Translation Method, “not intended to tell the world“

The matter of how the Book of Mormon was translated has been of considerable interest and discussion virtually from the time the book became public. This is illustrated in an exchange that took place between the Prophet and his brother Hyrum in a conference of the Church held 25 October On that occasion Hyrum said “that he thought best that the information of the coming forth of the book of Mormon be related by Joseph himself to the Elders present that all might know for themselves.” In response, Joseph Smith said that “it was not intended to tell the world all the particulars of the coming forth of the book of Mormon, & also said that it was not expedient for him to relate these things &c” (Cannon and Cook, Far West Record, 23).

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This blog is dedicated to Len and Kathryn Matthews who are some wonderful people

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Inquire for Yourself of Truth

“Suppose a leader of the Church were to tell you that you were supporting the wrong side of a particular issue. Some might immediately resist this leader and his counsel or ignore it, but I would suggest that you first apply the fourth great civic standard for the faithful Saints. That standard is to live for, to get, and then to follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit.” Elder Ezra Taft Benson of the Council of the Twelve. Civic Standards for the Faithful Saints. Ensign, July 1972, 59.

Said Brigham Young: “I am more afraid that this people have so much confidence in their leaders that they will not inquire for themselves of God whether they are led by Him. … Let every man and woman know, by the whisperings of the Spirit of God to themselves, whether their leaders are walking in the path the Lord dictates, or not.” (JD, vol. 9, p. 150.)

Why are they called Interpreters and where did they come from?

The Interpreters are holy and came from God. How do we know this? Where did the Interpreters come from and why is it so important that the Prophet Joseph Smith used them to translate the plates? Remember one of the greatest stories about faith is when the Brother of Jared (Mahonri Moriancumer) saw the finger of the Lord and could not be kept outside of the veil. Jesus Christ showed himself unto Mahonri and told him to write the doings of his people and also the Lord touched two additional stones for Mahonri to seal up until after Christ would appear in the flesh. These two stones were also given to Mosiah with the same promise of being kept secret. Then these two stones were given back to Moroni who finally sealed up the Interpreters with the plates for the last time before Joseph Smith received them.

With this spiritual background of the Interpreters it is essential to understand the significance of Joseph using these “two stones” to translate the plates. In Ether we read, “And behold, these two stones will I give unto thee, and ye shall seal them up also with the things which ye shall write. For behold, the language which ye shall write I have confounded; wherefore I will cause in my own due time that these stones shall magnify to the eyes of men these things which ye shall write.” Ether 3:23-24.

It was “these two stones”, not A seer stone, not A stone, not A stone found in a well, but “these TWO stones” that were sealed up to come forth to Joseph the Prophet to translate the plates. Remember the translation was done “by the Gift and Power of God”, not by any other means. Not with one stone for convenience, or because I left the Interpreters home, or I just can’t carry two stones, so I will only use one; these things did not matter because the Prophet was to do the translation “by the Gift and Power of God”, only! Joseph’s single stone he found in a well was not THAT spiritual method that the Lord planned from the beginning. Man’s way is not the Lord’s way. Joseph Smith the Prophet of the Lord translated the records of the Nephites and Jaredites with the spiritual means the Lord intended with the Interpreters (two stones and a breastplate) that were provided inside that most sacred stone box on Cumorah’s hill. Joseph said, “there were two stones in silver bows—and these stones, fastened to a breastplate, constituted what is called the Urim and Thummim—deposited with the plates; and the possession and use of these stones were what constituted “seers” in ancient or former times; and that God had prepared them for the purpose of translating the book.” (Joseph Smith—History 1:34–35) The Urim and Thummim is the tool those in the Old Testament and many of the saints in Joseph’s day spoke of, but was only called “Interpreters” in the entire Book of Mormon. Hence the Urim and Thummim or the Interpreters are that singular spiritual instrument called by two various names combined for translation, not the single stone, or a stone I found somewhere. To equate the two is not “by the Gift and Power of God.

What led up to the discussion between whether the Urim and Thummim or the Seer Stone were used for translation?

SITH below refers to “Stone in the Hat Theory” – M2C refers to the “Two Hill Cumorah’s theory.“

“For over 150 years, LDS Church leaders taught that Joseph Smith translated the Nephite plates with the Urim and Thummim. From the early 1830s, critics said that Joseph produced the Book of Mormon by either (i) reading words off a seer stone he put in a hat or (ii) reading a manuscript written by Solomon Spalding and edited by Sidney Rigdon.

All three alternatives were set out in the 1834 book Mormonism Unvailed (Left). When that book was released in October 1834, Oliver Cowdery responded by declaring unambiguously that Joseph translated the record with the Urim and Thummim. You can see Oliver’s declaration in the Pearl of Great Price, at the end of Joseph Smith-History, or in the Joseph Smith papers here:

You might think that Oliver’s declaration, which Joseph Smith helped write and specifically endorsed multiple times, would end the debate.

But no.

A few decades ago, some LDS historians decided it was time to deal with “all the evidence.” They started what has been called the “New Mormon History” to bring out some of the evidence that differed from, and contradicted, the traditional Church history narratives.

Among these was SITH.

Historians largely rejected the Spalding theory, so they focused on SITH vs U&T. 

(Sending the Spalding theory into oblivion is one reason why everyone has overlooked the key role it played, as I’ve discussed before.)

Rough Stone Rolling was a key part of the New Mormon History’s focus on SITH, but lots of people contributed. The historians in the Church History department largely embraced the New Mormon History (as well as M2C), and the result is the presentation of SITH in the Ensign (which I discussed here), the lesson manuals, the videos, etc.

Several justifications have been proposed. 

Some have claimed that when Joseph and Oliver said or wrote “Urim and Thummim” they really meant the peep stone Joseph found in a well. That obviously contradicts both what they said and the historical record. Others claim Joseph used both, but that also contradicts both what Joseph and Oliver always said. Some say the “SITH sayers” were all liars who hated Joseph Smith, but that also contradicts the historical record. Besides, people on the other side just say Joseph and Oliver were liars. Stalemate.

In a recent presentation, I summarized it this way, leading to my own conclusions. (click to enlarge) 

As I mentioned at the outset, a longer version of this is available here: https://www.bookofmormoncentralamerica.com/p/video-summary-of-sith-and-new-mormon.html The full presentation is also available. Email me at [email protected] if you want a link.” Jonathan Neville and Joseph Smith Papers

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Now we will hear from the only First Hand Witnesses

5 Names of the same Instrument used to Translate the Book of Mormon

1- Interpreters (Word found in the Book of Mormon, PGP)
2- Directors (Alma 37:21, 24. In 1920 “Interpreters” was changed to “Directors” in the Book of Mormon)
3- Urim and Thummim (Word found in the D&C, PGP, and the Old Testament, 4 times in THE TESTIMONY OF THE PROPHET JOSEPH SMITH in the preface of the BofM)
4- The Key
5- Two stones in silver bows, fastened to a breastplate
6- Two stones which were fastened into the two rims of a bow (Words found similar in many places)

Words that aren’t defined as the named instruments above:

1- Peep Stone
2- Seer Stone
3- Seer Stones
4- Seer’s Stone
5- Stone in the hat
6- Stone

7+ First hand witnesses who saw this Instrument.

1- Christ
2- Brother of Jared
3- Moroni
4- King Benjamin, Mosiah, Alma, Helaman and each following generational leader
5- Joseph Smith
6- Oliver Cowdrey
7- Lucy Mack Smith
8- William Smith?

Everyone else not listed above is a second or third hand witness to seeing THIS Instrument, including Emma Smith, Martin Harris, David Whitmer, etc. Some helped translate but Joseph was commanded to not show the plates and the Interpreters to anyone unless advised or his death was imminent.

Christ

Now behold, I say unto you, that because you delivered up those writings which you had power given unto you to translate by the means of the Urim and Thummim, into the hands of a wicked man, you have lost them. And you also lost your gift at the same time, and your mind became darkened. Nevertheless, it is now restored unto you again; therefore see that you are faithful and continue on unto the finishing of the remainder of the work of translation as you have begun.” D&C 10:1-3

“Behold, I say unto you, that you must rely upon my word, which if you do with full purpose of heart, you shall have a view of the plates, and also of the breastplate, the sword of Laban, the Urim and Thummim, which were given to the brother of Jared upon the mount, when he talked with the Lord face to face, and the miraculous directors which were given to Lehi while in the wilderness, on the borders of the Red Sea.” D&C 17:1 Now here is the witness by the Lord of Joseph’s translation. “And he has translated the book, even that part which I have commanded him, and as your Lord and your God liveth it is true.” (D&C 17:6)

Brother of Jared

Do you realize the 16 stones touched by Christ for the Brother of Jared were for the 8 barges, but the Lord also touched two separate stones to be sealed up for the Prophet Joseph Joseph Smith later for translation?

1 And it came to pass that the brother of Jared, (now the number of the vessels which had been prepared was eight) went forth unto the mount, which they called the mount Shelem, because of its exceeding height, and did molten out of a rock sixteen small stones; and they were white and clear, even as transparent glass; and he did carry them in his hands upon the top of the mount, and cried again unto the Lord, saying: Ether 3:1

6 And it came to pass that when the brother of Jared had said these words, behold, the Lord stretched forth his hand and touched the stones one by one with his finger. [16 stones] And the veil was taken from off the eyes of the brother of Jared, and he saw the finger of the Lord; and it was as the finger of a man, like unto flesh and blood; and the brother of Jared fell down before the Lord, for he was with fear. Ether 3:6 parenthesis and color added.

13 And when he had said these words, behold, the Lord showed himself unto him, and said: Because thou knowest these things ye are redeemed from the fall; therefore ye are brought back into my presence; therefore I show myself unto you. Ether 3:13

17 And now, as I, Moroni, said I could not make a full account of these things which are written, therefore it sufficeth me to say that Jesus showed himself unto this man in the spirit, even after the manner and in the likeness of the same body even as he showed himself unto the Nephites. Ether 3:13,17

20 Wherefore, having this perfect knowledge of God, he could not be kept from within the veil; therefore he saw Jesus; and he did minister unto him.

21 And it came to pass that the Lord said unto the brother of Jared: Behold, thou shalt not suffer these things which ye have seen and heard to go forth unto the world, until the time cometh that I shall glorify my name in the flesh; wherefore, ye shall treasure up the things which ye have seen and heard, and show it to no man.

22 And behold, when ye shall come unto me, ye shall write them and shall seal them up, that no one can interpret them; for ye shall write them in a language that they cannot be read.

23 And behold, these two stones [different than the previous 16 stones] will I give unto thee, and ye shall seal them up also with the things which ye shall write.

24 For behold, the language which ye shall write I have confounded; wherefore I will cause in my own due time that these stones [2stones] shall magnify to the eyes of men these things which ye shall write. Ether 3:20-23 parenthesis added

Moroni

4 Behold, I [Moroni] have written upon these plates the very things which the brother of Jared saw; and there never were greater things made manifest than those which were made manifest unto the brother of Jared.

5 Wherefore the Lord hath commanded me to write them; and I have written them. And he commanded me that I should seal them up; and he also hath commanded that I should seal up the interpretation thereof; wherefore I have sealed up the interpreters, according to the commandment of the Lord. Ether 4:4-5 parenthesis added

Joseph Smith Quotes

“34 He said there was a book deposited, written upon gold plates, giving an account of the former inhabitants of this continent, and the source from whence they sprang. He also said that the fulness of the everlasting Gospel was contained in it, as delivered by the Savior to the ancient inhabitants;

35 Also, that there were two stones in silver bows—and these stones, fastened to a breastplate, constituted what is called the Urim and Thummim—deposited with the plates; and the possession and use of these stones were what constituted “seers” in ancient or former times; and that God had prepared them for the purpose of translating the book.” (Joseph Smith—History 1:34–35)

“With the records was found a curious instrument, which the ancients called “Urim and Thummim,” which consisted of two transparent stones set in the rim of a bow fastened to a breast plate. Through the medium of the Urim and Thummim I translated the record by the gift and power of God” (History of the Church, 4:537).

Again, he told me, that when I got those plates of which he had spoken—for the time that they should be obtained was not yet fulfilled—I should not show them to any person; neither the breastplate with the Urim and Thummim; only to those to whom I should be commanded to show them; if I did I should be destroyed. While he was conversing with me about the plates, the vision was opened to my mind that I could see the place where the plates were deposited, and that so clearly and distinctly that I knew the place again when I visited it. Joseph Smith—History in the Pearl of Great Price or History of the Church, 1:2–79.

“By this timely aid was I enabled to reach the place of my destination in Pennsylvania; and immediately after my arrival there I commenced copying the characters off the plates. I copied a considerable number of them, and by means of the Urim and Thummim I translated some of them, which I did between the time I arrived at the house of my wife’s father, in the month of December, and the February following.” JSH 1:62

The Prophet Joseph Smith stated, “On the west side of this hill not far from the top, under a stone of considerable size, lay the plates, deposited in a stone box.” “Having removed the earth, I obtained a lever, which I got fixed under the edge of the stone, and with a little exertion raised it up. I looked in, and there indeed did I behold the plates, the Urim and Thummim, and the breastplate…” (Joseph Smith-History 1:51-52)

Urim & Thummim used to Translate other things

Joseph Smith said “I inquired of the Lord through the Urim and Thummim and received from him the following.” (Note: See the preface to the Doctrine and Covenants 3,6,7,11,14,15,16,17) (History of the Church V.1p.45)

Words of Edward Stevenson:
“During the Prophet’s visit [to Michigan, fall 1834], he came to our house. My heart swelled with love as I selected and presented him with some of our choice apples. While looking over our copy of a large English Book of Martyrs, he expressed sympathy for the Christian martyrs and a hope for their salvation. He asked to borrow the book, promising to return it when he should meet us again in Missouri. On returning it he said, “I have, by the aid of the Urim and Thummim…, seen those martyrs. They were honest, devoted followers of Christ, according to the light they possessed. They will be saved.” (Hyrum L. Andrus and Helen Mae Andrus, comps., They Knew the Prophet, p. 85)

Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery finally solved the issue through an appeal to the Lord. The Prophet Joseph Smith recorded: “During the month of April [1829, at Harmony, Pennsylvania,] I continued to translate, and he [Oliver Cowdery] to write, with little cessation, during which time we received several revelations. A difference of opinion arising between us about the account of John the Apostle, mentioned in the New Testament, as to whether he died or continued to live, we mutually agreed to settle it by the Urim and Thummim.” (History of the Church, 1:35–36.)
The result of their inquiry is given in the heading of section 7. It is not known whether Joseph saw the parchment referred to and was given power to translate it, or if its contents were revealed to Joseph without his seeing the original source. It makes no difference, since the material was given by revelation to the Prophet.

“In this respect the testimony of Lorenzo Brown about the preparation the Prophet made for his translation of the Bible may be instructive. He records the Prophet as saying: “After I got through translating the Book of Mormon, I took up the Bible to read with the Urim and Thummim. I read the first chapter of Genesis and I saw the things as they were done. I turned over the next and the next, and the whole passed before me like a grand panorama; and so on chapter after chapter until I read the whole of it. I saw it all!” (as cited in Matthews, Plainer Translation, 25).” The Process of Translating the Book of Mormon Joseph Fielding McConkie (Professor of Ancient Scripture, BYU) Craig J. Ostler (Assistant Professor of Church History and Doctrine, BYU)

Oliver Cowdery
A View of the Contents of the Stone Box

“The manner in which the plates were deposited: First, a hole of sufficient depth, (how deep I know not) was dug. At the bottom of this was laid a stone of suitable size, the upper surface being smooth. At each edge was placed a large quantity of cement, and into this cement, at the four edges of this stone, were placed, erect, four others, their bottom edges resting in the cement at the outer edges of the first stone. The four last named, when placed erect, formed a box, the corners, or where the edges of the four came in contact, were also cemented so firmly that the moisture from without was prevented from entering. It is to be observed, also, that the inner surface of the four erect, or side stones was smoothe. This box was sufficiently large to admit a breast-plate, such as was used by the ancients to defend the chest, &c. from the arrows and weapons of their enemy. From the bottom of the box, or from the breast-plate, arose three small pillars composed of the same description of cement used on the edges; and upon these three pillars was placed the record of the children of Joseph, and  of a people who left the tower far, far before the days of Joseph… I must not forget to say that this box, containing the record was covered with another stone, the bottom surface being flat and the upper, crowning. But those three pillars were not so lengthy as to cause the plates and the crowning stone to come in contact. I have now given you, according to my promise, the manner in which this record was deposited; though when it was first visited by our brother, in 1823, a part of the crowning stone was visible above the surface while the edges were concealed by the soil and grass, from which circumstances you will see, that however deep this box might have been placed by Moroni at first, the time had been sufficient to wear the earth so that it was easily discovered when once directed, and yet not enough to make a perceivable difference to the passer-by.” Oliver Cowdery, “Letter VIII,” October 1835

Oliver Cowdery Canonized Scripture

Oliver Cowdery describes these events thus: “These were days never to be forgotten—to sit under the sound of a voice dictated by the inspiration of heaven, awakened the utmost gratitude of this bosom! Day after day I continued, uninterrupted, to write from his mouth, as he translated with the Urim and Thummim, or, as the Nephites would have said, ‘Interpreters,’ the history or record called ‘The Book of Mormon.’ JSH 1:75*

The most factual statement we have is the scripture above. You can’t find any scripture that explains using a seer stone anywhere.

Oliver Cowdery’s Return

“This testimony written while Oliver Cowdery was out of the Church is now in my keeping. It is a letter in his own handwriting. In October, 1848, he made his way from Tiffin, Ohio, his residence, to Kanesville, Iowa, to take up again his association with the Latter-day Saints. At a conference held there, October 21st, 1848, presided over by elder Orson Hyde, Oliver Cowdery asked for the privilege of speaking, and he said:

Friends and Brethren: My name is Cowdery, Oliver Cowdery. In the early history of this Church, I stood identified with her, and one in her councils. True it is that the gifts and callings of God are without repentance; not because I was better than the rest of mankind was I called, to fulfill the purposes of God. He called me to a high and holy calling. I wrote with my own pen, the entire Book of Mormon (save a few pages) as it fell from the lips of the Prophet Joseph Smith, as he translated it by the gift and power of God, by means of the Urim and Thummim, or, as it is called by the book, “holy interpreters.” I beheld with my eyes, and handled with my hands, the gold plates from which it was translated. I also saw with my eyes and handled with my hands the “holy interpreters.” The book is true. Sidney Rigdon did not write it; Mr. Spaulding did not write it; I wrote it myself as it fell from the lips of the Prophet. It contains the everlasting gospel, and came forth to the children of men in fulfillment of the revelations of John, where he says he saw an angel come with the everlasting gospel to preach to every nation, kindred, tongue and people. It contains principles of salvation; and if you, my hearers, will walk by its light and obey its precepts, you will be saved with an everlasting salvation in the kingdom of God on high. Brother Hyde has just said that it is very important that we keep and walk in the true channel, in order to avoid the sand-bars. The Holy Priesthood is here. I was present with Joseph when an holy angel from God came down from heaven and conferred on us, or restored, the Lesser or Aaronic Priesthood, and said to us at the same time, that it should remain upon the earth while the earth stands. I was also present with Joseph when the higher, or Melchizedek Priesthood was conferred by holy angels from on high. This Priesthood we then conferred on each other, by the will and commandment of God. This Priesthood, as was then declared, is also to remain upon the earth until the last remnant of time. This holy Priesthood or authority, we then conferred upon many, and it is just as good and valid as though God had done it in person. I laid my hands upon that man, yes, I laid my right hand upon his head (pointing to Elder Hyde) and he holds that Priesthood now. He was also called through me, by the prayer of faith, an apostle of Jesus Christ.

