Have I done any good in the world today?
Have I helped anyone in need?
Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad?
If not, I have failed indeed.
LDS Hymns, no. 223
Sunday, November 16, 2025
A Legacy of Integrity
The building committee of the first LDS Chapel in Edmonton on Whyte Avenue: Back row, Dr. Harold Russell, Art McMullin, Jack Sheppard, Alec Muirhead, Alma Low, Vi Wood, Royden Low. Front row, Eldon Tanner, president of the Edmonton Branch, Glen Fisher, mission president, and Morgan Pitcher
N. Eldon Tanner, the Edmonton Institute, and a Tradition of Sabbath Blessings
By John Fisher (assisted by AI)
In Sunday School class today we talked about D&C 130:21. "When we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated." I was reminded of a promise N. Eldon Tanner, then president of the Edmonton Branch, made to students attending the University of Alberta.
For generations of Latter-day Saint students attending the University of Alberta, the Latter-day Saint Institute of Religion has been more than a classroom or a study hall—it has been a spiritual anchor. Its origins trace back to the leadership, vision, and personal influence of N. Eldon Tanner, whose service in Edmonton left a lasting legacy that shaped thousands of young lives, including my own.
Who Was N. Eldon Tanner?
Nathan Eldon Tanner (1898–1982) was one of Alberta’s most respected Church and political leaders. Raised in southern Alberta near Cardston, he grew up with a strong work ethic, eventually working as a schoolteacher, storekeeper, businessman, and later a prominent government minister.
Election to the Alberta Legislature
In 1935, Tanner was elected Member of the Legislative Assembly for Cardston, joining the dramatic political shift that occurred that year in Alberta. He quickly earned a reputation for integrity and was appointed Minister of Lands and Mines, where he modernized the department and was admired for his honesty and administrative skill.
Branch President in Edmonton
In 1938, Tanner was called as branch president of the Edmonton Branch, located in a city growing rapidly with an influx of young Latter-day Saint university students—many from southern Alberta—seeking degrees at the University of Alberta.
This was a formative period for the Church in Edmonton. Tanner’s leadership was characterized by:
Strong pastoral care for students far from home
An emphasis on spiritual discipline and Sabbath observance
Vision for a dedicated center of religious education near the university
His Influence on the First Institute Building
One of Tanner’s most-lasting legacies in Edmonton was laying the groundwork for what would become the first LDS Institute of Religion building in the city.
Historical Timeline of the First Institute Building
Land acquired:14 October 1949
First classes held in the unfinished building:9 October 1952
Official dedication by Harold B. Lee:14 October 1953
This building, located next to the University of Alberta campus, was the first institute building constructed outside of the United States—a fact that speaks to the strength and foresight of Edmonton’s early Church leaders.
Tanner’s influence was central in rallying the early Saints, organizing the branch, and initiating the effort that eventually led to the institute’s construction.
My Experience With the Edmonton Institute
When I arrived at the University of Alberta in 1967, the institute building Tanner helped make possible was the one where I attended classes. It stood just steps away from campus and served as a spiritual home for Latter-day Saint students navigating university life.
Students told stories of earlier generations—those who had come north from Cardston, Raymond, Magrath, and other southern Alberta towns—who had known N. Eldon Tanner personally during his years as branch president. Many remembered the same message he repeated to the young people:
If university students would refrain from doing homework on Sundays, attend their Church meetings, and honor the Sabbath, the Lord would bless them in their studies.
This wasn’t just a phrase—it became a tradition.
By the time I was at Institute in 1967, this counsel was still being quoted frequently.
Remarkably, I even heard it again during my doctoral studies from 1984–1988, decades after Tanner himself had left Edmonton.
The New Edmonton Institute: A Continuation of His Legacy
The growth of the Church and the University of Alberta student population eventually made a new building necessary.
Timeline of the Second Institute Building
New two-storey institute building completed:1987
Dedicated:29 November 1987
This new building stood as a continuation of N. Eldon Tanner’s original vision—a place for young adults to anchor themselves spiritually while pursuing academic excellence.
