| 281 The following note published in the same number of the Herald is an indication of the general feeling among the scattered saints:-
"The numerous letters which we have received recently show that the branches of the church generally are blessed with prosperity and the outpouring of the Holy Ghost. Many old saints, who were heretofore unacquainted with the resuscitated latter day work, have been made to rejoice in the glorious news."-Page 268.
The year 1860 is one to which many old Latter Day Saints look back with gratitude, as it brought to them the realization of hopes long deferred; and in that realization their souls were satisfied, believing that the Holy Spirit had renewed within them the gifts and graces of the gospel, in which they had experienced so much joy and comfort in the early days of the church.
The position taken by President Smith on the gathering was strange to many, and a severe trial to some who for years had esteemed the gathering to be the paramount feature of the work. Some adverse criticism was indulged in, and some faltered in their devotion to the cause. Notwithstanding hindering causes, however, the work spread rapidly, and the sun of the old year went down upon a happy, hopeful people rejoicing in the brightening prospects before them. Subsequent developments have been accepted as proof of the wisdom of President Smith's advice, and as evidence of the reliability of the directing influence under which he acted.
(page 281) |
