RLDS Church History Context

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Source: Church History Vol. 3 Chapter 19 Page: 367 (~1862-1863)

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367 CHAPTER 19

1863-64.

IT was because many once members of the original church had cast their fortunes with the Utah people that the Reorganized Church made special effort, in 1863, to recover them, by sending E. C. Briggs, of the Twelve, and Alexander McCord, of the Seventy, on a mission to Utah. We have already given some items concerning their arrival, reception, and labor; but a communication written by Elder Briggs, and published in the Daily Vedette, of Fort Douglas, Utah, will be interesting:-

"Editor Vedette:-Sir, in accordance with my appointment from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, under the Presidency of Joseph Smith, as a missionary to Utah, on my arrival I called upon President Young, stating the object and purport of my mission, to whom I also presented my credentials, and politely requested permission to address the people in some of the public places of worship. Having read the proclamations issued from time to time by the spiritual authorities in Utah, calling upon ministers of all denominations to come where freedom reigns supreme-in these so-termed peaceful valleys-that every facility of approach to the people should be afforded them, judge of my surprise when President Young, in answer to my request, informed me that every influence he possessed should be exerted against me; that he would immediately advertise me throughout the length and breadth of the Territory; and that my every action should be watched. This has been truly verified. Not only has that influence to prevent the people from hearing been exerted, but intimidations and threats of violence extreme

(page 367)

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