A Man of Integrity
Throughout his later Church service—including decades in the First Presidency—Tanner repeatedly taught the importance of:
Keeping one’s word
Living honestly
Honoring commitments
Placing spiritual priorities first
His messages on integrity became some of his most memorable contributions to Church teachings.
Conclusion
N. Eldon Tanner’s influence on Latter-day Saint students in Edmonton spans generations. Through his leadership as branch president, the groundwork for the first institute building was laid—a building that later shaped my own university years. His teachings about Sabbath observance, spiritual priorities, and integrity continued long after he left Alberta and found their way into the daily lives of the young adults who passed through the University of Alberta Institute.
From the first institute built in 1953, to the new building dedicated in 1987, Tanner’s legacy remains woven into Edmonton’s Latter-day Saint history—a reminder that when we honor the Lord, the Lord honors our efforts.
"The Sermon on the Mount," painted by the Danish artist, Carl Heinrich Bloch.
A Three-Step Plan to Becoming a Peacemaker
By John Fisher (assisted by AI)
Jesus said: "Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God."(Matthew 5:9)
In a world often defined by polarization, outrage, and conflict, the ancient promise delivered on the Mount of Olives resonates with profound relevance: "Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God." During the October 2025 General Conference, Elder Gary E. Stevenson extended a powerful, enduring invitation, urging us to become modern-day peacemakers. Recognizing that peace often seems distant amid global commotion, Elder Stevenson provided clarity by outlining three essential spheres where we can begin our work: in our hearts, in our homes and families, and in our communities.
Elder Stevenson’s counsel reminds us that this crucial work is a personal one. The journey to greater peace begins by transitioning from a participant in the "culture of conflict" to a deliberate builder of bridges. Below, I outline an action plan for applying Elder Stevenson's three points in my own life.
My Personal Peacemaker Action Plan
My plan focuses on taking deliberate, specific steps within each of Elder Stevenson’s three suggested spheres to implement meaningful change.
1. Peacemaking in My Heart (Internal Renewal)
My heart is the foundation of my actions. To align my heart with the principles of peace, I commit to the following internal disciplines:
Guard Against Criticism: I will change my heart by consciously not criticizing others in my thoughts or words.
Filter Digital Input: I will avoid social media platforms and content that are critical or abusive, choosing instead to engage only with uplifting content.
Elevate Language: I will actively use better words when appropriate, recognizing the power of language to build or destroy.
Control Thought Life: I will focus on stopping unkind, evil, or negative thoughts about other people before they take root.
Forgive and Release: I will seek out those I feel have abused me or against whom I hold a grudge and work toward genuine forgiveness, releasing the personal burden of resentment.
2. Peacemaking at Home (Family Foundation)
To improve the situation in my home, I will focus on the power of my words and my efforts to understand my family members:
Speak Only Kindness: I commit to speaking only love and kind things to everyone in my home. I will pause before reacting to ensure my words are constructive, not critical.
Seek Understanding: I will actively try to understand where others are coming from. This means listening with patience, seeking clarity over winning an argument, and applying the principles of gentleness and meekness.
3. Peacemaking in the Community (External Service)
I will extend the peace established in my heart and home outward into my community through actions of respect and service:
Serve the Needy: I will actively look for ways to help others in need in my neighborhood or community, volunteering my time and resources.
Universal Respect: I will always treat others with respect, regardless of their background, beliefs, or standing in the community, seeing them as children of God.
Conclusion: Lead with an Open Heart
The call to be a peacemaker is an invitation to lead with strength, not weakness. As Elder Stevenson taught, peacemaking requires courage, gentleness, and a refusal to sacrifice principle while still seeking compromise and understanding.
By consistently executing this three-step plan—refining my heart by controlling my thoughts, renewing my home with kind words, and reaching out to my community with respect—I can fulfill my divine role as a builder of peace and draw closer to the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ.