One month later in November, 1848, at another meeting Oliver Cowdery said:

Brethren, for a number of years I have been separated from you. I now desire to come back. I wish to come humbly and to be one in your midst. I seek no station. I only wish to be identified with you. I am out of the Church. I am not a member of the Church, but I wish to become a member of it. I wish to come in at the door. I know the door. I have not come here to seek precedence. I come humbly and throw myself upon the decisions of this body, knowing, as I do, that its decisions are right, and should be obeyed.

His request was granted and he was baptized and again was received in full fellowship in the Church, and in this fellowship, he continued to witness to the day of his death.” Restoration of All Things by Joseph Fielding Smith CHAPTER TWELVE, A TESTIMONY AGAINST THE WORLD Address delivered Sunday, August 20, 1944

Oliver Under Oath

The principal scribe, Oliver Cowdery, testified under oath in 1831 that Joseph Smith “found with the plates, from which he translated his book, two transparent stones, resembling glass, set in silver bows. That by looking through these, he was able to read in English, the reformed Egyptian characters, which were engraved on the plates.” In the fall of 1830, Cowdery visited Union Village, Ohio, and spoke about the translation of the Book of Mormon. Soon thereafter, a village resident reported that the translation was accomplished by means of “two transparent stones in the form of spectacles thro which the translator looked on the engraving.” Gospel Topic Essays.

During an 1830 trial Oliver Cowdery testified under oath, that “said [Joseph] Smith found with the plates, from which he translated his book, two transparent stones, resembling glass, set in silver bows. That by looking through these, he was able to read in English, the reformed Egyptian characters, which were engraved on the plates.” , 
(A. W. Benton, “Mormonites,” Evangelical Magazine and Gospel Advocate n.s. 2:15 April 9, 101)

William Smith

With these quotes below, I am assuming William Smith saw the Urim and Thummim and maybe even the translation process. He gives an amazing description of the entire process. I am also intrigued by William being quoted as saying, “[Joseph] always used it in connection with the breastplate when receiving official communications, and usually so when translating as it permitted him to have both hands free to hold the plates.”

William Smith’s description: “A silver bow ran over one stone, under the other, around [sic] over that one and under the first in the shape of a horizontal figure 8…[T]hey were much too large for Joseph and he could only see through one at a time using sometimes one and sometimes the other.” These stones, he continued, “were attached to the breastplate by a rod which was fastened at the outer shoulde[r] edge of the breastplate and to the edge of the silver bow.” (Tyrell Givens, By the Hand of Mormon, p.22)

Another account from William Smith: “Among other things we inquired minutely about the Urim and Thummim and the breastplate. We asked him what was meant by the expression “two rims of a bow,” which held the former. He said a double silver bow was twisted into the shape of the figure eight, and the two stones were placed literally between the two rims of a bow. At one end was attached a rod which was connected with the outer edge of the right shoulder of the breast-plate. By pressing the head a little forward, the rod held the Urim and Thummim before the eyes much like a pair of spectacles. A pocket was prepared in the breastplate on the left side, immediately over the heart. When not in use the Urim and Thummim was placed in this pocket, the rod being of just the right length to allow it to be so deposited. This instrument could, however, be detached from the breastplate and his brother said Joseph often wore it detached when away from home, but always used it in connection with the breastplate when receiving official communications, and usually so when translating as it permitted him to have both hands free to hold the plates.” (J. W. Peterson in The Rod of Iron I:3 (February 1924), 6—7.)

Wilford Woodruff

Elder Wilford Woodruff recorded in his journal that the Prophet Joseph Smith, showed him the Urim and Thummim.
“December 27, 1841: The Twelve or a part of them spent the day with Joseph the Seer and he unfolded unto them many glorious things of the kingdom of God, the privileges and blessings of the priesthood, etc. I had the privilege of seeing for the first time in my day the Urim and Thummim.” (Wilford Woodruff, Journal)

Orson Pratt

Orson Pratt in talking about the sealed part of the Book of Mormon said; “I expect that the same Urim and Thummim which the Lord gave to Joseph Smith will come forth with these plated, and they will be translated, but by whom I know not”  “Also the 24 gold plated of the record of the Jaredites.”  (J. of D. Vol.19 p. 216 & 217)

The earliest mention of the translation

“The earliest mention of the translation that we have is from August 11, 1829, just six weeks after the translation was completed. The Palmyra Freeman published an article that said this: By placing the spectacles in a hat, and looking into it, Smith could (he said so, at least,) interpret the characters.

This article was promptly republished in several newspapers, including the Painesville Telegraph on September 22, 1829.  Another article published in Rochester on September 5, 1829, directly attributes the account to Martin Harris. “A man by the name of Martin Harris was in this village a few days since endeavoring to make a contract for printing a large quantity of a work called the Golden Bible. He gave something like the following account of it…. By placing the spectacles in a hat and looking into it, Smith interprets the characters into the English language.” 

These accounts predated the publication of the Book of Mormon and the organization of the Church. Martin Harris was hardly an apostate at the time and he certainly was not trying to denigrate Joseph Smith. That’s the last thing he would do because he was mortgaging his farm to pay for the publication. 

This is only one of the reasons why I disagree with those who insist the stone in the hat is a fabrication or lie. The error, IMO, is that people (including Martin Harris, David Whitmer, and Emma) who witnessed the demonstration in the Whitmer home inferred they were witnessing the actual translation instead of a demonstration. The demonstration downstairs was rapid and consisted of the Isaiah chapters in 2 Nephi (assuming that what Joseph dictated became part of the manuscript); the translation, which took place upstairs, was laborious and consisted of 1 Nephi and the non-Isaiah material from the small plates. We can see all of this in the original manuscript, as I showed in detail in A Man that Can Translate.

I also blogged about this a bit today:
http://www.bookofmormoncentralamerica.com/2021/06/witnesses-sith-and-tipping-point.html“

Jonathan Neville

There is a big difference between saying he put the spectacles (plural meaning two) in the hat. Martin was not recorded as saying he put the stone or seer stone or a stone into the hat. Big difference.

Lucy Mack Smith
The Key Joseph Kept Constantly About His Person

Joseph Kept the “Key” ‘Constantly about his person’. Little room for seer stones. Joseph used the “Key” to translate the Book of Mormon, not the seer stone. I believe Lucy Mack and not Martin, David or Emma.

Lucy Mack Smith said, “I trembled so much with fear lest all might be lost again by some small failure in keeping the commandments, that I was under the necessity of leaving the room to conceal my feelings. Joseph saw this and followed me. “Mother,” said he. “Do not be uneasy. All is right. See here,” said he, “I have got the key.”

I knew not what he meant, but took the article in my hands and, examining it with no covering but a silk handkerchief, found that it consisted of two smooth three-cornered diamonds set in glass, and the glasses were set in silver bows connected with each other in much the same way that old-fashioned spectacles are made. He took them again and left me, but did not tell me anything of the record….

That of which I spoke, which Joseph termed a key, was indeed nothing more nor less than a Urim and Thummim by which the angel manifested those things to him that were shown him in vision; by which also he could at any time ascertain the approach of danger, either to himself or the record, and for this cause he kept these things constantly about his person.” (History of Joseph Smith, Revised and Enhanced, p. 139, 145)

Lucy Mack Smith About the Breastplate

“After bringing home the plates, Joseph now commenced work with his father on the farm in order to be as near as possible the treasure that was committed to his care.

Soon after this, he came in from work one afternoon, and after remaining a short time, he put on his greatcoat and left the house. I was engaged at the time in an upper room in preparing some oilcloths for painting. When he returned, he requested me to come downstairs. I told him that I could not leave my work just then, yet upon his urgent request, I finally concluded to go down and see what he wanted, upon which he handed me the breastplate spoken of in his history.

It was wrapped in a thin muslin handkerchief, so thin that I could see the glistening metal and ascertain its proportions without any difficulty.

It was concave on one side and convex on the other and extended from the neck downwards as far as the center of the stomach of a man of extraordinary size. It had four straps of the same material for the purpose of fastening it to the breast, two of which ran back to go over the shoulders, and the other two were designed to fasten to the hips. They were just the width of two of my fingers (for I measured them), and they had holes in the end of them to be convenient in fastening.

The whole plate was worth at least five hundred dollars. After I had examined it, Joseph placed it in the chest with the Urim and Thummim.”  (History of Joseph Smith, Revised and Enhanced)

“I have myself seen and handled the golden plates; they are about eight inches long, and six wide; some of them are sealed together and are not to be opened, and some of them are loose. They are all connected by a ring which passes through a hole at the end of each plate, and are covered with letters beautifully engraved. I have seen and felt also the Urim and Thummim. They resemble two large bright diamonds set in a bow like a pair of spectacles. My son puts these over his eyes when he reads unknown languages, and they enable him to interpret them in English. I have likewise carried in my hands the sacred breastplate. It is composed of pure gold and is made to fit the breast very exactly.” Lucy Mack Smith (in Henry Caswall, The City of the Mormons; or, Three Days at Nauvoo, in 1842, 2nd ed. revised and enlarged, (London: J. G. F. & J. Rivington, 1843), 26) Other source

Mosiah and Alma and Handed Down

11 Therefore he took the records which were engraven on the plates of brass, and also the plates of Nephi, and all the things which he had kept and preserved according to the commandments of God, after having translated and caused to be written the records which were on the plates of gold which had been found by the people of Limhi, which were delivered to him by the hand of Limhi;

12 And this he did because of the great anxiety of his people; for they were desirous beyond measure to know concerning those people who had been destroyed.

13 And now he translated them by the means of those two stones which were fastened into the two rims of a bow.

14 Now these things were prepared from the beginning, and were handed down from generation to generation, for the purpose of interpreting languages;

15 And they have been kept and preserved by the hand of the Lord, that he should discover to every creature who should possess the land the iniquities and abominations of his people;

16 And whosoever has these things is called seer, after the manner of old times.

17 Now after Mosiah had finished translating these records, behold, it gave an account of the people who were destroyed, from the time that they were destroyed back to the building of the great tower, at the time the Lord confounded the language of the people and they were scattered abroad upon the face of all the earth, yea, and even from that time back until the creation of Adam.

18 Now this account did cause the people of Mosiah to mourn exceedingly, yea, they were filled with sorrow; nevertheless it gave them much knowledge, in the which they did rejoice.

19 And this account shall be written hereafter; for behold, it is expedient that all people should know the things which are written in this account.

20 And now, as I said unto you, that after king Mosiah had done these things, he took the plates of brass, and all the things which he had kept, and conferred them upon Alma, who was the son of Alma; yea, all the records, and also the interpreters, and conferred them upon him, and commanded him that he should keep and preserve them, and also keep a record of the people, handing them down from one generation to another, even as they had been handed down from the time that Lehi left Jerusalem. Mosiah 28:11-20

“The Prophet Joseph Smith used the same Urim and Thummim that was “given to the brother of Jared upon the mount, when he talked with the Lord face to face” (D&C 17:1). President Joseph Fielding Smith wrote a brief history regarding the Urim and Thummim: “King Mosiah possessed ‘two stones which were fastened into the two rims of a bow,’ called by the Nephites Interpreters, with which he translated the Jaredite record [Mosiah 28:11–14], and these were handed down from generation to generation for the purposes of interpreting languages. How Mosiah came into possession of these two stones or Urim and Thummim the record does not tell us, more than to say that it was a ‘gift from God’ [Mosiah 21:28]. Mosiah had this gift or Urim and Thummim before the people of Limhi discovered the record of Ether. They may have been received when the ‘large stone’ was brought to Mosiah with engravings upon it, which he interpreted by the ‘gift and power of God’ [Omni 1:20–21]. They may have been given to him, or to some other prophet before his day, just as the Brother of Jared received them—from the Lord. “That the Urim and Thummim, or two stones, given to the Brother of Jared were those in the possession of Mosiah appears evident from Book of Mormon teachings. The Brother of Jared was commanded to seal up his writings of the vision he had when Christ appeared to him, so that they could not be read by his people. … The Urim and Thummim were also sealed up so that they could not be used for the purpose of interpreting those sacred writings of this vision, until such time as the Lord should grant to man to interpret them. When they were to be revealed, they were to be interpreted by the aid of the same Urim and Thummim [Ether 3:21–28]. …“Joseph Smith received with the breastplate and the plates of the Book of Mormon, the Urim and Thummim, which were hid up by Moroni to come forth in the last days as a means by which the ancient record might be translated, which Urim and Thummim were given to the Brother of Jared [D&C 17:1]” (Joseph Fielding Smith Doctrines of Salvation, 3:223–25). The Prophet inquired of the Lord, and D&C Section 17 was given in answer through the Urim and Thummim.

Alma the Younger tells Helaman to Preserve Interpreters & Director

21 And now, I will speak unto you concerning those twenty-four plates, that ye keep them, that the mysteries and the works of darkness, and their secret works, or the secret works of those people who have been destroyed, may be made manifest unto this people; yea, all their murders, and robbings, and their plunderings, and all their wickedness and abominations, may be made manifest unto this people; yea, and that ye preserve these interpreters.

24 And now, my son, these interpreters were prepared that the word of God might be fulfilled, which he spake, saying:

25 I will bring forth out of darkness unto light all their secret works and their abominations; and except they repent I will destroy them from off the face of the earth; and I will bring to light all their secrets and abominations, unto every nation that shall hereafter possess the land. Alma 37:21, 24 (The word Directors was changed to Interpreters in the 1920 version of the Book of Mormon)

38 And now, my son, I have somewhat to say concerning the thing which our fathers call a ball, or director—or our fathers called it Liahona, which is, being interpreted, a compass; and the Lord prepared it.

39 And behold, there cannot any man work after the manner of so curious a workmanship. And behold, it was prepared to show unto our fathers the course which they should travel in the wilderness. Alma 37:38-39

47 And now, my son, see that ye take care of these sacred things, yea, see that ye look to God and live. Go unto this people and declare the word, and be sober. My son, farewell. Alma 37:47

Conferred upon Helaman, before the death of Shiblon.

Alma 63:12 Now behold, all those engravings which were in the possession of Helaman were written and sent forth among the children of men throughout all the land, save it were those parts which had been commanded by Alma should not go forth.

13 Nevertheless, these things were to be kept sacred, and handed down from one generation to another; therefore, in this year, they had been conferred upon Helaman, before the death of Shiblon.

Lucy Mack says Joseph gets U&T back

[Note: The essay doesn’t explain what “lost the ability to translate” means, but Lucy Mack Smith explained that Joseph had to give up the Urim and Thummim after losing the 116 pages.

Later, Joseph told her that “on the 22d of September [1828], I had the joy and satisfaction of again receiving the Urim and Thummim; and have commenced translating again, and Emma writes for me; but the angel said that the Lord would send me a scribe, and I trust his promise will be verified. He also seemed pleased with me, when he gave me back the Urim and Thummim; and he told me that the Lord loved me, for my faithfulness and humility.

“Soon after I received them I inquired of the Lord, and obtained the following revelation”:

“Now, behold I say unto you, that, because <​you​> delivered up those writings, which you had power given you to translate, by the means of the Urim and Thummim into the hands of a wicked man, you have lost them; and you also lost your gift at the same time, and your mind became darkened;”[11]   [11] D&C 10:1-2; Lucy Mack Smith, History, 1845, online at https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/lucy-mack-smith-history-1845/143

Lucy Mack Smith reported this:

“After the angel left me’, said he [Joseph], “I continued my supplications to God without cessation; and, on the 22d of September [1828], I had the joy and satisfaction of again receiving the Urim and Thummim; and have commenced translating again, and Emma writes for me; but the angel said that the Lord would send me a scribe, and <I> trust his promise will be verified. The angel He also seemed pleased with me, when he gave me back the Urim and Thummim; and he told me that the Lord loved me, for my faithfulness and humility…

4. This is consistent with Emma acting as scribe after the 116 pages were lost, but inconsistent with her claim that he did not use the Urim and Thummim.

Key point: If Emma started writing the translation in the fall of 1828, the common assumption that Joseph translated the plates in 90 days is wrong. Oliver arrived in Harmony in April 1829, seven months after Joseph received back the Urim and Thummim and began translating. http://www.moronisamerica.com/changing-church-history-and-emma-smith-2/

“on the 22 of September I had the joy and satisfaction of again receiving the record Urim and Thummin​;  and  have commenced translating again, and Emma writes for me;  but the angel said that the Lord would send me a scribe, and <I> trust his promise will be verified. The angel He also seemed pleased with me, when he gave me back the Urim and Thummim; and he told me that the Lord loved me, for my faithfulness and humility.” https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/lucy-mack-smith-history-1844-1845/145 (emphasis added) Jonathan Neville Page 52-53 “A Man that can Translate”

“When the actual work of translation began, the Urim and Thummim were found to be indispensable. In various places the statement is made that the translation was made “by means of the Urim and Thummim”. (D. & C. 10:1) On one occasion, when the Prophet, through the defection of Martin Harris, lost a part of the manuscript translation, the Urim and Thummim were taken from him, and the power of translation ceased. Upon the return of the sacred instruments the work was resumed…. While the Prophet was undoubtedly required to place himself in the proper spirit and mental attitude before he could use the Urim and Thummim successfully, yet it must also be concluded that the stones were essential to the work of translation.”    (John A. Widtsoe, Evidences and Reconciliations, Pg.89 – Pg.90)

Joseph affirmed that he “translated from the plates,” and that he used the Urim and Thummim to do so. After the loss of the 116 pages by Martin Harris, both the plates and the Urim and Thummim were taken from him. Without the Urim and Thummim he could not translate.

During this period Joseph made a short visit to his parents in Manchester, New York, and then returned again to Pennsylvania. “Immediately after my return home,” he recounted, “I was walking out a little distance, when, behold, the former heavenly messenger appeared and handed to me the Urim and Thummim again for it had been taken from me in consequence of my having wearied the Lord in asking for the privilege of letting Martin Harris take the writings, which he lost by transgression and I inquired of the Lord through it, and obtained the following [section 3]” (Smith, History of the Church, 1:21-22).

