplications, either in the selection of books, or in the election of officers, and the bringing of the local libraries into closer touch with the general library of the church.

   The commission was directed to issue suitable statement of work done and purpose of this department. Accordingly, there appeared early in June, in all the church papers, report of the Library Commission, and according to the same resolution, this report is now presented, explaining the work more minutely, for your consideration.

 

                                                   THE GENERAL COMMISSION.

 

   The Latter Day Saint Library Commission consists of three members, one each appointed by the General Conference of the church and the General Conventions of the General Sunday School Association and Zion's Religio‑Literary Society.

   The commission shall have general supervision of all the library interests of the church and its auxiliaries, and in particular charge of the General Church Library. It shall have full power to do all things needful to unify and simplify the library interests of the church, to encourage the establishment and development of libraries, wherever possible, prepare rules and lists of suitable books.

 

 


   The commission shall select the General Church Librarian, take charge of funds, select and purchase books, and do all needful for the General Library, not otherwise provided for. The commission shall choose its own officers and define their duties;. The chairman shall perform the usual functions of that office. The secretary shall keep account of meetings and work done; receive reports from General Church Librarian and from the library boards of stakes, districts, and branches not in districts, and summarize for the use of the commission and for report to the General Conference and Conventions. The treasurer (shall be the Bishopric member of the commission and) shall have control of funds, expending same on order of the commission. The General Church Librarian shall have the actual custody of all books in the Church Library and shall index, label, and care for the same, and keep account of those in circulation. He shall have power to choose his assistants, subject to approval of the commission, and shall suggest from time to time to the commission supplies needed, and books desirable to have in the library. He shall report for the current calendar year to the secretary of the commission, the number and list of books and papers received during the year, and the total then in library. The general library shall have the preference of all rare books, especially such as deal with Church History and American Archaeology.

 

                                              THE DISTRICT OR STAKE LIBRARY.

 

   The district or stake library board shall consist of three members, one being selected by each of the three organizations, ── the district or stake conference, the district Zion's Religio‑Literary Society and Sunday school conventions. (Where there exists only one or two of these district organizations, the local organization of the other or others shall meet as soon as possible and nominate a member. The vacancy may be temporarily filled by appointee of the existing member or members of the district board.) The district library board shall raise the necessary funds for the circulating library, appoint the district librarian or custodian and make necessary rules for the district library, using this suggestion form as a basis, buy books, and have general charge of the district or stake library work. They shall do everything possible to build up the local libraries in their district or stake as well as the circulating library.

   They shall hold office for one year, or until their successors are selected; such election, after the first, to be held at the last business session before General Conference, when other officers of the same organization are elected. Expenses of the district library shall be paid out of the district library fund.

   The district or stake librarian shall have immediate charge of books in the circulating library; shall label and number all books in the circulating library; and shall schedule in a book kept for the purpose the number, title, author, date of purchase, and cost. The district librarian shall also report promptly to the secretary of the Latter Day Saint Library Commission, for the calendar year as soon as possible


after December 31. He shall at stated intervals move the books of the circulating library from one branch to another, keeping account of such movements. He shall have the power to appoint one or more assistants subject to the approval of the district or stake board. In the distribution of books the librarian shall be governed by the number and grade of persons who will use said books in the local library. The initials of the local library shall be marked in the cover, to prevent its being sent twice to the same place, except as desired. He shall make a triplicate list of books at each allotment. Only the number of the book need be given. One of these lists is retained by the district librarian to check books when returned. The other two are sent with the books ──  be retained by the local librarian, and one to be returned forthwith, after checking books received. All books returned shall be carefully examined by the district or stake librarian, and fines assessed for books lost or damaged; said fines to be paid by the local library board; all fines to be paid over, once in six months, to the district library treasurer.

   The librarian shall hold office for one year, or until his successor is appointed.

 

                                                       LOCAL LIBRARY BOARD.

 

   The local library board shall consist of three members, one being selected by each of the three organizations, the branch, the Sunday school; and the local Zion's Religio‑Literary Society, and shall have general charge in the branch or local library, raise funds, buy books for local or reference library

after consultation with district board, appoint custodian or librarian, consult with district board as to which books shall be in circulating library and which in local, and shall have full power and authority to do such work as will further the library interests in the local branch. They are to study the actual needs and conditions and do the best possible for that locality rather than try to force everything to one ironclad plan. (A branch in a large city may be able to secure a branch of the public library.) They shall encourage reading of all good books, and endeavor to place church publications in public libraries and reading rooms.

   All books, whether formerly belonging to the branch, Sunday school, or Religio, will be placed in the local library; books of reference, church publications, books used in services, and other suitable books, will be credited to the local library; books suitable for the circulating library ──  that is, books which it is not necessary to keep in the local library, but which can do more good by being moved to other libraries from time to time, shall be placed to the credit of the district or stake circulating library. Each branch shall have its own local library. All moneys for the benefit of the local library board shall be paid to the treasurer of the library board.

 

                                                                   LIBRARIAN.

 

   Shall have custody of books and bookcases; shall receive all books, shall label and number all books in the local or reference library, and shall schedule, in a book kept for the purpose, the number, title, author, date of purchase and cost of each book in the local library; also have charge of the distribution and collection of books; shall assess and collect fines, which shall be paid over monthly to the treasurer of the local library board; shall keep account of all books outstanding, and have charge under the general direction of the local library board. He may choose one or more assistants, subject to the approval of the local library board; he shall keep posted in conspicuous places list of all books in the local library for the examination of prospective users. List A shall include all books of reference which are not to be removed from the library room except with the consent of the library board. Books on List B are local library books and may be taken out and used in the vicinity. Books on List  may also be taken out as they belong to the circulating library of the district. Said classification to be made with the approval of the local library board.

 

 


   The librarian shall keep account of each book taken out with date and name of person receiving. Any book on Lists B and C may be taken out for two weeks by any member of the branch, Sunday school, or Zion's Religio‑Literary Society. If not returned promptly there shall be a fine of five cents for every week or fraction thereof of overtime. No one shall dog‑ear any book. The person taking out a book shall be responsible for all fines for delay or damage to the book. The librarian shall be the judge as to the amount of damage. In case of dispute, it shall be referred to the local library board for settlement. For any book lost or irreparably damaged, the full value or cost shall be paid.

   The library shall be open at regular services, and for a reasonable length of time before and after each service. Access to the library for reference purposes may be had at other times, with the consent of the librarian, but no books shall be removed from the room except with his knowledge and consent.

   Upon receiving list of books from the district or circulating library the local librarian shall compare said books with the list, marking errors (if any). If none occur, the list should be marked "0. K." In either event, one list should be returned to the district librarian, as this acts as receipt for the books. The other list is used to check books , before returning, at expiration of the period.

   The local librarian shall make a monthly report to the library board of the number of books taken out during the month and the number of times the library is used for reference, together with any other information desired by the board. He should keep the district librarian advised of all matters affecting the circulating library and shall report to the district librarian, quarterly; or if not in district, report to secretary of commission.

   All expenses of the library shall be paid out of the library fund.

 

                                                               LIBRARY RULES.

 

                                                       (To be posted in each volume.)

 

   "1. No member of the school shall keep a book longer than  two weeks.

   "2. Books may be renewed for two successive Sundays, not longer, without paying a fine of ten cents per week.

   "3. Anyone keeping a book longer than two weeks (subject to rule 2) will be fined ten cents per week for so doing.

   "4. All persons damaging or losing books belonging to this library, will be required to pay the value of same to the librarian.

   We have also prepared form for report blanks of the use both of the local and district library boards, and expect soon to have them ready for use.


   While at Lamoni after its appointment last April, the commission formulated ways and means for carrying on the library work during the year, and put into form "report number one," which appeared in the Herald, Autumn Leaves, Exponent and Ensign, early in June. This first report, you thus see, received wide circulation, and immediately letters from all parts of the United States and Canada began coming in to the secretary of the commission, stating that they had taken up the work and asking for additional information. Library Commission "report number two" appeared in each of the four leading papers early in February, 1908, and contained the principal features of report number one, along with additional rules, regulations, and general suggestions regarding the library work sufficient for the present needs. Enough time has not yet elapsed for the results of this latest published report to mature, and as the matter of reporting to the secretary of the commission does not seem to be thoroughly understood in all parts of the country, we are led to believe that scores of branches and many districts which are thoroughly organized according to the plans of the commission have not reported to the secretary, and for these reasons it is not possible to give a complete report of all branches and districts organized up to the present time. 

   At the time of the formation of the Library Commission, a committee of three was appointed to put into practical form a suitable list of books for library selection. This committee was made up of the three librarians to the general societies. The work, that at first seemed a trifling matter to accomplish, required the labor of weeks and even months to prepare suitable for publication; but is now in the hands of the commission, land comprises an elaborate list of books, with names, authors, publishers, prices, manner of securing discounts, information, and further suggestions for the choice of books. This list of books with the commission report number two, has been turned over to the printer, and should be ready to mail in pamphlet form as soon as the commission has time to complete a report after the adjournment of the General Conventions.

   The Library Commission has the following recommendations to make: First: That the amendments to the Sunday school and Zion's Religio‑Literary Society constitutions be attended to as early as possible, in order to avoid the conflictions that have arisen through the appointment of the Library Commission.

   Second That the church, Sunday school, and Religio take definite action at their April meeting, 1908, toward discontinuing the librarians to the three respective societies. In the same manner when stakes, districts, and branches accept the new conditions and select a library board, they discontinue their librarians in each; of the three societies.

   Third: It is further advised that the commission be increased to five members, that the chairman of the commission be a member of the First Presidency, the treasurer of the commission from the Bishopric, one member from the Sunday school, one from the Religio, and one member chosen at large by the General Conference.

   Fourth: The church should speak definitely regarding the amalgamation of the church library with the Sunday school and Religio libraries. In the majority of cases throughout the country the Sunday school is the body that is usually required to make the concessions, as, in reality, they have the only library of any importance in the majority of branches. In this case, the church has the principal library,  and should set the example for the branches by placing their library under the management of the commission. It will be readily seen that the interest of the library work will be much better served under the new plan than it has ever been served in the past, and that there can be but little doubt, if any, regarding the perfect working of this plan.

   Fifth: We realize the great need of means to carry on the general church work and laying the foundation of Zion, and while much could, profitably be spent in the library work, we feel that the commission should do its necessary work with the minimum expenditure of money. In view of these

facts we recommend that an appropriation of three hundred dollars ($300) should be placed at the disposal of the commission, to meet the expenses of the past year and to insure success in carrying on the work during the current year.

 

 


   F. M. Smith, E. A. Blakeslee, E. H. Fisher, H. Hale Smith, and S. A. Burgess were appointed to constitute the Library Commission. 

   The conference granted the appropriation asked for in the foregoing document.

 

                                                            Adopted April 7, 1908.

 

No. 599. The request of the Seattle and British Columbia and Spokane districts, that the counties of Klickitat, Kittitas, and Yakima in the State of Washington, be added to the Spokane District, making the western line of the counties of  Okanogan, Kittitas, Yakima, and Klickitat the western boundary line of the Spokane District in the State of Washington, was granted.

 

No. 600. The committee appointed in 1906 to compile General Conference resolutions from 1901 to date, reported completion of said compilation to 1907 inclusive.

 

No. 601.The committee to which was referred the issue of a historical publication by the conference of 1907, reported that such had been provided for by a publication to he issued quarterly, known as the Journal of History.

 

No. 602. Your committee appointed by the General Conference "to investigate and prepare a uniform plan for the divisions of chapters and verses" of the Book of Mormon, “and if thought advisable, to prepare or adopt a system of references," report:

   During the past year a subcommittee of our number has  reversified the Book of Mormon, using the large type edition as a basis for its work, leaving the chapters as they are in the original Palmyra edition. They made all verses from the book of Isaiah to correspond in their divisions to such versification as is given in the Inspired Translation. Concerning this work of the subcommittee, the general committee adopted the following resolutions:

   "Resolved, That we accept and indorse the report of the subcommittee and make it the report of the general committee on the work of reversification of the Book of Mormon. 

   "Resolved, That it be the sense of this committee that in  the publication of the new work we follow the corrections of the Book of Mormon so as to make the new work in accordance with the original manuscript and the Kirtland edition of the Book of Mormon published by Pratt and Goodson, of 1837, that the work may be completed as corrected by Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery.

   "Resolved, That F. M. Smith, Heman C. Smith, and R. S. Salyards of the subcommittee be appointed to examine proofs and corrections in the publication of the Book of Mormon, according to the resolution just adopted which provides for such correction.

   "Resolved, That he committee appointed to proofread the sheets of the Book of Mormon be also authorized to prepare a suitable index.

   "Resolved, That in the publication of the Book of Mormon paragraph signs be inserted showing the division of verses according to the Palmyra edition."

   It was understood by the general committee that the subcommittee was authorized to complete and hand over the work for publication, to report their work after such publication, to the general committee.

 


   In the report of this committee to the last conference it was stated that when the work of versification was completed a system of references would be prepared. The committee find it impracticable to provide such references before the publication of the reversified edition.

 

                                                            Adopted April 8, 1908.

 

No. 603. That inasmuch as the work of the Bishopric has so enlarged that they need help for the Homes at Lamoni, they be authorized to appoint a board to look after and care for those Homes.

 

                                                           Adopted April 11, 1908.

 

No. 604. 1. We believe it is the duty of the church to so execute its laws that the interests of those who may be accused of wrongdoing shall be safeguarded as well as those of the general body.

   2. Every man's claim of innocence should be respected until his guilt is established, and he is entitled to and should receive such consideration in the legal processes as to protect him from needless suspense or exposure and secure for him a prompt and impartial adjustment of the case in which he may be involved. Hence we have decided on the following:

   3. Complaints of misconduct on the part of any minister may be made by any member of the church having knowledge or information regarding the same, to the minister under whose direction or jurisdiction the accused may be laboring.

  4. It shall be the duty of the one in charge, when thus informed, to see that proper labor is performed (if it has not already been) with the accused, with a view to restitution.

   5. Should the efforts in this direction fail of desired results he should see that charges, embodying   in separate counts the items of wrongdoing complained of, are formulated and served on the accused, in person or left for him where correspondence with him has been usual, at the earliest practical moment.

   6. When notice is thus served, the accused shall be considered legally silenced, and should at once surrender to the minister in charge his license (and certificate of appointment, if he be under general appointment) and should refrain from all official work until the disability thus imposed is removed.

   7. No minister, thus silenced should be held in suspension longer than is absolutely necessary to bring the case to a proper trial; hence it is the duty of the minister having charge to appoint (unless he be a party involved in the case either as accused or accuser) a court, or to refer the case to the proper tribunal for its hearing, without unnecessary delay. As soon as practicable thereafter, said tribunal shall confer with all parties involved, as to convenient time and place for hearing of the case and at once notify said parties when these are decided upon. 

   8. Should exigencies exist in connection with any case of ministerial misconduct, such as necessitate an immediate official imposition of silence, this action may be taken before formulating charges as herein before provided; but in all such cases this action should be followed by as prompt an observance of all the details of the above requirement as the conditions involved will admit of.

   9. When the minister in charge is personally involved in the ease against the accused, he should turn the entire matter over to the most available minister in charge of equal authority, or to the First Presidency.

 


  10. In the cases where the accused is acting in local capacity only, or is not under general appointment, the local authorities should proceed as above; and in the event of their neglect to do so, or of their being personally involved, the minister in charge of the missionary field in which the case occurs should interpose and see that the matter is proceeded with according to the foregoing provisions.

   11. In grave cases, involving the membership of the accused, proper notice should be lodged with the branch of the church having jurisdiction.

 

                                                           Adopted April 13, 1908.

 

No. 605. Resolved, That a permanent committee of three be appointed to compile the resolutions of each General Conference, and that the Board of Publication be directed to publish the same in such form as can be put in the book of  resolutions now published, copies to be supplied to those having books, upon their application.

 

                                                           Adopted April 15, 1908.

 

No. 606. Whereas, The law of God specifically predicates ministerial support upon the law of necessity (see Doctrine and Covenants 81: 4; 77: 1; 70: 3; 51: 1); and

   Whereas, There is no provision in the law for any minister receiving financial aid from the church not based upon his actual needs; therefore be it 

   Resolved, That hereafter all those engaged in general church or ministerial work be supported in harmony with the aforementioned provisions of the law.

 

No. 607. The request of the San Jose Branch, of the Central California District, that it be annexed to the Northern California District, was granted.

 

                                                           Adopted April 17, 1908.

 

No. 608.

 

                                               PROCEDURE IN CHURCH COURTS.

 

   1.  Precedent to any action in the church courts there must be full and consistent labor performed as required in the church laws and rules governing, and no action can properly be maintained against a member where due and diligent labor has not first been performed on the part of those whose duty is under the law to do this work.  In case a member should put himself out of the way of labor, making efforts to evade the officers so that labor cannot be performed, or should he persistently decline to receive and hear the officers, whose duty it is under the law to perform this labor, then such action and refusal to hear on the part of the member may be shown in justification of the procedure against him; otherwise the basis of the action is the performance of kindly, diligent, and brotherly labor, for the purpose of, in good faith, reclaiming the member.


   2. After the full performance of labor referred to in the preceding paragraph, and in case where members refuse to hear either the party offended or the officers who have performed the work of labor, it is proper for either the party offended, or the officers, to enter a complaint against such member, a copy of which shall be given to the member before the same goes before the church, and then presented to the officers of the branch or district or other division of church work, whose duty it is to act in such matters, as provided in the Scriptures and outlined in the church Rules of Order.

   3. The Complaint: No particular form is necessary to the validity of the complaint.  There should, however, be a such a direct and simple statement of the matter as will disclose to the comprehension of one reading it the nature of the grievance, time and place of the offense, and refusal of the accused to make restitution; also setting forth the privilege of the accused to make restitution before the appointment of the court for the trail of the case, if he desires to do so.  No evidence should be set forth in the complaint, neither any unnecessary threat or charges, or imputations not properly a part of the complaint.

   4.  Service: Service of the complaint is properly made upon the accused by handing him or her a copy, or if this cannot be done, leaving at the usual place of residence with a member of the family over eight years of age; or if this cannot be done, service may be had by sending a registered letter containing copy of complaint, in which case the return of the card attached will be evidence of service.

   5.  Who May appoint it: Members of the first Presidency and the Twelve; high priests, seventies, and elders, when traveling in missions, or in localities where no organization, branch or district, has been perfected; presidents of districts, and presidents of branches, branches, and conferences have power to appoint elders’ courts, according to the nature of the complaint, the time, and the emergency of the case.  A branch or conference at any business meeting may appoint a court by nomination from the members confirmed by vote, or by vote authorizing the presiding office to name the elders who shall compose the court.  In no case, whatever, should any officer appoint a court to try a case in which he is to be a party, either as complainant or defendant, or in the issue of which he is directly a party in interest.

   6.  Court to appoint Time and Place of Meeting: An elders’ court is a court of inquiry; and when appointed, has the right to appoint the time when, and the place where, it will sit to hear the case (provided that such time and place do not materially injure either party to the case); due notice of which time and place shall be given to all persons who are expected to be present at the hearing of the case.

   7. When it shall be determined to call an offending member before a court of the church, the branch or officer appointing the court shall cause the charge or charges made against the accused in writing to be prepared, stating definitely and specifically what the offense is charged to be, a copy of which shall be furnished the accused, if practicable, so that he may, if he so desires, make settlement of the difficulty by reconciliation or otherwise, and avoid further action; this copy may be given to the accused by any teacher, or deacon, or member in the absence of said officer, or if left at his usual place of residence with a member of his family over eight years old, it shall beheld as given to him.  Upon the failure of the accused to make restitution, or explanation, the court shall be appointed, and shall proceed to examine and try the cause upon the charge, the original of which, or a copy thereof, shall be furnished them by the party appointing them; they shall also give due notice to all parties of time and place, when and where the trial shall be had as provided in Book of Rules.  Where in cases persons cannot meet together by reason of great distance between them of travel or other obstacle over which they have no control, and which is sufficient to prevent meeting in person, the work toward reconciliation and labor referred to herein may be done by written correspondence between the parties.

 

 

 


   8. In case the defendant is not satisfied with the court as selected, he must file his objections and the nature of the same with the court, prior to its entering upon the hearing of the case.  Unless such objections are entered at the beginning of the trial, they will be presumed to have been waived.  Upon the filing of such objections it will be for the court to decide whether the objections are well taken, and sufficiently pertinent as to require a new court.  Should the court decide that the objections are not well taken, it will proceed with the trial as though no objections had been offered, and in such cases the remedy for the defendant, if he has any, would be to present his objections on appeal before the appellate court.

   9. The court should keep a full and complete memoranda of its proceedings, and while an oversight or omission to take note of minor matters, such as engaging in prayer or the time of adjournment, would not be fatal error, yet oftentimes a number of these omissions would help to invalidate to some extent the correctness of the procedure and work of the court.

   10. Upon the assembling of the court to hear the complaint against any member, it is necessary in order that the court may authoritatively proceed, to have a proper notice of the service of the complaint upon the defendant, in its hands.  In case that due notice is not placed in the hands of the court that the defendant has been served with the complaint, and also as to the time and place of trial, it would be improper for the court to proceed to hear the case or any part of the same.

   Should the defendant have placed himself beyond the reach of notice and purposely avoided the service of the notice in order to defeat the hearing of the case, this may be shown by proper evidence, in which case it would be proper for the court to proceed as though the defendant had been regularly served.  Service of notice upon defendants or upon witnesses may be duly shown by the one performing such work making due return of the same, and a number of returns of service may be made upon the same sheet.

   11. Service of notice upon witnesses to take depositions before any court should be made in a similar manner as that of summoning witnesses to appear before the court to give testimony in a case.