Follow-Up Questions for Reflection:
What is one specific "digital bridge" you can commit to building this week, and what is one social media habit you will stop?
How would practicing "long-suffering" and "meekness" change the next tense discussion you have with a family member?
Who is one person you can choose to forgive this week, and what action will you take to "repair and reunite" that relationship?
Keywords: Peacemaking, Forgiveness, Conflict Resolution, Digital Citizenship, Christlike Attributes
Come Follow Me with Casey Paul Griffiths (Doctrine and Covenants 115-120)
The Far West Revelations: Understanding Doctrine and Covenants 115–120
Introduction
In 1838, Joseph Smith and early members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints received a series of remarkable revelations in Far West, Missouri—now remembered as the “Far West Revelations.” These sections of the Doctrine and Covenants (115–120) contain profound direction about the Church’s name, sacred locations, consecration, and the law of tithing. Historian and educator Casey Paul Griffiths provides rich commentary on these revelations, explaining their meaning and modern relevance.
Section 115: The Name of the Church
This revelation formally established the divinely given name of the Church—The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Griffiths explains that earlier, members had used titles such as “The Church of Christ” and later “The Church of the Latter Day Saints.” The 1838 revelation in Far West united these under the Savior’s name, emphasizing divine authorship.
Joseph Smith deeply valued this instruction. Even his Nauvoo office bore a sign that read “President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.” Griffiths notes that today’s Church leaders continue to stress using the full name to reflect devotion to Jesus Christ and obedience to His revelation.
Section 116: Adam-ondi-Ahman
Section 116 identifies a sacred location in Missouri known as Adam-ondi-Ahman. Griffiths explains that Joseph Smith received this revelation while exploring a valley near the Grand River and learned that this was the place where Adam (the Ancient of Days) would one day return to hold a great council.
Quoting Joseph Smith’s later teachings, Griffiths recounts:
“When [Daniel 7] speaks of the Ancient of Days, he means the oldest man, our Father Adam, Michael; he will call his children together and hold council with them to prepare them for the coming of the Son of Man.”
This makes Adam-ondi-Ahman not only a historical site but a future prophetic site, tied to the events preceding the Second Coming.
Section 117: Counsel to the Hesitant
This section offered counsel to Church leaders William Marks, Newel K. Whitney, and Oliver Granger. Griffiths observes that moving from Ohio to Missouri was difficult, especially for successful businessmen like Whitney. Yet, the Lord commanded them to forsake worldly attachments and follow divine direction.
Oliver Granger’s humble role—settling Church debts in Ohio—was honored by the Lord:
“I remember my servant Oliver Granger; … his name shall be had in sacred remembrance from generation to generation.”
Griffiths reflects that though Oliver is little known today, he is remembered by God, which is the highest honor.
Section 118: The Mission of the Twelve
Section 118 directed the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles to depart from Far West for a mission to England on April 26, 1839.
Griffiths emphasizes the uniqueness of this revelation—it included a specific date and location. Despite severe persecution in Missouri, the Apostles courageously fulfilled it. Led by Brigham Young, they met at the temple site early that morning, sang hymns, ordained new apostles, and departed safely.
Wilford Woodruff later observed that this was the only revelation he knew of that gave a date and place for its fulfillment—a powerful testament of faith and obedience.
Section 119: The Law of Tithing
This revelation established the law of tithing as ten percent of one’s increase.
Before this, Saints supported the Church through various forms of consecration. Section 119 redefined the financial aspect of consecration but did not abolish the principle itself. Griffiths shares two insightful quotes from Joseph Smith. He said the following about tithing:
“Let them [the people] be the judge themselves, for I care not if they do not have a single dime. So far as I am concerned, I do not want anything that they have.”
And he said this about the Law of Consecration:
“For a man to consecrate his property... is nothing more or less than to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit the widow and fatherless, the sick and the afflicted, and do all he can to administer to their relief and their afflictions, and for him and his house to serve the Lord.”