2nd Hand Witness of Interpreters by Joseph Fielding Smith

“While the statement has been made by some writers that the Prophet Joseph Smith used a seer stone part of the time in his translating of the record, and information points to the fact that he did have in his possession such a stone, yet there is no authentic statement in the history of the Church which states that the use of such a stone was made in that translation. The information is all hearsay, and personally, I do not believe that this stone was used for this purpose. The reason I give for this conclusion is found in the statement of the Lord to the Brother of Jared as recorded in Ether 3:22–24. These stones, the Urim and Thummim which were given to the Brother of Jared, were preserved for this very purpose of translating the record, both of the Jaredites and the Nephites. Then again the Prophet was impressed by Moroni with the fact that these stones were given for that very purpose. It hardly seems reasonable to suppose that the Prophet would substitute something evidently inferior under these circumstances. It may have been so, but it is so easy for a story of this kind to be circulated due to the fact that the Prophet did possess a seer stone, which he may have used for some other purposes” (Joseph Fielding Smith, “Doctrines of Salvation,” Vol. 3, 225-26).

From here we discuss the testimonies of the three witnesses who saw the gold plates.

---

“Restoration of All Things” by Joseph Fielding Smith

CHAPTER TWELVE A TESTIMONY AGAINST THE WORLD
Address delivered Sunday, August 20, 1944

In the Mouth of Three Witnesses

When Moroni was about to seal up the record of his people that it might be preserved to be brought forth in the last days, he added these words of counsel for those who were to be privileged to bring it forth:

And behold, ye may be privileged that ye may show the plates unto those who shall assist to bring forth this work;

And unto three shall they be shown by the power of God; wherefore they shall know of a surety that these things are true.

And in the mouth of three witnesses shall these things be established; and the testimony of three, and this work, in the which shall be shown forth the power of God and also his word, of which the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost bear record—and all this shall stand as a testimony against the world at the last day.

And if it so be that they repent and come unto the Father in the name of Jesus, they shall be received into the kingdom of God.

And now, if I have no authority for these things, judge ye; for ye shall know that I have authority when ye shall see me, and we shall stand before God at the last day. Amen.

Strength of the Testimony

What a bold, dangerous thing it would have been for Joseph Smith to have made such a statement as this to the world, if the Book of Mormon were a fraud. He would have taken a risk where the chances for success would have been all against him. The calling of three witnesses to testify with him to the fraud, and to declare that they would have the privilege of testifying by the “power of God,” which in this case meant in the presence of an angel sent from the Almighty, was so bold, so unlikely to succeed if not true, that even a fool would have hesitated to present such a thing. Joseph Smith was no fool, even his bitter enemies gave him credit for being not that.

Among the difficulties confronting him would be, first, that there would be so many errors open to detection in the scheme, that it could not have succeeded; second, he would never have dared to permit any one of these witnesses to become estranged from him and he would have been subject to their dictation; third, to hold them he never could have permitted any one of the three to be estranged from the others, and fourth, the conspirators never could have hung together in the face of the persecutions and hatred which followed them, for under the stress of such opposition as they received, the story would unquestionably have fallen apart and been exposed.

The Witnesses True to Testimony

We have considered the nature of the testimony these three men, Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer and Martin Harris gave to the world. How positively, frankly and without any coercion, they declared that in the presence of the angel they beheld the plates, examined the writing upon them, and heard the voice of God speaking to them from the heavens commanding them to bear record of what they had seen and heard. The question now is, were these three men true to that testimony under all circumstances and all the days of their lives? The answer to this question is one of the greatest weight, carrying a responsibility which cannot be easily ignored, and which leaves every soul unto whom their testimony comes, subject to the warning of Nephi: “Wo be unto him that rejecteth the word of God!” For if the testimony of these three is true, no man can reject it without rejecting the word of God.

The Witnesses Estranged

For a number of years, after the publication of the Book of Mormon, and the organization of the Church, these three men were faithful, earnest members of the Church, sustaining and fellowshipping with Joseph Smith. There came a time, however, because of persecution and misunderstanding when all three of these men were estranged from Joseph Smith. Two of them, Oliver Cowdery, who had been a witness with Joseph Smith on many occasions of the opening of the heavens, and David Whitmer, were severed from the Church. The third man, Martin Harris, just drifted away for a season from the body of the Church. Joseph Smith not only permitted these men to take this course, but sustained the councils of the Church when action was taken. For eleven years Oliver Cowdery was estranged from Joseph Smith and the Church and during that time he went into the practice of law, but always during those years he bore the same testimony in relation to his association with Joseph Smith and his heavenly manifestations. After the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, Oliver Cowdery felt his way back to the Church. In March, 1846, while he was out of the Church, he wrote to his brother-in-law, Phineas Young, as follows:

I have cherished a hope, and that one of my fondest, that I might leave such a character as those who might believe in my testimony, after I should be called hence, might do so, not only for the sake of the truth, but might not blush for the private character of the man who bore that testimony. I have been sensitive on this subject, I admit, but I ought to be so, you would be, under the circumstances, had you stood in the presence of John with our departed brother, Joseph, to receive the Lesser Priesthood, and in the presence of Peter, to receive the greater, and looked down through time, and witnessed the effects these two must produce—you would feel what you have never felt, were wicked men conspiring to lessen the effects of your testimony to man, after you have gone to your long-sought rest.

This testimony written while Oliver Cowdery was out of the Church is now in my keeping. It is a letter in his own handwriting. In October, 1848, he made his way from Tiffin, Ohio, his residence, to Kanesville, Iowa, to take up again his association with the Latter-day Saints. At a conference held there, October 21st, 1848, presided over by elder Orson Hyde, Oliver Cowdery asked for the privilege of speaking, and he said:

Oliver Cowdery’s Return

Friends and Brethren: My name is Cowdery, Oliver Cowdery. In the early history of this Church, I stood identified with her, and one in her councils. True it is that the gifts and callings of God are without repentance; not because I was better than the rest of mankind was I called, to fulfill the purposes of God. He called me to a high and holy calling. I wrote with my own pen, the entire Book of Mormon (save a few pages) as it fell from the lips of the Prophet Joseph Smith, as he translated it by the gift and power of God, by means of the Urim and Thummim, or, as it is called by the book, “holy interpreters.” I beheld with my eyes, and handled with my hands, the gold plates from which it was translated. I also saw with my eyes and handled with my hands the “holy interpreters.” The book is true. Sidney Rigdon did not write it; Mr. Spaulding did not write it; I wrote it myself as it fell from the lips of the Prophet. It contains the everlasting gospel, and came forth to the children of men in fulfillment of the revelations of John, where he says he saw an angel come with the everlasting gospel to preach to every nation, kindred, tongue and people. It contains principles of salvation; and if you, my hearers, will walk by its light and obey its precepts, you will be saved with an everlasting salvation in the kingdom of God on high. Brother Hyde has just said that it is very important that we keep and walk in the true channel, in order to avoid the sand-bars. The Holy Priesthood is here. I was present with Joseph when an holy angel from God came down from heaven and conferred on us, or restored, the Lesser or Aaronic Priesthood, and said to us at the same time, that it should remain upon the earth while the earth stands. I was also present with Joseph when the higher, or Melchizedek Priesthood was conferred by holy angels from on high. This Priesthood we then conferred on each other, by the will and commandment of God. This Priesthood, as was then declared, is also to remain upon the earth until the last remnant of time. This holy Priesthood or authority, we then conferred upon many, and it is just as good and valid as though God had done it in person. I laid my hands upon that man, yes, I laid my right hand upon his head (pointing to Elder Hyde) and he holds that Priesthood now. He was also called through me, by the prayer of faith, an apostle of Jesus Christ.

One month later in November, 1848, at another meeting Oliver Cowdery said:

Brethren, for a number of years I have been separated from you. I now desire to come back. I wish to come humbly and to be one in your midst. I seek no station. I only wish to be identified with you. I am out of the Church. I am not a member of the Church, but I wish to become a member of it. I wish to come in at the door. I know the door. I have not come here to seek precedence. I come humbly and throw myself upon the decisions of this body, knowing, as I do, that its decisions are right, and should be obeyed.

His request was granted and he was baptized and again was received in full fellowship in the Church, and in this fellowship, he continued to witness to the day of his death.

It must be a strange being with a soul not susceptible to penetration by simple facts, who cannot see in the story of Oliver Cowdery the sincerity of his testimony. When we stop to think that while absent from his former associates and not fellowshipping with them, he still maintained and defended his testimony, and then in the darkest hour of the history of the Church, when all the world felt that the Mormon people had gone from Nauvoo to their destruction, for they could not exist under the circumstances in their drivings and poverty, it was at that very hour that Oliver Cowdery sought out these exiled refugees and asked if he could join them again. He was aware of the fact that in doing so he would have to share their distress and poverty. He knew that they had been driven from their homes for the sake of their religion. Such scenes were not new to him; in the early days he had passed through such scenes and he was now willing to endure such scenes again. That was not the action of a man guilty of perpetrating a fraud.

David Whitmer Maintains His Testimony

David Whitmer likewise retained the integrity of his story after he was excommunicated from the Church. Some years after the death of Joseph Smith, he gathered about him a group of followers and taught them, as he understood it, the gospel. He prepared an address which he dedicated to all believers in Christ. In this publication he maintained his story in the most emphatic manner. Thousands of persons out of curiosity and for information, interviewed him, and all received the same story—that the angel appeared to him and the others and revealed the plates of the ancient record. There are hundreds of people still living who heard his testimony and were convinced that he told them the truth. March 19, 1881, in the spirit of indignation, because his veracity had been questioned, David Whitmer published the following statement in the Richmond “Conservator,” the paper of his home town:

Unto all nations, kindred, tongues and people unto whom these presents shall come:

It having been represented by one John Murphy of Polo (Caldwell County), Missouri, that I had in a conversation with him last summer, denied my testimony as one of the three witnesses to the Book of Mormon….

To the end, therefore, that he may understand me now if he did not then, and that the world may know the truth, I wish now, standing as it were, in the very sunset of life, and in the fear of God, once for all to make this public statement:

That I have never at any time denied that testimony or any part thereof, which has so long since been published with that book, as one of the three witnesses.

Those who know me best, will know that I have always adhered to that testimony. And that no man may be misled or doubt my present views in regard to the same, I do now again affirm the truth of all my statements as then made and published.

He that hath an ear to hear, let him hear; it was no delusion. What is written is written and he that readeth let him understand. And if any man doubt, should he not carefully and honestly read and understand the same before presuming to sit in judgment, and condemning the light which shineth in darkness, and showeth the way of eternal life, as pointed out by the hand of God?

In the Spirit of Christ who hath said follow thou me, for I am the life, the light and the way, I submit this statement to the world, God in whom I trust being my Judge, as to the sincerity of my motives and the faith and hope that is in me of eternal life.

My sincere desire is that the world may be benefited by the plain and simple statement of the truth.

And all the honor be to the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost, which is one God. Amen.

David Whitmer

Richmond, Missouri, March 19, A.D. 1881.

The original document which I have just read is now in my possession. I obtained it from the family of David Whitmer. This document bears the endorsements of leading citizens of Richmond, Ray County, Missouri, as follows:

We, the undersigned, citizens of Richmond, Ray County, Missouri, where David Whitmer, Sr., has resided since the year, A.D. 1838, certify that we have been long and intimately acquainted with him, and know him to be a man of the highest integrity, and of undoubted truth and veracity—Given at Richmond, Missouri, this March 19, A.D. 1881.

A. W. Doniphan
George W. Dunn, Judge of the Fifth Judicial Circuit
T. D. Woodson, President, Ray County Savings Bank
Jacob O. Child, Editor of “Conservator”
H. C. Garner, Cashier Ray County Savings Bank
W. A. Holman, County Treasurer
J. S. Hughes, Banker, Richmond, Missouri
James Hughes, Banker, Richmond, Missouri
D. P. Whitmer, Attorney at Law
James W. Black, Attorney at Law
L. C. Cantwell, Postmaster, Richmond, Missouri
George I. Wassen, Mayor
James A. Davis, Probate Judge and Presiding Judge, Ray County Court
George E. Trigg, County Clerk
W. W. Mosby, M.D.
Thomas McGinnis, Late Sheriff, Ray CountyW. R. Holman, Furniture Merchant
J. P. Queensbury, Merchant
Lewis Slaughter, Recorder of Deeds
George W. Buchannan, M.D.
A. K. Reyburn

The following comment was also published in the Richmond “Conservator”:

Elsewhere we publish a letter from David Whitmer, Sen., an old and well known citizen of Ray, as well as an endorsement of his standing as a man, signed by a number of the leading citizens of this community, in reply to some unwarranted aspersions made upon him.

There is no doubt that Mr. Whitmer, who was one of the Three Witnesses of the authenticity of the gold plates, from which he asserts that Joe Smith translated the Book of Mormon (a facsimile of the characters he now has in his possession with the original records) is firmly convinced of its divine origin, and while he makes no effort to obtrude his views or belief, he simply wants the world to know that so far as he is concerned there is no “variableness or shadow of turning.” Having resided here for a half of a century, it is with no little pride that he points to his past record, with the consciousness that he has done nothing derogatory to his character as a citizen and a believer in the Son of Mary to warrant such an attack on him, come from what source it may, and now, with the lilies of seventy-five winters crowning him like an aureole, and his pilgrimage on earth well nigh ended, he reiterates his former statement and will leave futurity to solve the problem that he was but a passing witness of its fulfillment.

Martin Harris

Martin Harris, the third witness, died a faithful member of the Church, at Clarkston, Cache County, July 10, 1875, nearly ninety-three years of age, firm in his testimony, which was borne for the last time on earth but a few hours before he passed away.

These men were not deceivers; they were not deceived, and their united testimony will stand as a condemnation against an unbelieving world, at the last day.” Restoration of all things CHAPTER TWELVE A TESTIMONY AGAINST THE WORLD Address delivered Sunday, August 20, 1944 by Joseph Fielding Smith

An Interview with Martin Harris by Joel Tiffany in 1859 A.D.

“They [the plates] were placed in this way: four stones were set up and covered with a flat stone, oval on the upper side and flat on the bottom. Beneath this was a little platform upon which the plates were laid; and the two stones set in a bow of silver by means of which the plates were translated, were found underneath the plates.

“The two stones set in a bow of silver were about two inches in diameter, perfectly round, and about five-eighths of an inch thick at the centre; but not so thick at the edges where they came into the bow. They were joined by a round bar of silver, about three-eighths of an inch in diameter, and about four inches long, which, with the two stones, would make eight inches.

“The stones were white, like polished marble, with a few gray streaks. I never dared to look into them by placing them in the hat, because Moses said that ‘no man could see God and live,’ and we could see anything we wished by looking into them; and I could not keep the desire to see God out of my mind. And beside, we had a command to let no man look into them, except by the command of God, lest he should ‘look aught and perish.’” (Source: Interview with Martin Harris, in Tiffany’s Monthly, 1859, New York: Published by Joel Tiffany, No. 6 4th Ave. Joel Tiffany, Interview with Martin Harris, p.163-170)

Jonathan Neville’s Opinion of “Witnesses” Movie

Witnesses, SITH, and the tipping point Posted: 16 Jun 2021
A few notes (trigger warning for SITH/M2C promoters):

The Witnesses movie is generating a lot of discussion on social media because of SITH (the stone-in-the-hat). The movie adopts the approach taken by Mormonism Unvailed, the 1834 anti-Mormon book that claimed Joseph never even used the plates but produced the Book of Mormon by reading a “peep stone” he put in a hat. John Dehlin (picture right) of Mormon Stories is delighted. SITH is one of his key points, as he explains on TikTok (31.7k views in one day, 800 views on twitter)https://www.tiktok.com/@drjohndehlin/video/6973701578431778053?lang=en&is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1

There’s no pushback against SITH from any Church leaders or prominent scholars. Instead, Kawku promotes SITH as a feature, not a bug. Our scholars fall all over themselves trying to justify SITH (much as they did with the Hoffman documents decades ago).  Like other intellectual trends, we can see the origins of SITH among LDS academics even before Rough Stone Rolling came out, but that book pushed it into the mainstream. I think Rough Stone Rolling is an exceptional, timely, and useful book, but it portrayed some interpretations as fact and overlooked other facts, as I indicated in Part 1 of my summary, here: http://www.ldshistoricalnarratives.com/p/rough-stone-rolling-analysis-part-1.html.

Saints and the Gospel Topics Essay on Book of Mormon Translation formalized SITH, mainly by ignoring historical sources that corroborate what Joseph and Oliver taught and instead relying on sources that, on a surface level, contradicted what Joseph and Oliver taught. The Essay never even quotes what Joseph and Oliver said about the translation with the Urim and Thummim. Instead, it focuses on the theories of various academics.

The Urim and Thummim is essentially de-correlated. No one is claiming any revelation about what happened in Church history to overturn what Joseph and Oliver taught. The new narrative is based purely on revisionist historical interpretation of the same facts everyone has known for over 150 years. People today, looking at some historical evidence while ignoring other evidence, thereby conclude Joseph’s contemporaries and successors were wrong. This is the same process by which Cumorah was de-correlated.  Consequently, SITH has become the prevailing narrative in our day. And that’s great for those who believe it. If you think it’s awesome that the Book of Mormon is the product of words appearing on a stone in a hat, and not a translation of the ancient Nephite plates (as Joseph and Oliver claimed), good for you. I’m not going to say you’re wrong. People can and will believe whatever they want.

But it seems likely (and statistics indicate) that most people will not accept that narrative, whether they are inside or outside the Church. In 1834, Mormonism Unvailed promoted SITH because the author knew it undermined the credibility of Joseph and Oliver. Detractors today promote SITH for the same reason. _____There are alternative interpretations of the evidence.

For example, the Stoddards and others reject SITH by saying David Whitmer, Emma, Martin Harris etc. were liars. However, that plays into the critical narrative that the witnesses were dishonest. This is the mirror image of the SITH/M2C approach; i.e., we can believe some of what the witnesses said, but we have to reject other things they said, based on what we want to be true. Similarly, our M2C scholars (M2C=Mesoamerican/Two-Cumorahs theory) reject what the witnesses said about Cumorah because they want Cumorah to be in Mexico to fit their theories. But they still expect people to believe SITH based on what the witnesses said. It’s transparent cherry picking.

Now you see why I’ve been saying that: Interpreter=CESLetter=FAIRLDS=MormonStories=BookofMormonCentral=BYUStudies.

They’ve all reached a consensus that the prophets are wrong any time they disagree with the prophets.

If they disagree, they disagree only with regard to which things the prophets were wrong about–a distinction without a difference._____

I realize there are numerous interpretations of the evidence, ranging from Joseph seeing the words on a stone (or in vision) to Joseph composing, memorizing or reading the text. Some even say that when Joseph and Oliver testified about the Urim and Thummim, they deliberately misled people because they knew they were really referring to the stone Joseph found in a well; i.e., they used misleading terminology.