   12. No court or officer can take a deposition for any party to use in any case, where the adverse party has not due notice of the time and place of the taking of such deposition , and permitted to be present and cross-examine if he desires to do so, unless a deposition is taken upon written interrogatories, a copy of which must be placed in the hands of the adverse party, and he given the privilege of filing cross-interrogatories before the time of taking of the deposition.  Affidavits or ex parte statements in writing can not be introduced as proper testimony upon the trial of a case.  Every party to a case is entitled to be confronted by the witnesses, and should be privileged to do so at the time the deposition or writing is made, or before the court.

   13. In case that any party is dissatisfied with the decision of the court, he may move for new trial or rehearing of the case at the time, and if the motion is overruled by the court, give notice of appeal at the time, or within sixty days.  If notice of such appeal from the decision is given at the time. It should appear as a part of the record in the case.

   14. Appeals from elders’ courts are taken directly to the bishop’s court within the district or stake where the case is tried, if there is such existing bishop’s court.  In case there should not be a bishop’s court within the district or stake to which an appeal can be had, appeals may be taken to the Presiding Bishop’s Court of the church.

   In case an appeal is taken to the bishop’s court in any district or stake, and it is found that by reason of any direct interest or relationship of the parties that such bishop’s court should not hear the case, such case should be taken directly to the Presiding Bishop’s Court, unless the case is within a stake, in which case the cause would go before the high council of the stake if there be such a council.

 


   15. Evidence given before the elders’ court should be reduced to writing, and unless it is taken by a stenographer verbatim, it should be read over to the witnesses, and signed by them in the presence of the court.

   16. Notice of appeal from the findings of elders’ court, if not given at the time the decision is had, should be served upon the judges or the presiding officer of the branch or other body, and filed with the bishop to which the appeal is taken.  Notice of appeal from the bishop’s court to the High Council should be served upon such bishop, and also filed with the President of the Church.

   17. When the court has heard the case as provided in the preceding rules, it is proper that is should at once make up its findings, and hand these to the president of the branch or officer in charge, and also to present a copy of findings to the defendant in the case.

   It is the duty of the president of the branch or whatever officers having in charge the findings duly reported by the elders’ court, to call a business meeting of the branch, or other body, at the earliest time practicable thereafter, and present the findings for the action of such body.

   18. Upon presentation to the branch, or other body, of the findings of any court authorized to try any cause of action, it is the duty of such branch, or body, to sustain the findings of the court until such time as the parties to the action shall appeal, if they desire to do so, to a higher court and the action shall be reversed.  It must not be overlooked that the court is a creature of the body, the church, as the courts of the land are creatures of the Government or citizens under the laws of the land; and while a court may not bring in such decision as shall please the people, since the people are not authorized to judge, except through proper chosen judges for this purpose, the remedy, if there is any dissatisfaction, must be upon appeal to the superior court.  Any other method to overturn the decision of the court, except that provided in the law, is outside the law, and would bring disorder and anarchy instead of good to the body.

   19. The branch, or other body, upon the presentation of the findings of an elders’ court should at once sustain the findings, always with the permission to any party to seek his redress before the higher court by appeal, if he is still persistent that he has been wronged.  Until the branch so sustains the findings of the elders’ court, the party dissatisfied is left  powerless to move.   He must appeal from the findings of the court and the action of the branch thereon, and if there is no action sustaining the court it places the party at a disadvantage, as he can not appeal and seek the redress which he claims is his due.

   20. It is the duty of the officers of the church in any case which may be tried by a court, and also the duty of each member of the court, to assist either party, in every way practicable to appeal his case, and to help him make up the record in such a way that he may have the full advantage of the same.  Any officer or member of the court who refuses to assist a party aggrieved in a case to bring before it a superior tribunal, will show an unbrotherly act and reflect discredit upon his own work.

   21. When a case is properly filed and tried in the appellate court and decision is had thereon, either confirming or reversing the decision of the court below, it is proper for such appellate court to return its findings and decision to the president of the branch, or other body, from which the appeal was taken.  Upon receipt of this decision of the appellate court the president of such body must bring the same before the members in a duly authorized business meeting for the approval of the same, and it is the duty of the members to approve the findings of the appellate court as promptly as they approved the findings of the lower court.  In case that further appeal is desired by either of the parties to the suit, it is proper for the appellate court to forward all papers and a record of the proceedings in that court, to the higher tribunal, in like manner as is provided for appeals from the elders’ to bishops’ courts.

 


No. 1 A

   COMPLAINT                                                                                   (Between Two Members)

                                         

(place and date)

 

                                  

Complaint

vs..

                                  

Defendant

To Elders                                      

President of                                   

Dear Brother:

It is with sincere regret that I find it necessary to make complaint against                             For unchristian like conduct in this:

1.         (Here set forth complaint.)

2.        

I have visited                                  on                                         In an effort to effect a 

                                  (Defendant)                      (Dates)

reconciliation, but without avail; and again on the                       Day of                     I visited him (her) in company with                                and                                 But was unable on any of these occasions to effect a reconciliation.

I therefore respectfully request that you appoint an Elders’ Court to ascertain the truth of the matter and effect a reconciliation if possible, and to take what action may be necessary to protect the interests of the Church.

Trusting that right and truth may prevail,

I am, very respectfully,

 

                                    


No. 1 B

COMPLAINT                                                                         (By Teacher)

                                   

(Place and date)

 

                                    

vs..

                                    

To Elder                                      

President of                                   

Dear Brother:

It is with sincere regret that I find it necessary to make complaint against                             for unchristian like conduct in this:

 

1.         (Set out complaint.)

2.

 

                                                                    SPECIFICATIONS

 

In company with Brother                               We visited                               on the                                                                                                                  (name of accused)

day of                               and on the                              of                           in an effort to ascertain the truth and to effect a correction of the wrong, reclaim, if possible.  Our earnest efforts in this direction being without avail, we respectfully request that you appoint an Elders’ Court to ascertain the truth of these charges and reclaim our                                  if possible, and to take the necessary

                                                                 (brother or sister)

action to protect the interests of the church.

Trusting that right and truth may prevail, we are

Respectfully yours,

                                                                                                                                                   


No. 2.

 

                                                             NOTICE TO DEFENDANT.

                                                                 

                                            

Dear                       :

The enclosed is a copy of complaint filed with me.  I trust you may be able to adjust this matter satisfactorily to all concerned without the need of an Elders’ Court.  If, however, I do not hear from you within ten days of service of this notice it will become my duty to appoint a Court of Elders.

If you are not able to adjust this matter within the above time, but believe you will be able to do so, a reasonable extension of time will be given for that purpose before appointment of Court.

Trusting you may be able to effect a full reconciliation, I am,

                                                                                                            Your brother,

                                    

[Attach copy of No. 1.]

 

No. 3.

                                                            APPOINTMENT OF COURT.

 

                                  

             vs..

                                  

Elder                             

                                     

 

Dear Brother:

You have been appointed, together with Elders                          , and                              , to sit as a Court of Elders in a case in which                                           Is complainant and                                             Is defendant.

Please try to meet with your associates as soon as practicable for organization, and to determine time and place of sittings of Court, of which you will kindly give all parties and witnesses due notice.                                                                                              Your brother,

                                   


No. 4.

 

                                                                 RETURN OF SERVICE

                                                                   (With No. 2 and No.3)

                                  

             vs..

                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                        (Place and date)

I do hereby certify that a copy of the within paper, consisting of               pages was by me served on                                   by                                    , on this                   day of                   ,

19         .                                       (state manner of service)

 

                                                                                                                                                          

                                                                                                                         (state office, if any)

 

No. 5.

                                                             ANSWER OF DEFENDANT

                                      

                                  

             vs..

                                   

Elder                          

Chairman,

Dear Brother:

In answer to complaint filed against me I deny each and every allegation.

Trusting that truth may prevail,

Respectfully yours,

                                                                                                                                                        No. 5 A.

ANSWER OF DEFENDANT                                                       (Avoidance)

 

                                  

             vs..

                                   

Elder                            

Chairman,

Dear Brother:

In answer to the above charges I desire to state the following facts, which I believe exonerate me.

Desiring that right and truth may prevail, I am,

                                                                                                           Your brother,

                                                                                                                                                       

Witnesses:


No. 5 B.                                                                                                  (Cross Complaint.)

 

                                                             ANSWER OF DEFENDANT

                                                                  

 

                                  

             vs..

                                       

Elder                            

Chairman,

Dear Brother:

In the above case I not only desire to deny the charges against myself, so far as they attempt to show me guilty of any offense, but I also desire to set forth the following facts, which I believe not only exonerate and excuse me, but form just cause of complaint against said                                  ,

complainant herein.

I therefore desire to charge him (or her) with unchristian conduct as follows:

 

Respectfully yours,

                                                                                                                                                      

 

No. 6.

                                                               OBJECTION TO COURT

                                                                                                                                                        

                          

          vs..

                          

Elder                            

Chairman,

Dear Brother:

I object to the Court appointed to sit in the above case for the following reasons:

 

                                                                                                                   Respectfully submitted,

                                                                                                                                                        

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


No. 7.

                                                NOTICE OF TIME AND PLACE OF TRIAL

 

                          

          vs..

                          

                                     ,

Please take notice that the hearing in the above case is set for the hour of            ,       m, on the                   day of                            , 19      , at                                       .

                                                                                         (place)

where we shall expect you attend promptly and testify to the truth, as it becomes all good Latter Day Saints to do. A failure to appear, without proper excuse, will render you liable for unchristian like conduct.  (Section 153, Rules of Order and Debate.)

                                                                                                                       Very respectfully,

                                                                                                                                                            Secretary of the Court.

 

No. 8.

                                                         MINUTES OF ELDERS’ COURT

                                

                              

           vs..

                              

Elders                            ,                            , and                                having been appointed by                                  Branch or District                           (see letter attached-Exhibit A) a Court of Elders in above-named case, met on the                 day of                      19     , beginning at the hour of            a.m. (or p.m.)  Meeting was called to order and opened with prayer by Elder                                    . The Court then proceeded to organize by choosing Elder                          as Chairman and                            as Clerk.

After consultation it was determined that the Court should sit at                    on the             day of                          19      , beginning at             a.m. (p.m.)

The Clerk was directed to send notices of time and place of trial to the following named persons:

on the part of the Complainant, and

                         On the part of the Defendant.

Meeting dismissed with prayer by                                  .

                             

                                                                                                                                Clerk

                              

                                                                                                                           (place and date)  

 

 

 


At the hour of            a.m. (or p.m.) the Court was called to order by Elder                       .

There were present of Court Elders

for parties                                                       and                                                            as Counsel

and                                                       and                                                                        as Counsel.             The Clerk reported service as shown, Exhibits B. He was not able, however to serve the following persons as yet, for reasons given:

The complaint and answer were read and brief statements made by                                and                                    .  Elder                           talked with the parties, and suggested a season of prayer, and finally at his suggestion an adjournment was taken until              day of                          19      , at                   a.m. (or p.m.) to permit parties to confer together in an effort to settle their difficulties.

Dismissed with prayer by                                              .

                              

                                                                                                                                    Clerk

                              

                                                                                                                           (place and date)  

 

Court called to order by Elder                          .

(If settlement effected, only necessary to enter: “Settlement having been effected by parties the case was dismissed on motion of Complainant” or “by mutual agreement of parties”; otherwise, continued.)

There were present for the Court, Elders

for parties                                                    and                                                                  as Counsel

and                                                        and                                                                       as Counsel.

The parties announcing themselves ready for trial, the following witnesses were introduced on behalf of the complainant:

Exhibits C, D, E, F, and G, were introduced as indicated.  Depositions of

                                                                                     were also presented by Complainant.

On the part of the Defendant the following witnesses were heard and Exhibits H, I, J, K, and L, introduced, also depositions of

(See stenographer’s notes or minutes of evidence.)

It was decided to allow each side to speak             minutes; the Complainant to open and close, but to use no new argument in conclusion.

opened for Complainant,

followed for Defendant,

and closed.

Adjourned at call of Chair with prayer by                                   .

 

                             

                                                                                                                                   Clerk

                              

                                                                                                                           (place and date)  

 


Opened with prayer by                                  .  Present of Court, Elders

 

After consideration of all the issues the Court gave the following decision (see attached), a copy of which was directed to be sent to each of the parties.

Dismissed with prayer by                            ,

                               

                                                                                                                                    Clerk

 

No. 9.

                                                        DECISION OF ELDERS’ COURT

                                

                             

           vs..

                             

In the above case, after careful consideration of all the evidence produced we find the facts to be:

The Court finds as follows:

1-Count, 1 of Complaint

Count, 2 of Complaint

Etc., etc.

 

Count 1 of Cross Complaint

Etc., etc.

And our recommendation is:

 

 

                                        

                                        

                                        

No. 10.

                                

                             

           vs..

                             

Elder                            

President of                               

Dear Brother:

This is to certify that the attached are all the papers in the above case, that we have examined the same, that it is a full and complete record, that all originals are so marked, and those marked “copy” are fair and true copies.

                                        

                                        

                                         


No. 11.

                                                             DEFENSE OF LIMITATION

                               

                             

           vs..

                             

Elder                             

                                               

Dear Brother:

In answer to the above charge my defense is that more than one year has elapsed since the offense was known to have been committed; nor is it a case of felony, where the law of the land provides a longer period; nor such a felony, where the statue of limitation does not run.

It is a matter of the past, which is regrettable, and I must so to live for the future at least that no one will be able to justify so charge me.

                                                                                                          Respectfully yours,

                                                                                                                                                       

 

No. 12.

                                                       NOTICE TO TAKE DEPOSITIONS

                               

                             

           vs..

                             

To                                   (party of record)

                                      

 

Dear                                :

Please take notice that depositions in the above case will be taken before Elder                      at                                in the city of                              on the                   of                        19      ,

beginning at the hour of               a.m. (p.m.)  Said disposition to be used on the part of the                                       . At which time you may be present to cross-examine.

                                                                                                          Respectfully yours,

                                                                                                                                                    

Copy of the above paper served on                               by                              . (state manner of service)

This                        day of                                 19        .

 

                                            

   (state office, if any)


No. 13.

                                             CAPTION AND MINUTES OF DEPOSITIONS

 

Before                            

                              

           vs..

                             

In accordance with the attached Notice to Take Depositions in the above case, witnesses were produced and examined on the                day of                          19      , between the hours of         and        a.m. (or p.m.) of that day, at                              , before Elders

acting as a Court of Inquiry for the taking of depositions in the above case to be used in said case before                                on the part of                                   ,

There were present, of the Court:

For the Complainant:

For the Defendant:

The session was opened with prayer by                                  .

The Court was then organized by the selection of                               to act as Clerk.

Thereon the following witnesses were examined:

 

                             

  Clerk

No. 14.

                                                       CERTIFICATE TO DISPOSITIONS

                             

                             

            vs.

                              

We do hereby certify that in accordance with the attached notice depositions were taken in the above case on                               between the hours of           and           a.m. (or p.m.) at                                       at which time and place the following named witnesses were produced and examined:

The examination of witnesses not being completed at that time the Court adjourned to                        (date) between the hours of          and           a.m. (or p.m.) at the same place, whereupon the following named witnesses were produced and examined:

The depositions of each of the above witnesses was reduced to writing, read over to him and signed by said witness.  There are herewith returned all of said original signed dispositions, with record of minutes and all exhibits and documents produced in taking said depositions.  And we do hereby certify to the above that the inclosed papers are a correct and true record of all our proceedings.

 

                                         

                                        

                                        


No. 15.

                                                             MOTION FOR NEW TRIAL

                             

                             

            vs.

                             

Elder                             

President of                              

Dear Brother

In the above entitled case I respectfully ask a new trial and that a proper Elders’ Court be appointed to rehear this case, for the following reasons:

And because of said facts above set forth, justice was not done in said case.  For which reasons I most urgently and respectfully request a new trial or rehearing.

                                                                                                         Sincerely yours,

                                                                

 

No. 16.

                                               NOTICE OF APPEAL TO BISHOP’S COURT

                             

                             

            vs.

                             

                             

                                         

                               :

Please take notice that I appeal from the findings of the Elders’ Court in the above case to the Bishop’s Court.

I therefore respectfully request that all papers, pleadings, dispositions, exhibits, and documents in said case be forwarded to Bishop                         , at the earliest time practicable

                                    

                                    


No. 17.

                                    APPEAL FROM ELDERS’ COURT TO BISHOP’S COURT

                              

                             

            vs.

                             

Bishop                               

                                         

Dear Brother:

In the above entitled case in which I was the                            of record I have appealed from the findings of the Elders’ Court for the following reasons:

 

Wherefore I do respectfully ask of you a rehearing of said case and that the judgment therein may be reversed and corrected.

                                    

                                     

 

No. 18.

                                                    CERTIFICATE OF BISHOP’S COURT.

                             

                             

            vs.

                             

We do hereby certify that the enclosed includes all papers and documents sent to us from the Elders’ Court or on their behalf; also all pleadings, papers and documents filed before us in this case, including a true copy of the minutes of our proceedings and our decision.

Your brethren in gospel bonds,

                                         

                                        

                                        


No. 19.

                                                NOTICE OF APPEAL TO HIGH COUNCIL

                             

                             

            vs.

                             

Bishop                               

                                         

Dear Brother:

Please take notice that I have taken an appeal from the decision of the Court over which you presided in the above case, to the High Council.  You are therefore respectfully requested within six months from the date of your decision therein, to file with the First Presidency a certified copy of all documents and papers in said case, together with a copy of your minutes and decision.

                                        

                                         

 

No. 20.

                                                           APPEAL TO HIGH COUNCIL

                             

                             

            vs.

                             

To the First Presidency of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints,

Dear Brethren,

I desire to appeal from the decision of the Bishop’s Court in the above case and ask a rehearing before the High Council for the following reasons:

 

For which reasons I believe this is such a case as should be considered by the High Council, and respectfully ask that you grant me such hearing and appeal.

                                        

 


No. 21.

                                                     SUBPENA BEFORE HIGH COUNCIL

                             

                             

            vs.

                              

To                               ,

Please take notice that the above case comes up for hearing at the next sitting of the High Council, beginning on the              day of                           , 19       , beginning at the hour of          a.m. (or p.m.) at                                   at which time and place we shall expect you to attend and testify to the truth in said case, as thus it becomes all good Latter Day Saints to do.  A failure to appear will render you liable for unchristian like conduct.  Section 153, Rules of Order and Debate.)

Your brother in Christ

                                                                                    Secretary of the First Presidency          

 

Should this report meet with your approval, your committee recommends that it be published in the form of a pamphlet of instruction for the use of branches and districts and others who may desire them.  We further recommend that the Board of Publications be requested to print at as early a date as practicable a sufficient number of blank forms in accordance with those adopted to be kept on sale, and to be supplied upon requisite demand to branches, districts, and courts of elders where procedure in cases of misdemeanor may be required.                           

 

                                                      Adopted April 7, 1909.

 

No. 609. Whereas, by concurrent action of the Florida, Mobile, and Alabama districts, subject to indorsement of this body, the boundary lines were so changed as to make Santa Rosa and Escambia counties in Florida and Escambia County' in Alabama constitute the Florida District, the General Conference is hereby requested to approve said action.

 

No. 610. That the following counties compose the Portland District: Lane, Linn, Benton, Lincoln, Polk, Marion, Clackamas, Yamhill, Tillamook, Washington, Multinomah, Columbia, and Clatsop counties in Oregon, and Clarke and Skamania counties Washington. All the balance of Oregon outside of the Southwestern Oregon District be declared unorganized territory. 

 

No. 611. That the Central California District be declared disorganized and that the southern line of Inyo, Tulare, Kings, and Monterey counties be declared the southern boundary line of the Northern California District.

 

No. 612. The final report of the committee appointed to provide for a new edition to the Book of Mormon, was adopted.  See preface to said book.

 

No. 613. F. M. Smith, Heman C. Smith, and R. S. Salyards were appointed a committee to provide a concordance to the Book of Mormon, "with power to employ suitable subsidiary help."


No. 614. That the rules and orders of the Book of Rules may be amended at any General Annual Conference; provided that at least sixty days notice of the effort to amend in manner and form be previously given in the Saints Herald, the official organ of the church, before the opening day of such session, the same to be inserted, when adopted, at the close of chapter 16, page 111, of Book of Rules and to apply to all parts of the book except the Articles of Incorporation, a rule for the amendment of which is found in the articles themselves.

 

                                                                  Adopted April 9, 1909.

 

No. 615. That the statistical blank forms and the records used in connection with the reports made to the recording department be amended to provide for the names of counties.

 

No. 616. We recommend the organization of a district to be known as the Saskatchewan District, comprising the provinces of Saskatchewan and Alberta, but recommend that the name be the Saskatchewan District instead of Saskatoon, as suggested by the petitioners.

   We also recommend that a district be organized, comprising the province of Manitoba, to be known as the Winnipeg District.

   We also approve of the recommendation for the division of the London District in Ontario. We recommend that the new district be formed of the counties east of a line running from Kincardine, on Lake Huron, to the city of Hamilton, on Lake Ontario, and from there to Dunnville, on Mohawk Bay,

Lake Erie, this district to be known as the Toronto District.  This will leave the boundaries of the London District on the west as they have always been, extending from Grand Bend on Lake Huron to Port Stanley on Lake Erie, and from Kincardine on the west to Dunnville on Mohawk Bay.

   (The map prepared by the committee shows the following places, islands, etc., in Canadian territory, to be included  in the Toronto District; Sault Ste. Marie, Saint Joseph Island, Cockburn Island, and the islands which include Silverwater, Slash, Manitowaning, Saint Edmunds, Indian Reserve, Tobermory, Stokes Bay, Colpoys Bay, Wiarton; also Wolford Station on the north shore of the Nippissing District. ── Secretary.)