Griffiths explains that tithing became the financial foundation for the Church, while consecration remains the spiritual principle guiding discipleship and service.
Section 120: The Council on Disposition of Tithes
Section 120 organized a council consisting of the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and the Presiding Bishopric to oversee how tithing funds are used. Griffiths notes that this system ensures sacred accountability.
Tithes are consecrated to building temples, supporting missionary work, humanitarian efforts, and sustaining worship spaces. The revelation demonstrates that stewardship of sacred funds is part of living the higher law of consecration.
Conclusion
The “Far West Revelations” (Doctrine and Covenants 115–120) reveal a moment of spiritual order and divine foresight in Church history. They established the true name of the Church, sacred geography of Adam-ondi-Ahman, the pattern of discipleship through tithing and consecration, and the enduring principles of faith and obedience. As Griffiths concludes, Joseph Smith looked upon the empty fields of Far West and saw not what was, but what could be—a lesson that reminds every believer that their own life, too, holds eternal promise.
Keywords: Far West, Doctrine and Covenants, tithing, Joseph Smith, Adam-ondi-Ahman Hashtags: #DoctrineAndCovenants #FarWestRevelations #JosephSmith #LatterDaySaints #Tithing
Among the many prophecies concerning the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, one of the most striking is the account of two prophets who will minister in Jerusalem during the last days. This prophecy, found in the Book of Revelation, has been affirmed by latter-day prophets and apostles as a literal event that will unfold before Christ’s return in glory. Their ministry, death, and resurrection serve as a final witness to the world of the power of God and the truth of His Son, Jesus Christ.
The Scriptural Prophecy
The Apostle John recorded in Revelation 11:3–12 that two special witnesses will be raised up in Jerusalem. They will prophesy for 1,260 days, perform miracles, and testify of Christ with divine authority. Despite their power, they will eventually be slain, and their bodies will lie in the streets for three and a half days. Then, in a miraculous display, they will be resurrected and ascend into heaven in full view of their enemies.
The most direct prophecy comes from the New Testament:
John the Revelator describes “two witnesses” who will prophesy in Jerusalem for 1,260 days (about 3½ years).
They will have power to perform miracles, call down plagues, and testify of Christ.
Eventually, they will be slain by their enemies and their bodies will lie in the streets of Jerusalem for 3½ days.
After this, they will be resurrected and ascend into heaven, striking fear into those who see it.
Teachings from Modern Prophets
Latter-day Saint leaders have taught that these two witnesses will be real prophets, not symbolic figures. Joseph Smith testified that John’s vision would be literally fulfilled in the last days (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 286). Elder Bruce R. McConkie explained that they will be “raised up to the Jewish nation” and will have power to withstand armies until their appointed mission is complete. President Spencer W. Kimball likewise confirmed that their ministry would serve as a powerful testimony to the Jewish people and the world.
Bruce R. McConkie (Apostle, Mormon Doctrine)
He taught that these two witnesses will be “two prophets” raised up to the Jewish nation.
They will be given power and authority to prophesy and to testify of Christ during the final great siege of Jerusalem.
Their ministry is a fulfillment of the prophecy in Revelation 11.
Joseph Smith (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 286)
He linked the prophecy to the last days in Jerusalem, noting that these events are literal and will occur before Christ’s return in glory.
Elder Bruce R. McConkie (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, Vol. 3)
He clarified that they are not symbolic figures, but real prophets, called of God, who will minister in Jerusalem.
Their martyrdom and resurrection will serve as a final testimony to the Jewish people and the world before the Lord’s coming.
President Spencer W. Kimball
He also confirmed that the two witnesses are real prophets, not figurative representations, and their ministry will demonstrate God’s power over nations and armies.
Lessons for Today
While the prophecy points to a future event, it also reminds us of the Lord’s pattern: He sends prophets to bear witness of His Son and prepare the world for His coming. The ministry of the two witnesses highlights the courage required to stand for truth, the certainty of opposition, and the ultimate triumph of God’s power. For believers today, their example can strengthen faith in Christ and increase readiness for His return.