People can believe whatever they want, and that’s fine with me. But I’ve looked at all these explanations and none of them make sense to me. That’s why I looked at the evidence for myself. So far, the only explanation I’m aware of that reconciles Joseph and Oliver as credible, and David and Emma as credible, is the demonstration narrative I set out in A Man that Can Translate.

I’m completely open to any better explanations. If you know of one, email me at [email protected] are still some Latter-day Saints who believe what the prophets have taught about both the translation and the historicity of the Book of Mormon, including the New York Cumorah. This is not “blind faith” or “blind obedience.” This is recognizing that the people involved with the events are more credible than arm-chair commentators distant in time and space. It is also recognizing science- and fact-based, rational analysis supports and corroborates the teachings of the prophets. Source: About Central America(Visited 20 times, 14 visits today)
http://www.moronisamerica.com/witnesses-sith-and-the-tipping-point/

How the Book Saints frames the Translation

With Emma’s father around, translating would not be easy, but Joseph tried his best. Assisted by Emma, he copied many of the strange characters from the plates to paper.10 Then, for several weeks, he tried to translate them with the Urim and Thummim. The process required him to do more than look into the interpreters. He had to be humble and exercise faith as he studied the characters.11 

A few months later, Martin came to Harmony. He said he felt called by the Lord to travel as far as New York City to consult experts in ancient languages. He hoped they could translate the characters.12

Joseph copied several more characters from the plates, wrote down his translation, and handed the paper to Martin. He and Emma then watched as their friend headed east to consult with distinguished scholars.13

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/history/saints-v1/05-all-is-lost?lang=eng

The historians claim that Joseph sent the copied characters to Anthon to get them translated because he was unable to translate them. He merely “tried” to do it. Of course, that directly contradicts JS-History 1:62.

62 By this timely aid was I enabled to reach the place of my destination in Pennsylvania; and immediately after my arrival there I commenced copying the characters off the plates. I copied a considerable number of them, and by means of the Urim and Thummim I translated some of them, which I did between the time I arrived at the house of my wife’s father, in the month of December, and the February following.

(Joseph Smith—History 1:62)

Read the first paragraph. Clearly states that Joseph “spent considerable time and effort becoming familiar with the language of the plates and learning how to translate.”

 “I then continued <​said​> Joseph my suplications to God without cessation that his mercy might again be exercised towards me and on the 22 of september I had the Joy and satisfaction of again receiving the record Urim and Thummin​ into my possession and I have commenced translating and Emma writes for me now but the angel said that if I got the plates again that the Lord woul[d] send some one to write for me and I trust that if it will be so. he also said that the <​he​> angel seemed <​was​> rejoiced when he gave him <​me​> back the plates <​urim and Thummim​> and said that he <​God​> was pleased with his <​my​> faithfulness and humility also that the Lord was pleased with him and loved him <​me​> for his <​my​> penitence and dilligence in prayer in the which he <​I​> had performed his duty so well as to receive the record <​urim and Thummin​> and be <​was​> able to enter upon the work of translation again.” (emphasis added) https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/lucy-mack-smith-history-1844-1845/91

Lucy’s  History 1845 revised the passage but kept the essence of her original history on this point.

“on the 22 of September I had the joy and satisfaction of again receiving the record Urim and Thummin​;  and  have commenced translating again, and Emma writes for me;  but the angel said that the Lord would send me a scribe, and <I> trust his promise will be verified. The angel He also seemed pleased with me, when he gave me back the Urim and Thummim; and he told me that the Lord loved me, for my faithfulness and humility.” https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/lucy-mack-smith-history-1844-1845/145 (emphasis added) Jonathan Neville Page 52-53 “A Man that can Translate”

Seer Stone v Urim and Thummim

Seer Stone v. Urim and Thummim places the Book of Mormon translation on trial, presenting the latest research in one of the most comprehensive treatments of the translation process to date providing encouragement for Latter-day Saints who fear they have been “betrayed” by the translation history taught by the Church for over 190 years. 

Did Joseph Smith study and master the Nephite language? Did the Prophet tutor some of the early Brethren in ancient Nephite characters?

Did Joseph Smith translate the Book of Mormon using a dark seer stone in a hat?

Why are progressive historians creating a new history using sources from a man who vowed to wash his hands in the blood of Joseph Smith, while boasting that he had deceived the Prophet and his God?

Has The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covered up its history for nearly 200 years? Length: 240 pages

“Traditionalists believe that progressives are destined to inherit ignorance because they reject revelation. Progressives believe that traditionalists are mired in ignorance because they do not fully accept and embrace the philosophies and teachings of the learned. Regardless of which position one takes, nearly all agree—an unbridgeable gulf separates the two.” FAITH CRISIS: Did the LDS Church Lie? (Part 1) We Were NOT Betrayed! By James and Hannah Stoddard

David Whitmer’s Error

“Whitmer thus continued to the grave, his 1829 on-site understanding of “Urim and Thummim” as a single seer stone. The Church in Utah attempted to correct Whitmer’s “error” above, shortly after its publication in the Chicago Times, with these comments . . . “The next error is that the seer stone which Joseph used in the translation ‘was called Urim and Thummim.’ The instrument thus denominated was composed of two crystal stones ‘set in the two rims of a bow.’ The seer stone was separate and distinct from the Urim and Thummim. The latter was delivered to the angel as well as the plates after the translation was completed; the former remained with the Church and is now in the possession of the President.” [Reynolds 1883, 85; citing, on his page 84 as his source quoted, “The Deseret Evening News at the time of the publication of his letter . . . ,” by which Reynolds means the letter of the Chicago Times correspondent to the Chicago Times, reporting his interview with Whitmer.” Mormon Parallels: A Bibliographic Source © 2014 Rick Grunder page 152

Final Support for the use of the Interpreters

“In this respect the testimony of Lorenzo Brown about the preparation the Prophet made for his translation of the Bible may be instructive. He records the Prophet as saying: “After I got through translating the Book of Mormon, I took up the Bible to read with the Urim and Thummim. I read the first chapter of Genesis and I saw the things as they were done. I turned over the next and the next, and the whole passed before me like a grand panorama; and so on chapter after chapter until I read the whole of it. I saw it all!” (as cited in Matthews, Plainer Translation, 25).” The Process of Translating the Book of Mormon Joseph Fielding McConkie (Professor of Ancient Scripture, BYU) Craig J. Ostler (Assistant Professor of Church History and Doctrine, BYU)

As the nay-sayers explain Joseph used the seer stone because the U&T was taken away, how would they explain Joseph using the U&T to translate the Bible and the other sections of the D&C?

“Not only did Joseph Smith use the Urim and Thummim to translate the Book of Mormon, but he also used it to receive revelation from God. Specifically, Doctrine and Covenants sections 3, 6, 11, and 14, 15,16, were all given through the Urim and Thummim. (See headings to these sections) We learn from the Doctrine and Covenants that “the place where God resides is a great Urim and Thummim.” In addition, “this earth, in its sanctified and immortal state, will be made like unto crystal and will be a Urim and Thummim to the inhabitants who dwell thereon.” And each person who receives the white stone mentioned in Revelation 2:17 will be able to use the Urim and Thummim (D&C 130:8–10).” by Jay A. Parry and Larry E. Morris, adapted from “The Mormon Book of Lists” | Jan. 18, 2019 LDS Living

The earliest known description of the process of translating the Book of Mormon is found in an article titled “History of the Mormonites,” published 9 June 1831, in Kirtland, Ohio. The writer, Josiah Jones, claims as his source the first Latter-day Saint missionaries to that territory Elders Cowdery, Pratt, Whitmer, and Peterson, from whom he learned that the book was translated by “looking into a stone or two stones, when put into a dark place, which stones he said were found in the box with the plates. They affirmed while [Joseph] looked through the stone spectacles another sat by and wrote what he told them, and thus the book was written. . . .

“A few days after these men appeared again, a few of us went to see them and Cowdery was requested to state how the plates were found, which he did. He stated that Smith looked onto or through the transparent stones to translate what was on the plates. I then asked him if he had ever looked through the stones to see what he could see in them; his reply was that he was not permitted to look into them. I asked him who debarred him from looking into them; he remained sometime in silence, then said that he had so much confidence in his friend Smith, who told him that he must not look into them, that he did not presume to do so lest he should tempt God and be struck dead” (Allen, “Historian’s Corner,” 308).  As told in: The Process of Translating the Book of Mormon Joseph Fielding McConkie (Professor of Ancient Scripture, BYU) Craig J. Ostler (Assistant Professor of Church History and Doctrine, BYU)

In describing the quote from Josiah Jones, Joseph looked through one or two stones, he didn’t mention a hat, the stones were found in the box with the plates, and he looked through stone spectacles, it is clear that while Mr. Jones had never seen the U&T he described the process as a U&T not as a single seer stone. See the incredible article below.

The Best Article about the Urim and Thummim vs. the Seer Stone

The Process of Translating the Book of Mormon
Joseph Fielding McConkie (Professor of Ancient Scripture, BYU) Craig J. Ostler (Assistant Professor of Church History and Doctrine, BYU)

Revelation 13:1–7. John “Saw a Beast Rise Out of the Sea”

After seeing that Satan went to make war against the remnant of the seed of the woman, John saw a beast rise out of the sea (see Revelation 13:1). The Joseph Smith Translation indicates that the beast is “in the likeness of the kingdoms of the earth” (in Revelation 13:1, footnote a). The beast’s many heads, crowns, and horns suggest many different kingdoms and rulers with great power. The Prophet Joseph Smith (1805–44) taught: “When God made use of the figure of a beast in visions to the prophets He did it to represent those kingdoms which had degenerated and become corrupt, savage and beast-like in their dispositions, even the degenerate kingdoms of the wicked world” (in History of the Church, 5:341).

Rather than attempting to specify an exact identity of the beast, it may be more profitable to note the following general characteristics about the beast: It had power over many nations (see Revelation 13:1, 7); it opposed God and blasphemed against Him (see verses 5–6); the power it wielded was like the power that predatory animals have over their prey (see verse 2); Satan gave it power (see verses 2, 4); people of the world worshipped or followed the beast (see verse 4); and it was able to overpower many, including the Saints (see verse 7). It could be said that any kingdom or government that exhibits these characteristics manifests the spirit of the beast. Revelation 17:8–12 contains additional information about the beast, including its ultimate destruction.

Revelation 13:11–17. A Second Beast “Spake as a Dragon”

Revelation 13:11 tells of a second beast that John saw; he later identified this beast as “the false prophet” (Revelation 19:20). This second beast “had two horns like a lamb” but “spake as a dragon” (Revelation 13:11). This description suggests that the second beast will seek to appear to represent Christ while actually teaching the false doctrines of Satan. The description of the second beast is also reminiscent of the Savior’s warning to “beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves” (Matthew 7:15).

President James E. Faust (1920–2007) of the First Presidency noted: “Satan is the greatest imitator, the master deceiver, the arch counterfeiter, and the greatest forger ever in the history of the world. He comes into our lives as a thief in the night. His disguise is so perfect that it is hard to recognize him or his methods” (“The Devil’s Throat,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2003, 51). “One of the major techniques of the devil is to cause human beings to think they are following God’s ways, when in reality they are deceived by the devil to follow other paths” (Bible Dictionary, “Devil”).

Revelation 13:16–17. The Mark of the Beast

In contrast to the righteous, who keep their covenants with God and receive His protecting seal on their foreheads (see Revelation 7:2–3; 14:1; 22:4; the commentary for Revelation 7:3; 9:4), the wicked who worship the beast “receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads” (Revelation 13:16). This may symbolize that the wicked show by their actions (hands) and beliefs (heads) that they do the will of the beast and accept his ideology. However, the precise meaning of “the mark” has not been revealed. Source

Actual Bible Quotes about the Beast

“And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six.” Revelation 13:16-18

“And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.” Revelation 14:9-11

“With the crazy situation in the world moving at pace, as we see systems of technological control and tracking taking over in the name of Covid, we are hearing strange whispers that there is a relationship between the vaccine and the Mark of the Beast. Sometimes this comes associated with all kinds of wild conspiracies, yet sometimes we also find the source of this association in stories from the mainstream media. This identification is very intuitive in many who espouse it, while of course appearing delusional and a form of religious hysteria by others. I am hoping to explain the meaning of the Mark of the Beast as much as I can so that we can understand and evaluate the recent claim that we are being faced with such a system on our horizon.” BY JONATHAN PAGEAU Source

Satan’s Counterfeit System

“Whenever the God of Heaven establishes by revelation his design, Satan always comes among men to pervert the doctrine, saying, ‘Believe it not.’ He often establishes a counterfeit system, designed to deceive the children of men” (“A Vision and a Hope for the Youth of Zion” [President Ezra Taft Benson Brigham Young University devotional, Apr. 12, 1977], 3, speeches.byu.edu).

Revelation
CHAPTER 16
God pours out plagues upon the wicked

2 And the first went, and poured out his vial upon the earth; and there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast, and upon them which worshipped his image.

10 And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the beast; and his kingdom was full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues for pain,

13 And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet

An Angel of Light

“I truly believe our country is close to the end. I have no idea if that is a few months a few years or 10 years or more, but we are close to losing the blessings of this great country. Why? Because I feel there is so much wickedness and desire for money and power now in our world than ever before. 

I believe Satan is appearing as that angel of light to deceive us. Our constitutional rights are being ripped from us. This was a fraudulent election and I strongly feel the Lord will step in and help us. I pray the Lord will spare us a little longer. At the core of most Liberals are evil ideas of abortion, no freedom of speech nor worship, no right to bear arms, and socialism. I believe the Republican Party is as corrupt, but I believe in the honorable results will come with the Lord in charge. I believe he loves America and we as a people. I pray the Lord will help our courts of law come to the correct and proper decisions.

Complaining or kicking against the pricks is wrong and will lead you nowhere but the bottom. Remember the quote, “Obedience is greater than Sacrifice?” (see 1 Samuel 15:22). With our leaders it is better to simply be obedient through prayer, than worry about why they are asking you to do something. “Just Do It”. Not blind obedience, but faithful obedience. If the Book of Mormon is the truth (and it is), then obey it. If Joseph Smith is and was a Prophet (which he is and was), just obey him. Stop trying to find fault with Brother Joseph. I know the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true and I continue to strive to be obedient to our leaders teachings. The difference between a righteous and a wicked person is simply this. The righteous are continually being obedient and repenting. The evil don’t have a desire to obey anything and they are never repenting.” Rian Nelson 

We bind the adversary and his mortal minions only as we bind our appetites.—Neal A. Maxwell “The Man of Christ,” Ensign (May 1975).

“Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you” (James 4:7–8).

“When we yield to temptation just once, we give Satan ammunition in the form of a memory,” Elder Lynn G. Robbins of the Seventy Sept 2013

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Balancing God, Science, and Technology in the End Times

by Juanita Werrett 9/17/2021

Goals and Purposes

My name is Juanita Werrett. I am a grandmother on a mission. I have held a deep interest in the religious study of the Gospel of Christ throughout my life. I am a student and teacher of the Bible, the prophets—ancient and modern—and the standard works of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In 2016, I embarked on a new and, for me, an unusual science study that synchronized with my gospel knowledge. I jumped feet first into a challenging study of quantum and particle physics. That may seem like a strange direction to take, but I have always known our Heavenly Father is the source of all spiritual and scientific laws that govern His cosmos.

My desire is to honor and reverence Heavenly Father with full purpose of heart. Through my life experiences, I have come to recognize that God has a very subtle and endearing sense of humor. I am musing over this strange juxtaposition, as a grandma on one hand and a deep dive study into particle physics and technology on the other. I think both God and I have chuckled at this thought more than once. However, I think He and I know the urgency of sharing this knowledge.

This information weighs heavy on me, but the weight will be greater if I don’t share it. As I began to understand the basic mechanics and relationship of modern telecommunication technology and physics, it struck me that this is a marriage made in heaven. This marriage has a family that includes quantum computing, particle accelerators, artificial intelligence, inter-dimensional powers, blockchain systems, 5G systems, virtual realities, and many other offspring.

Early on, the spiritual and intuitive parts of my nature recognized a foreboding danger in this scientific technology surge. Even now, 5 years into my study, I hold equal levels of fear and exhilaration about the quantum-technology mix.

Often, this knowledge is a burden, and often this burden of awareness is weighted with urgency to warn others. Even the watchmen on the high walls of Israel were tasked to warn the populace when their enemies were approaching. As one small voice, I can no longer ignore newfound scientific truths and their implications for humanity. So I am raising a warning to those who will listen.

The exponential forward strides of this new technology will overtake all of us like a tsunami. It is in motion, and it is my considered opinion that three main areas of the new science working in tandem will hasten the end-time scenario leading to the “system of the beast.” This system is one of surveillance and control that could possibly lead to stealing of freewill and deadening the souls of mankind. Satan’s original campaign was to usurp the agency of God’s children. Satan would stamp out individualism and freedom to choose. He never surrendered.

These worrisome dangers of tyrannical control are being birthed in the discovery of: (a) the new D-Wave quantum computers, which support the experiments taking place at, (b) the Large Hadron Particle Collider near Geneva, Switzerland, (CERN), and (c) the digitizing of human DNA.

My goal is to share the information I have discovered and relay the inevitable outcomes that are currently affecting all world populations.

As individual awareness of this new technology increases, astute people will be awakened to the threat. As you get acquainted with the message of this book, you may experience the same uneasiness I feel.

Quantum Technology

In regards to your new understanding of quantum technology, you may ask, “Should I fear or embrace?” “Should I reject or accept?” “Is this science benevolent or malevolent?” “Does this system offer independence or control?” “Will it lead to freedom or tyranny?” Will we experience the non-centralized platforms that have been promised or will the power brokers in government, science, and industry insist on full centralized control?

Any or all of those responses are possible, but none of them are really negotiable. The technology is here and moving forward at warp speed. Any or all of those responses are possible, but none of them are really negotiable. The technology is here and moving forward at warp speed. What really matters are the origins and goals of these foundational scientific breakthroughs.

 We must pay heed to the genesis of these synergistic forces powering our science and technology.

Forecasters are touting the profit motive in this new combination of technology. Combined with the hundreds of spin-off companies the profit rewards will top out above $17 trillion. Nothing can stop this technology juggernaut.

Remember, you can buy anything in this world for money, or maybe you can buy anything in this world for digitized cryptocurrency.

Our culture is being programmed to accept full incorporation into the world of high tech. The following technology systems will support and merge with the 5G telecommunication networks. These following technology structures are in place now. I cover each of them fully in my book.            

Blockchain is the operations platform

5G is the telecommunications system

SWS is the surveillance system

IoT Internet of things is the all-inclusive coverage system

Quantum computers will serve as the inter-dimensional tool

Each of the foregoing new technology discoveries is teetering on a delicate horizon. Man has stretched science and his complex brain to new heights. These outcomes are dangerous beyond our wildest dreams. They can also fulfill our most awesome dreams for the benefit of men and the world.