 

No.617. That the First Presidency be authorized to appoint a committee on credentials prior to the convening of General Conference.

 

                                                                 Adopted April 14, 1909.

 

No. 618. Pres. Joseph Smith returned to the body a gavel presented to him by the Saints of Texas about thirty years previous. The following was then adopted: That this body extend to the presiding officer, Pres. Joseph Smith, who so long and faithfully has served them, their special thanks, and as a remembrance of the act of this day that the gavel be placed in the archives of the church under the direction of the Presidency.


No. 619. Whereas, there are a number of relics left by Joseph Smith the Martyr which are of historic interest and value to the church. 

   Resolved, That the Presidency. the Historian, and the Bishop be authorized to make provision for the collection and preservation of such in the archives of the church.

 

No. 620. That the Board of Auditors and the Board of Publication as soon as practicable for them take a complete inventory upon the basis of the cost of the books of the office, which shall for the future so long as is desirable form a basis of invoices for the publishing houses.

 

No. 621. We recommend that three districts be created in the State [Oklahoma] as petitioned for. The division lines running through the State from north to south line ── on the 96th and 98th meridians respectively, making three districts of said State, to be known as Eastern, Central, and Western Oklahoma districts.

   We further recommend that the counties of Ottawa, Craig, Nowata, Mays, Washington, Rogers, and Delaware in northeastern Oklahoma, which now belong to the Spring River District, still remain attached to that district, and that the southern and eastern boundary of the said Eastern Oklahoma District, be the same as that of the Choctaw and Northeastern Texas District.

 

                                                                 Adopted April 15, 1909.

 

No. 622. To the General Conference Assembled; Greeting: I am authorized by the Quorum of Twelve to report to you as follows, on the petition from the Central California District asking that we send out missionaries two and two:

   We respectfully call your attention to the following from the First Presidency which was adopted by the Twelve:

   "Brethren: In the matter of question touching the revelation of 1863, in which it is stated that in sending the gospel to the nations it is expedient that the elders be sent ‘two and two’ it is our understanding that refers to missions taken into foreign lands, or into fields not previously occupied, or organized into districts or missionary fields; and that it does not necessarily apply to the mission fields as now organized in the United States and Territories, except it might be in entirely new and large districts. "Signed, 

 

"JOSEPH SMITH,

"W. W. BLAIR.

“April, 1891."

   The following resolution was adopted later on:

   "Whereas the Lord has on different occasions directed that we should send our missionaries forth two and two, ''therefore be it

   "Resolved, That henceforth we comply with said requirement so far as practicable." ──April,  1891."

 

 

 

   Again in April, 1907, the following was passed by the quorum:


   "Resolved, That we agree to send our men (doing missionary labor) two by two."

   The quorum has adhered to these rules so far as practical under the circumstances and conditions governing.

Respectfully submitted,

FREDERICK A. SMITH,

Secretary of the Twelve.

 

No. 623. The following was referred to the First Presidency and the Board of Publication for disposition, report, or otherwise: 

   Whereas, There is a marked difference between section 22 (Doctrine and Covenants) and the version of the same revelation as found in preface to the Holy Scriptures, 

   Resolved, That the Board of. Publication be instructed in future editions of the Doctrine and Covenants to make it conform to the revelation as published in the preface of the Holy Scriptures, and that a sufficient number of duplicate copies be printed to permit of insertion in books now in use.     [In 1910 the committee reported that section 22 as published in the Holy Scriptures, which was the version of the original manuscript, had been ordered inserted in Doctrine and Covenants.──  Compiler.]  

 

                                                                 Adopted April 16, 1909. 

 

No. 624. We, your committee to whom was referred the petition of the brother whose advertisement was denied publication in the Herald and Ensign by conference action of 1905, report:

   We have given this matter careful consideration and our examination of the resolution complained of leads us to the belief that the case in question did not warrant the severe criticism embodied in the resolution; and in view of this fact, we would recommend that the petition be received and referred to the Board of Publication with power to act.

 

No. 625. In view of the fact that there are some typographical and clerical errors in the present edition of the Book of Doctrine and Covenants,

   Resolved, That a committee consisting of the First Presidency, Quorum of Twelve, and Board of Publication be authorized to take this matter under consideration, appoint a committee from their number to reversify and proof read an authorized edition of the book. 

 

No. 626. That a committee of three be appointed to draft a certificate form for use in connection with the blessing of  children. 

 

No. 627. There is a growing demand for a teacher's edition of the Inspired Translation of the Bible, and we recommend that steps be taken that this work be gotten under way.  It cannot be completed short of two or three years, and an expense of about six thousand dollars will be incurred before a copy can be sold. 

   (The foregoing from the Board of Publication was approved and said Board authorized to act.) 

 


No. 628. That it is recognized by this body that the auditors or any other committees in their work in the examination of others’ work connected with the church, if they find anything that they think is improper, or not understood, they first submit the matter to the one having the work in charge, before reporting it elsewhere.

 

                                                                 Adopted April 17, 1909.

 

No. 629. That in the future finished merchandise [Board of Publication stock] be invoiced at thirty‑three and one third  percent less than the regular selling price; that machinery and plates be invoiced at a discount of ten percent per annum; that buildings, power plant, and electric light line be

invoiced at a discount of one and one half percent per annum; that unfinished books in forms or sewed be invoiced at fifty percent of standard selling price for cloth bindings . . . . .

 

                                                                 Adopted April 19, 1909. 

 

No. 630. The chairman of the committee  to which was referred the question of incorporation of the church in Canada, reported that it was not considered necessary to incorporate in the Dominion. The committee was discharged. 

 

                                                                 Adopted April 20, 1909.

 

No. 631. Two revelations, dated April 18, 1909, were adopted.

 

                                                                 Adopted April 21, 1909.

 

No. 632. The committee on locating and establishing a Children's Home have held three meetings since the opening of conference and have given careful and prayerful consideration to several propositions made for the location of a home. On the morning of the 21st instant a majority of the committee met and accepted the proposition of Sr. Anna Dancer for eighteen acres of land lying just west of the church, at Lamoni, Iowa.

   It is the purpose of the committee to secure plans and begin the erection of a suitable building at the very earliest date practicable. The land is nicely located for such a home and the committee are pleased that they were able to secure such a satisfactory location.

 

No. 633. That the Bishopric be directed and authorized to proceed in harmony with section 9 of the revelation to the eldership.

 

                                                                   Adopted April 6,1910.

 

No. 634. Whereas, Pres. Joseph Smith was ordained president of the High Priesthood, at Amboy, Illinois, April 6, 1860 ── fifty years ago today; and,

   Whereas, under his administration, supported by the faithful ministry and loyal membership, the faith of the church  has been vindicated, the confidence of the people restored, the work honored and extended at home and abroad,


   Resolved, That in connection with the celebration of this semicentennary jubilee anniversary we commend the administration of President Smith and express our continued confidence in his integrity.

   Resolved, further, That we commend his spirit of Christlike service in the interests of the work and of the people of God; that we pledge him our continued support in the further performance of his duty; praying that God may bless him with that measure of health and grace that shall qualify him to continue in the administration of his important office until in the wisdom of God his labor shall be full and complete.

 

                                                                  Adopted April 8, 1910.

 

 No. 635. A petition requesting the erection of a chapel at Salt Lake City, Utah, was referred to the Presidency, Twelve, and Bishopric, with power to act.

 

No. 636. We your committee re Winnipeg and Saskatchewan district boundary lines, recommend that it be arranged as per petition of the Winnipeg District conference: At  range two west of second meridian.     

 

No. 637. Petition for the organization of a district in New York: That we recommend that said district be organized, and that it consist of all the State of New York not now included in organized territory, and that instead of being known as the Western New York District; it be named, "New York District."

 

No. 638. To the General Conference; Greeting: At the conference of 1907, on April 6 and 15, there was before the conference a matter from the Kewanee District making inquiry concerning the method of selecting and appointing high priests. This matter was referred to the First Presidency, and the Presidency asked for further time than was possible to give to this matter at the time. I am instructed to advise you that the Presidency had had this matter under consideration and we hereby report:

   We find that the ordination of high priests is to be by direction of a high council (either a stake high council or the Standing High Council) or the General Conference (see section 17, paragraph 17, Book of Covenants; also section 120, paragraph 2). The call of high priests is the same as provided for others; that is, by revelation, as see Hebrews 5: 4. But we find no direction in the revelations and rules of the church determining the manner in which the call and recommendation for ordination are to be made.

   It is our opinion that nominations for ordination of high priests may be made by the First Presidency, the Twelve, or the Quorum of High Priests.

   Recommendations of persons to be chosen as high priests may be made by branch, district, or stake, such recommendations to be presented by the district or stake president to the missionary in charge, and by him to the Presidency for consideration and presentation to the General Conference or High Council.

   Inasmuch as high priests are especially designated as standing ministers to the church under the direct oversight of the First Presidency (Doctrine and Covenants 122: 8, 9,) all nominations for ordination should be submitted to the First Presidency before said nominations are, presented to the General Conference or High Council.

Respectfully submitted,

 


FREDERICK M. SMITH,

Secretary Presidency.

INDEPENDENCE, MISSOURI, April 1, 1910.

 

                                                                 Adopted April 11, 1910.

 

No. 639. We your committee appointed to consider a petition from the Massachusetts District relative to providing spaces on the branch statistical report blanks ["for town, county, and state in the recording of marriages"], beg leave to recommend that the Board of Publication be requested to provide such spaces on future issues of said blanks.

 

No. 640. Whereas, courtesy and justice, as well as the rules of the church require that petitions addressed to the body  receive recognition from the body; and,

   Whereas the reading of them often consumes time without profit;

   Resolved, That the president of the conference be authorized to announce to the body the nature of such petitions and if no objection is urged refer them to committees or quorums having jurisdiction without reading

   Be it further resolved, That all parties desiring a petition for appointment of missionaries to be appointed to certain fields, are earnestly hereby requested to address such petitions directly to the First Presidency or Quorum of Twelve, as addressing petitions to the conference necessarily causes delay.

 

No. 641. That it is the sense of this body that a juvenile history of the church be published as soon as practicable.

 

                                                                 Adopted April 14, 1910.

 

No. 642. The proposition of the Board of Trustees of a Graceland College, to raise a permanent endowment fund of $100,000, was referred to the Bishopric with power to act.

 

                                                                 Adopted April 14, 1910.

 

No. 643. That the north line of the Utah District be changed to the north line of the Panhandle of Oneida County, in Idaho, running east from the west line of Oneida County to the Wyoming State line.

 

No. 644. That portion of the Presiding Bishop's report which referred to the erection of a church office building was referred to the Presidency, Twelve, and Bishopric with power to act.

 

                                                                  Adopted April 15, l910.

 

No. 645. Patriarch J. R. Lambert was appointed president pro tem of the Order of Evangelists.

 

 


No. 646. We are of the opinion that no ordination to any office in the priesthood shall obtain until the "call" has been approved by those holding Melchisdec priesthood and in authority, whether it be in stakes, districts, or branches.

 

                                                                 Adopted April 16, 1910.

 

No. 647. Whereas the church as a whole is anxious to read of the actions of the General Conference through the church papers; and whereas such report should be accurate and complete in the main; therefore,

   Resolved, That it is the sense of this body that all reports and other documents be made in duplicate  or triplicate, as far as possible, so that the church press may have access to the same without so much work and delay.

 

No. 648. That we instruct the Board of Trustees of Graceland College to procure a set of books and to properly keep their accounts therein, that they may be presented to the auditing committee when called upon.

 

No. 649. Various actions resulted in a reorganization of the Board of Auditors, to consist of Robert Winning, I.A Smith, and G. W. Eastwood.

 

                                                                 Adopted April 18, 1910.

 

No. 650. Joseph A. Tanner was appointed President of the Quorum of High Priests, vice Frederick G. Pitt, ordained an evangelical minister.

 

No. 651. Heman C. Smith was appointed "to have general oversight of the Church Library."

 

No. 652. To the General Conference: In the matter of  reference by the conference of 1909 to the Presidency, Twelve, and Board of Publication, looking to reversifying and correcting typographical and clerical errors in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, we have by instruction of the committee to report that the body to which this was referred met this morning and after consideration it was decided that under present circumstances it is unnecessary to reversify the Book of Covenants. It was further decided that all clerical and typographical errors be corrected under the supervision of the Presidency, the Board of Publication, and the Historian.

Respectfully submitted,

FREDERICK M. SMITH,

FREDERICK A. SMITH,

Secretaries.

INDEPENDENCE, MISSOURI, April 18, 1910.

 

No. 653. To the General Conference; Greeting: The Joint Council of Presidency, Twelve, and Bishopric have considered the document referred to us, from the Zion's Religio‑Literary Society, and the following action was had:


   "In the matter of reference to the Joint Council of Presidency and Twelve from the Religio Society concerning the establishment of a ‘permanent translation fund' for translating the Book of Mormon into various languages where; demand may exist for such translation; we have to report: that owing to certain restrictions in the resolutions adopted by the convention looking to final control of the fund being held by the executive of the Religio Society, even to the directing of the Board of Publication in issuing publication of the Book of Mormon, thus setting aside the general church authorities and the conference, and virtually placing the Religio authorities over the general church authorities, we

therefore return the document to the Religio Society with our disapproval." 

Respectfully submitted,

FREDERICK M. SMITH,

FREDERICK A. SMITH,

Secretaries of the Council .

INDEPENDENCE,.MISSOURI, April 18, 1910.

 

No. 654. We your committee appointed to consider the request of the Zion's Religio Literary Society with reference to the Book of Mormon in German beg leave to report as follows:.

   Whereas, it appears from the record submitted to this committee that Zion's Religio‑Literary Society has taken active steps to raise a fund for the translation of the Book of Mormon into foreign languages, and,

   Whereas, said society has deposited in the hands of the Presiding Bishop the sum of $800 for the purpose of guaranteeing the translation and publishing of the Book of Mormon in the German language; and, 

   Whereas, the said society has declared by resolution that it claims the right to direct, through its executive, the Board of Publication in the issuing of books provided for by this fund; and,

   Whereas, we think it unwise for the Board of Publication to handle and become responsible for funds not entirely under its control, and are of the opinion that the church, through its authorized representatives, should own and control all publications issued under the authority of the church;  therefore,

   Resolved, That we recommend that unless Zion's Religio-Literary Society is willing to donate, without reservation, for the purpose named, said society be permitted to withdraw the amount of its funds now in the hands of the Presiding Bishop.

F. M. SHEEHY.

J. A. BECKER.

F. B. BLAIR.

H. C. SMITH.

 

No. 655. A concordance to the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, prepared by Bishop Roderick May, offered by him to the church for its publication and use, was referred to the Presidency, to be referred to the Board of Publication if approved by the Presidency.

 

No. 656. That the Presidency be authorized to fill vacancies in the High Council, to act temporarily, that cases before the council, may be heard.

 

Adopted April 7, 1911.

 

No.  657.  “Whereas, it is reported that the Jews in Russia are being treated with inhuman cruelty; and

   “Whereas, such treatment we hold to be an outraging of the modern conception of the rights and privileges which are justly due all mankind; in which all men are allowed the right ‘to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness’; and

   “Whereas, while this unjust treatment of these unfortunate people in the Russian Empire is allowed to continue without the protest of Christian civilization, this neglect or indifference would make such largely responsible with those who perpetrate such barbarism; therefore be it

   “Resolved, That we, the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, assembled in the fifty-eighth annual General Conference, at Lamoni, Iowa, April 7, 1911, do hereby voice our most earnest protest against these Russian atrocities to the Jewish people; and be it further

   “Resolved, That a copy of these preambles and resolutions be forwarded to the President of the United States and the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives, that this grave matter may be dealt with diplomatically, having in view the amelioration of these conditions.”

 

Adopted April 8, 1911.

 

No.  658.  The Louisville, Kentucky Branch was annexed to the Southern Indiana District. 

 

No. 659. That the Church Secretary be instructed to prepare and have printed in convenient form the credentials committee report, as complete as may be practical, to be ready for distribution at the opening session of General Conference.  

 

Adopted April 10, 1911.

 

No. 660. The Presidency, the Presiding Bishop, the Manager of the Herald Publishing House, the President of the Religio Society, and the Superintendent of the General Sunday School Association were appointed a committee "on translation of church literature into foreign languages."

 

No. 661. The report of Zion's Religio-Literary Society, including the following resolutions therein, were adopted:

   1.  That we accept the offer of the return of the German translation fund, and request that all the translation funds now on hand be turned over to the general treasurer of the society.

   2.   That all previous action taken by  this society is hereby repealed.

   Subject to the approval of the General Conference, Be it further resolved, 1. That the cost of translating and publishing the present edition of the Book of  Mormon  in  German, not to exceed two thousand copies and not to exceed the sum of eight hundred dollars, be forthwith donated to the general church.

   3.  That this society will continue its effort to raise a translation fund, the raising of the funds to be in charge of the executive committee of this society. The selection of the language, the work of

translation, and the preparation of the plates is to be in charge of such committee or committees, body or bodies, as the General Conference may designate.


  4.  That we guarantee a fund of five hundred dollars to pay the necessary cost of translation, versification of translation, and preparation of plates of the Book of Mormon in one foreign language. When the work or any integral part thereof, shall be completed, the necessary amount shall be paid over promptly to such persons as the General Conference may appoint to have charge of such work. Any part of said sum, not used, shall remain in the translation fund. The plates shall be at all times the property of the general church. 

   5.  That if the General Conference approves the plan, but finds the wording of these resolutions objectionable, the following committee is authorized to make clerical changes, to be effective till the next general convention: The convention named the executive committee as the one provided in this section.

 

Adopted April 10, 1911. 

 

No. 662.  That the Board of Auditors or a  majority of them be instructed to audit the college accounts July 1, 1911, at the close of the year's business.

 

No. 663. Whereas, We look with favor upon the growing sentiment throughout the civilized world in favor of peace and against war, and a resort to arbitration in both international and national disputes, and 

   Whereas, The Lord has commanded the church to "renounce war and proclaim peace." also to "lift up an ensign of peace and make a proclamation of peace unto the ends of the earth," therefore be it

   Resolved. That we, the ministry and delegates of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in conference assembled at Lamoni, Iowa, this 11th day of April, 1911, unreservedly commit ourselves to the conservation of world peace. 

   Resolved,  That a copy of this resolution be sent to the President of the United States, also the Senate and House of Representatives.

No. 664. The Presidency were authorized to appoint a delegate to represent the church at the next session of the American Peace Society in the National Peace Congress.

 

Adopted April 12, 1911.

 

No. 665.That  it  be  the  sense  of  this  conference  that  the  Advisory  Board  of  the  Daughters

of Zion continue as advisory committee in connection with the Bishopric of the church in assisting in carrying on the work of the Children's Home, as is proper.

 

No. 666. At the conference of 1909, April 16, a document was received from the First   Quorum of Priests stating that diversity of opinion existed concerning where quorums locally organized should report, and asking that the conference decide whether such quorums should report to the general, stake or district conferences. The request for the decision was referred to the President and general Bishopric. This council has had the question under advisement,  and  desires to report that in our opinion only quorums which are general in organization need report directly to General Conference.  Where the quorums have been reorganized with respect to locality, then they should report to the conference of immediate jurisdiction, whether stake or district.

 


    We think this applies not only to the Aaronic quorums, but the quorums of elders as well; and it is expected that in the reorganization work of the quorums yet to be accomplished the organization will be effected in such a way as to make it feasible for each quorum to report to some local conference.

   Each quorum should in our opinion file regular reports with the First Presidency and such matters concerning the quorums as are necessary to reach the General Conference can do so through the Presidency or the local conferences.

 

No. 667. We recommend that the conference be requested to ask stake and district presidents to cooperate with the Advisory Board of the Daughters of Zion in making choice of a sister in each of their respective districts to look after the work of the Daughters of Zion where there is no district organization.

 

Adopted April 13, 1911.

 

No. 668. "The committee to which reference was made for the publishing of Joseph Smith and His Progenitors, respectfully report that the request for the publication of this book in Swedish be granted and that the church appropriate two hundred dollars to be placed in the hands of the Board of Publication to aid in getting out the work, with instructions to the Board of Publication to arrange for publishing at once.”

 

No. 669. The Bishop was authorized to appoint an additional member of the committee on Saints' Homes.

 

Adopted April 6, 1912.

 

No.  670. That we are in favor of its [Juvenile Church History] completion in such a manner as to include the history of the Reorganization.

 

Adopted April 9, 1912.

 

No. 671. That the practice of theater-going should be discouraged and that members of the church should be urged to avoid the practice as detrimental to spirituality.

 

No. 672. That, in our opinion, the matter of using common or individual cups in the sacramental service may properly be decided by each branch for itself. But in those states or governments where the law forbids the common cup the law should be observed.

 

No. 673. We recommend to the General Religio Association the appointment of one member to act in conjunction with one member of  the  General  Sunday  School Association,  and  one  from

General Conference, if approved, to form a working committee to be known as the Social Purity Board, whose work shall be the meeting of men's problems relating to social purity.

 

Adopted April 10, 1912.


No. 674. 1. That all unorganized territory in southeastern Missouri be annexed to Southern Missouri District—counties of Iron, Reynolds, Carter, Ripley, Madison, Wayne, Butler, Stoddard, Dunklin, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Cape Girardeau, Scott, Mississippi.

 

No. 675. 2. That Callaway County, Missouri, be annexed to the Northeastern Missouri District.

 

No. 676. 3. That Hood River, Wasco, Sherman, and Gilliam counties, Oregon, be annexed to the Portland District.