Conclusion
The prophecy of the two prophets in Jerusalem stands as one of the most dramatic events leading up to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Their testimony, their sacrifice, and their miraculous resurrection will serve as a powerful witness to all nations that the Lord’s promises are sure. As we study their role, we are reminded to remain steadfast in our own discipleship, preparing our hearts for the day when Christ will come again in glory.
Keywords: prophecy, witnesses, Jerusalem, Second Coming, resurrection
In September 2025, tragedy struck members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, when a shooting and fire disrupted a Sunday service. What could have been remembered only as a moment of violence has instead become a powerful testimony of faith, forgiveness, and the presence of miracles. Survivors, leaders, and members of the community have shared stories of blessings and lessons that emerged in the aftermath—reminders that even in darkness, light can break through.
Forgiveness in the Moment
One survivor, who saw her father being shot, described an extraordinary moment as she looked directly into the eyes of the man who killed him.
“I forgave him, I forgave him right there … I saw into his soul. I never took my eyes off his eyes … He let me live.” (CBS News)
Her ability to extend forgiveness, even as she faced life-threatening danger, has been described by many as nothing short of miraculous.
14-year-old Boy Saves Brothers
A 14-year-old boy named Jasper is being called a hero after saving his younger brothers during the tragic Grand Blanc Township, Michigan church shooting. Jasper had been serving as an usher at his congregation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when, unexpectedly, “he felt the need to leave his post and go to the restroom to get a tissue” (Tait, 2025). Moments later, the gunman, Thomas Jacob Sanford, crashed his truck through the same chapel doors where Jasper had been standing. “Had he not needed to blow his nose, Jasper would have been the first person the shooter saw,” explained his aunt, Amber Rosen (Tait, 2025).
As the congregation fled in panic, Jasper “grabbed his 8- and 10-year-old brothers,” leading them toward a back exit (Tait, 2025). When the door jammed and his brothers were pressed against the glass by other people trying to escape, Jasper “took his elbow and hit the glass window a few times and the whole thing shattered with no cuts to him” (Tait, 2025). He guided his family to safety, flagged down a car to protect his brothers, and later helped his mother reunite with his sister, Josie, who had been found hiding in the woods “clutching a Latter-day Saint hymnbook” (Tait, 2025). His aunt described his courage and faith, saying, “I believe that angels were with them” (Tait, 2025).
Leaders Witness Miracles
Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles visited Michigan shortly after the tragedy. He said he saw “the mighty and many miracles that occurred during this episode.” He praised members’ capacity to remain “firm and steadfast,” noting that their resilience was both a blessing and an act of divine strength.
Compassion Beyond Expectations
Acts of compassion also stood out. David Butler, a fellow church member, raised over $300,000 to support the family of the gunman. When asked why, he explained simply, “It was actually pretty simple … Jesus tells us that we should do this.” His choice to serve the shooter’s family embodied forgiveness and Christlike love in action.
Strength in Community
Bishop Jeffrey Schaub, who leads the local ward, emphasized how deeply he felt the prayers and support from others:
“It is the most significant time in my life where I have felt the love and prayer of other people … It was very humbling to see how much good there is in the world today … above all, we are all children of the same Father in heaven.”
His words reflected the healing power of unity and shared faith.
Conclusion
The Michigan tragedy could have left only scars of grief. Instead, it is remembered by many as a moment when miracles, compassion, and the Savior’s love were evident. From forgiveness in the moment of pain to leaders bearing witness of blessings, these stories remind us that even in suffering, God’s hand can bring healing and hope.
Growing Grace by Grace: A Summary of Doctrine and Covenants 93
Introduction
Doctrine and Covenants 93 is one of the most profound revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants. It opens a window into the eternal nature of God, Christ, and humankind. In it, the Lord explains how Jesus Christ Himself progressed “grace for grace” until He received a fulness of glory, and how we, as His children, are invited to follow the same path. This section also defines truth and light, speaks about the eternal nature of intelligence, and reminds leaders and parents of their responsibility to teach their families.