As an observant grandmother feeling the determined hand of age on my shoulder, I realize my time here is limited. My children and grandchildren will face the full impact of the future. I have a potent hope combined with heavy concerns for the coming generation. They are the technology generation. I trust them, and I trust in God. This does not mean that for numerous sleepless nights, the facts of my study did not materialize into a frightening scenario that haunts me still. As I connect all the technology dots, they form a very unsettling web. False religion and secretive science have become bed partners. Nightmares could ensue.

The earth will undergo significant structural changes and be restored to a more glorious state. In this tumult of revelation and disclosure, God promised all truth will be revealed. The end-time environment may usher in the final uncovering and restitution presenting itself in areas of our current science and technology.

I am a woman of God, and I realize fear and faith are not compatible. I am choosing faith; my faith rests in God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. They are fully aware of the end-time events. They are allowing them but will orchestrate the coming judgments to their fulfillment.”

When Jesus Christ comes, He will expand knowledge in all fields beyond our wildest dreams. The Father and His son, Jesus Christ, are the source of all scientific and spiritual laws in the universe. They are quantum mechanics and particle physics originators and masters. Juanita Werrett

Juanita Werrett will be speaking at the Firm Foundation Conference on Sept 23rd at 7:15 pm Information here: Tickets here:

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LDS Church suggest Vaccination for All Regarding Pandemic by David W. Allan

“A dear friend of mine sent me the following quote:

“If you want to find the culprit, follow the money.  If you want to find the truth, follow the silenced.” 

The Savior gives us the great promise, “Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. (John 8:32)  How can we know the TRUTH for sure?  23, 2021 We will address this very important question in regard to the pandemic.” David W Allan See complete blog here

For additional opinions about the Covid situation please visit two other blogs below:
https://www.bofm.blog/opinions-update-on-covid/
https://www.bofm.blog/never-again-can-we-allow-government-officials-to-treat-the-exercise-of-religion-as-simply-nonessential/

More Revelation

Revelation 19:19-20And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against his army.

20 And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles discussed Satan’s title of “accuser”: “The scriptures call him the ‘accuser’ because he wants us to feel that we are beyond forgiveness (see Revelation 12:10). Satan wants us to think that when we have sinned we have gone past a ‘point of no return’—that it is too late to change our course” (“Point of Safe Return,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2007, 99). Source

One of the joys I receive working with Rod Meldrum and the Heartland group, is that I meet and have met some amazing people. This group of people are loving and kind and very open minded. They will change and grow as the Lord indicates to them to change and grow. They are very prayerful and put the Lord first in their lives.

Now I could say that about 80% of the good members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. What a beautiful group of people as we gather Israel. This Church is absolutely true, Joseph Smith is and was one of the greatest prophets of all time, The Book of Mormon is an amazing book with answers to gospel question running all through it’s pages. See over 500 Gospel Answers Here.

These last days are bringing two huge forces together, the forces of the evil one, and the superior forces of the Lord Jesus Christ. Overall the Lord will win, but let’s ask ourselves, will we be part of that winning team? I know we all want to be, but what are we doing to garner success in this battle?

An amazing scripture tells us what the Lord is doing in these last days, and I ask are we ready for what the Lord is doing? Read D&C 121:33-34, it says, “How long can rolling waters remain impure? What power shall stay the heavens? As well might man stretch forth his puny arm to stop the Missouri river in its decreed course, or to turn it up stream, as to hinder the Almighty from pouring down knowledge from heaven upon the heads of the Latter-day Saints. Behold, there are many called, but few are chosen. And why are they not chosen?”

High Praise

Today, name me all those Latter-day Saints that are having knowledge poured down from heaven to bless our lives. Rod, Wayne, Jonathan, Hannah, Tim, Boyd, Mike, Betty, David H., Dean, Russ, Steve, and many more. I’m not saying our group of Heartlanders is better than anyone, but I am saying the Lord is pouring down knowledge every conference we have. Wow, you don’t want to miss this one on Sept 23-25. It will be a doosy! The Lord is great and He loves us and I am so thankful to all my friends who I have met and continue to meet. For example I just meat Greg Hughes, David Crandall, Hayden Paul, Eric Moutsos, Andrea Hales, Jaren O’Driscoll, who are quality people. This group is growing by leaps and bounds. I look at our little group as an “Army of Helaman” and the Wisdom Bearing Troop. Now don’t get offended, old people, to me are about 30 to 90.

We need our young millennials to grow so we find more Hannah’s, Tristan’s, Kimberlie’s, Judy’s, Leah’s, Isaiah’s, Ephraim’s, Mike Downs, with his great father Jeff Downs. Look how the amazing Barlow children are moving the work forward, its beautiful. I hope Heidi and Russ keep having children that will build our army by 10 more. haha. What about the amazing Sessions family. Is there anyone in that family that is not brilliant, kind and loving? (Well maybe Dean on a bad day) haha. And how about James F. Stoddard III? He has left an amazing legacy and we honor him for all he has done. I truly feel he will do more for us in the next life than he could ever do for us here. Listen to that still small voice and watch the Stoddard clan march forward with their might to challenge the evil of today. Hannah is the Drill Sargent for righteousness and you’d better listen to her. haha. Get to know the powerful testimony of Kimberly Smith, wow. She is an amazing woman who loves the Lord so much. With her and Hannah side by side you cannot win any argument with them about the gospel. They are packed full of knowledge and principle.

Then there is my super missionary friend York Bennett. who has influenced hundreds of people about the gospel and baptized many even after a mission. I have a great new friend Stephen Reed who is a lot of fun. He knows Church History and can really create some wild memes of strange M2C theories. Ask him about where BOMC got their maps and he will tell you about stealing, well a better word is borrowing everything from the RLDS Church.

What about the Old Sage of the group Wayne. The archaeological knowledge of Wayne is unprecedented. He may not hold a degree here, but he is my choice for Archaeologist of the next life and he will be our teacher. What is a degree anyway? Just a piece of paper that was given to reward you for your tenacity and sifting through the many false doctrines of life. Just ask Kevin Price. He is the only PhD that doesn’t act like one. He is funny, conservative smart as a whip, and steadfast, and righteously stubborn, in his faith in the Lord. My wonderful friends Kendra and David Burton I have know since Kendra created a wonderful work of art for me of the Savior appearing in the heartland. She will be displaying her newest art of Joseph Smith at the Expo, which is a beautiful rendition of a young and inspired man.

Below are some pictures of others who have touched me and I love. It is so hard to speak about them all but I challenge you to get to know the good people at our event. You will develop lifelong relationships.

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My faithful Native American friend is Franklin Keel. You won’t meet a more humble follower of the Lord ever. What an example he has been for the Chickasaw Nation and all people. He introduced me to a man who I later found was related to John Howland of the Mayflower just as I was, Allen C. Christensen. We speak regularly and he is such a friend and one who I can ask anything. He is the author of the wonderful book Joseph’s Remnant, all about the Lamanite Hero’s of our day.

Have you ever met a lady named Betty White? No not the actress, Betty “Red Ant” White, before she married out of her tribe, and her mom, baptized by LeGrande Richards was not pleased with her, but she married a Chippewa named short Mike Lafontaine anyway. His mom Del is a beautiful short Swede whom I love to death. I have never met such wonderful White Lamanites in all my life. Ask Betty, that is a compliment. The White part is because she is so pure inside. The Sprit radiates within her and she sees things that the normal soul just can’t. Her uncanny spiritual goodness is an honor to her Navajo people and every one else. Mike is a flat out worker. He is Chippewa magic. He can build a home by himself in less that 5 days. haha. He gets things done like no-one I have ever met. He is a dedicated priesthood holder who combined with Betty, make an incredible team. The thing I love the most about him is that I have him by one inch in height. That makes me the almost shortest and most rotund man in the Heartland.

Have you ever felt the beauty, energy, and fun personality of Tatia (Good Name) Nelson? She is a hoot. She can laugh and sing with the best of them and has a heart of gold. I don’t know how she puts up with CJ as a friend but he is a new friend that I like a lot. Can’t wait to meet him. CJ is donating over 6,000 bottles of Hand Sanitizer for every guest at the expo and we thank him and Tatia who works with him for their generosity. (See Picture Right).

The Cartoonist guy is Val Chadwick Bagley. It is his art as the header image on this blog. He has done over 300 cartoons, and illustrations for me. As a matter of fact he is only one of two artists that has ever sold over 1 Million pieces for Covenant which does a lot of LDS art and books. You have to laugh at his wonderful sense of humor and his ability to make the common thing come to life with glib and joy. He has done cartoons for over 40 years in the New ERA for the Church. Don’t confuse him with the less spiritual Pat Bagley, they are not related. Purchase his Heartland Book Here: 96-pages of Heartland and Book of Mormon Humor full color for just $10. It is amazing.

What can I say about Jonathan? Have you ever met a man that writes books in bed and every month or so he has a new one? I think he must have 30 part finished books ready to go at the drop of a hat. He is an amazing source of wisdom and Church History. Elite is his title in the next life. So what does that make Rod? Well he is only as good as the woman he serves, Tonya. Most of you don’t know that Tonya rules the roost and that is why Rod has no hair. She is one loving and tough woman keeping this wonderful concept of the Heartland alive for us all. Her practicality and desire to succeed is awesome and I love her. I feel like I have known Rod my entire life. He is a stud in my book. His tenacity is unwavering, I think they threw out the “ever ready bunny” when Rod came along, as Rod outlasts that silly bunny and he is running on his first charge. Not new batteries for that man. We love you Rod. His children, Cassie, and Shawna, and Logan and Jake, and Big Red and little Matthew are fantastic. There dogs aren’t that great but they love them so I guess I have to as well. (Small Sacrifice) Is that enough LOVE from me? I hope so, I am truly blessed.

From the Wonderful Life of Irene Tukuafu

“Now let me share from her own words an amazing lady who most of us know and if we don’t we should get to know her. Irene Tukuafu. In Nauvoo she is known as the “Lady in the Round House.” When you meet her she is a smile a minute with such an amazing disposition you instantly want to hug her. She is a best friend immediately. Aske her to play her 5 or 6 instruments, but you haven’t lived until you sit on her porch in Nauvoo and listen to her beautiful music from her harp. It is a beautiful thing.

The Mennonite Wedding

“Here’s something that I wrote in my journal last night.   I loved being there.  I was surprised that I was the ONLY one that was NOT a Mennonite.  There was one Amish couple, as I saw her black bonnet laying on a counter in the house.   There were a very somber couple and a very somber sad looking teen daughter.   That was just my observation. 

ALL were dressed in their Sunday go to meeting cloths.  New dresses I could tell because I’m a seamstress.  NO pierced ears, nor any earrings.  They ALL wore little white bonnets, except a few had some other type of lace bonnet.  These bonnets are straight pinned to their hair.   Surely they get their skin in there sometimes.   ALL hair is slicked back, then covered with these bonnets.   They looked and acted happy and uninterested in worldly things. Maybe only 2 women were overweight.  That is very admirable.
 
The men wore mostly black vests and they looked handsome.   The visiting clergy wore a certain kind of coat that I can recall seeing in pictures of the early Church Leaders of the LDS church.   These too are also hand made, not store bought. 
 
After I wrote in my journal last night I saw this on Epochtv.comhttps://www.theepochtimes.com/c-breaking-the-silenceI saw episodes 3&4.  Quite amazing and I learned A LOT.   Of course not HALF AS GOOD as the one that you have (or did have) on your site. (Amish Forgiveness and Conversion) I still love it that such a documentary was filmed of them joining the true Church and so very beautifully moved.   The acts of making it seem like a “painting” and turning into the real thing and action is what is being done in the Temple still life movies………….not movies…..

However, These are worth watching and if you have time, SOMEDAY…..I encourage you to look at these and think about it.   We are NOT saved by our works but through Christ and his atoning sacrifice. To rule by POWER and “forced love” is not good for small groups or nations. 

At the end of my journals every night, I send a little message to Tomasi.   I don’t know weather you want to use any of this, but wanted to share with you anyway.”

ALOHA, IRENE
THIS IS MY JOURNAL ENTRY OF 11 SEPT 2021   

Woke up early enough and started the day off right. scriptures. I’m reading in 3 Nephi now and come follow me. Somehow these are working together to strengthen my own testimony and I’m thinking to learn more and seek for the Spirit of the Lord to be with me. I made a little breakfast and fed my fish and snail and out the door I went with my gift in a cute bag. A bread knife and a cooking spoon that I’d made. I didn’t want to take some horrible back road to my friends house so I put in my GPS phone, THE ZIMMERMAN’S STORE in Rutledge, MO. I kept about 5 miles/hour over the speed limit. I got to the store and got directions to Elizabeth’s place. THERE ARE 2 V ROADS. I took the wrong one. BEANS. But backtracked and got to the right one and found that I got there just in time. I’m glad they were late starting. About 400 folks. I was the only non Mennonite.

I saw Elizabeth right away with her holding the little baby boy she’s raising for a woman in prison. I love Elizabeth for her selfless love for others. ALL are dressed in their best Church clothes. ALL have white bonnets. There is one Black hat Amish woman there with her husband and teen daughter. It was held in Elizabeth’s HUGE BARN that they laid out rugs filling the whole floor.

This barn is only wood shell, but very tall and wide and is covered in tin paneling or roofing. Many buildings are made like this in the Midwest. Her dad built it before he passed away. She has 13 siblings….13 girls and one son. Elizabeth asked if I’d brought a gift and she showed me where to take it. I gave it to some handsome guy and he took it into the open cleaned up garage. Then we walked to the huge Barn. I’m so grateful I brought my padded seat as ALL the seats were hard metal seats and I know it would be a few hours in there. I was grateful to sing 3 hymns with them. I do love their music and it’s all acapella. One man starts the singing and then we all join in. Just like it was in Tonga. Shape note singing style. And the notes in the hymn books are different shapes.

Then the visiting “Elder” stands up to talk. He hardly opens his mouth. Woah, I had a hard time understanding him. He pitched his voice like a very high tenor and preached in the same note the whole time. I’m sure he taught their “doctrine” as all were very attentive. I tried to listen closely. That was about 25 minutes. Then another visiting Elder….I thought to myself, “oh good, he may speak in a lower tone.” NOT….He was a bigger man and younger then the first one, but he also spoke WAY HIGH on the scale. I’d get out my phone to see what he was speaking in….but that would be rude. All were very attentive. I’m falling asleep sitting up straight. The Barn is warm, and every window is open. At the bottom of the barn, folks had opened it up so that the metal pannels would let the air breeze flow. Great idea.

On and on they spoke. There were some testimony’s by the men folks of the family. I was asleep enough that I didn’t see the bride and groom stand up and were asked a few questions by their Bishop.

There was no flower girls, no ring presented, no “kiss the bride” no clapping when it was over. There was not bower of archway to stand under. She and him were dressed in the same Sunday go to meeting cloths as everyone else. She’s extremely beautiful and he had a GREAT BIG SMILE.

We all go outside and quietly talk with others. I’m invited to look at the wedding gifts. OH WOW…..the couple don’t open these, they are all opened by someone else and set out for all to see. Many practical things. For them were hoses and hoes and electrical chords of many colors. Elizabeth made a beautiful clock on the wall. Of course there were quilts and bedding and towels and dishes and all sorts of things. Oh wow. No one was taking photos so I kept my phone/camera in my pocket. I have no trouble talking with folks and it was wonderful to talk with the ladies.

Some knew me or heard of me, “Oh, you’re Irene with the round house”. like that. Then we all walked to the Big Barn again and all the tables were set up. Salads and olives and cheeses and other wonderful goodies. Then the food was passed down these long put together tables. Just MARVELOUS meatballs. And potatoes and green beans and just wonderful other foods. IT WAS A TRUE FEAST. Foods hot and were served hot, same with the cold things. Everyone cleans up EVERYTHING on their plate. Real plates, no paper or plastic. A tiny jigger of wine, I gave it to the one next to me. I thought there would be a “toast’ the bride and groom. NOT. All are so polite and kind and I loved that of these folks. Cake and ice cream were served on the same plates. That’s why they clean up Everything on their plates.

I sat with Elizabeth’s sister and she had the little guy. A fabulous roll out for this young couple and I wish them happiness and long life together. I went to get my little padded seat and got in my car and drove away. I made another wrong turn and went quite a ways before giving up and turning back. I saw some old guys at some random feed store and asked how to get to Zimmerman’s Store and they directed me. Yeah.

Such beautiful materials, but I didn’t get any. I got carrots and peppered hot pretzels that came from Elizabeth’s store. I got some Vit C in the NOW brand, but get home and they also are made in China. I’m going to have to look really hard to find vitamins that are made in America. I did get some jell capsules and a thing to set those capsules in to fill with stuff that will be much cheaper then buying them all made. Several ladies in the store knew me and one by name…..it was her first day there working.

I’ll go there again. of course. I saw some lovely yellow mums for $2.95 each and took ’em home. No trouble going home……….beautiful farming country. The Bread Basket of the USA. Reached home about 4:30 and went right in and took a nap. TIRED. Then reading the news, I saw some documentaries on folks that are leaving the Amish. I watched this one and as the man that was directing this video series said, “Not all Amish are like these ones that are so strict that they are not progressing.” I found that it was an interesting take on their lives.

Tomasi Love, you would have enjoyed being with me here. Almost NONE of these folks have any idea what is in the South Pacific…..”the Polynesian Triangle”. 8th grade education does show here. However, when we first moved to the Mainland ……………..a lot of Haoles didn’t know those places either. How I enjoy even now explaining my name and how to pronounce it and smiling in my heart that I’m married to you for Eternity. ” Irene Tukuafu

Her Website is here: http://irenetukuafu.blogspot.com/2010_05_01_archive.html
http://irenetukuafu.blogspot.com/
http://harp4you.blogspot.com/

Friends are wonderful. God is Great and I am a blessed man to know you all. I missed speaking about many of you, but I will get you one day soon, as I love speaking about the goodness in good people.

“While perhaps it is seldom, if ever, contended that either political independence or economic freedom alone brings perfect liberty, it is not, however, uncommon for free agency to be considered as synonymous with freedom of the soul. And it is true that the God-given right to choose one’s course of action is an indispensable prerequisite to such freedom. Without it we can scarcely enjoy any type of liberty—political, economic, or personal. It is one of our greatest heritages. For it we are deeply indebted to our Father in Heaven, to the Founding Fathers, and to the pioneers. God gave it to man in the Garden of Eden. (See Moses 7:32.) The Founding Fathers, under the Lord’s inspiration, wrote a guarantee of it into the fundamental law of the land. And the pioneers, led by the inspiration of heaven, gave their all to perpetuate it. Surely we ought always to be alert in its defense and willing, if necessary, to give our lives for its preservation.” The Perfect Law of Liberty Marion G. Romney

*Special Announcement Below

Editors Note:

This quote form Elder Romney is so appropriate during this time of extreme turmoil in the world. Cyber wars, socialism, freedom of speech infringed upon, unfettered abortion, the 1619 project and critical race theory, FBI and CIA corruption, sex trafficking, (just ask Tim Ballard), progressivism in schools, Antifa, Black Lives Matter (I feel all lives matter), riots by activists, our education system (NEA) demanding masks on our children, government mandating experimental gene therapy, illegal voting, dictatorships, social media controlling us, deep state, tolerating sinful practices, and outright dishonoring the Lord’s Ten Commandments. It all comes down to the loss of freedom that Elder Marion G. Romney speaks of in this quote. On this date Sept 11, 2021 we remember that 20 years ago a very evil entity toppled two towers and killed thousands. Today I say, this must turn around soon as we prepare for the Lord’s second coming.