 

No. 677. 4. That Grundy and Livingston counties, Missouri, be added to the Far West District.

 

No. 678. 5. That the petition of Northeastern Illinois District be granted, and that the boundary line of that district be as follows:  Beginning at the northeast corner of the State of Illinois and running west to the west line of Winnebago County on the northern State line; thence south on a line with the west line of Winnebago County to Bureau, and from there to the north line of Mason County. The Illinois River shall be the western boundary line, thence east on the south line of Tazewell, McLean, Ford, and Iroquois counties to the Indiana State line; thence north on the east line of Illinois to the northeast corner of the State, the starting point.

 

No. 679. 6. That Hood, Johnson, and Ellis counties, Texas, be taken from the Eastern Oklahoma District and added to the Central Texas District.

 

No. 680. 7. That Bonner, Kootenai, Shoshone, Latah, and Nez Perce counties, Idaho, be added to the Spokane District.

 

No. 681. 8. West Virginia District. That the petition of the West Virginia District be denied, and that the entire panhandle of that State remain in the Pittsburg District.

 

No. 682. The Presiding Bishop was authorized to supply a sufficient amount to complete a mission house for the Chinese Mission at Honolulu, Hawaii, in connection with appropriations made by the General Sunday School and Religio Societies.

 

Adopted April 11, 1912.

 

No. 683. That the Children's Home, of Lamoni, Iowa, known as a benevolent home, be incorporated. (Provision was made for the appointment of a Board of Trustees of said Home, three of whom should be members of the Woman's Auxiliary for Social Service; also that members thereof be designated for three, two, and one year terms.)

 

Adopted April 12, 1912.

 

No. 684. That the matter of the nature of the services to be held in the Kirtland Temple shall be left to the discretion of the First Presidency and Presiding Bishop.

 


No. 685. That the matter of erection of a library building, referred to in the Library Commission's report, be referred to the Presiding Bishopric and the Library Commission with power to act.

 

Adopted April 13, 1912.

 

No. 686.  Note.—The Articles of Incorporation of Graceland College were amended and published as amended. (See General Conference Minutes for 1912, p. 1564.)

 

No.  687. 1. The mission conferences have no jurisdiction over matters of general church importance, policy, doctrine, or interpretation.

   2. The Legislation of such mission conferences shall be confined to matters pertaining to mis-sion concerns;  and, only in harmony with and subject to the General Conference action.

    3. Annual reports shall be forwarded to such conferences from the mission officers,   districts, and branches not in districts; the ministry, including general appointees, and the local ministry not laboring under district or branch supervision, and the quorums organized in the mission.

   4. Constitution: All districts, branches not in districts, shall be considered integral parts of the mission conferences.

   The minister in charge of the mission  for the time being  shall be the president of the mission and should be elected president of the mission conference unless there are good reasons to the contrary.  In the absence of a minister in charge, one shall be chosen in accordance with the rules governing in such cases; viz, the one highest in authority and holding priority of ordination. The secretary shall be appointed from among the elders, who shall take charge of all the books and documents of the mission conferences and  hold them for the mission;  and  also attend to the necessary clerical work.  The  treasurer  shall have charge of the finances collected for the use of the mission conferences and pay out the same on order of the conference or its officers such sums as may be necessary to meet the liabilities.

  5. The secretary of the mission conference shall report the proceedings to the General Conference through the First Presidency.

 

No. 688. "Resolved, That we are of the opinion as a joint council that the church should see to it that a life membership is obtained in the American Archæological Institute, such membership to be designated by General Conference, and recommend that such membership be lodged in the Church Archæological Committee."

 

No. 689.  Whereas, The organization known as the  Leeds  District (England ),  has  lapsed,

   Be it resolved, That we hereby declare the Leeds District disorganized; and further, That the territory heretofore included in the Leeds District be added to and included in the limits of the Manchester District.

 

No. 690. That all libraries paid for by the church, directly or indirectly, whether special or general, should be handled  in a united way by the Library Commission.

 

Adopted April 15, 1912.

 


No. 691. That we reaffirm Resolution No. 550 as binding upon our representatives.

 

 Adopted April 16, 1912.

 

No. 692. That we request conference appointees to organize locals of the Woman's Auxiliary in their respective fields, working in harmony with the field workers where they have been appointed.

 

Adopted April 19, 1912.

 

No. 693. That if it be found necessary to take one of the General Conference appointees from the missionary list to act as editor of the Ensign, such permission be granted.

 

Adopted April 9, 1913.

 

No. 694. We recommend that the Saskatchewan District be divided in harmony with their petition, the dividing line being the line between the provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan, and that Alberta be organized into a new district.

 

No. 695. That the petition of the Spring  River  District be granted and that the counties of Cowley and Butler be severed from the Spring River District and annexed to the unorganized territory of Southern Kansas.

 

No. 696. That the petition from the Central Michigan District, concurred in by the Southern Michigan and Northern Indiana districts, be granted and that Gratiot County be annexed to the Central Michigan District.

 

No. 697. That the petition of the Northern Nebraska District be granted, and the name changed to Northeastern Nebraska District.

 

No. 698. That the petition from the Seattle and British Columbia District be granted, and that portion of Kittitas County lying west of the one hundred and twenty-first meridian be annexed to the Seattle and British Columbia District.

 

No. 699.  Owing to a division of one of the counties in the Panhandle of Idaho, it becomes necessary for us to correct our records and record the two new counties, Lewis and Clear Water, organized from what was formerly Nez Perce County along with what is now known as Nez Perce County, as a part of the Spokane District.

 

No. 700. That the dividing line between Eastern Oklahoma District and Central Oklahoma, the ninety-sixth meridian, be continued south to the north line of the Central Texas District, and that portion of Texas lying west of this line which was formerly in Eastern Oklahoma District be annexed to Central Oklahoma District.

 

 


No. 701. That the ordinance of blessing should not be administered to children who are old enough to be baptized.

 

No. 702. Touching the kind of wine to be used in sacrament services of the church, we are of the opinion that fermented wine should not be used, but that either unfermented wine or water should be used, and so be in harmony with the spirit of the revelations. See Doctrine and Covenants 26:1;  86:1;  119:5.

 

Adopted April 14, 1913.

 

No. 703.  That  the  Rules of Representation  be so amended  as  to  provide that  the basis

of representation shall be one delegate for every one hundred of the membership of the church.

   [Note.—The chair ruled that districts, and all branches not in districts having less than one hundred members, would be entitled to one delegate.]

 

Adopted April 15, 1913.

 

No. 704. The appointment of a General Chorister for the church, by the Presidency, was approved.

 

No. 705. A question arising in one of our districts touching what is required of a candidate requesting baptism and the method to be pursued to make that desire known....

   Resolved, That we are of the opinion that all that is necessary is for the candidate to satisfy the church authorities that he is worthy, and that it is not necessary to make a public request.

 

No. 706. That when a member changes his residence from one branch to another it shall be the duty of the officers of these branches to see that his membership is transferred as per Conference Resolution number 456, and that Certificate of Transfer when issued be sent directly to the president or clerk of the branch to which the tranfer is made.

 

No. 707. The revelation of April 14, 1913, was adopted.

 

Adopted April 16, 1913.

 

No 708. The Joint Council of the Presidency, Twelve, and Bishopric present the following to you for your endorsement relating to the appointment of bishop's counselors who are required to travel in the field:

   1.  Can  a  counselor  to  a  bishop  travel  in  the  interests  of  the  bishopric work?

   Answer. Yes; when the exigencies of the case or the interests of the work demand?

   2.  If so, under whose direction and jurisdiction does he travel and to whom does he report?


   Answer. When opportunity permits a consideration of the name of the counselors for appointment before the Joint Council of Presidency, Twelve, and Bishopric in their annual assembling, his appointment should be made by concurrent consent of these councils; but where exigencies arise in the interim of conferences and the necessity for the appointment of a counselor to do continuous church work becomes apparent, then his appointment may be made by the Presidency and Presiding Bishopric on recommendation of the bishop to whom he is acting as counselor. However, in cases of emergency, or where to protect the interests of the church immediate action is required, then  a  bishop should feel free  to send a counselor  on the mission required  and make report as early a moment as possible to the Presiding Bishop for approval or otherwise. In other words, in all instances where an emergency exists, every church officer is supposed to use his best judgment and act in the interest of the church according to his best wisdom.

   In the matter of reporting, we suggest that all the departments of the church which might be interested in the work of the counselor should be recognized by proper official courtesy: that is to say, if the work of the traveling counselor is confined entirely to the work of the bishopric, then it is sufficient that his work shall be reported to his superior officer and through him reach the Presiding Bishopric and Presidency; but in cases where missionary work is done, then official courtesy would demand that the chief missionary officers should be recognized and an account of his work rendered to them. The same holds good where the fields presided over by local officers are entered.

   3. In regard to his ministerial conduct, to whom is he amenable?

   Answer. In cases of misconduct or delinquency, such a counselor would be amenable to the usual church courts; but where in the process of hearing such a case would come before a bishop's court, it is clear, according to the opinion of this council, that such case should not be heard by the bishop's court of which said counselor is a member.

   4. Who stipulates the allowance?

  Answer. In cases where the counselor is appointed by the Joint Council of the Presidency, Twelve, and Bishopric, then the allowance should be fixed by said council the same as other missionaries. In cases where the appointment is made interim of conferences by concurrence of First Presidency and Presiding Bishopric, then the allowance should be fixed by the Presiding Bishopric and the bishop under whom the counselor labors.

 

Adopted April 18, 1913.

 

No. 709. Whereas, the collection of prophecies and statements other than those which are accepted and approved by the general church, claiming to be of spiritual origin, some of which may be of doubtful character, and the records of what may be regarded as miracles, and the publishing of such in books or pamphlets and so parading them before the public, partakes of the nature of boasting, which is contrary to the instruction of the Master: "But a commandment I give unto them, that they shall not boast themselves of these things, neither speak them before the world;  for these things are given unto you for your profit  and  for salvation"   (see  Doctrine  and  Covenants 83:11; 102:4): and,

    Whereas, we believe that such publications are detrimental to the best interests of the church and encourage an undue desire for such experiences: therefore be it,

  Resolved, That we look with disfavor upon such publications and recommend that the resolutions which are already on record have the respectful consideration and observance of the brethren who are affected thereby. (See General Conference Resolutions numbers 288, 368, 550, and Conference Minutes of 1912, page 1622.)

 

No. 710. The Bishopric, to whom was referred the resolution touching the interpretation of the term the "Bishopric of the Church,"... present to you the following for your consideration:


   The term "The Bishopric," as used in the revelations to the church refers to the Presiding Bishopric, and also to the association of men holding the office of bishop under a presiding head; therefore,

    1. Be it resolved. That when reference is made to the Presiding Bishop and his counselors, the term "The Presiding Bishopric" be employed.

  2. Be it further resolved, That when reference is made to the bishop of a stake and his counselors, the title "Stake Bishopric" should be used.

   3. Be it further resolved, That when the association of all the bishops and their council is re-ferred to, the term "The Bishopric," or "Order of Bishops" be applied.

 

No. 711. 1. Regarding the rights of districts to hold reunions within the territory limited to other districts without the consent of said districts;  we  find  that  it  is  the  custom of the church to define boundaries within which the district organization operates, and over which prescribed territory within the boundaries as thus defined, the district authorities have local supervision.

  2. Further, Resolution number 83, General Conference Resolutions, provides, that "district conferences do not have authority to send missions beyond or outside of their respective limits."

   3. This being so, it is clear that district reunion committee (a creature of the district conference) would not have a right that could not be enjoyed by the parent body.

   4. We decide, therefore, that a reunion of one or more districts would not be acting consistently with our laws and customs to arrange its location and provide for its services within such territory which by General Conference action had been placed under the local control of another district organization, unless having the consent of said district so to do.

   5. It should also be understood that this must not be interpreted to sustain any arbitrary act by any district which could interfere with the welfare of the general church.

 

No. 712. The Joint Council of the Presidency and Twelve have had under consideration for some little time the special report of the Auditors which was made to this body, and we are instructed to report the following as their action on said report, and touching the financial policy of the church:

   1. The Bishop assures us that he already has measures in hand to meet the increased demands of his work by reason of the settlement of the Saints and the extended missionary work; and we recommend that these measures be prosecuted and that the financial department of the church be rearranged  and  the  work of the department put upon  a   thoroughly  up-to-date  business  basis.

   We  recommend  that  the  necessary depart-mental help be secured; that Bishop Blakeslee, in

harmony with the late revelation, give as much of his time as is possible to the work of the Presiding Bishopric; and that the Bishop select some other man in whom the church has confidence to assist him in this work.

    2.   The  Bishop  assures  us   that   he  has  under  consideration   the  formation  of  an

organization that can hold properties and still be within the provisions of the laws of Missouri, and we recommend that this organization be completed within the conference year and necessary transfer of titles be made, and in this matter the Presiding Bishopric cooperate with a committee of the Presidency and Twelve, as suggested by the Bishop.

 

 

 

 


 3. The Joint Council recommends that the Presiding Bishop's annual report embrace the several reports of the church institutions, known as the College, Sanitarium, and Church Homes, and also a statement or budget outlining so far as practicable the minimum amount that may be required for the ordinary work of the ministry, the general church administration, and the several institutions named.

 

Adopted April 19,1913.

 

No. 713. That in cases of adultery where the guilty member has repented, and the matter is not publicly known, a written confession duly signed and witnessed by one or two officers of the church  shall  be  sufficient to establish the fact of the first offense;  said  confession, and  associated  statements   by  the  officer   or  officers,   to  be  forwarded  to   the  First

Presidency's office to be filed in the archives, which are not open to any other officers than the Presidency. The offense should not be made a matter of record in the home branch or district and should not be published by these officers receiving the confession.

   "If, however, the person should later fall into delinquency, then there should be some way to protect the interest of the church in the operation of the law which requires that the second offense of adultery shall not be forgiven, but there would be no way for the first offense to be known unless there was provision made whereby the officers could be acquainted with the first offense. This can be reached in the instance above cited if the request recently made by the First Presidency will be complied with by local officers; namely, that whenever charges of a serious character are preferred against a member, the Presidency shall be immediately notified of the charges. This would enable the Presidency to notify the officers in the case they had record of a previous offense unknown to the officers who had formulated the later charges. We think the filing of the confessions with the Presidency would be safer than having them filed with either branch or district presidents, as there is less likelihood of them becoming public property if lodged there than if lodged with a local authority.

 

No. 714. That the Presidency and the General Church Secretary constitute a committee to provide for the printing of all reports that it is possible to have made up before the convening of General Conference.

 

No. 715. That the General Chorister be authorized to appoint district choristers.

 

Adopted April 21, 1913.

 

No. 716. Elder F. A. Smith was ordained Presiding Patriarch and Evangelical Minister to the church.

 

No. 717. Elder G. T. Griffiths was ordained President of the Quorum of Twelve.

 

No. 718. That this representative body—the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the true exponent of the faith and doctrine of the New Testament Scriptures, as left by Jesus Christ, as corroborated by the blessing of direct revelation in all its forms to us and our immediate predecessors in these latter days.


Adopted April 8, 1914.

 

No. 721. That that portion of the report [of General Sunday School Association] which refers to the addition of one member of the Presidency and one of the Twelve to the Executive Committee of the Association be ratified.

 

Adopted April 8, 1914.

 

No. 722. The recommendation of the Presiding Bishop that he be authorized to issue certificates of stewardship (see Minutes, 1914, pp. 1873, 1881) was adopted.

 

Adopted April 9, 1914

 

No. 723. That the work of the Bureau of Publicity be approved and that it be continued;  that appointments of those to take charge of the Bureau of Publicity be referred to the First Presidency.

 

Adopted April 10, 1914.

 

No. 724. That this budget report be adopted and the matter contained therein be provided for.

   Note. The budget referred to is the budget or estimate necessary to meet the debt and running expense of Graceland College. See Presiding Bishop's report, Minutes, pp. 1872, 1873.

 

 Adopted April 11, 1914.

 

No. 725.  That  we  instruct  the Board of Publication  not  to accept for printing in the church papers, any advertisements of real estate dealers or banking institutions, mining stock and other projects of a speculative character.

 

No. 726. Chapter 15, Section 170, of the Rules of Order was amended to read: "The duties of the

stake presidency are to preside over the stake; have immediate charge and oversight of the general spiritual work of the stake," subject to, etc.

 

 Adopted April 13, 1914.

 

No. 727. That it is the sense of this body that no further debt be incurred by the Board of Trustees of Graceland College for such extensions as gymnasiums, dormitories, etc., until such proposed work of extension shall have first been presented to this body for its approval.

 


No. 728. We respectfully represent that the finances of the college can only be properly handled in connection with the finances of the whole church, and consideration given to every department. This end may largely be met through an annual budget, and when fully undertaken, the college should be run within the limits laid down by the body, the debt met, reduced, paid off, and when paid, kept paid, and additional expenditures made only with the consent of the body. There should be economy in collection as well as in expenditure.   But under existing circumstances,  it is an open question if there is any other alternative than for the College Board of Trustees aggressively to push efforts for the securing of means.—From Trustees' report.

 

Adopted April 14, 1914.

 

No. 729. We have carefully canvassed the situation and recognized the fact that many of the textbooks now commonly used in institutions of learning assume, as proven, certain hypotheses, which in the minds of the young tend to raise questions of doubt as to the faith of their fathers, and that the manner in which these questions are sometimes discussed tends towards agnosticism or even atheism.

   And while we believe that in the revelation to Oliver Cowdery and W. W. Phelps an opportunity was given to meet some of these difficulties, yet in the education of our young people we must fit them to meet the questions of the day, and many of these ideas are too firmly established to be ignored with impunity, even were that desirable. Also for accredited standing, definite work must be covered, and especially if advanced work is to be taken in other institutions of learning.

   We therefore respectfully recommend that the standard textbooks used in other institutions of like rank be used in Graceland College; that as rapidly as possible supplementary lectures be provided in which these topics are discussed in a fair and proper manner, and that provision be made for discussion by the proper instructors on these questions in a manner to set forth clearly the truth; and that when it may be deemed advisable, supplementary texts may be provided; but such texts only to be used in connection with the standard texts most commonly used in other institutions of learning of like rank.

 

No. 730. That this organization (Graceland Extension Institute) receive the endorsement of this conference.

 

No. 731. The nomination by the Presidency of A. N. Hoxie, Jr., as Genera! Chorister, was ratified.

 

No. 732. The committees on tracts and on organization of quorums were abolished and the work thereof left to the direction of the Presidency as a function of their office.

 

No. 733. The Presidency, according to recommendation in their report, were authorized to appoint delegates to various general congresses, etc., as they deemed advisable.

 

Adopted April 15, 1914.

 

No. 734. The revelation of 1914, was adopted.

 

Adopted April 16, 1914.

 

No. 735. That Tulsa County, Oklahoma, be taken from the Eastern Oklahoma District and that it be annexed to the Central Oklahoma District.

 

 


No. 736. That the State of Colorado be divided into two districts, Eastern Colorado and Western Colorado, and that the Continental Divide be the dividing line.

 

No. 737. That the State of Montana be divided into two districts, Eastern Montana and Western Montana, and that the western boundary lines of the present counties of Valley, Dawson, and Roseland be the dividing line between these districts.

 

No. 738. The committee on historical relics was abolished, its work being referred to the Historical Department as a function thereof.

 

No 739. The committee consisting of Presidency and Secretary to provide for publication of conference reports was abolished, the work named to be considered as a function of the work of the departments named.

 

Adopted April 17, 1914.

 

No. 740. First, The Board of Trustees of the Sanitarium shall be selected or sustained by the Annual or General Conference;  the conference to nominate direct unless it shall

choose to refer such nomination to a committee or to quorum or quorums of the church.

   Second, The physicians to be selected and appointed by the Board of Trustees as at present provided for in the Articles of Incorporation, after due consultation with the physician in charge.

 

No. 741. That it be the sense of this body that the Physician to the Church make a report of receipts and expenditures.

 

Adopted April 6, 1915.

 

No. 742.  That  nominations of the conference members of the Board of Trustees of the Children's

Home be referred to the Order of Bishops, such Order to present such nominations to the General Conference for final action.

 

Adopted April 8, 1915.

 

No. 743. That when charges are filed against any, with any responsible officer of the church, it should be left to the discretion of such officer to decide as to the validity of the charges and the advisability of impaneling a court of investigation, subject to appeal as provided for in the law.

 

Adopted April 8, 1915.

 


No. 744. That the present Kirtland District be divided, forming the Northwestern Ohio District, the eastern line of which shall be the western lines of Erie, Huron, Richland, Knox, and Licking counties to the 40th parallel, the southern boundary be the said 40th parallel. The eastern line of the Northwestern District to be the western line of the Kirtland District. The eastern line of the new Kirtland District to  be the eastern lines of Lake, Geauga, Portage, Stark, Carroll, Harrison and Guernsey counties, that the remaining portion of the present Kirtland District be known as the Youngstown-Sharon District, and that upon the concurrence of the Pittsburg District the counties of Warren, Forest, Venango, and Lawrence, Pennsylvania, be added to the Youngstown-Sharon District.

 

No. 745. That the name of the present Ohio District be changed to Southern Ohio.

 

No. 746. That San Juan County, New Mexico, be annexed to the Western Colorado District.

 

Adopted April 8, 1915.

 

No. 747.  A petition from the Massachusetts District was granted:  "The Massachusetts district conference hereby petition the General Conference for its endorsement of the individual sacrament service, to he used throughout the church. as the authorized form of service, in conformity with the laws of health as prescribed by the health officials of the United States."