The Nature of Christ and Humanity
Christ’s progression: Even Jesus Christ did not receive a fulness of glory at once but received “grace for grace” until He attained the fulness of the Father (vv. 12–14, 16–20).
Pattern for us: The same process applies to humanity—we too may receive grace for grace and grow until we receive a fulness (vv. 19–20).
Eternal intelligence: Humanity is co-eternal with God; intelligence was not created nor made, neither indeed can be (v. 29).
The Light of Christ: Every person is given a portion of God’s light, which enlightens conscience and guides us toward truth (vv. 2, 23, 36).
Truth, Light, and Glory
Definition of truth: Truth is knowledge of things “as they are, and as they were, and as they are to come” (v. 24).
Connection to light: Light and truth proceed from God, filling the immensity of space and giving life and understanding to all things (vv. 29–30, 36).
Gaining and losing light: Those who keep God’s commandments receive more light and truth, while disobedience and false traditions cause them to lose it (vv. 27–28, 39).
Counsel to Leaders and Families
Parental responsibility: Parents are commanded to bring up their children in light and truth (v. 40).
Specific counsel: Early Church leaders such as Frederick G. Williams, Sidney Rigdon, Joseph Smith Jr., and Newel K. Whitney were directly admonished to set their families in order and teach them righteousness (vv. 41–50).
Principle for all: No stewardship is greater than guiding one’s family in truth and light (vv. 43–50).
Conclusion
Doctrine and Covenants 93 teaches that progression is eternal (vv. 12–20), truth is eternal knowledge (v. 24), and every soul can receive more light through obedience to God (vv. 27–28, 36). By following Christ’s example, we too can grow “grace for grace” until we inherit a fulness of His light and glory. This section not only lifts our vision toward divine potential but also grounds us in the daily responsibility of teaching and nurturing truth within our families (vv. 40–50).
Keywords: light, truth, glory, progression, family
President Nelson and his great-granddaughter - LDS Photo
President Nelson’s Invitation to Charity and Virtue to Prepare for the Second Coming
By John Fisher (assisted by AI)
In his April 2025 General Conference address, President Russell M. Nelson delivered a powerful and personal message titled “Confidence in the Presence of God.” With clarity and love, he reminded members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that true confidence—especially in approaching our Heavenly Father—comes not from worldly accomplishments, but through charity, virtue, temple worship, and covenant keeping. In a world shaken by hostility, fear, and confusion, President Nelson offered a Christ-centered path to spiritual confidence and peace.
Summary:
President Nelson acknowledged the ongoing progress and strength of today’s rising generation, sharing a tender experience with his great-granddaughter that prompted deep reflection on faith in Jesus Christ. He emphasized that confidence before God is available to all who earnestly live the gospel and seek the Savior. Drawing upon the Lord’s counsel in Doctrine and Covenants 121, President Nelson taught that charity and virtue are the spiritual keys to confidence before God.
He reiterated his previous call to be peacemakers, denouncing contention in public and private dialogue. Charity, he declared, is the “foundation of a godly character.” Virtue, likewise, transforms our thoughts and uplifts our minds. Time spent in the temple increases our spiritual strength, enhances both charity and virtue, and prepares us for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
Five Powerful Quotes:
1.“When we make and keep covenants with God, we can have confidence that is born of the Spirit.”
2.“Charity and virtue open the way to having confidence before God.”
3.“Contention prevents the Holy Ghost from being our constant companion.”
4.“Virtue will drive away those thoughts. Virtue will free you from anxious, troublesome thoughts.”
5.“As we diligently seek to have charity and virtue fill our lives, our confidence in approaching God will increase.”
Conclusion:
President Nelson’s message is a clarion call to discipleship rooted in the Savior’s love and purity. In a time when moral clarity and spiritual peace are under siege, we are invited to intentionally cultivate charity and virtue. By doing so, we increase our confidence before God, prepare for the Savior’s return, and serve as instruments of peace in a turbulent world. His promise is both personal and universal: with spiritual preparation, our joy, faith, and divine power will grow beyond our greatest hopes.
