"The Father and the Son,
Jesus Christ, had appeared to Joseph Smith. The morning of
the dispensation of the fulness of times had come,
dispelling the darkness of the long generations of spiritual night.
"Volumes have been
written concerning the life and accomplishments of Joseph
Smith, but for our purposes here today perhaps a highlight
or two will suffice: He was visited by the angel Moroni. He
translated, from the precious plates to which he was
directed, the Book of Mormon, with its new witness of Christ
to all the world. He was the instrument in the hands of the
Lord through whom came mighty revelations pertaining to the
establishment of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints. In the course of his ministry he was visited by John
the Baptist, Moses, Elijah, Peter, James, and John, that the
Restoration of all things might be accomplished. He endured
persecution; he suffered grievously, as did his followers.
He trusted in God. He was true to his prophetic calling. He
commenced a marvelous missionary effort to the entire world,
which today brings light and truth to the souls of mankind.
At length, Joseph Smith died the martyr's death."