   A question asked the chair, and the answer, are inserted:

   Q. Would it he your interpretation that if this resolution passes in granting the petition that any church or branch throughout the church not using the individual cup would not be using the authorized form?

   A. The chair would understand  that  that would he the form having the approval and the

authority of the church, but would not understand that any branch would be prohibited from using any other form.

 

Adopted April 9, 1915.

 

No. 748. That the matter of providing an authorized concordance to Book of Mormon be taken up and a committee appointed to prepare the same.

 

Adopted April 13. 1915.

 

No 749. Your committee on Bible normal find that there is a special demand for such a work edited and published by the church

   We recommend that the matter be referred to a committee consisting of Professors S. A. Burgess, J. A. Gunsolley, and F. M. McDowell, to provide for the writing of the book, such textual matter to be submitted to the First Presidency for approval and later to the Board of Publication for printing; and that the book should be provided as soon as possible.

 

Adopted April 14, 1915.

 

No. 750. That when this ordination [of members of the First Presidency] is performed it be performed in harmony with the pattern given in Doctrine and Covenants 117:3.

 

 

 


Adopted April 14, 1915.

 

No. 751. The joint council of First Presidency, Twelve, Seventy, and Order of Bishops this day adopted by a vote of 92 to 5 the following resolution, which is respectfully submitted to the General Conference for consideration:

  "Whereas, The Presiding Bishop is now past seventy years of age, and owing to the enormous increase in the extent and burden of the work in his department, and the probable continued increase of this work, therefore be it

   "Resolved, That we as a joint council of the Presidency, Twelve, Seventy, and Order of Bishops, recommend to the General Conference that the Presiding Bishop who has been long in service,  zealous in the performance of his duty, faithful in office, and has unreservedly given his life to the work of the church, be and is hereby honorably released from the responsibility of the work of the Presiding Bishop of the church, said release and a reorganization of the Presiding Bishopric to take place during the present year under the direction of the Presidency and Twelve, subject to ratification by the next General Conference.

 

Adopted April 15, 1915.

 

No. 752.  Your  committee  on  biographical  dictionary  hereby report  that in our opinion

such a work would be of great value to the church and we hereby recommend that it be referred to the Board of Publication and Historical Department, to be prepared and published as soon as found practicable.

 

Adopted April 17, 1915.

 

No. 753. The selection by the Presidents of Seventy, of James McKiernan "to act as President of the Council for the year," was ratified.

 

No. 754. Frederick Madison Smith was ordained President of the High Priesthood, May 5, 1915.

 

175


INDEX

 

Numbers indicate number of resolution.

 

Aaronic priesthood, quorums in British Isles, 505. 

Abstruse questions, 222. 

Accepted as compliance with rule, 286. 

"Address to the Saints," 559. 

Adultery cases,  witnesses  in,  343;  confession  of,  sufficient  to  established  first  offense,  713;

   first and second offenses,  713;  first offense,  record of  to be filed  in Presidency's office, 713. 

Advertisements in church papers, 561, 624, 725. 

Advertisements, objectionable, 561, 624. 

Affirmative and negative votes, 329. 

Against distinctions in church privileges, etc., 171. 

Alabama District, 609. 

Alberta District, 694. 

American Archæological Institute, membership, 688. 

Appeal to district conference, 125. 

Appendix to Epistle of Twelve, 135.

Appointment, allowance, amenability, labor,  and trial of bishop's counselor, rules governing, 708.  Archæology, committee on, 385; map of American, 403; report of, 497, 517. 

Articles of Incorporation, 143, 184, 248, 347, 355, 587, 614. 

Assumption in teaching to be proceeded against, 15. 

Auditing committee, 324; duties, powers, privileges of, 442, 519, 590, 591, 620,  628,  629,  662;

   on Bishop's accounts, 474, 590, 691, 649. 

Autumn Leaves to be continued, 465; editors of, 465. 

Baptism, children under eight  ineligible, 552; for  dead, 308; necessary  to reentrance into church,

   220. 

Baptisms, administrators, to go down into water, 73; candidate and administrator both go into the

   water, 212; candidates to satisfy of worthiness, 705; confirmations, ordinations, blessings in dis-

   trict, to be reported  to ensuing district conference, 131;  validity of, 71;  void when not lawfully

   performed, 73;  words of law to be used, 48. 

Basis of adjustment, Twelve and Bishopric, 330. 

Bishop, 40, 102, 95;  and  Board of Publication,  225;  and  funds, 100;  and  funds, repealed, 134;

   church property reported to be valued and deeded, 206; Kirtland Temple title, 194;  not  to pub-

   lish names of poor,  112;  of  Saint Louis District,  106;  on special fund,  366; Presiding release

   of,  751;  resolutions  on  reporting  of,  repealed,  144;  semiannual  report  of,  144;  to  accept

   Herald  Office  subscriptions,  588;  to call  on branch presidents for means,  47;  to erect build-

   ings for church uses,  533;  to  furnish  tracts,  315;  to present itemized reports of agents,  219;

   to  publish  quarterly  report of  receipts  and  itemized  disbursements,  112;  to  publish  report

   annually,  262;  to  report  real  estate,  200;  to secure  Kirtland  Temple  property  rights,  208;

   (see Presiding Bishop).

 


Bishop's accounts, auditing of, 359, 515, 590, 591;  agents' reports to close December 31, annually,

   436;  agents  to report  to  district  conferences,  reports  audited, 81;  books  and  accounts,      instructions  concerning,   474,   515,   590,  591;   counselors,  appointment,  allowance,      amenability,  trial  of,  708;   itemized  report,   publication  continued,  446;  office, auditing of,     442; office to be audited before General Conference, 442, 590, 591; recommendations  adopted,     436, 437,  438;  report to include  reports  of  church  institutions,  budget, etc., 710;  reports  to     be audited by April 1, 436;  report to close December 31,  annually,  436;   summary  statement      to be  published  before General Conferences, 591. 

Bishops  and  agents  responsible  to  Bishop,  81;  and  counselors  ordained  by Presidency, 492;

   appointment  of,  490;  not  to  take  accounts  from  elders  expending  tithes  unless  elders  so

   authorized, 123;  Order  of,  defined,  710;  ordination  of  by  Presidency,  491, 492;  to  collect

   means, 65; to select counselors, 492. 

Bishopric, 179;  added office facilities for, 438;  and Twelve,  to regulate issue of tracts in Scandi-

   navian and German,  236;  to  proceed according to revelation  of  1909,  633;  college  finances

   referred to,  642;  efforts to teach temporal  law  commended,  559;  on  college  debt,  485;  on

   quorum organizations, 311, 505; Presiding, defined, 710; reorganization of, 751; stake, defined,

   710;  Temple  Lot  suit, 389;  the,  defined,  710;   to  appoint  Board  of  Managers  for  Saints'

   Homes,  603;   to  issue   certificates  of   stewardship, 722;  to liquidate  college debt, 482, 484;

   to perfect Temple Lot title, 349, to travel, 307.

Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, 222. 

Bible normal book, 749. 

Bidamon, Sr. Emma, 44; manuscripts of Inspired Translation, 76 

Biographical dictionary, 752.

Blair, Samuel, Recorder, 11; to select and publish hymns, 14.

Blair, W. W. Recorder, 32; released as Recorder, 41. 

Blakeslee, G. A., Presiding Bishop, 252. 

Blessing of children, certificate form, 626, 701.

Board of Auditors. (See Auditing Committee.) 

Board of location, 248. 

Board of Publication, 113, 189, 196, 197, 203:   and  purchase  of  Zion's  Ensign,  405;  appoints

   Historian, 424;  financial  report  to  be  prepared  before  audited, 590;  to  be  published before

   General Conferences, 591;  history  of  church,  424;  inventory  of  stock,  620,  629;  members

   nominated by Bishop, 225;  literary work on  ministerial  basis, 379; to ask contributions,113; to

   choose Historian, 409;  to continue Autumn Leaves, 465; to elect president, 127; to incorporate,

   113; to issue certificates, 113; to release Presidency from  editorial work, 351; to secure transfer

   of Ensign property, 480. 

Blank forms, for trial cases, appeals, etc., 597. 

Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants,  J. R. Lambert's work on, 358; authorized edition,

   602, 612.

Book  of  Mormon  characters,  562;  committee  on  chapters, versification, and  references, 568,

   602;  concordance,  435,  613,  748; German  edition, 583;  in  foreign  languages, 661;  Religio

   society on "permanent translation fund," 653, 654; vocabulary, 501. 

Books, Board of Publication to purchase, 167.

 


Branches, not to ordain  persons not members in their branches or districts, 124; to report annually,     137; to report to Recorder, 69. 

Branch and districts reports, 180.

Branch, boundaries, conflicts concerning, 371; jurisdiction of, 130, 594; representation, ruling on,

   467. 

Briggs,  J. W., 9, 287;  and  Hedrick  on  pamphlet,  28;   Historian, 12;   legal  representative, 17;

   President of Twelve, 17;  released from work with Hedrick, 29; to publish pamphlet, 13. 

Budget of Graceland College, 724, 728. 

Bureau of Publicity, 723. 

Business enterprises, advice concerning, 594½. 

Business, principal, and other places of, 587. 

Cadwell, Edwin, Church Treasurer, 31.

Calling and ordaining to office, 646. 

Card playing, to be avoided, and unbecoming, 377. 

Care in use of means, 239. 

Carpenter, C. I., Recorder, 571. 

Cases of trial and appeal, 300. 

Central California District, 607; disorganized, 611. 

Central Illinois District, 468. 

Central Michigan District, 575, 696. 

Central Missouri District disorganized, 373. 

Central Nebraska District, 459, 511.

Central Oklahoma District. 621, 700, 735. 

Central Texas District, 679.

Certificate of stewardship, 722.

Charges, decision on validity of, 743.

Certificates of transfer, 706.

Children's Home,  Advisory Board, 665;  Board  of Trustees, 683, 742;  incorporation  of, 683.

Children's Home Committee on, 592,  632;  children under eight ineligible to baptism, 552.

Chinese Mission, Honolulu, Hawaii, 682.

Chorister, General, 704; A. N. Hoxie, Jr., 731; to appoint  district choristers, 715.

Church history, Juvenile, 670.

Church office building, 644.

Church of Christ, and standard books, 5, 6;  exists where are six members, 5;  pattern, 5.

“Church of Christ,” committee appointed endorsed, 466; committee to meet, 293, 466. 

Church paper, 35, 36; supervision of, 37, 298. 

Church property, to be valued and deeded to, 206.

Clergy permits, 404. 

Clerks of branches, 527. 

Clerks of courts to prepare records of cases, 531. 

Clinton District, 540.

Cochran, F. E., Librarian, 483. 

Collections, by those authorized only, 320.

Colorado Mission, 512. 


Committees, instructions to, 628. 

Common consent, 228, 234, 308.

Communion cups,  (see cups.)

Concordance and synopsis, 58.

Concordance to Book of Mormon, 435.

Concordance to Doctrine and Covenants, 229, 303. 

Conference Minutes, paging of, 454. 

Conference reports, Presidency and Secretary to provide for publication of, 739.

Conference  resolutions to be in writing, 136; and contain name of mover, 162. 

Conferences and quorums, 199. (See Quorums.)

Congress and press petitioned to suppress polygamy, misrule in Utah, etc., 177.

Consecration, 308.

Courts,  records of to be prepared, 531; blank forms  for, 596, 608;  procedure  in, 596, 604, 608.  Credential blanks, for General Conference delegates, 451. 

Credentials,  committee  on,  Presidency authorized  to appoint, 617;  report of to be printed, 659.

Credentials, to secretary, 354.

Cups, communion or individual, 672. 

Dancing, to be avoided, 317; unbecoming, 377. 

Danish Book of Covenants, Salt  Lake  edition, changed, 255;  periodical, 285, 292;  publications,

   254. 

Daughters of Zion, on children's home, 592, 632;  stake and  district  workers of, 667;  conference

   appointees  requested  to organize local organizations of, 692. 

Deacon, duties of, 471; preaching by, 449. 

Debts,  Elders not to be sent out until provided for, 122;  those contracting without fair prospects

   of paying, not in good standing, 120. 

Decatur District, under charge of missionaries, 417. 

Des Moines District, 273, 458, 526. 

Departments, all requested to report annually to Historian, 470. 

Disfellowshipped, 18;  specific charges and trial  in connection with  one,  284;  to  make reconcil-

   iation where disfellowshipped, 74. 

District conferences,  352;  no authority outside of limits of,  83;  right to preside  at,  580, 581. 

District,  letters  of  appointments, 420;  mission appointments,  83, 233, 434;  to consult missionaries     in charge in making  appointments, 434. 

District presidents, presiding right of, 580, 581; support of, 397.

Districts, right to elect all their officers, 89; rights of to hold reunions, 712. 

District  treasurers,  see paragraph 4 of amendment  to,  238;  action  appointing  repealed, 260. 

Divorce, 66, 272, 412. 

Divorced, persons illegally divorced, unworthy, 66. 

Doctrine   and   Covenants,  54,  216;   clerical  and  typographical  errors  to  be  corrected,  652;

   concordance to,  655;  German edition,  425;  J. R. Lambert's  work  on, 358;  new edition, 625,

   652; reversification of, 625, 652; section 22, 623. 

Dropping members from quorums, 453. 

Eastern Colorado District, 736. 

 


 

Eastern Iowa District, 458. 

Eastern Mission, 275. 

Eastern Montana District, 737. 

Eastern Oklahoma District, 621, 679, 700, 735. 

Editorial and publishing departments, 55. 

Editorial work, 267. 

Editor's reply to Rev. R. Patterson, 270.

Edmunds' bill, committee, etc., 247. 

Elders' accounts balanced, by labor, 300.

Elders, attendance at conference,  103; courts, 207; debts to be arranged for  before sent out, 122;

   duty of, 8;  evidence and minutes of,  to be prepared, 531;  families' support, 45, 397;  quorums,

   68;  not  appointed,  to  labor,  53;  only  to  administer  to  sick,  132;  ordained  by districts  or

   missionaries  in  charge,  312;  quorum of in British Isles,  503, 504;  in  Europe,  416;  quorums

   in  foreign  lands  impolitic, 146;   teaching  of,  222;  to  call  on  branch  presidents,  instead  of

   members,  for  funds,  46;  to  receive  aid, 232;   to report funds, 321.(See Quorums.) 

Emigration fund, 56, 57, 96, 156. 

Encyclopedias and histories, committee on, 333, 450. 

Encyclopedia articles, 223. 

Encyclopedia committee, 374, 495. 

Enrollment in quorums, 199, 240, 296, 440: applications to Secretary, 316. 

Endowments, 308. 

Entertainments,  369;   permitted  during  General  Conference  sessions,  556;  prohibited  during

   General Conference sessions, 518.  

Ensign property to be transferred, 480. 

Epistle of Twelve on tithes and offerings, 102, 330. 

Epistle of Twelve and Bishopric, 238, 330. 

Evarts' circular against polygamy, 265. 

Excommunicated persons received by baptism only, 220. 

Expulsion, causes to be recorded, 284.

Factions neither confer nor take away priesthood, 72. 

Faith of New Testament, Reorganized Church true exponent  of, 718. 

Far West District, 373, 677.

Fields, not to leave unnecessarily, 239. 

Finances, rules to provide for, 108. 

Financial policy of church, 712.

Florida District, 609.

Forscutt, M. H., Secretary, 116; released as, 140.

Funds for printing, etc., 27.

Gather, Saints to this land, 7.

Gathering, 176, 183, 184, 187.

Gavel returned to body by Pres. Joseph Smith, 618.

General Assembly, 166, 222, 228, 276, 308.

General committee on Bishop’s accounts, 474.


General Conference,  a  General  Assembly, 228;  appointees,  to  draw  expenses  from Bishop or

   agents, 261;  to report receipts and expenditures, 261;  to state amount needed  before  appoint-

   ment,  263;  to report to Secretary of Twelve,  269;  body of spiritual authorities,  Doctrine  and

   Covenants 99:5,  also resolution, 61;  elders not to withdraw from—closerattendance requested,

   103;  entertainments, etc.,  during,  not  permitted,  518;  permitted, 556;  resolutions, 295, 364,

   382, 488, 494, 567, 582; to act upon revelations, 15; to meet annually, 258.

General Conference resolutions, 600, 605. 

General officers, all to receive licenses, 443.

General Sunday School Association, 344, 380;  and  Autumn  Leaves,  564;  executive committee,

   721.

Goodcell, Henry, resignation of, 154; Secretary, 141.

Gospel Standard plant, 586.

Graceland College,  335,  337;  accounts to be audited,  662;  Articles amended,  478;  Articles as

   amended, 493, 496;  Articles of  Incorporation,  686;  committee  on  property of,  549;  college

   day,  558, 563, 573;  debt,  482,  484,  485,  727,  728;  directors, 399;  endowment  fund,  642;

   Extension  Institute,   730;   finances,   462;   financial  budget,  724,  728;   incorporation,  396;

   ordered discontinued by General Conference, 549; continued, 558;  running expenses, 558, 563;

   text  books,  729;  treasurer’s  accounts,  475;   treasurer’s  books,  475;  trustee’s  report,  462;

   trustees to keep set of books, 648.

Griffiths, G. T., President of Twelve, 717.

Gurley, Z. H., 9; Recorder, 121.

Hedrick and Owen, Brn., 26.

Hedrick, Granville, 28, 29.

Heralds and Hopes for European Mission, 179. 

Herald  Office  annual audit, 324, 590, 591;  auditing of, 442, 590, 591;  rebuilding of, 588;  state-

   ment of to be published before General Conference, 591. 

Herald, character of articles to be published, 298. 

Heresy, charge of, 536. 

Herrington, John, 9. 

Highest authority to preside, 10. 

High Council,  341;  Presidency  to  nominate  high  priests  for,  565;  to  convene council  before

   General Conference, 566; to fill temporary vacancies in, 656. 

High Priest, ordination by district void, 80.

High  Priests,  law  does  not  make  it  necessary  for,  to  preside  over branches, 111; method of

   selecting  and  appointing,  638;  president  of, 650; quorum, 88;  resolution on mission appoint-

   ments,  230;  right  to  officiate,  under Presidency,  151;  right  to  preside over  branches  when

   chosen, 111;  traveling,  subject to direction  of  Traveling  High  Council 152. 

Historian,  12,  287,  409,  424,  444, assistant,  444, 516;  encyclopedia  and  history  work,  495;

   records  in  hands  of,  313;    reports  to,  requested,  470;   to  be  aided  by  records,  289;   to

   appoint district historians, 498; to chose assistant, 444; publication by, 595.

Historical relics, Historical department, 738.

History, Church,  203;   in Millennial Star and Times and Seasons, doubtful  and  unauthoritative,

   378;  third  volume, 452;  fifth volume, 597;  examination and  revision of, 360;  of church, 165,

   287, 360, 424; of Joseph Smith, 203, 342.


Holy Scriptures endorsed, 214, 215.

Houses of worship, 211.

Hymn book, 14, 34, 43, 44, 99. 

Hymn and tune book, 323.

Idaho District, 643.

Incorporation of church, in Canada, 513; other places, 587, 630; (see also Articles of). Independence church, referred to Bishopric, 334.

Independence Stake, territory of, 547.

Inspired Translation, 62, 63;  committee on publication, 78;  means for, 75; endorsed, 214; manu-

   scripts  of, original;   copy  preserved,  77;   teachers'  edition,  627;   work  on  writing,   proof-

   reading, etc., to be done by those in the faith, 79.

Intoxicants, 297; and tobacco, 92. (See tobacco and strong drink.) 

Inventory of Board of Publication, 620, 629.

Jews in Russia, 657.

Joint committee on duties of deacons, 471.

Joint council of Presidency, Twelve, and Bishopric, 395, 559. 

Joint council, report of, 386.

"Joseph Smith and His Progenitors," in Swedish, 668. 

Journal of History, 595, 601. 

Jurisdiction, territorial, of branches, 130, 371; over members, 594.

Juvenile Church History, 641, 670.

Kelley, E. L., Presiding Bishop, 345.

Kelley, W. H., President of Twelve, 431.

Kirtland District, 426, 546, 744. 

Kirtland Temple, nature of services in, 684, property,  208;  repairs,  256,  291;  title, 194. 

Laity, right to vote, 87.

Lamoni, Iowa, principal place of business, 587; seat of First Presidency; 390.

Lamoni Stake, boundary line, 528.

Law, whole, of church, in three books, 6.

"Lay" member, term not to be used, 168.

Leeds District, 689.

Legal representative, 10, 17.

Letters of removal, 121, 185, 227, 455, 456, 457;   names  of  branches  included  in,  457,

    rules governing issue, 457, 509; to those actually removing only, 457.

Liberty of conscience, 222, 391. 

Librarian, 161, 421, 483; purchase of books, 422; to choose assistant, 464, 535, 537. 

Libraries, Church, under Library Commission, 690; joint committee; on, 585. 

Library, 60; books to be cared for, 304; oversight of, 651; building, 685. 

Library Commission, 598, in charge of church libraries, 690.

Licenses 296;  for Seventy, 432, 433;  quorum lost by release, 453;  for  Patriarch  and  all

   general officers, 443; to general officers, 117. 

“Life of Joseph the Prophet,” 287. 

 

 


Literary laborers on ministerial basis, 379. 

Literature, private enterprises in, 550. 

Local appointees not to report to General Conference, 361. 

Local commandments,  binding  only as reiterated  or commanded,  282;  not binding, etc., 308. 

Local Presidency, 580, 581. 

Locating committee, 176, 183, 184. 

London District, Ontario, 616. 

Lord, the, only avenger of wrong, 308. 

Louisville Branch, Kentucky, 658

McKiernan, James, senior president of Seventy, vice C. Scott resigned, 753.

Manchester District, 689. 