When will we realize that we must step up and refuse this take over of our God given values and freedoms? What can we do? We need to start with our own home as a righteous safe-haven for our family. We need to then extend to our community and vote, serve, and run for office. In our county we can fight for states rights and elect good leaders especially County Sherriff’s. Remember our County Sherriff has more power than the federal government.

The Stance of a Constitutional Sheriff, 2021

“In response to the numerous violations of basic human rights by our own government, the CSPOA has composed the following document.  It is designed to help the Constitutional Sheriff defend the Bill of Rights and restore Liberty to America, one county at a time.” CSPOA.com

Political Bondage

Elder Romney continues, “Free agency, however, precious as it is, is not of itself the perfect liberty we seek, nor does it necessarily lead thereto. As a matter of fact, through the exercise of their agency more people have come to political, economic, and personal bondage than to liberty.

The Nephites, for example, at one time, by the exercise of their agency, brought themselves to such a state of affairs that their only course led to political bondage. This they did while living under a government providing for the freest exercise of agency. “Their laws and their governments,” says the record, “were established by the voice of the people, and they who chose evil were more numerous than they who chose good.” Therefore, “they could not be governed by the law nor justice, save it were to their destruction.” (Hel. 5:2–3.) Under these circumstances, they chose as rulers wicked men, who would certainly destroy their political liberties, to replace righteous men who had in the past protected and preserved those liberties and would have continued to do so in the future.” Marion G. Romney

Book of Mormon is Crucial

I guess now we see the critical nature of reading the Book of Mormon. It was written for US, and WE need to share it with our brothers and sisters the Lamanites, and the entire world. The time is now. I fully believe the Lord will hopefully bring about a second harvest where the Satanic governments of the world will be stopped for a season before the great second coming of the Lord. How wonderful would it be to see those in China, Iran, North Korea, Israel, and Saudi Arabia, have the blessing of missionaries in their country’s? That would be awesome as I hope and pray that still may happen soon. We know it is always up to the Lord but let us step up our efforts in missionary work and overcome this evil in the world. Let’s do our part as I feel with every fiber of my being, that it is still possible.

Mormon invites the Lamanites of the latter days to believe in Christ, accept His gospel, and be saved as he says,

“And now, behold, I would speak somewhat unto the remnant of this people who are spared [Lamanites], if it so be that God may give unto them my words, that they may know of the things of their fathers; yea, I speak unto you, ye remnant of the house of Israel; and these are the words which I speak: Know ye that ye are of the house of Israel. Know ye that ye must come unto repentance, or ye cannot be saved… Know ye that ye must come to the knowledge of your fathers, and repent of all your sins and iniquities, and believe in Jesus Christ, that he is the Son of God, and that he was slain by the Jews” Mormon 7:1-3

The Lamanites are descendants of those who killed our Savior, even the Jews. That shows the incredible challenges of the Native Americans and the Jews in the world today and how they have been smitten and scattered. But, realize they will be blessed and we Gentiles keep our stewardship and share the Gospel with our brothers and sisters.

Native American Celebration

The celebration of the Native American’s by the FIRM Foundation, with our beginning celebration, will honor the Lamanites of North America beginning September 25, 2021. See Information below and here.

*Special Announcement:
We have added a Native American Hoop Dance at our Native Celebration by Mike Lafontaine’s Nephew!

“Yes, we will celebrate all Lamanites as there are great Lamanites in South and Central America and Canada and many other places as well, and we love them as we see the Gospel is growing in Mesoamerica as well. (See my blog about Lamanites all over North and South America here) But, I believe the beginning of the Lamanites is with Lehi landing in Florida, as I believe the United States is where the main events of the Book of Mormon began in this New World. (Really this land of the USA is the Old World where Adam was placed).

I believe the Land of Promise spoken of in the Book of Mormon is the United States of America. The Constitution was created by the Lord, Adam and Eve were placed on this same land and the New Jerusalem will be on this same land. No need for me to check out Mesoamerica anymore as I did for 40 years.

Just like evolution. I don’t believe we came from an ape and I know that matter cannot come from nothing. I don’t have to look into science to figure this out, but by the witness of what the scriptures tell us.

I don’t expect President Nelson to come right out and tell me where the Book of Mormon events happened, or if we came from an ape, I know through sound reasoning the answer that makes most sense to me. Now if the Brethren say otherwise, I would always listen to them first, and then pray about it, but in my opinion the Church is neutral on difficult issues that exist to help each of us individually come to a knowledge of the “truth of all things” as promised in the Book of Mormon. I don’t need to be commanded in all things!” Rian Nelson

Wrath Turned Away

“The Lord has made the Lamanites—the Indians, a scourge; but if this people will turn to and do just as they have been told, their wrath will be turned away in a short time, but not until the Lord God sees that this people are determined to do right.

“It is the author’s opinion that all the scriptures, including the Book of Mormon, will remain in the realm of faith. Science will not be able to prove or disprove holy writ. However, enough plausible evidence will come forth to prevent scoffers from having a field day, but not enough to remove the requirement of faith. Believers must be patient during such unfolding.” Neal A. Maxwell, Plain and Precious Things, 1983

Mormon Watched His People Destroyed and Saw Our Day

31 Yea, it shall come in a day when there shall be great pollutions upon the face of the earth; there shall be murders, and robbing, and lying, and deceivings, and whoredoms, and all manner of abominations; when there shall be many who will say, Do this, or do that, and it mattereth not, for the Lord will uphold such at the last day. But wo unto such, for they are in the gall of bitterness and in the bonds of iniquity.

32 Yea, it shall come in a day when there shall be churches built up that shall say: Come unto me, and for your money you shall be forgiven of your sins.

33 O ye wicked and perverse and stiffnecked people, why have ye built up churches unto yourselves to get gain? Why have ye transfigured the holy word of God, that ye might bring damnation upon your souls? Behold, look ye unto the revelations of God; for behold, the time cometh at that day when all these things must be fulfilled.

34 Behold, the Lord hath shown unto me great and marvelous things concerning that which must shortly come, at that day when these things shall come forth among you.

35 Behold, I speak unto you as if ye were present, and yet ye are not. But behold, Jesus Christ hath shown you unto me, and I know your doing.

36 And I know that ye do walk in the pride of your hearts; and there are none save a few only who do not lift themselves up in the pride of their hearts, unto the wearing of very fine apparel, unto envying, and strifes, and malice, and persecutions, and all manner of iniquities; and your churches, yea, even every one, have become polluted because of the pride of your hearts.

37 For behold, ye do love money, and your substance, and your fine apparel, and the adorning of your churches, more than ye love the poor and the needy, the sick and the afflicted. Mormon 8:31-37

Amazing Video for Our Day

Elder Gordon B. Hinckley, 1st Counselor to President Ezra Taft Benson, proclaimed that the Book of Mormon “is as current as the morning newspaper”, “in its descriptions of the problems of today’s society.” The Power of the Book of Mormon, Ensign June 1988

The American Prophet Moroni testified that “Jesus Christ hath shown you unto me, and I know your doing.” Mormon 8:35

Using these two quotations as a guide, author Rod Meldrum explores some of the Book of Mormon prophecies that pertain to our day and compare them directly with news headlines from the mainstream media of the USA.

To understand the signs of our day, we must read the Book of Mormon!

The Book of Mormon Prophets warned a very specific nation about the consequences of being wicked, upon God’s Promised Land. In Rod Meldrum”s latest DVD, he clearly demonstrates how the Book of Mormon is as “Current as the Daily News.”

In his 2-hour presentation Rod discusses the 4 Sacred Covenants that George Washington invoked at St. Paul’s Cathedral during his inauguration – the same sacred ground the New York Twin Towers collapsed on during 911. Take a trip through current news headlines and see why America’s promised blessings are now being revoked, leaving her in grave peril and judgment from God. With this warning will the people living in our nation, foretold by ancient prophets in the Book of Mormon still serve Jesus Christ, the God of this sacred covenant land?

“For those who do not know, my dad passed away on Monday, September 6, 2021, after quite the courageous battle with stage 4 lung cancer. The funeral will be this Saturday at our ward building in Salem Utah for those who would like to attend (there will also be a live stream option). My dad was known far and wide for his love for the scriptures, for the Prophet Joseph Smith and his tireless consecrated life to lift those around him. I never saw him take a day to indulge in any selfish pursuit. His drive and passion to help others inspired my siblings and I with a faith, vision and legacy that will continue for generations. We will miss him terribly but rejoice knowing that he is free from pain and busily engaged in a great work on the other side!” ❤️ Hannah Stoddard

Funeral: September 11, 2021 (160 South 460 West, Salem, Utah 84653)Viewing: 8:30amFuneral: 10:00am
Burial: Manti, Utah Cemetery: 2:00pm

A few words from Rian Nelson
What Hannah has said above is all I need to say about the life of James Stoddard. He is a special man, and even in death he will bless the lives of his family and many of us. Please be mindful of this wonderful family and know that a young but mature Hannah, age 25 will be a huge support. May we love and support her and her siblings however we can.

The FIRM Foundation with Rod and Tonya Meldrum, and all of it’s friends and employees, offer their most sincere condolences. James is a true Father, Saint and Friend who has raised a wonderful family and left an extraordinary legacy of love.

Joseph Smith Knew the Nephites

“Such questions have been asked as “How much did the prophet Joseph Smith actually know about Book of Mormon geography?” and “How much of what he knew did he feel at liberty to reveal to his followers?” Joseph Smith was first shown the plates of the Book of Mormon on September 22, 1823, but it was not until the fourth anniversary of that date, i.e., in 1827, that they actually came into his possession. What was he doing during those four years, and why that long wait before he could get on with his important assignment of translating them into English? A recent study documents no fewer than 22 visitations of the angel Moroni to Joseph, as well as appearances of Nephi, Alma, Mormon, and other Book of Mormon notables [Robert J. Woodford, “Book of Mormon Personalities Known by Joseph Smith” The Ensign, Vol. 8, No. 8, August 1978, pp. 12-15; also “The Story of the Doctrine and Covenants,” i.b.i.d., Vol. 14, No. 12, December 1984, pp. 32-39].

Most of these visits were made, no doubt, during this four-year period, and many of them were reported by Lucy Mack Smith, mother of the Prophet, who in her old age dictated a biography of her controversial son. (Smith, 1979) Chapter 18 (pp. 79-85) of Mother Smith’s biography is of particular interest. It starts with the date September 22, 1823, when young Joseph told his father of the visits of Moroni through the previous night. Then, that evening and the next, his whole family gathered about to listen to him. From this time forth, Joseph continued to receive instructions from the Lord, and we continued to get the children together every evening for the purpose of listening while he gave us a relation of the same. I presume our family presented an aspect as singular as any that ever lived upon the face of the earth–all seated in a circle, father, mother, sons and daughters, and giving the most profound attention to a boy, eighteen years of age, who had never read the Bible through in his life: he seemed much less inclined to the perusal of books than any of the rest of our children, but far more given to meditation and deep study. ‘During our evening conversations, Joseph would occasionally give us some of the most amusing recitals that could be imagined. He would describe the ancient inhabitants of this continent, their dress, mode of traveling, and the animals upon which they rode; their cities, their buildings, with every particular; their mode of warfare; and also their religious worship. This he would do with as much ease, seemingly, as if he had spent his whole life among them.’ (Smith, pp. 82-83) . . . In any case, the Prophet seems to have known a good deal about ancient Nephite civilization. Why, then did he not tell his followers more about such matters as Book of Mormon geography? Because they were not yet ready for it, and because that was not what the Church was to become involved in at that stage of development. It would seem, however, that he at least left a few clues behind, perhaps to stimulate us of the present generation to further inquiry. (Incidentally, I am not one to accept everything Joseph Smith ever said or wrote as automatically binding; he was a human being like the rest of us. But I do believe he had special insights, and whatever he may have had to say–even on a subject like Book of Mormon geography–is worthy of careful consideration.)” Ross T. Christensen at the Thirty-third Annual Symposium on the Archaeology of the Scriptures, held at BYU on September 28 and 29, 1984.

I believe the Prophet Joseph Smith actually knew a great deal about Book of Mormon geography. I believe if you study, read and pray about the Prophet Joseph’s writings, you will find his strong belief in the North American setting for the Book of Mormon. Read Letter VII, Wentworth Letter, Josephs letter to Emma, D&C 28, 30,125, 128 and many other sources that reflect this belief. I believe it is important to know more about where Lehi landed, and Nephi served, and where the final battles of the Nephites happened. It adds to my testimony just as knowing the Lord was born in Bethlehem. Cumorah in New York is the key. This is where the angel appeared to Joseph, where the plates were hidden and the very hill where the Jaredites and Nephites were destroyed.

Below is some great counsel from the LDS Newsroom about our witnesses about Church doctrine. I have felt a wonderful feeling for example, that there is only ONE CUMORAH. This feeling  gives me a deeper understanding of the important role that Hill Cumorah played in the coming forth of the Book of Mormon.

“Individual members are encouraged to independently strive to receive their own spiritual confirmation of the truthfulness of Church doctrine. Moreover, the Church exhorts all people to approach the gospel not only intellectually but with the intellect and the spirit, a process in which reason and faith work together.” LDS Newsroom

 

JOSEPH , “SEALED HIS MISSION AND HIS WORKS“

My Works of Joseph website was started in 2011 as a way to honor the Prophet Joseph Smith. Everything he has done, will do, and continues to do, has been and always will be focused on testifying of the Lord Jesus Christ.

As the scripture says in D&C 135: 3, “Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it. In the short space of twenty years, he has brought forth the Book of Mormon, which he translated by the gift and power of God, and has been the means of publishing it on two continents; has sent the fullness of the everlasting gospel, which it contained, to the four quarters of the earth; has brought forth the revelations and commandments which compose this book of Doctrine and Covenants, and many other wise documents and instructions for the benefit of the children of men; gathered many thousands of the Latter-day Saints, founded a great city, and left a fame and name that cannot be slain. He lived great, and he died great in the eyes of God and his people; and like most of the Lord’s anointed in ancient times, has sealed his mission and his works with his own blood; and so has his brother Hyrum. In life they were not divided, and in death they were not separated!”

Whatever Joseph Smith possessed, spoke of, acted out, preached, served, translated, worshiped, revealed, and testified of; witnesses as a testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the Prophet of this Last Dispensation and holds the keys in these last days. It will be well with us to learn about him and speak of him as he will lead us to the Savior.

Along with Moroni holding the keys of the Stick of Ephraim (D&C 27:5), Joseph Smith and Hyrum I believe, will lead us during the millennium. May the Lord help each of us to become more familiar with these amazing prophets and strive to follow the Lord Jesus Christ in all we do.

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Mother Lucy Smith’s Statement
The day after Joseph and Hyrum were martyred, their bodies were taken back to Nauvoo on horse-drawn wagons. Their mother, Lucy Smith, described the events which followed:

After the corpses were washed and dressed in their burial clothes, we were allowed to see them. I had for a long time braced every nerve, roused every energy of my soul, and called upon God to strengthen me; but when I entered the room, and saw my murdered sons extended both at once before my eyes, and heard the sobs and groans of my family, and the cries of “Father! Husband! Brothers!” from the lips of their wives, children, brothers, and sisters, it was too much. I sank back, crying to the Lord, in the agony of my soul, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken this family!”

A voice replied, “I have taken them to myself, that they might have rest!”

Emma was carried back to her room almost in a state of insensibility.

Her oldest son approached the corpse, and dropped upon his knees, and laying his cheek against his father’s, and kissing him, exclaimed, “Oh, my father, my father!”

As for myself, I was swallowed up in the depths of my afflictions; and, though my soul was filled with horror past imagination, yet I was dumb, until I arose again to contemplate the spectacle before me. Oh! at that moment how my mind flew through every scene of sorrow and distress which we had passed together, in which they had shown the innocence and sympathy which filled their guileless hearts!

As I looked upon their peaceful, smiling countenances, I seemed almost to hear them say, “Mother, weep not for us, we have overcome the world by love; we carried to them the gospel, that their souls might be saved; they slew us for our testimony, and thus placed us beyond their power; their ascendancy is for a moment, ours is an eternal triumph.” (Lucy Smith, Joseph Smith the Prophet and His Progenitors, 354-355) Source https://restorationbookstore.org

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“Who can say aught against Joseph Smith? I do not think that a man lives on the earth that knew him any better than I did, and I am bold to say that, Jesus Christ excepted, no better man ever lived or does live upon this earth. I feel like shouting Hallelujah all the time, when I think that I ever knew Joseph Smith, the Prophet.” Millennial Star, XXI (July 11, 1863)

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To see all of Andrew Knaupp’s art of Joseph Smith and Videos visit here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Q8Zb1IMOik&list=PL1S539HeZXytwxvyn8Ae6co-W5T7CdPAE

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Joseph Smith about Jesus Christ

When we understand the character of God, and know how to come to Him, he begins to unfold the heavens to us, and to tell us all about it. When we are ready to come to him, he is ready to come to us. History of the Church, 6:308.

Seek to know God in your closets, call upon him in the fields. Follow the directions of the Book of Mormon, and pray over, and for your families, your cattle, your flocks, your herds, your corn, and all things that you possess; ask the blessing of God upon all your labors, and everything that you engage in. History of the Church, 5:31.

The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it. History of the Church, 3:30.

It is left for us to see, participate in and help to roll forward the Latter-day glory, “the dispensation of the fullness of times, when God will gather together all things that are in heaven, and all things that are upon the earth, even in one,” . . . The blessings of the Most High will rest upon our tabernacles, and our name will be handed down to future ages; our children will rise up and call us blessed; and generations yet unborn will dwell with peculiar delight upon the scenes that we have passed through, the privations that we have endured; the untiring zeal that we have manifested; the all but insurmountable difficulties that we have overcome in laying the foundation of a work that brought about the glory and blessing which they will realize; a work that God and angels have contemplated with delight for generations past; that fired the souls of the ancient patriarchs and prophets; a work that is destined to bring about the destruction of the powers of darkness, the renovation of the earth, the glory of God, and the salvation of the human family. History of the Church, 4:609–10.

