Oliver Cowdery Translating

When Oliver arrived in Harmony on 5 April 1829 to meet Joseph Smith, he was ready to be Joseph's scribe. But shortly after his arrival, Joseph received a revelation for Oliver that opened up another possibility for him. It said, in part, "And behold I grant unto you a gift if you desire of me, …

Emma Smith and the Translation of the Book of Mormon

Years ago, I read an interview that Emma Smith gave to her son, Joseph Smith III, late in her life. She stated: My belief is that the B[ook] of M[ormon]. is of divine authenticity. I have not the slightest doubt of it. I am satisified that no man could have dictated the writing of the …

First Vision Accounts

Studying the accounts of Joseph Smith's First Vision again this week brought several things to mind that I decided to post here. It's critical that we understand this foundational experience of the Prophet and that various accounts that he left. First, anyone interested in a better understanding should start with the First Vision Accounts Topics …

Finishing the Book of Mormon-Again

This year, our ward Primary President, Diana, challenged all the Primary kids to read the Book of Mormon, and while she was at it, challenged all families in the ward to join them and finish before school started. We have no one in Primary in our family but decided to accept her challenge after all …