Marriage and divorce, 66, 272, 412. 

Members,  changing  residence  to  be  transferred,  706;   jurisdiction  over,  594;   to  unite  with

   branches convenient to, 455, 456. 

Memorial, to Congress, 107, 178; to Joseph and Hyrum Smith, 589. 

Mining stock and other speculation, 594½. 

Ministerial basis, 473, 606.

Ministry, financial  report  blanks,  439;  report  blanks,  388,  570;  financial  reports,  totals  only

   published, 348;  not appointed  recommended  to  districts  and  missions, 233;  not  to promote

   speculative enterprises, 594½; report forms, 332.

Ministry  reports,  375,  570;  blank  form  for,   479,  471,  523,  534,  553,  570;   publication  of

   abolished,  437;  rules  concerning  complaints  against,  604;  to  be  published  in  Herald, 479,

   481; to be summarized and reported by missionaries in charge, 448, 570. 

Mission appointments, rules governing, 235, 237, 393, 394, 414.

Mission Conferences, rules governing, 687.

Missionaries,  all to report receipts,  321;  must  be members  of  branches  or districts, 226;  none

   in  debt  sent  unless  arranged  therefore, 122;   to  labor  under  mission  presidents,  139,  551;

   two by two, 622.

Missionaries in charge,  and  district  mission appointments,  434;  and  district  presidents, 353; to

   move missionaries, 367; to appoint conditionally, 237.

Missionary in charge, decision of on branch boundaries, 371.

Mission,  conferences, 352;  fields,  subdivisions  of,  460;   work  at  Chicago  during  Columbian

   Exposition, 376; work, others besides Twelve and Seventy, 244.

Missions, none to those using tobacco, 463.

Mobile District, 609.

Moneys, all to be expended by those  in  charge  of, 322;  to  be  paid  through  branch  presidents

   and Bishop's agents, 102.

"Mormon," use of term discouraged, 381.

Names,  not to be stricken  from  records  without  action,  284,  529;  of  all  members on record,

   118;  to be attached to articles sent for publication,  305;  unnecessary  to  publish  contributors,

   306.

Nauvoo District, 149,  346,  441,  468;  action  of, recommendation  to, 145;  missionary jurisdic-

   tion of, 441; Nauvoo House, 308.

 


Nebraska, unorganized territory in, 459.

Negro race, preaching to, 95.

New York and Philadelphia District, 542.

New York District, 637.

Nodaway District, boundary, 528.

Nonpublication of items, condemned, 283; explanation of, 285.

Northeastern Illinois District, 372, 678.

Northeastern Kansas District, 510.

Northeastern Missouri District, 373, 544, 675.

Northeastern Texas and Choctaw District, 543, 621.

Northern California District, 322, 607, 611.

Northern Michigan District, 469, 574.

Northern Minnesota District, 524.

Northeastern Nebraska District, 459, 508, 697.

Northwestern Kansas District, 510.

Northwestern Ohio District, 744.

Northwest Texas District, 577.

Offices, church 533; building for, 644.

Official acts valid until silenced, 90.

Officials to do duties; 97.

Ohio District, 426, 745.

Oklahoma District, 569.

Opinions, 298, 308, 391, 536.

Order of Bishops defined, 710.

Order of Enoch, 114.

Ordinances, 202.

Ordinations, consent of branches required,  124;  of  elders  by  district  or  missionaries in charge,

   312;  of women  disapproved, 564;  legality of,  201;  legal  ones  and  legal  acts  recognized, 4;

   of Presidency, 750, 754; rebaptism  annuls, 329;  reconferred, 201;  to  be approved by those  in

   charge,  646;  to  Presidency  of  High  Priesthood, 3;  Owen  and Hedrick, Brethren, 26.

Organization to hold property in Missouri, to be provided, 712.

Pacific Slope Mission, 271, 274.

Patriarch and Evangelical Minister, 429; Presiding, pro tem, 645; Presiding, 716.

Patriarch, license for, 443; request of granted, 473.

Patriarchs, report of, 534.

Personal opinions and views, 298. (See opinions.)

Petitions, methods of presenting and of acting upon, 640.

Philadelphia District, 542.

Physician, to report receipts and expenditures, 741.

Pittsburgh District, 426, 555, 580, 744.

Places of business, 587.

Plenary inspiration, 308.

Poor, duty to, home for, 331; names not to be published, relief of 70.

Political sentiments, 52.


Polygamy, mention  of, 50;  constitutional  amendment prohibiting, 520, 530;  action against, 530.

Portland District, 610, 676.

Preaching—by teachers and deacons, 449.

Presidency and Bishop, Temple Lot suit, 413.

"Presidency and Priesthood," 197.

Presidency, editorial  labors of, 327;  excused  from  committees  if  desired,  209;  instructions  to

   Twelve, 418;  on  Doctrine and Covenants,  Book  of  Mormon, etc., 222;  on  Nauvoo District,

   441;  on  purchase  of  library  books,  422;  pattern   for  ordination  of,  750, 754;   to  appoint

   committee  on  credentials, 617;  or Twelve—to  appoint  missionaries,  etc., 139;  recommend-

   tions to Twelve,  460, 461;  report appointment  of  bishops, 490;   report  on  local  presidency,

   580;  seat  of, 390;  to  be  provided  with  facilities,  327,  351;   to  be  released  from  editorial

   duties,  327,  351;  to  appoint  special  delegates, 732;  to  appoint  time  of   meeting  of   High

   Council,  566;    to   nominate   members   of   Standing   High  Council,  259,  565;    to  ordain

   bishops,  491, 492;  to  ordain  bishop's  counselors,  492;  to  organize  High  Council,  341;  to

   provide for organization of quorums,  732;  to revise tracts, 732.

President,  and  Prophet,  38;  appointment  by  endorsed,  466;  and  Secretary  to  issue  licenses,

   433,  443;   of   Melchisedec  priesthood,  39,  754;   of   church,  3;   request  of  granted,  472;

   representative of, 10,17;  ruling of, 467;  sustained as,  etc., 163;  to  issue license, 117.

Pres. Joseph Smith, preambles and resolutions on fifty years' administration of, 634.

Presiding Bishop,  345;  to report  accounts to Annual Conference,  82;  accounts  to  be  audited,

   82; summary of report  to be  published  in  church  paper,   82.   (See Bishop.)

Press, liberty of regulated, 298; means for, 98.

Pretensions of leadership disclaimed, 1.

Priesthood,  not  conferred  nor taken by factions, 72; all to report,  20; suspended  and disfellow-

   shipped from, 18;  to preach gospel, 19;  to report, 25.

Priests in branches, 521.

Principal place of business, 587.

Printing press, 49.

Procedure in church courts, 608;  (See Courts).

Prophecies   and  similar  statements,   publication  of  in  books  or  pamphlets  not  approved  by

   church, disapproved, 709.

Publication, of prophecies, etc., not approved, disapproved, 709.

Publication not authorized rest on merits, 368.

Publishing  committee, 37, 126;  to  publish  corrected  Doctrine  and Covenants, 54.

Quorum   enrollment,  224;   enrollments   canceled,  487;  officers  to be ordained, 109; officer to

   enroll members, 440.

Quorums, 199;   efforts  to  have  filled,  253;   in  branches,  districts,  stakes,   or  missions,  584;

   local  reports  of,  666;  officers  to  issue  licenses, 117;  of  lesser  priesthood  organized,  302;

   organization of, duty of Twelve,  311;  organization,  function of Presidency, 732;  organization

   of  in  British  Isles,  503,  504, 505;  reorganization  of,  584;  requested  to  report  annually to

Historian, 470;  rules governing  changes in, 453;  to report  names  received  and  dropped  from,

   486.

Rebaptism, 71,  l212,  220;  annuls former  ordination, 329;  reconfirmation,  reordination, 133.

Reconciliation  necessary  to  branches  or  authorities  where  disfellowshipped, 74.


Recorder, 11, 21, 32, 33, 41, 42, 159, 408, 571;   assistant,  227, 430, 476;  authorized  to  act  as

   Secretary  ex  officio, 169;  Secretary also, 170;  to  receive  local  records,  350;  statistical  and

   blank forms to include counties, 615.

Record,  general,  131;  general,  districts and branches  should  have  names  of  all  members  on,

   118; names not to be stricken from without action, 284.

Records,  227;  names  stricken  from, 309;  branches  and  districts, 93; of disorganized  branches

   and districts, 350; to contain causes of expulsion, 284.

Reincorporation, 347.

Relics left by Joseph Smith, the Martyr, etc., 619.

Reorganized Church, true exponent of faith of New Testament, etc., 718.

Reports, complete,  provided for, 105;  not  objected  to,  received  and  approved, 119;  branches

   and districts,  192;  of  branches,  church  property,  94;  and  documents  to  be triplicated, 647;

   of  local  quorums,  666;  to General Conference,  to  be  printed  preceding  session,  714.  (See

   Ministry reports, etc.)

Representation, 85. (See also Rules of.)

Representation to teach the faith, 298.

Resolution No. 100 repealed, 134

Resolutions,  reaffirmed,  23,  24, 51, 325, 550, 691.  Resolutions  Nos. 288, 368, 550, to be con-

   sidered and observed,  790;  to be in writing,  136;  with name  of  mover, 162.

Resurrection, The, 391.

Reunions; mission and district authorities to arrange for, 268;  rights of districts to hold, etc., 712.

Revelation,  1853,  277;  1887,  326; 1890, 338, 340;  1894, 428;  1894,  and  joint  council,  395;

   1897,  427; 1901, 500, 502; 1902, 522; 1906, 578; of  1909, 631;  of  1913, 707;  of 1914, 734.

Revelations, 276; church to be  satisfied  concerning, 308;  endorsed  and  standards  of  faith  and

   practice, 216; of Christ only, 308; of 1909, 631; sent to branches, 16; to be included in Doctrine

   and Covenants, 216;  to be placed  before  quorums, 500;  to be tested, 15.

Rock, The, 276.

Rocky Mountain Mission, 319, 512.

Rogers, I. L., ordained high priest and Presiding Bishop, 40.

Rules of Order,  182,  207,  328,  330,  355;  amended, 370, 514;  provisions  for  amending, 614;

   revision of, 336; 532, 554; ruling on section 177: 1, 467; stakes, 726.

Rules of Representation, 703.

Sacrament, 172;  "administering the,"  401;  unbaptized   persons   not  eligible   to,  91;  teachers,

   deacons, nor laity—not to administer,  401;  unfermented wine or  water  to be used,  702.

Sacramental service, common or individual cups, 672; individual service, 747.

St. Louis District, 383, 447, 468, 541. 

Saints, attention to anti-tobacco resolution, 362;  to assist elders' families, 45. 

Saints' Homes, 331, 366, 669. 

Saints’ Hymnal, 400.

Saloons; intoxicants, 92; test of fellowship, 297. 

Salt Lake chapel, 635.

Salyards, R. S., Secretary, 407. 

Sanhedens Banner, 506.

Sanitarium, selection of trustees, 740; of physicians, 740. 


San Jose Branch, California, 607. 

Saskatchewan District, 616, 636, 694.

Scattered members retained on branch records, 227. 

Scattered members, to unite with branches convenient, 456. 

School history errors, 450.

School of Prophets, 110.

Scott, John, Librarian, 161.

Seal of church, 163. 

Sealing to eternal life, 202. 1

Seattle and British Columbia District, 599, 698.

Secretary, 140, 141, 169, 170, 407;  and  Recorder, offices  separated, 406;  and  Recorder, to aid

   Historian,  289;  duties  of, 115, 116;  enrollment  applications  to, 316;  name  of office of, 411;

   to  arrange  lists  of  quorums,  266;  to  be  on  compilation  committee, 295;  to  cancel  enroll-

   ments,  489;   to  enroll  elders  for  quorum, 240;  to  give  names  of  speakers,  299;   to  issue

   licenses  with  President,  117;  to  prepare   printed  report  of  credentials  committee,  659;  to

   provide  delegate  credential  blanks, 451;  to  receive  applications for quorums, 440;  report of,

   356; to reject local reports, 361. 

Secret  societies,  members not prohibited from joining, 175;  members  discouraged from joining,

   593. 

Section 113,  Doctrine  and Covenants, explanation with, 402; 121 Doctrine  and Covenants, 392.

Secular pursuits,  prohibited to members of first quorums, 288.

Seventy, dropped  from  quorum  may  appeal  to  High  Council, 572;  form  of  license  for, 432;

   licenses to, 433;  instruction to, 392;  may  act  as  bishop's  counselor, 577;  ordination  of,  l81;

   President of  Second Quorum  of,  415; released from  special  local  jurisdiction, 86;  resolution

   of,  231;  secretary of  to issue  licenses, 181;  to labor, tithing for families of, 160; Senior presi-

   dents, 753;  Twelve  and  to  be  first  sent,   230;  under  direction  of  Traveling  High Council,

   150; when superanuated released from quorum of, 179. 

Sheen, Isaac, appointed Recorder, 42.

Silenced members, of quorum, to be  reported as  laity, 104; officials, not to officiate, 318.

Silencing of ministers, rules governing, 604.

Smith, A. H.,  Acting  Counselor, 419; counselor to President, 429;  President  of Twelve, 340;  Presiding Patriarch and Evangelical Minister, 429. 

Smith, D. H., 294.

Smith, F. A., Presiding Patriarch and Evangelical Minister, 716. 

Smith, Frederick Madison, President of high priesthood, 754 

Smith, Heman C., Historian, 444.

Smith, Joseph,  chosen President and Prophet  and  Successor, 38, 39;  Editor  Herald  and Hope,

   267;  in  charge  of  editorial  and publishing  departments,  55;  literary  labor to  be  limited  to

   editorial work, 267;  sustained as President, Prophet,  Seer, and Revelator, 153. (See President.)  Smith, F. M. Historian, 424;  Librarian, 421.

Social Purity Board, 673. 

Southeastern Illinois District, 441, 447, 468, 545.

Southeastern Mission, 148. 

Southern Indiana District, 499, 658.


Southern Michigan and Northern Indiana District, 469, 696. 

Southern Missouri District, 538, 674.

Southern Nebraska District, 459, 508, 525.

Southern Ohio District, 745.

Southwestern Mission, 148, 477.

Southwestern Oregon District, 610. 

Speculation, in stocks, etc., 594½, 725.

Speculative enterprises, 594½, 725.

Spokane District, 599, 680, 699.

Spring River District, 477, 539, 621, 695.

Stake none at present, 7. 

Stakes, general appointees in, under direction  of  minister  in  charge, 551;  not  to ordain general

   officers or appointees without consent of General Conference, 551; organization of, 507;  presi-

   dency  and  bishopric  of  not  to  be  appointed  outside  of, 551;  presidency, duties of, 726;  to

   direct  local  laborers, 551;  some  authorities  of  may  be  appointed missionaries, 551.

Statistical blanks, Recording Departments, 615, 639.

Stebbins, H. A.,  Recorder, 159, 408, 571;  Secretary, 170, 406;  Secretary ex officio, 169.

Stenographer on ministerial basis, 473.

"Succession"—reply to B. H. Roberts' work, 445.

Successor, 2, 3, 10, 17, 23, 28, 39.

Sunday  School  Association,  339;  lessons,  290;  paper, 101;  work, 243;  sustained, 128;  to  be

   fostered, 191. 

Superannuated ministers, 560.

Synopsis, 58, 198, 205.

Teaching, contrary to General Conference resolutions censurable, 187; of ministry, 222, 387, 391.

Temple building and endowments, 308.

Temple Lot Suit, 349, 389, 413.

Tent work, 398.

Territory under supervision of Twelve, 461.

Test of reception and fellowship, 222.

Theater going, 671.

Three  books,  not  to be attacked, 298;  authority in government, doctrine, and controversy, 215,

   216;  standards, 6, 8, 222, 298, 308, 368; 387;  whole law contained in, 6.

Tithing,  binding in scattered condition, 174;  epistles on, 102, 135, 238, 330, 559;  law  of  appli-

   cable  in present, 210;  ministers  ineligible who ignore, 363;  to be taught, 138;  voluntary, 308.

Tobacco, 2I7; users of ineligible to appointment, 329, 362.

Tobacco and strong drink, 92, 235, 329, 362, 463.

Toronto District, 616.

Tracts, 59;  committee  on, 164;  abolished, 732;  for  free  distribution, 315; German, 250;  Presi-

   dency, Twelve, and Bishopric to furnish, 155.

Translation, committee on, 660; fund, 661. 

Traveling ministry under direction of Presidency and Twelve, 84. 

Treasurer, 30, 31; to give security, 30, 33.

Trial and appeal cases, 301; blank forms for, 597.


Trial, citations to through Herald discontinued, 188.

Trustee.  (See Bishop.)

Tune Book, 129, 190, 193, 196, 204, 213, 221. 

Twelve  and  Bishop  on  temporal  law,  135,  238,  330;  relieve  Presidency,  351. 

Twelve and Seventy  to be  first  sent  and  supported, 230, 231;  to  take  elders  and  priests  into

   fields, 237. 

Twelve, compare  present, Palmyra edition,  Book  of  Mormon  with  Whitmer  manuscript,  281;

   decisions binding till repealed,  280;  epistle of  on  tithes  and offerings, 102;  epistle  of Twelve

   and  Bishopric,  238,  330;  260-264;  filled  in  part, 22;  measures  to  release hands of,  64, 65;

   not  to  control funds,  100;  President  of, 17, 419, 431, 717;  President  of,  Acting  Counselor,

   419;  presidents of Church  abroad, 279, 580, 581;  released from special  local  jurisdiction, 86;

   report on preaching by teachers and deacons,  449;  resolution  not to  control  funds,  repealed,

   134; to  appoint  missionaries, 139; take  charge  of  important, especially foreign missions, 173;

   to meet  before  General Conference, 269;  to  act  with  Presidency  in organizing  stakes,  507;

   to  send  copies  of  revelations, 15;  to  try all revelations  and  manifestations, 15; travel  under

   direction of Presidency,  according to revelations, 147;  two by two to hold special conferences,

   418;  to organize local ministry, 418, 503-505; will not appoint users of tobacco, 362. 

Two by two, appointing, 622.

Unbaptized persons not entitled to sacrament, 91. 

Utah chapel, 142, 186, 195, 218, 242, 635.

Utah,  Committee on Edmunds' bill on, 247; mission, 157;  problem, question, 548;  church  offers

   to supply missionaries, 246; polygamy in, 520, 530. 

Utah district. 643.

Utah Saints advised to remain for work's sake, 67. 

Voice of the Captives, 13. 

Voice of Warning, 410, 423.

Vote, Right to, 87.

Wales, Periodical in, 158

West Virginia District, 681.

Western Colorado District, 737, 746.

Western Michigan District, 576.

Western Montana District, 737.

Western Oklahoma District, 621. Winnipeg District, 616, 636. 

Wisconsin districts, 384.

Withdrawals from church, 284, 309, 529.

Witnesses in adultery cases, 343.

Women, as workers in auxiliary organizations, 564, ordination of not favored, 564.

Women's Auxiliary (See Daughters of Zion)

Word of Consolation, 9, 51.

Words to be used in baptisms, 48.

World Peace, 663, 664.

World's Fair representation, 357.

Yea and nay votes, 310.

Youngstown-Sharon District, 744.


Zion, 7.

Zion’s Ensign, 405, 480; Provision for editorship, 693.

Zion's Religio-Literary Society,  365;  action  of  conference  on "permanent  translation  fund" of,

   653, 654, 661. 

Zion's Religio and Autumn Leaves, 465.

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

Compilation of

 

GENERAL CONFERENCE

RESOLUTIONS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SUPPLEMENT

1916-1923

 

 

 

 

 

PUBLISHED BY ORDER OF

GENERAL CONFERENCE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Published by the Board of Publication of the Reorganized

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 

Independence, Missouri, 1925

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

 

Supplement to

 

General Conference Resolutions

1916-1923

 

 

  Adopted April 7, 1916.

 

No. 755. That the intention of resolution number 560 was that the labor of superannuated ministers should be in the vicinity of their residence, under the local authorities, and of the missionary in charge where such labor is missionary in character; and that where any superannuated minister desires to labor in fields other than his residence, he should secure the consent of the First Presidency and the missionaries in charge of the fields concerned.

 

 Adopted April 7, 1916.

 

No. 756. That it [conference of Australian Mission] convene about the time of the holiday season, that it be a delegate conference on the same basis of representation as the General Conference unless later found advisable to change. . . . That the Gospel Standard, our church paper there, be placed under the care of a board of three under the direction of the general Board of Publication.

 

Adopted April 8, 1916.

 

No. 757. That for the present the city of Independence be organized into a separate stake, to be known until such time as it be organized as the center place of Zion as the Independence Stake, with the First Independence Branch as the nucleus of the stake, the stake president to be president ex officio of the First Branch, the other branches now organized in the city of Independence, or which may subsequently be organized therein, to be presided over by high priests elected by the branches on nomination by the stake presidency.

 

No. 758. That a stake be organized with the First Kansas City Branch as the nucleus, the territory to be greater Kansas City, and the territory lying east of Kansas City and west of Independence.

 

No. 759.  That the remaining territory of the present Independence Stake be organized into a

stake with Holden as the nucleus.

 

Adopted April 13, 1916.

 

No. 760. That all nominations for members of the board of the Independence Sanitarium be made by the First Presidency, Quorum of Twelve, and Order of Bishops of the church.

   That no physician shall be eligible to membership on this board.


   That the board shall  be  elected,  two for one year,  two for two years, two for three years, and one for four years, and that the term of office shall hereafter cover a period of four years, making the membership of the board seven as it now stands.

 

Adopted April 14, 1916.

