Essentials in Church History / A History of the Church from the Birth of Joseph Smith to the Present Time (1922), with Introductory Chapters on the Antiquity of the Gospel and the "Falling Away"

by Joseph Fielding Smith

Rejoicing in Nauvoo

When President Smith returned to Nauvoo, from his trial, there was great rejoicing. Tuesday, January 17, 1843, was set apart by the apostles as a “day of humiliation, fasting, praise, prayer and thanksgiving” before the Lord. Many public meetings were held throughout the city. One public gathering of this kind was held at the home of President Joseph Smith. The following day a party of invited guests assembled at his home to celebrate his deliverance from his enemies. The day passed very pleasantly; many interesting anecdotes were related, and what added interest to the occasion was the fact that it was the fifteenth anniversary of the Prophet’s wedding day.

Notes

[1. ] For the full decision, which should be read see Documentary History of the Church, vol. 5:223–231. See also pages 233–244 for papers on the trial.

Chapter 32

Doctrinal Development and Prophecy

1843

A Brief Period of Peace

At the beginning of the year 1843, peace reigned in Nauvoo; for a time the Saints remained undisturbed, and the Prophet had a breathing spell of freedom. Yet there were ripples on the surface of the water. President Joseph Smith had been delivered from his enemies in Missouri. The persecutors of the Church had been defeated; but were still determined to pursue their evil course. The Missourians were in league with the enemies of the Prophet in Illinois, with a relentless determination to bring him to his death.

This brief period of peace gave the Prophet an opportunity to instruct the Saints in various duties and doctrines and more fully to establish the order and authority of the Priesthood. The building of the temple progressed; increased light was thrown on the subject of salvation for the dead, and the Saints were impressed with the wonderful importance and responsibility connected with their obligations in relation to their fathers. Important revelations were received. The number of inhabitants in Nauvoo rapidly increased, and there was a time of prosperity and general rejoicing. But such a condition was not destined to continue very long. The clouds of malicious hatred were to be seen in the distance, and soon the storm of bitter persecution was to break forth once again in redoubled fury. Traitors within, and enemies without, were to join hands for the destruction of the Prophet.