In the spring of 1820, Joseph Smith was visited in a glorious vision by the Father and the Son, who called him by name and instructed him. Thereafter heavenly angels visited him and revealed the principles of the Gospel, restored the authority of the holy priesthood and the organization of the Church of Jesus Christ in its fullness and perfection. The Angel Moroni gave him the engraved plates of the Book of Mormon, which he translated by the gift and power of God. He organized the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on April 6, 1830, with six members. He devoted his life to establishing this church and sealed his testimony with his blood. In his ministry he was constantly supported by his brother Hyrum Smith, who suffered martyrdom with him. More than a million converts to this testimony have been made throughout the world, and members of the church he organized love and revere him as a prophet of God and call his name blessed forever and ever.

Photo: Duane and Tracy Marsteller

South Royalton, Vermont · USA