 

No. 761. We find that the [Ensign] real estate and building are carried in the same account, no depreciation being shown on the building. We are of the opinion that the land should be entered in one account and the building in another, both at present estimated value, the building to be depreciated one and one half per cent per annum as provided by General Conference resolution number 629.

 

Adopted April 15, 1916.

 

No. 762. As representatives of the financial department of the church [Order of Bishops] we herewith submit what we consider are the present urgent needs:

   1. Properly sustaining the missionary force and the poor and needy. 2. The paying of the church debt. 3. The erection of proper offices for the general church officers as provided by General Conference resolutions numbers 533 and 644.

 

Adopted April 17, 1916.

 

No. 763. Whereas, the Bishopric is the representative body of the financial department of the church, and should, therefore, be first to consider matters involving the expenditure of money; therefore, be it

   Resolved, that all matters involving the appropriation of funds by General Conference be referred to the Order of Bishops, which shall hereafter be considered the standing appropriation committee of the church.

 

No. 764. The Rules of Order and Debate—that portion which refers to rules of parliamentary procedure, reported by the committee on same—was adopted.

 

Adopted April 6, 1917.

 

No. 765. The Presidency . . . without going into a discussion of the whole question wish to suggest the inadvisability of attempting any legislation upon it [mixed bathing]. Improprieties occurring in mixed bathing should be noticed by the local officers where occurring when they demand attention, as should improprieties in other situations, the various cases being treated according to the characteristics of each. In general, therefore, we recommend no action further than  to return the request with the suggestion that the matter be handled as a local problem, if it has become such, they to seek advice and counsel from such general officers as are in position to be appealed to for the administrative assistance needed.

 


Adopted April 7, 1917.

 

No. 766. That we petition the General Conference to divide the Pittsburgh district as follows: The four counties; namely, Brookes, Hancock, Ohio. and Marshall in West Virginia and Belmont and Jefferson Counties in the State of Ohio; the six counties named above to be known as the Wheeling District. The remaining territory of the original Pittsburgh District to be known as the Pittsburgh District.

 

Adopted April 7, 1917.

 

No. 767. That the biennial plan of holding General Conferences be adopted. (This action was annulled by action of the conference of 1922, which adjourned to meet in 1923.)

 

Adopted April 9, 1917.

 

No. 768. Resolution number 225 was reaffirmed.

 

Adopted April 9, 1917.

 

No. 769. That what are now known as Far West and Nodaway Districts be organized into a stake to be known as the Far West Stake with nucleus at Saint Joseph First Church.

 

Adopted April 9, 1917.

 

No. 770. A recommendation by the President that to secure "adequate quarters for the General Conference, a building suitable in arrangement, appointment, and space should be built," was referred to the Presidency, Presiding Bishopric, and Quorum of Twelve, "with authority to carry out at their discretion."

 

Adopted April 10, 1917.

 

No. 771. We believe immediate action should be taken looking toward the permanent protection of the grounds at Nauvoo and to the preservation of the house still standing and known as the homestead of Joseph the Martyr.

   To this end we recommend that a permanent committee be appointed from this order looking

toward the fencing of the grounds, caring for the house, locating someone there to act as caretaker, and who shall also handle church literature, and continue the work of arranging for a suitable monument to be paid for from the general funds of the church or by special contributions in response to the call of the Presiding Bishop. 

 

 

 

 


Adopted April 10, 1917.

 

No. 772.  The  Joint  Council,  appreciating  the  difficulties  arising  from  a  misunderstanding  or

misinterpretation of conference resolution number 604, recommend that it be rescinded, and the following substituted therefor: 

   When any ordained officer or minister is believed to be guilty of immoral or unchristianlike conduct, the usual court procedure of the church adequately protects his interests. However, ministerial or official influence involves also such factors as reputation, ability, etc. Upon the authorities of the priesthood and church officers rests the duty of protecting the interests of the church when necessary by withdrawing representative or ministerial rights, these rights or interests of the individual concerned being safeguarded by appeal through the administrative line.

 

Adopted April 10, 1917.

 

No. 773. That every branch should comply with the law by receiving oblations at sacrament service, as found in section 59, paragraph 2, and that the amount so received should be placed with the Bishopric in harmony with section 42, paragraph 8.

 

Adopted April 10, 1917.

 

No. 774. That if found feasible and practicable one of the members of the Saints' and Liberty Homes committee, or some other person whom they may select, be made business  manager of the Homes, thus relieving the committee as a whole of the detail work incident thereto. 

   That the superintendent of the farm also act as superintendent of the Children's Home and College farms, if it meets with the approval of the respective boards of trustees.

 

 Adopted April 11, 1917.

 

No. 775. That we look with favor upon the adoption of a scholarship plan for Graceland College; and recommend that such portion of the College Day collection as may be necessary to provide such scholarships be set aside to assist worthy young men and women desiring the advantages which Grace land offers; and that the placing of these scholarships be left in the hands of the Presiding Bishopric and the president of the College.

 

No. 776. That the boundaries of the Mobile District be as follows: Eastern boundary, Perdido River to southwest corner of Escambia County, Alabama, thence due north to 32 degrees north latitude; northern boundary, 32 degrees north latitude; western boundary, Mississippi River and Louisiana line; southern boundary, Louisiana line and Gulf of Mexico.

 

No. 777. That the counties of Rogers and Washington in Oklahoma be transferred from Spring River District to Central Oklahoma District.

 


No. 778. That the territory in British Columbia east of the 120th meridian be taken from Seattle and British Columbia District and placed in Spokane District.

 

No 779. Upon recommendation of the missionary in charge and president of the Central Texas District we suggest the transfer of Dallas County, Texas, from Central Oklahoma District to Central Texas District.

 

No. 780. That that portion of the report of the General Sunday School Association which refers to the operation of its financial affairs, etc., as a stewardship, and which provides for deposit of its funds with the Bishopric, be adopted.

 

  Adopted April 6, 1918.

 

No. 781. That the work of auditing be done at various times ... during the year.... Accounts should be worked upon from time to time, instead of annually, thereby giving the auditors opportunity to suggest changes and improvements or corrections which could be taken into consideration by the several institutions before the closing of their books. 

 

Adopted April 6, 1918.

 

No. 782. First. That while the Sunday School, Religio Society, Woman's Auxiliary, Board of Publication, College, various Homes, and the Sanitarium have been auxiliary unto the church in their efforts, their work has become of such importance and magnitude that they should henceforth be officially recognized as departments of the church work under the following heads: 

    1. The Sunday School, primarily concerned with religious instruction. 

    2. The Religio, primarily interested in social and recreational development. 

    3.The Woman's Auxiliary, primarily having to do with the interests of the women of the church.

    4. The Department of Education, having to do with the work of Graceland College, concerning itself with collegiate and academic education of the grade belonging to a fully  standardized institution of higher learning. 

   5. The Department of Publication, having to do with the publication of all the literature of the church and its various departments. 

   6. The Department of Remedial and Corrective Agencies, having to do with the work of the Sanitarium, the various Homes, etc.

   Second. (a) That the directing heads of the several departments of church work be hereafter appointed by nomination from the Presidency of the church, approved by the General Conference, insofar as their appointment may not already be provided for in articles of incorporation under which they may be working. 

  (b) That hereafter the subordinate officers of the various departments be appointed by nomination from the Coordinating Committee, hereinafter provided for, approved by the  various departmental groups of the General Conference.  


   (It is understood that officers of the various departments for the current year will be elected in the regular manner.  The officers elected as directing heads of each department to be subject to the approval of the Presidency of the Church, provided the recommendations contained in this report are adopted by the General Conference and Conventions of the various auxiliaries. Also pending the full organization of the Department of Remedial and Corrective Agencies,  it is herein recognized that the Presiding Bishop is in fact the head of such department and should be so considered until further definite provision is made.)

   Third. That the annual conventions of the several departmental groups of the church work shall hereafter confine themselves to such time, following the opening of the General Conference, as shall be assigned them by those having in charge the work of preparing the program for the General Conference. 

   Fourth. That the directing heads of the several departments of church work shall hereafter make their reports to the Presidency of the Church at such time as shall be determined by said Presidency, including therein such reports of subordinate officers as may be deemed necessary.

   Fifth.  That the question of financing of the several departments of the church work and of determining whether or not their financial interests shall be under the direct supervision of a bishop, be referred to the First Presidency and Presiding Bishopric. .

   Sixth. We recognize that the above provides for a mere beginning of a full coordination of the interests of the church and its auxiliaries, and that while concerning many of the activities of the church there would be no difference of opinions as to where they would properly function, concerning others there would be a question. The main consideration in these doubtful cases, however, would not be where they might be placed, but that they should be definitely placed somewhere. It is therefore recommended that a permanent coordinating committee, consisting of the President of the Church and the heads of the six departments hereinabove provided for be constituted to decide where legitimate activities of the church and its auxiliaries might function to the best advantage of the body as a whole, and for the determination of such other details as may arise from time to time.

 

Adopted April 8, 1918.

 

No. 783.

AGREEMENTS OF WORKING HARMONY [WITH CHURCH OF CHRIST]

1. Agreed, that we believe in the restoration of the gospel and the angel's message through Joseph the Seer. 

2. Agreed, that so far as the fundamental principles of the gospel of Christ are concerned, both organizations believe the same, as per copies of the epitome attached. 

3. Agreed, that the Book of Mormon is a divine record, and the redemption of Zion must be by purchase.

4. Agreed, that we endorse the revelations contained in the 1835 edition of Doctrine and Covenants.

5. Agreed, that we endorse the revelation found in the letter from Joseph Smith, the Seer, to W. W. Phelps concerning the "one mighty and strong," dated November 27, 1832.

6. Agreed, that we endorse the articles on Marriage and of Governments and Laws in General, in the 1835 edition of .Doctrine and Covenants. 

7. Agreed, that we believe that there are individuals in the different factions who hold the priesthood. 


8. Agreed, that where there are six or more regularly baptized members, any one of which is an elder, there the Church exists. 

            9. Agreed, that an organization is necessary and such an organization as the number of mem-bers, and the will of God enables them to attain to. 

10. Agreed, that wherever a branch exists the power of church extension exists also to its fullest extent, when acting in harmony with the law. 

11. Agreed, that any man holding the priesthood. and possessing the proper qualifications, may be chosen by the church, by acting in accordance with the law to act in any specific position. 

12. Agreed, that faith and righteousness and the call of God are the chief essentials for the possession of the Melchisedec priesthood. 

13. Agreed, that in the opinion of this council, in order to accomplish the work of the Lord committed to his people, it is necessary for them to unite in one organization, in harmony with the law of God. 

14. Agreed, that the city of Zion will be built at Independence, Missouri, and that the Saints of God will gather there.

15. Agreed, that the principle of consecration is necessary to the establishment of Zion.

16. Agreed, that the law of Christ requires that every man be made a steward, and that none are exempt from this law who belong to the church of the living God, whether officer or member, and that all shall be equal in temporal things; and that not grudgingly, in order to be united according to the law of the celestial kingdom; and that the time has fully come to apply this law in Zion; and that we will labor together to see that it is enforced as soon as possible. 

17. Agreed, that we believe in the literal gathering of Israel, and the restoration of the "Ten Lost Tribes." 

18. Agreed, that Christ will reign personally upon the earth, and the earth will be restored to its paradisaical glory. 

19. Agreed, that the question of who the one "mighty and strong" is, whether Christ or man be left an open question until further revelation from God shall definitely determine who it is. 

20. Agreed, that the doctrine of baptism for the dead (by proxy) be not taught as a part of the faith and doctrine of the Church, unless commanded by a revelation accepted by the Church. 

21. Agreed, that what is known as the "King Follet sermon" and the book of Abraham be not accepted as the basis for doctrine. 

22. Agreed, that the branch of the Church of Christ on the Temple Lot, which was presided over by Elder Granville Hedrick and his successors, shall be continued, and that no change be made in the custody of the Temple Lot. 

23. Agreed, that all other minor points of difference in belief and practice, that may exist between the officers and members of the two organizations, be left to the elders for settlement as they assemble in council from time to time. 


24. Agreed, that whereas the Church of Christ, and the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints  consist  of  members  who have been baptized  by men holding authority, conferred by ordination under the hands of the, servants of God, called during the ministry of Joseph Smith, who have remained true to the original faith of the church organized April 6, 1830, and, whereas, both organizations stand for and maintain the same fundamental doctrine and practice, and have the same purpose and ideal in their church government and work; therefore, be it mutually agreed,  that  each  recognize  the standing  of  the  other  as  representing  Christ,  the Master, and the priesthood of each as legally constituted, and the administration of each as equally binding before God, when done in accordance with the law. 

   Resolved, that these articles of agreement be submitted to the General Conferences of both organizations, which are to be held April 6, 1918, at Independence, Missouri, for approval as the working basis of harmony between the Church of Christ and the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

 

Adopted April 9, 1918.

 

No. 784. That the Presidency be authorized to appoint a Church Architect.

 

No. 785. That . . . no church site be chosen or edifice erected by any branch without first conferring with the Presiding Bishop and the Church Architect.

 

Adopted April 10, 1918.

 

No. 786. Section 161, chapter 14, of the Book of Rules of Order and Debate, page 100, provides that "the officers of the church recognized by these meetings [referring to branch business meetings] as having a right to preside are: "A presiding elder," "a priest or priests," "teacher or teachers," “a deacon or deacons," etc.

   This gives rise to the order in the church of the choosing by the branches of presiding priest, teacher, and deacon, which thing seems not otherwise provided in the law.

   Inasmuch as this matter gives rise to confusion among the Saints and inasmuch as this matter with all the rest of the Book of Rules is under consideration,

   Resolved, that section 161, chapter 14, of the Book of Rules, be suspended until such time as the revision of the Book of Rules be completed.

   Also that section 6, chapter 1, relating to permanent officers of branches be so interpreted as not to compel the election of presiding priest, teacher, or deacon.

 

Adopted April 11, 1918.

 

No 787. That we dispense with the present system of auditing and authorize the Presidency to appoint one or more auditors to audit the church accounts.

 

Adopted April 12, 1918.

 

No. 788. Whereas,  some  misunderstanding  and  confusion  has  arisen  over the statement in Doctrine and Covenants 129:8, and the conference resolution number 710, concerning the personnel of the Bishopric, therefore be it 

   Resolved, That it is the opinion of the Bishops present at the conference that the term "Bishopric" as used in Doctrine and Covenants 129: 8, has reference to the men holding the office of bishop under a presiding head and that these should constitute the Order of Bishops.


Adopted April 13, 1918.

  

No. 789. That as citizens of the United States, we hereby reaffirm our belief in and fidelity to the Constitution and laws of the United States, and as officers and delegates of this, the sixty-fifth General Conference of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, hereby denounce all organizations of any name or character which have expressed opposition to, or sought to hinder the administration of the Government's purposes in the conducting of the present war; and unreservedly express our loyalty to and support of the United States Government in its conducting of the war against the Teutonic allies, humbly praying God's blessing on the allied cause so that complete victory may bring to us an enduring peace, preparing the way for the coming of the kingdom of God.

 

No. 790. Petition of the Eastern Michigan District asking for a division of said district was referred to the committee by the joint council of Presidency, Twelve, and Presiding Bishopric with their recommendation of approval. The proposed district to the north to comprise Huron, Tuscola, Sanilac, and Saint Clair Counties; the one to the south to be composed of Genesee, Lapeer, Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne Counties, with the addition of Livingston, Washtenaw, and Monroe Counties from the Southern Michigan and Northern Indiana District. We recommend this division subject to the approval of the Southern Michigan and Northern Indiana District. We further recommend that the district to the north be known as the Eastern Michigan District and the one to the south be known as the Detroit District.

 

No. 791. In order to officially place the dividing line between the Central Nebraska District and the Southern Nebraska District, as understood by these districts, the committee recom-mends, subject to ratification by the conferences of the respective districts, that the line be continued from the northwest corner of Lawson County eastward on the Third Standard Parallel North Latitude to the northwest corner of York County, instead of following the Platte River from the western line of Lawson County to the eastern line of Hamilton County as at present.

 

No. 792. A committee from the Saskatchewan District request that said district be divided, and we recommend that the request be granted, and that the dividing line be the line between townships numbers twenty-four (24) and twenty-five (25); the other boundary lines remaining as at present. We further recommend that these districts be known as the Northern Saskatchewan District and the Southern Saskatchewan District. 

 

Adopted April 8, 1919.

 

No. 793. That only the regular conference press committee, official stenographers, Herald and Ensign representatives, and Church Historian be permitted to occupy places thereat [reporting table]; and that all newspaper correspondents and others on application to the press committee be furnished with proper data prepared for them by the regular press committee.

 

 


Adopted April 11, 1919.

 

No. 794. That the counties of Perkins, Chase, and Dundy in Nebraska be annexed to the Eastern Colorado District, subject to ratification by Eastern Colorado District

.

No. 795. That request of Eastern and Western Montana districts to change boundary in Choteau County to longitude 111 be granted.

No. 796. That the recommendation of the president of Holden Stake to annex the counties of Moniteau and Cole to the Holden Stake be approved subject to the approval of the Holden Stake and Clinton District.

 

No. 797. That the petition of the Wheeling District for the addition of Columbiana County, Ohio, to that district be granted. 

 

Adopted April 15, 1919.

 

No. 798. The work of the Twelve is primarily missionary, but under the direction of the Presidency they may be sent to regulate in organized local affairs when such regulation is made necessary.

   The work of the Twelve is under the direction of the Presidency in the administrative or executive work of the Church both in missionary and local lines, according to the law. 

   The appointment of the Twelve is not to specific fields in charge of individuals, but the members are subject to direction by the Presidency, in this way being the "Second Presidency.” 

   Missionary and local lines of work are distinctive, and always cooperative when and where necessary. 

   Local organizations once effected, should be placed under the charge of the local officers and so far as possible or consistent with the best interests of all concerned, be not interfered with by the missionary line. 

   Besides their work in the missionary line and in regulating local affairs, the Twelve should be prepared to act as counselors to the Presidency when needed,  hence  some of  the members of the Twelve should be near if not at the seat of the Presidency so that such consultation may be had occasionally. 

   Suggested modifications to the present system: 

  The weekly letter from all appointees to the Presidency to be continued, but those from the missionaries to be passed on to the Twelve at the seat of the Presidency, consultation between them and the Presidency to be had when needed thereon, but directions and instructions issuing

from these representatives of the Twelve in harmony with the general principles understood and agreed upon by the Quorum of Twelve and Presidency. 

   For the purpose of closer and mediate supervision of missionary activities, the missionaries may be arranged into groups, each group to be supervised by a seventy, instructed in the missionary policies adopted by the Quorum of Twelve. Variations from these general instruc-tions, or other instructions made necessary  by  special  conditions,  may be issued to these  group supervisors byTwelve at the seat of the Presidency or by members of the Twelve who may be on the grounds or in the field of operation of the particular group. 


   Thus the supervision of the missionaries by the Twelve will be based upon a definite general policy determined by  the Twelve, and approved by the Presidency, and the supervision of the missionary work by the Presidency will be mediate. 

   The Twelve shall then give their primary attention to missionary work, subject to call for regulating local work by the Presidency, and ready at all times to prosecute missionary work in new fields. 

  This general scheme carries with it the concomitant idea of an adequate force of local workers competent to care for congregations and districts when organized as a result of missionary work.

   The appointment of all missionaries, domestic and foreign, to be made by interaction of Presidency, Twelve, and Presiding Bishopric, either in joint council or by concurrence. 

 

Adopted April 17, 1919.

 

No. 799. Resolved, that the church fiscal year be changed to begin July 1, instead of January 1, to be effective June 30, 1919.

 

No. 800. That we look with favor upon the church carrying its own insurance on church properties, the details of which are to be worked out by the Presiding Bishopric.

 

No. 801. The chief if not the only function of the coordinating committee is  to  determine  the placement of newly organized or reorganized activities. In the expansion of our church work, and in the efforts to supply demands constantly arising, activities will repeatedly be started with regard to which there will be a question as to which one of the departments the activity shall be assigned. To determine where the various activities shall function when such question is raised, is the primary duty of the coordinating committee. 

  The purpose, therefore, of the creation of this committee is to unify the work. To accom-plish this  there must be only one such committee,   and  the  very  purpose  of  its  creation  is threatened by the creation of local so-called coordinating committees in branch, district, or stake. The work of coordinating locally is a function of the executives of the departments. To have local coordinating committees doing work similar to that of the general, would be to confuse rather than to clarify. 

   We recommend that the nomination of district and local department heads be a matter for cooperation between the departments.

  The committee recommends that the Social Purity Board as it has existed in the past be abolished and its work, so far as initiative is concerned, be referred to the Women’s Auxiliary. Because of the close correlation of the work of the Woman's Auxiliary to the homes of the church, the committee feels that this work should logically belong to this auxiliary. 

   During the past year the Woman's Auxiliary has conducted a correspondence course in public speaking.  The demand for this course has been so great that  we  recommend  that  this course be

referred to Graceland College—provided an extension department shall be organized at the college.     We suggest that the Lecture Board activities, now directed by the Religio Department, be placed under the control and direction of the college, subject to the provision mentioned in the preceding paragraph. 

 

 


   The social and recreational responsibilities of the Religio Department have been carefully considered by the committee in connection with the organized class movement, and we suggest that organized classes in both Sunday school and Religio should be encouraged to develop social life from the gospel standpoint; and so far as practicable the same units should form classes in both departments. Their social activities should be conducted in connection with the Religio.

   The committee recommends the adoption of the suggestion of the joint report of the normal superintendent that the normal training work be turned over to Graceland College—provided the extension department is organized. (See printed reports, page 91.)

