Wilford Woodruff's Witness The Development Of Temple Doctrine [Paperback]

The history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' temple doctrine begins in 1823, when Joseph Smith is taught of the ancient prophet Elijah's mission to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children and the children to the fathers. Following the restoration of the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods in 1829 and the conferral of priesthood keys in 1836, temple ordinances were introduced through Joseph Smith. After Smith's death in 1844, his successor Brigham Young refined the rituals according to Smith's instructions, administered new ordinances, and suspended others as the Church and circumstances evolved. In 1894, the prophet Wilford Woodruff received a revelation that would resolve unsettled issues and establish modern temple worship. Over the course of the nineteenth century, Woodruff was a witness to and catalyst in the implementation of temple ordinances and practices. Through the years he continued the pattern of seeking revelation in order to clarify rites and effect changes based on practical experience. Jennifer Mackley's meticulously researched biographical narrative chronicles the development of temple doctrine through the examination of Wilford Woodruff's personal life. The account unfolds in Woodruff's own words, drawn from primary sources including journals, discourses, and letters. It follows Woodruff's experiences and perspectives on decisions made by Smith, Young, and John Taylor in relation to the temple ceremonies and ordinances during their tenures as leaders of the LDS Church. The book explores how Woodruff came to firmly believe in revelation and the role of prophets but not expect perfection in either. Ultimately, the narrative emphasizes the personal side of Woodruff's historically significant life, conveying the depth of his sacrifices for his beliefs, the importance he placed on the redemption of his extended family--both living and dead--and the impact this level of focus had on his daily pursuits. Mackley elucidates the dlƒ9