Suggestions for Follow-Up:
1.Reflect on your personal level of confidence in approaching God. What might be hindering it?
2.Study Doctrine and Covenants 121:45–46 and journal ways to apply it in daily life.
3.Choose one way each week to demonstrate charity in your home, church, or online interactions.
4.Commit to weekly temple attendance or temple preparation efforts.
5.Pray specifically for the gift of charity and increased virtue in your thoughts and actions.
Reference:
Nelson, R. M. (2025, April). Confidence in the presence of God. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/04/57nelson?lang=eng
Keywords:
charity, virtue, confidence, temple worship, Second Coming
A Pioneer’s Legacy of Faith, Sacrifice, and Compassion
By John Fisher (assisted by AI)
Mary Reeder Hurren Wight (July 29, 1848 – January 27, 1937) was a courageous pioneer, beloved mother, and enduring example of faith through adversity. Born in Linstead Parva, Suffolk, England, Mary was the eldest daughter of James and Eliza Reeder Hurren. In 1856, at just eight years old, she traveled with her family to the Salt Lake Valley as part of the ill-fated Willie Handcart Company—a journey that became one of the most harrowing in the history of the Latter-day Saint migration.
Artist Julie Rogers has beautifully captured a moment from pioneer history in her painting of Mary Hurren and her friend Agnes Caldwell walking hand in hand across the plains. The two young girls would hold hands and jump together as they traveled. In one memorable episode, they encountered rattlesnakes on the trail. Agnes later recalled that it felt like they were jumping for more than a mile to avoid the snakes. Miraculously, they remained unharmed. As Agnes recorded in her account, “Due to the protecting hand of the Lord, we were not harmed.”
I grew up hearing stories about Mary from my Uncle David Hurren Jeppson, her grandson. He often shared with us the hardships Mary endured as a member of the destitute Willie Handcart Company. Both the Willie and Martin Companies faced early winter storms as they crossed the plains of Wyoming, leading to immense suffering and loss. When rescue teams finally arrived from Salt Lake City, the survivors were filled with joy and relief. Mary later described the scene: “Tears streamed down the cheeks of the men, and the children danced for joy. As soon as the people could control their feelings, they all knelt down in the snow and gave thanks to God.” Of the approximately 1,100 people in the two companies, more than 200 died during the journey.
One of the most striking parts of her story was how she suffered severe frostbite during the trek. Her feet were so badly damaged that doctors considered amputation. However, her father refused to allow it. Instead, he used natural remedies, including beef poultices and sweet oil. These treatments saved her feet, though she lost her toes and suffered the effects of her injuries for the rest of her life.
Mary and her family arrived in the Salt Lake Valley in November 1856 after being rescued. In her journal, she later wrote about that miraculous moment when help finally came. Her words remain among the most moving accounts of the handcart experience:
“Tears streamed down the cheeks of the men, and the children danced for joy. As soon as the people could control their feelings, they all knelt down in the snow and gave thanks to God.”
After recovering from her injuries, which took years, Mary settled in Brigham City, Utah. She was baptized at age 13 and married Joseph Moroni Wight in 1864 at the age of 16. Together they raised thirteen children and built a home known for its kindness and hospitality.
Mary never turned away someone in need. On one occasion, when a stranger’s child was seriously ill, she took the child in and cared for it until its passing. When offered money, she simply said, “Doors were made to let people in.”
Mary lived a life of service, resilience, and deep testimony. She was proud to have met every president of the Church except Joseph Smith and was visited on her 88th birthday by President Heber J. Grant. Mary passed away in Salt Lake City on January 27, 1937, and is buried in Brigham City.
Her life and legacy, passed down through stories by her descendants like Uncle Dave Jeppson, continue to inspire with messages of faith, compassion, and gratitude in adversity.
