Minutes and Discourses, 6–8 April 1844, as Reported by William Clayton
Source Note
General conference of the church, Minutes, and JS, Discourses, Nauvoo, Hancock Co., IL, 6–8 Apr. 1844; handwriting of ; dockets in handwriting of Robert L. Campbell and Jonathan Grimshaw; thirty-eight pages; General Church Minutes, CHL.
The choir sung an Hymn after which Prest. Joseph Smith arose to state to the congregation the business which would have to come before them. It had been expected that the little petty difficulties which had existed would be brought up, but it would not be the case. He inte[n]ded to give them some instruction on the principles of eternal truth but would defer it untill the last in consequences of the weakness of his lungs. The Elders would give instruction and then if necessary he would offer such corrections as might be necessary to fill the interstices. Those who want to sow the seeds of discord will be dissapointd for the wisdom of God will direct him in the seventh hour He feels in closer communion and better standing with God than ever before in his life— He was glad of the opportunity to appear in their midst. He thanked God for the glorious day that God had given us. He believes they will keep good order.
Prayer was offered by Er after which the choir sung an Hymn
said it was with no ordinary degree of satisfaction he enjoyed the pivilege this morning— circumstances had long kept him in silence nearly 5 years, It could hardly be expected that when desease had so long preyed upon he could arise before this congregation. He has came forth from a bed of sickness and has enough strength left to appear this A. M for the first in 5 years. He shall consider this important privilege sacred in his family history during life. He next referred to his inability to make the congregation hear but he would try. They circumstances by which we are now surround points out the principles of his discourse “Behold the church of God of the last days” is his text: He does not know that he can find it in the Bible. He does not think its necessary to have Paul make a text for him he would make a text for himself [p. [1]]