When I contemplate the rapidity with which the great and glorious day of the coming of the Son of Man advances, when He shall come to receive His Saints unto Himself, where they shall dwell in His presence, and be crowned with glory and immortality; when I consider that soon the heavens are to be shaken, and the earth tremble and reel to and fro; and that the heavens are to be unfolded as a scroll when it is rolled up; and that every mountain and island are to flee away, I cry out in my heart, What manner of persons ought we to be in all holy conversation and godliness! History of the Church, 1:442.

Joseph Smith is and was a Prophet of God. I love him! Rian Nelson

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In my five posts here at BOFM.BLOG, I realize I have provided a lot of detailed information about this RLDS origin of the Two Cumorah Mesoamerica geography theory for The Book of Mormon.

Blog 1 July 22 THE ORIGIN OF THE TWO CUMORAH MESOAMERICA GEOGRAPHY THEORY FOR THE BOOK OF MORMON
Blog 2 Aug 11 THE REJECTION OF THE TWO CUMORAH MESOAMERICA GEOGRAPHY THEORY FOR THE BOOK OF MORMON
Blog 3 Aug 20 REJECTED TWICE BY THE RLDS FIRST PRESIDENCY
Blog 4 Aug 30 THE RLDS BOOK OF MORMON MAP DEBATE OF 1924
Blog 5 Sept 2 HOW M2C WAS CREATED FROM AN ATLAS

I also realize very few will take the time or have the patience to study and understand all of it.

But please understand, that The Prophet Joseph Smith had nothing to do with this silly geography theory created in 1917 now being promoted by our leading LDS scholars.

This short nine-year history from 1917 to 1925, with the death of Louis E. Hills, as clearly reported in The Saints’ Herald, explains its origin and history. Anyone who claims it’s the Truth, are actually perpetuating a lie.

Anyone who claims Joseph Smith was its author, is bearing false witness against the Prophet. Those who promote this theory, are “loving and making a lie.” (D&C 63:17; 76:103)

Dr. John L. Sorenson in his 1990 book, The Geography of Book of Mormon Events: A Source Book  in .pdf format here, mentions Louis E. Hills and his works:

https://archive.bookofmormoncentral.org/sites/default/files/archive-files/pdf/sorenson/2020-01-24/john_l._sorenson_the_geography_of_book_of_mormon_events_a_source_book_1990.pdf

On page 31, Sorenson wrote of L.E. Hills and even enumerated Hills’ accomplishments:

“Hills, an RLDS student of the Book of Mormon, seems to deserve credit for many innovations:

(1) the first regionally limited model,

(2) that the lands where Book of Mormon events took place comprised exclusively Mesoamerica,

(3) that the Isthmus of Tehuantepec was the narrow neck,

(4) that the Usumacinta was the Sidon, and

(5) the first comprehensive attempt to utilize secular scholarly literature (on the native chronicles or traditions) to settle Book of Mormon questions.

The first point involves both the landing of Lehi’s party in Central America and the presence of the hill Cumorah of the final Nephite battles in Mexico; actually, then, the concept of “two Cumorahs” goes back at least 75 years.” (Published in 1990)

Sorenson here admits The Prophet Joseph Smith had nothing to do with a “two Cumorahs” concept for the geography of The Book of Mormon.

The following four-page document (bottom, below), written by Louis E. Hills, describes how he created his Two Cumorah Mesoamerica geography theory for The Book of Mormon.

This document was obtained from the Community of Christ Library and Archives. It is undated, but was written during this 1917- 1925 timeframe, as L.E. Hills had mentioned during this period in his lectures or before the Committee, about using his Atlas, as noted in The Saints’ Herald, August 23, 1921, quoting Daniel MacGregor:

These three items or “secular scholarly literature” mentioned by Dr. John L Sorenson in his “Source Book,” were used by L.E. Hills. I have provided links to them online, sans the map:

Bulletin 28, Bureau of American Ethnology pages 327-330 (Dated 1904)

https://library.si.edu/digital-library/book/bulletin281904smit

Rand McNally Map of Central America – (unavailable not knowing the year used)

Bulletin 28, Bureau of American Ethnology page 247 (Dated 1904)

https://library.si.edu/digital-library/book/bulletin281904smit

These are screen shots from his document I consider shows the lack of logic, by L.E. Hills:

This is the logic behind the so-called Two Cumorah Mesoamerica geography theory for The Book of Mormon – the use of Maps from an Atlas and reports from the Smithsonian Institution.

There is no citing the Prophet Joseph Smith, his revelations, nor the scriptures. This is simply a fantasy of the mind using private interpretations of the scriptures and the teachings of men.

This is what has afflicted and confused members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints since at least 1979 when F.A.R.M.S. was created, by its owners, employees, volunteers, and donors, and its spinoffs, today called “Book of Mormon Central” and “Interpreter Foundation” and their business affiliates. They promote L.E. Hills’ geography theory.

Follows, is the four-page document written by Louis E. Hills, explaining how he came up with his now so-called Two Cumorah Mesoamerica geography theory, restricting the geography of The Book of Mormon to Central America.

Stephen Reed

Mesa, Arizona

This image is from the Smithsonian report that LE Hills wrote that he used to come up with his geography theory.

“I believe it is important to understand the other most prevalent geography theory of the Book of Mormon, the Mesoamerican Theory. As one who believes that the Book of Mormon events happened in North America, for over 40 years I believed (or was taught by Sunday school, seminary, and church literature), all about Mesoamerica, and nothing about the Heartland. Only after much prayer and search did I find the Heartland Model, and was blessed to meet Rod Meldrum. Heartland Model is the most accurate theory of all. In fact, knowing that Hill Cumorah in NY is the only hill where the Nephites and Jaredites had their last battles, I listened and read and prayed about this one aspect, and it has become an important part of my testimony.

Why I love the Book of Mormon

“I was first taught and inspired about the North American Model by Rod Meldrum. The WorksofJoseph.com (My Website), maps included in our Annotated Edition of the Book of Mormon were created after being inspired while reading the book Moroni’s America by Jonathan Neville. However, I want others to know that the spiritual messages of the Book of Mormon are more important than the geography. But I also believe the historical accuracy is critical to my full comprehension of the ‘most correct book’ (Joseph Smith Jr.) on the earth. I believe most Latter-day Saints agree that the Garden of Eden, Adam-ondi-Ahman, and Cumorah are located in North America, and most know that the New Jerusalem will be built upon the American Continent or in Missouri.(Articles of Faith #10, Doctrine and Covenants 84:1-4). It just makes sense to me that the Book of Mormon history also occurred in the United States of America, as other sacred events did.

My ideas have been shaped based on Joseph Smith’s writings that the Hill Cumorah is in Manchester, New York (Letter VII), that Joseph did have a vision of Zelph who was a Book of Mormon Chieftain in Illinois (Joseph Smith Papers), and Joseph did write a letter to Emma June 4, 1834 telling her that he was ‘wandering over the plains of the Nephites,’ in Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. (Joseph Smith Papers). I also believe the Promised Land spoken of in the Book of Mormon is indeed the choice land of the United States. I desire that this blog of Book of Mormon events will inspire you and teach you more about the spiritual message of The Book of Mormon, Another Testament of Jesus Christ.” 
Rian Nelson The Annotated Book of Mormon by David Hocking and Rod Meldrum page 522

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Below is Book of Mormon Centrals Opinion of their claim the Book of Mormon took place in Mesoamerica from their website.

Below the BOMC words in Black and my opinions in red.

Published on Book of Mormon Archaeological Forum (http://www.bmaf.org)Home > which is owned by Book of Mormon Central

Why Mesoamerica?

Criteria for Book of Mormon Lands and People
 There are several theories held among Latter-day Saints for the location of Book of Mormon lands. Some place the geography of the book in upstate New York or near the Great Lakes. Others look to Peru and South America, or to the Baja Peninsula, or Texas, and some even propose the Malaysian Peninsula. BMAF supports a Mesoamerican context for the major Book of Mormon sites. Other locations may meet some of the following criteria, but only Mesoamerica meets all these elements required by the book itself.  This list of criteria is not a cafeteria list.  Any Book of Mormon lands proposal must be able to demonstrate all.

It must demonstrate all below in the opinion of BOMC, not in my opinion. This statement also shows that BMAF is not neutral as they claim but they are one-sided in their view of where the Book of Mormon took place. But on their BOMC website they claim neutrality so they are in line with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who keep a neutral position which is fine with us. We, Book of Mormon Evidence.org is not neutral. We believe the Book of Mormon events happened in North America and the Lamanites spread to all parts of the hemisphere after the final battles in New York.

	A Narrow Neck of land and 4 seas (east, west, north, and south) Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Erie, Michigan, Huron
	A major river running south to north from a narrow strip of wilderness. Why south? The Index to the Triple Combination doesn’t have this requirement. See Here:
	A high civilization with cities, kings, artisans, military, and priests There are over 1,000,000 mound and settlements in North America See Proof Here:
	An agricultural base large enough to support several millions of people Are you kidding. Is there anything larger than the Mississippi agricultural base? See Chart and map below. “The table above examines the land and water systems required to support large armies found in pre-modern history. The table shows that before the modern era a population of at least 30,000,000 living in a land area of 1,000,000 square miles where rivers discharge at least 1,000,000 cubic feet of water per second could support military forces of 500,000 men. The table shows that these conditions for supporting 500,000 armed forces were satisfied for (1) the Persian Armies in Eurasia in 500 BC, (2) for the Mauryan Empire in India in 300 BC, (3) for the Han Dynasty in China in AD 1, (4) for the Nephite-Lamanite Nations in North America in AD 385, (5) for the Gupta Dynasty in India in AD 375, and (6) for the Roman Empire in Eurasia of AD 420. All these cases there were pre-industrial societies. In all these cases there were armies of about 500,000 men.” John Lefgren
	A highly literate (written language) society with scribes as important officers Yes the Nephites would have scribes and records that’s why they buried them to protect them from Lamanites.
	Functional calendar and dating systems Nephites had the moon and stars. Mayan’s had the sun and stars. He Hebrews used the moon as a calendar just like the North American Natives. “Coriantumr was discovered by the people of Zarahemla; and he dwelt with them for the space of nine moons.” Omni 1:21
	A merchant class using weights and measures Native Americans used Wampum as legal tender.
	Engineers to build houses, temples, towers, and highways using cement Page 207, 303 Annotated Book of Mormon
	Highly skilled craftsmen working with precious metals and stonework Annotated Book of Mormon pg. 207, 303
	A warrior society involved in large battles using trained soldiers and sophisticated fortifications There are breastplates, arrowheads, pottery, proof of fires, roads, and buildings of earth and wood all over North America. Alma 49:11-12
	Legends of a white, bearded God Native Americans have Legends of the Great Spirit. (One god)

These Criteria must be in the Western Hemisphere but where Joseph Smith could not have known about them in 1829.

For more information click here [1] and browse through the articles
in section 2 “The Mesoamerica Model.” WHY THE GREAT LAKES/HEARTLAND MODEL DOES NOT QUALIFY(1) No major river running South to North, Mississippi River flows North to South The Tennessee river the New River, the Genesee Rivers all run south to north, but that is not something that is even mentioned in the Book of Mormon, only that Zarahemla is on the west of River Sidon, which Montrose, Iowa is west of the Mississippi River, which we believe is the River Sidon. See my Blog Here

(2) No mountainous strip of wilderness that can hide Gadianton robbers, defend against Lamanites and serve as military dividing line for Captain Moroni(Alma 22:33-34,50:11) Silly argument, have you seen all the caves, wilderness, strips, etc in North America? Of course.

(3) Very little gold and silver east of the Mississippi Are you kidding me? The world’s richest supply of copper in Isle Royal in Michigan. Gold, Silver and Copper all of the mountains of eastern Tennessee.

(4) No evidence of cement buildings anywhere in eastern U.S. or Canada, archaeologists have determined that the vast majority of discovered archaeological sites dating to the time period of the Book of Mormon are located in Mesoamerica The Nephites built with earth and wood 90% of the time, not stone and mortar. See blog here

(5) No evidence that Adena and Hopewell co-existed for 250 years Well they just aren’t looking. Ohio archeologists, (not Mormon archaeologists) find the opposite. Look at this map just from Wikipedia and check the resources. Source of the map below is Here

(6) Adena and Hopewell were not true civilizations, but were small, loosely knit, family related units with no evidence of a written language. The area in and around the Isthmus of Tehuantepec constituted the embryo for both the calendar system and the written language of the Americas. This fact alone virtually eliminates any other geographical area from being considered as “lands of the Book of Mormon” Meso believers may be from the great and spacious building. Just research Adena or Hopewell and see this quote. “The most common question that is asked about mounds is, “How many exist?” In the 1800’s the Smithsonian sponsored many expeditions to identify mound sites across America. A map (shown below) was produced by Cyrus Thomas in 1894 in a Bureau of Ethnology book. They found approximately 100,000 mound sites, many with complexes containing 2 to 100 mounds. The figure of 100,000 mounds once existing— based on Cyrus Thomas map revealing 100,000 sites—is often cited by others, but that estimate is far, far too low. After visiting several thousand mounds and reviewing the literature, I am fairly certain that over 1,000,000 mounds once existed and that perhaps 100,000 still exist. Oddly, some new mound sites are discovered each year by archaeological surveys in remote areas. But in truth, a large majority of America’s mounds have been completely destroyed by farming, construction, looting, and deliberate total excavations” – Gregory L. Little, Ed.D., The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Native American Mounds & Earthworks, Eagle Wing Books, Inc., Memphis, TN [2009].

(7) So-called DNA “Proofs” use unsubstantiated theories. Joseph Smith did not receive revelation where Book of Mormon lands were located, but his last statements about Book of Mormon geography point us to Mesoamerica (click here [2] to see what Joseph Smith said about Mesoamerica) They want to show you a biased FAIRMormon video for proof? Look at this article from National Geographic and this blog

(9)  Columbus was directed to “the promised land,” yet he never visited North America. So San Salvador and the Bahamas was part of South America? Read my blog here and one here

For more information click here [1] and browse through the articles in the section “The Heartland Model.” (Click their link if you want more bias about the Heartland model) Yes I have a bias also, but all I want you, the reader to do is compare the two, pray about them and make what ever decision you would like. I choose the Heartland Model.

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Source URL: http://www.bmaf.org/about/why_mesoamerica

http://www.bmaf.org/about/why_mesoamerica

Book of Mormon Geography

Narrow Necks

The narrow neck mentioned in the Book of Mormon is one of the most well-known parts of the geography.  But, how many narrow necks are there in the world?  There are some major criteria needed for a world location to fit the Book of Mormon geography: There must be no cold or snow.  There is only one reference to snow (I Nephi 3:46 [11:8], “…and the whiteness thereof did exceed the whiteness of the driven snow.”)  This statement was made by Nephi in the Valley of Lemuel (in the Old World).  So, the people in the Book of Mormon knew snow, yet there are no references to cold or snow mentioned in the Promised Land. See my blog about snow here

There must be an east wind of destruction.  As for wind, there are several different kinds of references used.  The use of “wind” is very distinct and purposeful.  The descriptions range from mild wind to winds of destruction (“whirlwinds” and “east wind”).  A key description for locating the lands of the Book of Mormon is that is has to be someplace where a wind from the east is strong enough to cause immediate destruction and occurs often enough to be useful as an analogy.  In Mosiah 5:50 [7:31], “…they shall reap the east wind, which bringeth immediate destruction.

”There is criteria for the narrow neck.  A key description is in Alma 13:76 [22:32]: And now it was only the distance of a day and a half’s journey for a Nephite, on the line Bountiful, and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea.  Many people interpret this to describe the west sea to the east sea, but it just describes a point to the east.  It is important to note that this description does NOT describe going all the way to the sea east, just to a point on the east.  A similar construction is seen in Alma 22:8 [50:8]: And the land of Nephi did run in a straight course from the east sea to the west.  Again, both seas are not mentioned, just a point (to the west).  So, how many miles can a person travel in 1.5 days? It is very easy for a fit person to travel 40 miles in a day over unimproved trails (60 miles in a day and a half). American Indian runners have been known to run 75 to 100 miles per day.

Travel through jungle where no trails exist can be as low as 10 to 15 miles per day (the lower limit).The world record for a 48-hour run is 428,890 meters (266 miles), or 200 miles in a day and a half on a perfectly flat track (the upper limit). Canoe travel on flat, smooth, fast-flowing rivers can be up to 326 miles in 24 hours, but only one river meets this criteria (Yukon).  Otherwise, believe it or not, travel is the same, or less, than foot travel.

See my blog here about the 3 Necks in the Book of Mormon and one here

As a best estimate, the width of the narrow neck should be between 15 and 200 miles.

There must be a north-flowing river south of the narrow neck.  The river Sidon headwaters are in the South Wilderness which are south of the narrow neck.

There must be elevated areas on the west and south parts of the land.  There is a south wilderness and the Hermounts were on the west. See my complete Blog here about geography

There must be an elevated area on the east that borders an east sea.  The east wilderness bordered the east sea.

There must be at least two large bodies of water north of the narrow neck.  Helaman 2:3-4 [3:3] …there were an exceeding great many who departed out of the land of Zarahemla, and went forth unto the land northward, to inherit the land; And they did travel to an exceeding great distance, insomuch that they came to large bodies of water, and many rivers.

There needs to be significant geological forces (earthquakes, volcanism, and tsunamis) that can explain the destructions described in III Nephi. Earthquakes alone will do it. There are the least earthquakes in the world that occur in Mesoamerica and the greatest number in the USA at tornado alley. No volcanoes in the Book of Mormon, but whirlwinds are far more frequent in North America. See my blog here.

Different locations that have narrow necks are listed below.  Each has an assessment of these major criteira.  
https://sites.google.com/site/bomgeography/narrow-necks

Baja California Denmark Egypt England Florida Italy Korea Malaysia Mexico Nicaragua Panama Russia Turkey Turkey/Georgia/Russia

The Book of Mormon is not Mormonism (This is a strange article)

http://www.restoredgospel.com/Scriptures1/Shell_TheBookOfMormonIsNotMormonism.php

The Book of Mormon teaches against the notions of ‘Mormonism’

The Book of Mormon does Not Teach Mormonism

Not all people who believe the Book of Mormon are ‘Mormons.’Many have found the words to be true and everything it claims to be: an inspired record of Israelites with a profound and relevant testimony of Jesus Christ. These people have found the record to be true, yet have no association with the strange theologies many have come to know as ‘Mormonism.’ But because many have formed biases against the Book of Mormon before ever opening its cover, assurances are required, chiefly: The Book of Mormon is Not Mormonism.

Mormonism is associated with strange practices—strange to the Christian walk—like polygamy, celestial marriage, plurality of Gods, etc.But the Book of Mormon teaches none of these doctrines, and many who believe The Book of Mormon’s authenticity have no association with these practices. It simply does not teach them.

