Gospel Art Picture Kit
President of the Church, 1847–1877
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“I feel like shouting Hallelujah, all the time, when I think that I ever knew Joseph Smith,” said Brigham Young (Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. Widtsoe [1954], 458). He proved to be a loyal friend and follower of the Prophet Joseph.
His example of speaking out for truth and righteousness caused some to label him the “Lion of the Lord.” “I care nothing about my character in this world,” he declared. “I do not care what men say about me; I want my character to stand fair in the eyes of my Heavenly Father” (Brigham Young Office Minutes, 24 April 1859, Historical Department Archives, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints).
As a colonizer of the West and as governor of Utah Territory, he established orderly cities and fruitful orchards. He acknowledged the Lord’s hand in making the desert blossom: “We prayed over the land, and dedicated it and the water, air and everything pertaining to them unto the Lord, and the smiles of heaven rested on the land and it became productive” (Discourses, 483).
He left this counsel to those who hesitate to pray: “It matters not whether you or I feel like praying; when the time comes to pray, pray. If we do not feel like it, we should pray till we do” (Discourses, 44).
Summary
Brigham Young, second President of the Church, was the pioneer leader who guided the Saints west to the Salt Lake Valley. He sent families to establish towns and colonies throughout the West. He taught the people to stand for truth and righteousness, to work hard, and to be educated.
Artist, John Willard Clawson
© 1997 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA
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