  The work of the Gospel Literature Commission also was discussed by the committee. Our recommendation is that the general commission should be abolished, but that the local (district and branch) commissions be continued: the work of the general commission to be handled by the Board of Publication.

   The committee is prepared to recommend nominations for subordinate officers of the Religio and Woman's Auxiliary departments.

 

Adopted April 18, 1919.

 

No. 802. Whereas, the method of selecting presidents of seventy is provided for by the Lord in the Doctrine and Covenants, section 124, paragraph 5, therefore be it

   Resolved, that the Presidents of Seventy shall not be restricted or prevented from making such selections in harmony with the said provisions, subject to the approval of the church.

 

No. 803. That the maximum annual financial needs of the family of each general church officer and conference appointee for the year beginning July 1,  and thereafter, be fixed by the joint council of the First Presidency, Twelve, and the Presiding Bishopric upon the basis of the family budget returns according to the law of "just wants and needs," but in no case to exceed the sum of twenty-four hundred dollars annually, the payment thereof to be made in equal monthly payments.

 

No. 804. That each general officer and conference appointee shall keep an itemized account of all receipts and expenditures for personal and traveling expenses and make report thereof monthly to the Presiding Bishop, upon blanks to be furnished for that purpose, to be prepared by the Presiding Bishopric.

 

No. 805. That each department of the church (general and stake) submit to the Presiding Bishopric a budget of their office and administration expenses for the year beginning July 1, 1919, not later than April 30 for this year and by January 31 for each year thereafter.

 

No. 806. That it is the opinion of the high council that the branches of the Independence Stake be consolidated for administrative purposes, and that membership be held in the stake as such.

 

No. 807. That the policy of the Bishopric for the coming year shall be:

   First, to provide funds for the care and expenses of the missionaries and their families who are engaged in promulgating the gospel of Christ, together with the general administration expense.


   Second, for the care of the poor and the needy and the expenses incident to the operation of the several Homes for the aged and orphan children.

   Third, for budgets adopted by General Conference for Graceland College, Sanitarium, etc.

   Fourth, an appropriation for a twelve-classroom building for Graceland College as soon as the finances of the general fund will permit without incurring debt or interfering with the regular work of the church.

  That the Christmas offering for 1919 be used for the purchase of land for the creation of inheritances and stewardships, that our less fortunate members may be given an opportunity to purchase their inheritances under favorable conditions.

 

Adopted April 9, 1920.

 

No. 808. That the recommendation of the President of the Church relating to time and place of holding of General Conference be adopted. (The place, Independence, Missouri; the time to be named on consideration.)

 

No. 809. That this General Conference place itself on record as approving the proposition and measure suggested by the First Presidency in reference to a General Conference building.

 

Adopted April 10, 1920.

 

No. 810. The following items reported at length in the report of the President were adopted by separate motions:

   Paragraph relating to the Children's Home.

   Sanitarium Annex.

   Changing Articles of Incorporation of  Sanitarium. Church  Physician  as  member of  Ex Officio

   Board.

   Paragraph pertaining to stewardships.

   Reorganization of Independence Stake.

   Transfer of Church Headquarters. 

   The recommendations of the Presidency's report as a whole.

 

Adopted April 12, 1920.

 

No. 811. That the delegates attending General Conference are, without special instruction, authorized to cast the full vote of their respective constituencies; provided that no delegate shall be entitled to cast more than 20 delegate votes, and in case of division to cast a majority and minority vote.

 

Adopted April 13, 1920.

 

No. 812. That this conference go on record as favoring our affiliation with the "Boy Scouts of America" until such time as the church shall be able to develop an organization of its own for the boys.


No. 813. Whereas, considerable discussion has arisen of late as to the propriety of using moving pictures in our houses of worship: Be it resolved that we place ourselves on record as favoring the use of such mediums of education insofar as they conduce to the proper education of humanity and the glory of God.

 

Adopted April 14, 1920.

 

No. 814. That a series of lantern slides be prepared for the use of the ministry, under the direction of the Presidency, Twelve, and Presiding Bishopric.

 

Adopted April 15, 1920.

 

No. 815. The coordinating committee recommends that the work of the home departments of the Religio and Sunday school, and the cradle roll work of the Sunday school be assumed by the Women's Department.

 

No. 816. That we look with favor upon the erection of adequate dormitories at Graceland College, and commence operations as soon as funds will permit. 

   That the Christmas offering for 1920 be used for the purchase and improvement of land. 

   Whereas, the Board of Publication in their report calls attention "to the fact that the best interests of the publishing concerns of the church would be conserved by placing the publishing houses as far as possible under one roof and one management"; 

  Therefore, be it resolved: That the Order of Bishops look with favor upon the ultimate  consummation of this object. 

   They, however, suggest that the erection of a building for the housing of the publishing interests should become a part of the general building program of the church to be undertaken under the direction of the general church authorities when financial and economic conditions render it advisable.

 

No. 817. That the time has come when the Religio, Sunday school, and Women's Department should have a publication commensurate with the growing needs of these departments. 

    That we request the General Conference to authorize the Board of Publication to make pro-vision to supply this demand. 

   That the selection of editors and all other matters involved in carrying out the provisions of the foregoing resolutions be left to the Presidency, Board of Publication, and executives of the Religio, Sunday School, and Women's Department.

 

Adopted October 7, 1922.

 

No. 818. General Conference Resolutions numbers 230 and 231 were reaffirmed.

 

 

 

 


Adopted October 9, 1922.

 

No. 819. That the Certificates of Ordination which limit the representative powers of the ministry to one year should be discontinued

 

Adopted October 14, 1922.

 

No. 820. That a committee of five be appointed to consider the General Conference Resolu-tions and add those that have been passed by conferences and bring it up to date, and that they report to this body for final action, the personnel of this committee to consist of the Historian, Secretary, and a representative each from the Presidency, Twelve, and Seventy to be chosen respectively by those quorums. 

 

No. 821. That the selection of alternate delegates by stakes and districts shall be discontinued.

 

Adopted October 17, 1922

.

No. 822. Excepting emergency expenditures, which may be approved by the Joint Council of Presidency, Twelve, and Presiding Bishopric, in no case shall the amount allowed to any general church officer's or conference appointee's family exceed $1,800, and the amount for personal and traveling expenses $1,800. That the financial statement apply not only to this fiscal year, but continue in effect until set aside by action of General Conference.

 

No. 823. Whereas, during the past twenty-seven months, there has been a deficit in the operating expenses of the church of $269,327.52, we recommend that the building of the Auditorium be postponed until after the next General Conference.

 

No. 824. Owing to the fact that there is a great deal of dissatisfaction among the ministry and the membership at large contingent upon the matter of dropping so many missionaries from active service, and believing that the greatest and most vital asset and power contributing to the success of the church, and most essential to its present crisis, is increased missionary activity; we therefore

   Resolved, That all proposed projects involving the expenditure of church finances be postponed for another year, and that the missionary arm of the church be immediately returned to appointment and activity to the extent of the financial possibilities of the church; be it further

   Resolved, That we pledge our support to the Twelve in  an endeavor to carry out the spirit of sections 114 and 122: 5 of the Doctrine and Covenants, and that the expenditure of money in any sum not authorized by the General Conference or endorsed by the Council of Presidency, Presiding Bishops, and the Quorum of Twelve, be strictly prohibited.

 

No. 825. That the boundary between Eastern and Western Colorado be the eastern boundary lines of the following counties: Routt, Eagle, Lake, Chaffee, Saguache, Alamosa, Costilla.

 

No. 826. That the boundary lines of the Utah District remain as at present constituted.


 

Adopted October 18, 1922.

 

No. 827. The Order of Bishops recommends that the expenditures for the conference year be curtailed to correspond with the receipts and to provide for this that a committee of three be authorized to work out the details. This committee shall be composed of one member of the First Presidency, one of the Quorum of Twelve, and one of the Presiding Bishopric to be chosen by each quorum respectively.

 

No. 828. That we report with favor upon request of the Sunday school for the use of its funds towards Printing textbooks.

 

No. 829.  In order to place the church in a position to properly carry on its missionary work at home and abroad, we recommend that the 1922 and 1923 Christmas offerings become a part of the general church funds.

 

No. 830. We  recommend  to  the Joint Council  that  the  existing  names  of  the  districts  in England and Wales shall be canceled and hereafter be known as follows: Northern District, Midland District, Southern District, and the District of Wales. 

  The Northern District shall include the following counties: Northumberland, Durham, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Lancashire, Westmorland, and Cumberland. The southern boundary lines running from west to east as follows: The southern boundary line to the county of Cheshire and the county of York from the River Dee to the Humber. 

  The Midland District shall include the following counties: Lincoln, Rutland, Leicester, Warrick, Worcester, Hereford, Nottingham, Derby, Stafford, and Shropshire. The northern  boundary line being the southern boundary line of the above northern district. The southern boundary line extending from the Wash in the east coast, following the southern boundary line to the counties of Lincoln, Rutland, Leicester, Warrick, Worcester, and Hereford. The western boundary line extending along the western boundary lines of Counties Hereford and Shropshire. 

   The Southern District shall include all the counties south of the southern boundary of the above Midland District. 

   The District of Wales shall include all the counties of the principality of Wales. The eastern boundary running from north to south, being the western boundaries of the following counties: Chester, Shropshire, Hereford, and Gloucester.

 

Adopted October 1, 1923.

 

No.  831. It was moved, that where there is an excess of delegates reported, the last named in excess be dropped.

   A substitute was moved: That in such cases delegations should consult with the credentials committee and bring in a report concerning changes made.


   An amendment to the substitute was moved, providing that the delegates be seated in the manner recommended by the credentials committee in the paragraph read from the committees report, which states: "Unless otherwise instructed the committee will certify delegates from these districts to the proper number in the order of their registrations with the committee." The amendment and the substitute as amended were adopted.

 

Adopted October 4, 1923.

 

No. 832. Resolved, that the ex officio members of this conference be seated in harmony with the rules of representation adopted by the church until otherwise ordered by the action of this body. 

   That we submit this our action [joint Seventy] to the General Conference with our protest against the seating of those in this conference not authorized by our present law, as was done last year.

 

No. 833. Whereas, the General Conference of 1914 adopted the following resolution: 

   "That it is the sense of this body that no further debt be incurred by the Board of Trustees of Graceland College for such extensions as gymnasiums, dormitories, etc., until such proposed work of extension shall have first been presented to this body for its approval"; 

   Therefore, be it resolved; that the annual expenditures of the several institutions under the fostering care of the church, be limited to their respective budget amounts approved of by the General Conference, and no debt be incurred.

 

Adopted October 9, 1923.

 

No. 834. Inasmuch as question has arisen in the church over the meaning and application of the law of common consent; and 

   Inasmuch as the Church of Christ is a theocratic democracy, in which the will of God is executed by divinely-appointed ministers, with the consent of the members; therefore, be it 

   Resolved that we, the officers and delegates of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in General Conference assembled, reaffirm our belief in and our adherence to the principle of common consent as set forth in the Doctrine and Covenants, the Book of Mormon, and the Holy Scriptures; and be it further 

   Resolved, that this conference affirms the right of the membership to nominate in filling all elective offices in church, stake, district and branch organizations in the various conferences and business meetings, general and local; and be it further

   Resolved, that this action shall in no way be interpreted as denying the right of presiding officers to present to the appropriate conferences or business meetings concurrent nominations for the filling of such elective offices.

  17

Adopted October 10, 1923.

 

No. 835. The committee appointed by the General Conference of 1922 to complete the compilation of General Conference Resolutions to date recommend that the purpose of the published compilation of conference resolutions shall be guidance in conference and branch legislation and administration; and that, therefore: 


   General Conference Resolutions having relation to local or temporary conditions shall be eliminated. 

   Resolutions having become obsolete through the passage of time, changed practice, or fresh legislation shall be eliminated. 

   Reaffirmations of resolutions shall be cited with each such resolution. 

  The definition of district boundaries shall no longer be part of the General Conference Resolutions, but shall be issued as an appendix thereto. 

   Articles of Incorporation and Association, Rules of Representation, etc., shall be inserted as appendices. 

   The committee requests their release and the appointment of a further committee having in view the compilation of the resolutions in harmony with these recommendations. 

   In order to bring the present book up to date on the old basis, the resolution cited on the attached sheets should be included.

 

No. 836. Inasmuch as the modern tendency seems to be towards the desecration of the purpose for which Sunday has been set apart in the traditions, laws, and customs of Christian civilizations; therefore be it, 

   Resolved, that this conference affirms its respect for the Lord's Day and looks with disfavor upon any movement or activity which under church patronage may tend to lessen the respect for the sacredness of this divine institution.

 

No. 837. That the present committee on General Conference resolutions be authorized to add to the compilation of conference resolutions from 1916-1922 those adopted by this conference, and that the Board of Publication be requested to publish resolutions adopted from 1916-1923 as a supplement to the present book of resolutions.

 

Adopted October 11, 1923

No. 838. The Order of Bishops is unanimously agreed that the time has come for the erection of an auditorium, large enough to care for our needs. 

   We therefore recommend that this conference authorize the First Presidency, Quorum of Twelve, and Order of Bishops, to each select two of their quorum to act in conjunction with the church architect, to select the site and have plans and specifications prepared, the cost to be kept well within the limits of the available funds subscribed for the purpose. 

   We further recommend that the Presiding Bishopric be authorized to immediately proceed with the erection of said building in accordance with the plans and specifications as approved by said committee, with the view to having the building ready for the use of next General Conference.

   We further recommend that any part of the auditorium fund now or hereafter collected, not expended for the construction of said auditorium, be held in reserve and invested in convert-ible, interest-bearing securities, the earnings from which shall be used for the operation, upkeep, improvement, or enlargement of said building. 


No. 839. Resolved that it is the wish of this Quorum of Seventy that all general represent-atives of the church receiving appointment shall have such appointments submitted to General Conference for ratification. 

  That nothing in this action shall be so construed to prohibit the appointing powers from making changes or other appointments between conferences.

 

Adopted October 12, 1923.

 

No. 840. That the petition of the East Independence group for transfer from the Holden Stake to the City of Zion be granted, the Holden Stake conference offering no objections to the request.

 

No. 841. That the boundary line between the Northwestern Kansas District and the South-western Kansas District as agreed upon by these respective districts be approved as follows: The south line of Greeley, Wichita, Scott, Lane, Ness, Rush, Barton, Ellsworth, and Saline Counties form the line between these districts. The eastern line of the Northwestern Kansas District, and the Southwestern Kansas District is already defined by General Conference resolution.

 

No. 842. That the division of the Southern Ohio District as outlined by the Southern Ohio District conference be held in abeyance and the boundary of the district remain as at present. We make this recommendation in view of objections filed with the committee by General Conference appointees laboring in the district.

 

No. 843. Inasmuch as the decisions of the Standing High Council are of grave concern to the church, and it is fitting and desirable that the members of this council shall be selected in harmony with the law so as to establish the greatest confidence in its functions, guaranteeing justice and equity to all; therefore, be it 

  Resolved, that the principle and method providing for the selection of the members composing this Standing High Council, be and hereby are reaffirmed, viz: 

   "Those who were presented by the high priests for ordination to their number, if approved by the council of the high priests now present, and the conference, may be ordained; and from their number there may be selected by a committee of conference composed of one of the first presidency, the president of the twelve and one other to be chosen by the council of twelve, the president of the high priests and one other to be chosen by that council of their number, a sufficient number to fill the vacancies now existing in the high council, that the high council may be properly organized and prepared to hear matters of grave importance when presented to them. And this committee shall make these selections according to the spirit of wisdom and revelation that shall be given unto them, to provide that such council may be convened at any general conference when emergency may demand, by reason of their residing at or near to places where conferences may be held."—Doctrine and Covenants 120: 9; and further, be it 

   Resolved, that members of the Quorum of Twelve, Order of Bishops, and Stake Presidencies shall not be eligible to appointment to this Standing High Council; and further, be it 

   Resolved, that all resolutions conflicting with this be and hereby are rescinded. 

 


No. 844. Moved that the conference reaffirm its approval of the Book of Rules of Order and Debate.

 

Adopted October 13, 1923.

 

No. 845. That the appropriation committee of General Conference be enlarged to include two members of the First Presidency and two members of the Quorum of Twelve.

 

No. 846. That until further notice the Christmas offering become a part of the general funds for missionary purposes.

 

No. 847. Whereas the law of God teaches that the earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof; therefore: 

   (a) All men are of necessity stewards. 

  (b) That the law of stewardships applies individually to each and every member of the church. (Doctrine and Covenants 42: 9; 70: 3; 101: 2; 118: 4.) 

   Therefore be it resolved: 

  That the Order of Bishops believe it to be the duty of every member of the church to acknowledge his stewardship by complying with the law as given in the scriptures 

   (a) Filing his inventory; 

   (b) Paying his tithe; 

   (c) Paying his surplus; 

   (d) Making his offerings; 

  (e) And thereafter giving an account of his stewardship annually as required by the law of God.

   In accordance with the foregoing, the members of the church, "who are willing and desir-ous" (Doctrine and Covenants 128: 1), under the general supervision of the officers ordained of God for this purpose, may establish such organizations as are contemplated in the law whenever and wherever circumstances warrant this procedure. 

   In order to accomplish these purposes, we deem it the duty of each individual to endeavor so far as is consistent with wholesome standards of living to establish a plane of living that will make possible an annual increase.

 


 

INDEX

 

Numbers indicate number of resolution.

 

Agreement, Presidency and Twelve, 798.

Allowances limited, 803, 822.

Alternate delegates discontinued, 821.

Appointments, rules governing, 798; between conferences, 839;  to  be  ratified  by  General Con-

   ference, 839.

Appropriations committee, 763, 845.

Architect, 784, 785.

Auditorium, and fund, 838; building of postponed, 823.

Auditors, 761, 781, 787.

 

Bishopric, defined, 788; financial policy of, 807.

Board of Publication, 768.

Boy Scouts, 812.

Budgets, departments, 805, 807; expenses limited to, 827, 833; family, 803.

 

Central Nebraska District, 791.

Central Oklahoma District, 777, 779.

Central Texas District, 779.

Certificates of ordination, discontinued. 819.

Children's Home, 774; 810.

Christmas offering, 807, 816, 829, 846.

Church "edifices" and "sites," 785.

"Church of Christ," agreements of working harmony, 783.

Clinton District, 796.

Common consent, 834.

Coordination of departments, 782, 801

 

Delegates, seating of, 831; voting powers of, 811.

Detroit District, 790.

 

Eastern Colorado District, 794, 825.

Eastern Michigan District, 790.

Eastern Montana District, 795.

Expenditures, limited to budgets, 833; to receipts, 827; unauthorized prohibited, 824, 833.

 

Far West Stake, 769

Financial department, urgent needs, 762.

Financial reports of officers, 804.


Fiscal year, 799.

 

General Conference: annual, biennial, 767; time and place, 808. 

General Conference building, 770, 809. 

General  Conference  resolutions, completion  of,  835,  83;  Nos. 225, 604, 772;  Nos.  230,  231

   reaffirmed, 818; revision of, 820, 835. 

General Sunday School Association, stewardship, 780. 

Gospel Standard plant, 756. 

Graceland College, building, 807; dormitories, 816; scholarship plan, 775. 

 

Headquarters, transfer of, 810. 

High Council, selection of members, 843. 

Holden Stake, 759, 796, 840.

 

Independence Stake, 757; branches consolidated, 806; reorganization of, 810. 

Insurance, on church properties, 800.

 

Kansas City Stake, 758. 

 

Lantern slides, 815.

Local work, 798.

 

Memorial to martyrs, 771.

Midland (England) District, 830. 

Missionary work, general and local, 798; to be increased, 824, 829. 

Mission conferences, 756.

Mixed bathing, 765.

Mobile District, 776. 

Moving pictures, 813.

 

Nauvoo properties, 771.

Nodaway District, 769.

Nominations, by members and officers, 834;  of  branch  presidents  in  Zion, 757;  of  department

   heads, 782

Northern England District, 830.

Northern Saskatchewan District, 792.

Northwestern Kansas District, 841.

 

Oblations, 773.

Officers of branches, 786.

Order  of  Bishops,  788,   appropriations  committee,  763;  on  Auditorium  and  fund,  838;   on

   expenditures, 827; on oblations, 773; on urgent needs, 762; recommendations of, 816.

 


Pittsburg District, 766. 

President, report of approved, 810. 

Physician, Church, member of Sanitarium Board, 810. 

Presidency and Twelve, agreement of working harmony, 798.

"Presiding priest, teacher, and deacon," 786.

Press committee, press table, etc., 793.

Publication for departments, 817.

Publishing plant, consolidation and removal of, 816.

Representation, rules of, 811, 821, 831, 832.

 

Rules of Order and Debate, 764, 786, 844.

 

Saints' Homes, 774.

Sanitarium, annex,  810;  Articles of Incorporation, 810; Church Physician member of Board, 810;

   trustees, 760.

Seattle and British Columbia District, 778.

Seventy, Presidents of, 802.

Silencing of ministers, 772.

Saskatchewan District, 792.

Southern England District, 830.

Southern Michigan and Northern Indiana District, 790.

Southern Nebraska District, 791.

Southern Ohio District, 842.

Southern Saskatchewan District, 792.

Southwestern Kansas District, 841.

Spokane District, 778.

Spring River District, 777.

Stewardships, 780, 807, 810, 847; organizations, 847.

Sunday observance, 836.

Sunday school textbooks, 828.

Superannuated ministers, 755.

 

Twelve and Presidency, agreement of working harmony, 798.

 

United States Constitution and Government, loyalty to, 789.

Utah District, 826.

 

Wales District, 830.

Western Colorado District, 825.

Western Montana District, 795.

Wheeling District, 766, 797.

 

Zion, city of; 757, 810, 840.