Assuming that all Book of Mormon believers espouse strange doctrines (polygamy, etc.) or that the Book of Mormon teaches these ideas is like assuming that historically all Americans were slave holders and advocated slavery because the constitution encouraged it. Slavery was not practiced by all Americans; some espoused it, most despised it, yet the constitution taught none of it. In the American civil war, some fought for slavery, and many fought against slavery, yet both would go home and read the same bible at night. Yet the U.S. constitution never advocated slavery. Slavery was a historical practice adopted by some outside the country’s written constitution. Similarly, practices of ‘Mormonism’ have no association with the Book of Mormon.

To assume anyone who believes the Book of Mormon must advocate ‘Mormonism’ is akin to assuming any American citizen must have advocated slavery in its day, or abortion in our day, just because they are US citizens. Because some practiced these crimes, does not mean every citizen advocated, and more importantly the crimes were not advocated by the original ‘doctrine.’

Such is also true of the Book of Mormon. Strange doctrines of polygamy, celestial marriage, plurality of Gods, temple ordinances—none of these ideas come from the Book of Mormon. They were all ideas instituted and practiced by men separate from the Book of Mormon’s teachings.

This is a very disturbing article above by BOMC. To say, “strange to the Christian walk—like polygamy, celestial marriage, plurality of Gods, etc. But the Book of Mormon teaches none of these doctrines”, BOMC is refuting polygamy and celestial marriage and plurality of Gods? Mormonism is what others call us not what we believe. To try and separate Mormonism from our eternal doctrine is weird and dangerous.

From this point below it is all information from our Heartland Theory.

Below are two Headland maps which represent the many changes over the years to the BOMC maps. They started with the 1917 LE Hills RLDS map they adopted, then to the east west directional typical Mesoamerican map, and now they have rotated it 45 degrees as a fantasy map which now aligns north to south as the Book of Mormon discusses. Our North American Heartland map has always aligned north to south as you see in the second map below.

The Most Misunderstood Quote by Mesoamerican Theorists is Below.

“You know there has been great discussion in relation to Zion–where it is, and where the gathering of the dispensation is, and which I am now going to tell you. The prophets have spoken and written upon it; but I will make a proclamation that will cover a broader ground. The whole of America is Zion itself from north to south.” President Joseph Smith’s Remarks–The Whole of America Zion–April Conference, 1844 Section Six 1843-44, p.362

I explain this quote from Joseph above, in the blog here.

Heartland Happenings

Join us at our 28th Book of Mormon Evidence Conference. We will have 5 rooms for speakers on Thursday and Friday Sept 23-24, including the Main Stage. On Saturday Sept 25, we will only have the Main Stage with speakers as the breakout rooms were not available. We will have over 100 informative presentations live and each will be recorded for you to view on our streaming site here, within a few weeks after our conference.

Each day at Noon and 4:30 pm on Thurs. and Fri., we will hear a brief Demonstration or Presentation on the main stage from several of our larger sponsors. (Prize giveaways) Please join us on Saturday from 3:30 to 5 pm for a huge Native American Panel and Dancing Celebration organized by Mike “Painted Pony” and Betty “Red Ant” LaFontaine. It is called,

“We Shall Remain”
A Native American Celebration

As you can see by the schedule here, I am still waiting for topics of some of our speakers presentations. This list of speakers and times will change. If you need to change your time, please contact Rian @ [email protected]

Within a month or so after the Live Expo Sept 23-25, we will make available all presenters who speak in video format and recorded, and you will have an opportunity to view the recorded videos later at your leisure.

There is a concessions stand at the event that will be available. Please don’t bring any outside food into the Expo Center. More details visit here https://bookofmormonevidence.org/events/

Just Added to our Conference Lineup
Key-Note Speaker Greg Hughes
Friday September 24, 2021 8:15 to 9:00 pm

Introducing: Greg Hughes Utah House of Representatives Majority Whip, Speaker of the House, KNRS Radio Host, Co-Host of Take Two
on Utah’s CBS Affiliate KUTV

In 2002 he was elected to the Utah House of Representatives where he served as the Chairman of the House Education Committee, House Majority Whip, and was twice elected by colleagues be the Speaker of the House. He retired from the Legislature at the end his term in 2018. 

During his time in the Legislature, he was champion of fiscally conservative policies, government reform, and protecting our veterans. Greg worked extensively on issues that created an environment for businesses to thrive and jobs to be created. As Speaker, he led the charge to increase education funding to historic levels while also cutting taxes. 

Named the 2015 “Utahn of the Year” by the Salt Lake Tribune, Hughes is best known for his determination to get things done and his ability to bring opposing sides together solve controversial issues such as medical cannabis, moving the state prison, justice reform, developing the inland port, and protecting religious freedom while opposing discrimination.  

Recently, Greg finished third place out of eight candidates competing for the Republican nomination for governor. Currently he manages a public policy and government relations consulting firm and has weekly media appearances on KNRS radio and as a co-host of Take Two on Utah’s CBS affiliate KUTV.

To view the schedule of all speakers visit: https://bookofmormonevidence.org/speakers/

Below is a brief highlight of a few of over 75 speakers. You know our wonderful regular speakers, Rod Meldrum, Dean Sessions, Russ Barlow, Amberli Nelson, David Doane, Steve Smoot, and Wayne May who will all be presenting at the conference as well. Below are a few more familiar faces and some you may not of heard about.

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L. Hannah Stoddard Director – For Our Day Film Series Website: josephsmithfoundation.org
Presentations:
1- Joseph Smith’s Plural Wives—The Real Story
2-Ancient Legends & Last Days Prophecy Testify of Joseph
3-You Are Likely a Nephite & Why It Matters

L. Hannah Stoddard is the co-author of Seer Stone v. Urim & Thummim: Book of Mormon Translation on Trial. She is the founder of Joseph Smith’s Legacy and the producer or director of six documentary films.

Listen to an amazing talk by Hannah’s father, James Stoddard here: Sadly this may be one of the last talks he gives. We love the Stoddard family.

Kimberly Smith- Writer, Researcher at the Joseph Smith Foundation
Presentation:
How I resolved my questions regarding Joseph Smith’s Polygamy-Faith Crisis Solutions! 

Kimberly Smith is a writer and researcher of church history. She is the Research Director for the Joseph Smith Foundation and author of several articles on the web including the article: “Answering the Claim: Did Joseph Smith Fight Plural Marriage”.

David Read Patent Attorney, JD
Presentations:
1- Updated DNA. Evidence for the Book of Mormon
2- Four Ancient Cities in North America: Do they Relate to the Book of Mormon?

Despite popular belief, the currently available DNA evidence supports the Book of Mormon. Critics who attempt to rely on DNA evidence to attack the truth of the Book of Mormon misinterpret or misconstrue what the DNA evidence actually shows. In this presentation, Mr. Read will present more DNA evidence that has recently come to light supporting Book of Mormon claims.

James T. Prout Author: The “Last Days” Timeline
Presentations:
Does Biden appear in Ezra’s Eagle?
How does Donald Trump return?

James T. Prout is the author the book: The “Last Days” Timeline and is an expert on the specific last-days events. James is the founder of www.LastDaysTimeline.com

Pamela Romney Openshaw Author of Promises of the Constitution Website: promisesoftheconstitution.com
Presentation
America’s Founding Mothers; Women of Freedom

Pamela Romney Openshaw found her passion for the Constitution and yearning for the politics of good, moral government while serving as an elected delegate from Nebraska to President Carter’s 1980 White House Conference on Families.

Jaren O’Driscoll- Husband Father, Patriot, Mormon Traditionalist Podcaster
Join Jaren at his vendor table and listen as he records podcast with many of the Conference Speakers.

“In relation to the Kingdom of God-the devil always sets up his kingdom at the very same time in opposition to God…” Joseph Smith Jr. Satan wasted no time in setting up his kingdom of lies and deception as God began to establish His. His Current Podcast is here:

Jonathan Neville Author, JD, Lawyer, Educator lettervii.com – moronisamerica.com – bookofmormonwars.com
Presentations:
1- Heartland in Africa
2- New Evidence of the Translation

Lemurs, Chameleons and Golden Plates: An African Perspective of the Restoration of the Gospel Written by Jonathan Neville & Illustrated by William Rasoanaivo Available at the Conference Sept 23-25.

Description
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is for everyone in the world. It teaches people of all cultures how to love one another, serve one another, and help one another become better, happier, people. This book helps young readers understand the Gospel from an African perspective.

Internationally recognized artist William Rasoanaivo of Madagascar applies his talents to relate the story of the Restoration from an African perspective.

Readers of Neville’s books and blogs know that important historical facts have been [reinterpreted] over the years, leading to confusion and even disaffection among some members of the Church. This new book relates historically accurate and faithful facts about the Restoration of the Gospel, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, its preservation, discovery, and translation, all of which corroborate what Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery taught all along.

This little book with its well-illustrated stories will go far in helping you teach correct historical facts and principles to yourself and your youngsters (children or grandchildren).

ERIC MOUTSOS, Former Policeman, Father, Author, Activist
Presentation: Conscience or Conformity?

Eric is a husband, father, author, former police officer, small business owner, and founder of the Utah Business Revival. He  organized several events this last year to promote freedom and Liberty. He also helped produce Non-Essential, a documentary focused on educating the public about our God given rights. 

Watch Eric’s 1 hour video below called, Non-Essential

https://www.ericmoutsos.com/non-essential-the-full-documentary/

Tristan Mourier Business Management, Speaker, French

“Tristan Mourier is a recent graduate from the Marriott Business School at Brigham Young University, his parents were early converts of the Church in Southern France and have been pioneers of the growth of the Kingdom there. See a recent interview here:

He first got publicly involved in the fight against secularism at BYU during the Honor Code protests of March 2020 and has since appeared on the FairMormon FairVoices Podcast and Defending Utah. 

Jeff Midgley  Emergency Medical Expert, Owner of TNT First-Aid Inc.
Presentation:
Preparing your Family for medical emergencies

Jeff Midgley has over 24 years in Emergency Management and Emergency Medical Services. He has worked in Hospital Emergency rooms, ambulance, motorsports safety and Fire Department. Jeff is an American Heart Association Training Center faculty member and instructor for basic life support. Jeff is one of 8 national SFI incident response instructors. He has had training articles published on spinal immobilization in the field and head trauma in the field. Jeff teaches all aspects of emergency medical preparedness including Mass Casualty disaster training and triage. He has also served as a city wide emergency preparedness coordinator. He loves teaching and helping families and businesses prepare for when disaster strikes.

Ben McClintock – Defending Utah Educating Citizens on the Principles of Liberty

Presentation:
“Secret Combinations and What YOU Can Do About It”

Ben McClintock is co-founder of the leading local organization working to educate citizens on the principles of liberty and to expose those conspiring to take away your freedom. (They are also expanding into other states).

Dale Lewis President Fortress Clothing
Presentations:
Don’t Freeze and Die- Be Prepared with Fortress.

“WINTER SURVIVAL for your Lifetime Supply of HEAT STORAGE”
“Renewable, Clean, Disguised, Low Cost Heat Storage”

Business Experience: Manufacturers Rep within the Grocery Channel, Nabisco, Frito-Lay. Founded WRLD Alliance, a telecommunications enterprise in 1997 and exited that business in 2007.

Betty “Red Ant” LaFontaine Navajo Educator, Speaker and Teacher
Special Presentation:
“We Shall Remain”
Native American Panel Discussion, Dance, Video and Testimony
Sat. Sept 25, 2021 3:30 to 5 pm

Betty “Red Ant” LaFontaine is a full blooded Diné (Navajo) born of the Red Clay Bottom Clan, for the Salt Clan. Raised on the Navajo Reservation, she lived most of her youth in New Mexico in the traditional ways of the Diné.

Andrea Hales Tribe of Testimonies Podcaster
Presentation:
“Tribe of Testimonies: Aligning Personal Traditional Beliefs with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

See her Facebook page here:
Listen to her podcasts here:

In late fall 2020, I started working on a podcast to unite my fellow Native American and First Nations brothers and sisters with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The purpose is not a social-movement platform, not a political platform, and not a place to air grievances. The purpose is solely to strengthen testimonies and share the Light of Jesus Christ. It is my hope to help align personal traditional beliefs, customs, and cultures with the Gospel of Jesus Christ one interview at a time.

Franklin Keel Foreign Officer, Lawyer, Native American Activist, Dir. of the Eastern Region, Bureau of Indian Affairs. 
He will be a part of the Native Celebration called,
“We Shall Remain” on Sat Sept 25, 3:30 to 5 pm

Mr. Keel was inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame of the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma in 2018 for his “meritorious contributions to society which reflect an innate personal affinity for superior endeavor.”

In 2017, he was inducted into the Chickasaw Nation Hall of Fame. In 2018, he was listed as one of “100 Alumni You Should Know” by the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma.

Kyung-Ran Koh CMHC, EMDR Licensed Clinical Therapist
Presentation:
‘Scrupulosity: Religious or Moral OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)
and the Grace of God’

A South Korean descent and convert to the LDS church, Kyung-Ran Koh has lived in the US since 1995. She has earned a ME.d in Counseling Psychology from the University of Utah in 2007. 

Dr. Patrick Jones Veterinarian, Clinical Herbalist, Author and Lecturer
Presentations:
1- Joseph, Brigham & Herbal Medicine
2- Ten Plants That Can Change Your Life

Clinical herbalist, practicing veterinarian and traditional naturopath Dr. Patrick Jones discusses the experiences and views of the Prophets Joseph Smith and Brigham Young on the subject of herbal medicine. Learn how these great men felt about medicinal plants and how to identify and use some of their favorite herbs. Learn what herb Brigham said we’d be blessed to know in the Last Days!

Kevin Humphrey Independent brand partner with NuLife Ventures, LLC. Marketing the AVACEN.  

Kevin has a B.S.E.E. B.Y.U. 1976, M.B.A. B.Y.U.1978, M.A. Clinical Psychology / Marriage & Family Therapy A.P.U. 2000. He has worked in the health and wellness field for the last 20 years. His company is Repower Your Star, LLC dba Microcirculation For Life.

Presentation
Optimize Health, Vitality and Youthfulness                                                      
– A Wellness Treatment from the Inside Out! Microcirculation is the Vehicle that improves Nutrient absorption and removes Toxins 66% more efficiently, thus increasing oxygen in the blood! AVACEN Medical is a 14 year old company from Carlsbad, CA. The AVACEN 100 has over 12 million safe treatments with zero adverse events.

Jacob Householder Financial Economics Student, Advocate of Free Markets & Conservative Politics
Presentation: “Freedom Isn’t Good Enough”

Jacob is a public speaker, researcher, and writer who believes America can be healed by making the Founding Fathers’ principles of successful government popular again through a grassroots educational movement. He is an advocate of liberty and has dedicated his life to restoring the Constitution. Additionally, he believes America can be healed through civil public discourse and proper education. Jacob seeks to unify America by promoting and highlighting bipartisan solutions instead of partisan problems.

Philip Gleason – Founder & Director of the non-profit Academy of Self-Reliance; CEO of the Utah OSR Land Cooperative.  Chief Consultant at OSR Green, LLC.

On a bitter cold night, as a young father, Philip found himself unable to keep his 3 baby girls warm, give them a meal, or even a drink of water. This experience set him on a course to understand and determine what it meant to “prepare every needful thing”.

Helping families transition from a lifestyle of dependency on cities for food, water, and power to a country culture of self-reliance is his passion. This is accomplished by providing a pathway to a homestead on 2-acres and more, with a passive solar home, a barn, a greenhouse, a garden/orchard, water and approved sanitation, while not being connected to any public utilities, surrounded by like-minded neighbors, and remaining debt free.

His decades as a building contractor and land developer with a passion for greenhouses and sustainable food production has led him to the creation of “Operation Self-Reliance”, a 4-step pathway to preparing every needful thing.

1. Identifying like-minded people and essential resources and networking them
2. Making available the knowledge & skills needed to be self-reliant
3. Qualifying plans to make the transition to self-reliance and establishing agricultural cooperatives
4. Providing opportunities to help and support OSR (Operations Self-Reliance)

Lonnie Crockett PhD Tax Law, Speaker, Author
Presentation: Is the Sun Setting on our Constitution?

Lonnie Crockett was raised in the great state of Alaska for the first 30 years of his life. As a boy, he hunted, fished, played baseball and was very active in Boy Scouting, earning his Eagle and Silver Palm awards. He even delivered news papers by dog team.

Angie Christensen Holistic Nutrition, Herbs, Homeopathy, Biomedical Interventions
Presentation|
The Do’s and Don’ts of Healthy Food Storage

Learn how to store food that will build your health and immunity when facing times of crisis.  This class is packed with life-saving details to help you learn:

How to Avoid the “Bermuda Triangle” of Food Storage
What foods can make you disease resistant during an emergency
Which forms of food preservation retain the most nutrition

Daniel Burdett UM Instructor
Presentation: Geological Time vs Revelatory Time Using the UM

UM—The Science Supporting Joseph Fielding Smith’s Man, His Origin and Destiny
Daniel Burdett is a 3rd generation dentist from Ogden, Utah. 

Events considered significant: Married Jennifer Lindsay in the Salt Lake City Temple 1995, Father of four: Devin(22), Lindsay(20), Mikelle(17) and Nathan(15).

Secular Education: DDS—Creighton University 2005, LCSW—1999-2001, MSW—University of Utah 1997,BA—Weber State University 1995 , Ogden High School 1989

Scott N. Bradley Founder, The Constitutional Commemoration Foundation
Presentations:
1- “A Land Choice Above All Other Lands”
2- “The Book of Mormon and Recalibrating the Saints.”
Scott will also be a part of the Native American Celebration called “”We Shall Remain” on Sat Sept 25, 3:30 to 5 pm

President Ezra Taft Benson taught: “The Book of Mormon was written for our day,” and he also taught that within the Book of Mormon we discover not only the blessings associated with this Promised Land, but also the cursings we face if we diverge from the covenants associated with this uniquely blessed Promised Land.  We are warned that if we fail to abide by the counsel of the God of the Land, Jesus Christ, and to worship and serve Him, we will reap dire consequences in the latter days.  The Book of Mormon presents powerful warnings against the soul-destroying philosophies and precepts that are so highly organized, cleverly disguised, and powerfully promoted in modern America.  This presentation will introduce and discuss some of these threats that are destroying our faith and our nation.

David W. Allan  Ambassador for God’s LIGHT and TRUTH
Presentation: The Three Gospels and Preparations for the Lord’s Coming

David W. Allan has spent 61 years researching time and related topics. He helped develop the nation’s official atomic-clock timing system during his 32 years in Boulder, CO, at the National Bureau of Standards (now National Institute of Standards and Technology). For 25 of those years, his research group was responsible for generating official time for the United States and helping with official time for the world. He wrote the algorithm for optimally combining the readings of an ensemble of atomic clocks, and with improvements by colleagues it is still being used to generate time for the United States.  During that time, he spent several man years helping in the development of GPS.  Atomic clocks are the heart of GPS, and the folks developing GPS came to Boulder to learn how to best use them being taught by Allan and his colleagues at NBS.