Tidings of Zion. Conference of Restoration Elders July-August-September 2018 Issue In-Town Reunion

Transcription

1 Tidings of Zion Conference of Restoration Elders July-August-September 2018 Issue In-Town Reunion

2 The Tidings of Zion is published quarterly by the Conference of Restoration Elders. It is under the editorial responsibility of the Coordinating Council, Vim Horn, Chairman. It is sent to all who desire to receive it. An annual contribution of $20 is appreciated. Purpose of the Conference of Restoration Elders To bring solidarity to a growing number of Restoration branches and Latter Day Saints in general during this period of disruption and fragmentation. (Conference Operating Guidelines accepted in 1996) The Conference exists to: 1. Organize the coming together of Melchisedec priesthood, as well as the Aaronic priesthood members, for: Spiritual preparation and to unify our efforts on behalf of the work to which we are called. Much needed fellowship and fraternity to prepare us to defend and preserve the faith. Identify and seek divine guidance concerning the critical issues now confronting the Church. Chart a course of action that will maintain the gospel as restored in 1830 (Original Letter of Intention and 1993 Conference Materials). 2. Support Restoration branches in their efforts to work together. 3. Provide needed resources to branches and members as they are requested. 4. Offer ongoing support and resources to Restoration priesthood. 5. Offer support to the elders to take the gospel message to the world. Inside this issue: Hope by Elder Andrew King Buckner Branch Update 5 Message Given to the Youth 5 by Deacon Lucas Hampton 2018 Woodbine Reunion by High Priest Francis Harper Baptism: Immersion vs. Sprinkling or Other Forms of Baptism by Elder John Mundy Erie Beach Youth Camp by Betty Lou Newman Succession of Presidency in the RLDS Church By Seventy Richard Neill Fear is a Liar by Amy Burk Central Missouri Restoration Branches Older Youth Spring Retreat by Reggie Bendorf God is Good, an In-Town Reunion Testimony by Julie Schroeder The Conference is not the Church, but a gathering of the Melchisedec priesthood to share in testimony, prayer, legislation, and preparation to return to our branches better equipped and unified to perform our duties to minister to our brothers and sisters in Christ. In addition, the Conference of Restoration Elders provides a forum for Aaronic priesthood and member alike to share in fellowship and to be nurtured in the Word. The Conference helps the scattered Saints and isolated branches throughout the world to enjoy the hope that we find in Jesus Christ and each other. Spiritual Giants, an In-Town Reunion Testimony by Connie Guthrie 2018 In-Town Reunion Conference Highlights By the Coordinating Council Domestic Outreach: Canada and USA by High Priest Paul J. Gage Education Council Revived by High Priest Paul J. Gage CRE Office Contact Information Phone: (816) , (816) or Toll Free: (877) Fax: (877) (Please call before faxing.) Website: Mailing Address: PO Box 4085, Independence, MO Women s Council Update 25 With the Lord in the Land Down Under by Elder Kevin Humphrey Australia March 6th May 7th by Elder Tom Rindels God s Comfort by Janice Henderson Missionary Boards 29 Calendar of Events 30 Announcements Tidings of Zion

3 Hope by Elder Andrew King Independence, Missouri While attending the Summer Series last year, I noticed an elderly couple walk into the sanctuary and take their seats a few pews in front of me. Shortly thereafter, another elderly couple walked in, and after sharing a laugh with the previous couple, they sat down in front of them. For some unknown reason I became taken with these two couples. I started to imagine what experiences they had received as they first met, began dating, and eventually married. It was almost as if I could feel their joy and excitement as they started their family and became active within the Church. The hopes they had of Zion and the Kingdom; the thrills of friendship and fraternity. I then examined the rest of the sanctuary and noticed two things. First, the attendance was rather scarce that evening, and second, I was one of the few young people there. Again, my attention was brought to these two elderly couples. Only now, I felt a sorrow rather than a joy, as I saw the contention and division that has entered into the Church of Jesus Christ, leaving it broken and shattered. I wondered what hardships they must have endured as the Church fractured into smaller groups and family and friends fell away. Yet, despite all of these things, these two couples were here. They had not given up but had remained faithful through the years. How could they have endured so much? The answer is as simple as it is profound: they had a hope in the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and the establishment of Zion in the latter days. What do we hope in today? In other words, where do we lay up our treasures? Are they on the earth and on the things of this present world, or do we set our affections in heaven where Christ sits on the right hand of God? (Colossians 3:1-4). And verily I say unto thee, that thou shalt lay aside the things of this world, and seek for the things of a better Behold, I say unto you that you have feared man and have not relied on me for strength, as you ought; but your mind has been on the things of the earth more than on the things of me, your Maker, and the ministry whereunto you have been called Behold, I, the Lord, who was crucified for the sins of the world, giveth unto you a commandment, that you shall forsake the world (DC 24:3a, 29:1a-b, 53:2a). For many years, I approached the returning of our Lord in glory with fear and worry rather than anticipation and joy because my hopes and treasures were upon the things of this present world. However, what lasting hope is there in a world that is as the grass of the field? None. For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away; but the word of the Lord endureth forever (1 Peter 1:24-25). Although the world will pass away, the truths of God will never diminish, rather they will grow brighter and brighter until the perfect day when those who have denied themselves of all Terrestrial longings will receive Celestial Glory. These truths of God are self-evident as all things bear record of Him. For does not the rain which falls on the just and the unjust testify of the love of God? Does not the perpetual sacrifice of the sun testify of the ministry of Christ who gave Himself that we might have life? Does not the very nature of the universe testify that those who plough and thresh in hope should be partakers of the same? Let us then hope in the Kingdom of God. For if not, what assurances will we have? If we will set our hand to the plough, looking forward with an eye of faith and a perfect brightness of hope, then we have the Tidings of Zion 3

4 blessed assurance that we will reap what we sow. For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth; so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations (Isaiah 61:11). Nevertheless, the Lord has testified that if we do not put our hope in Him, but instead turn our head from the plough, looking back, then we are not fit for the Kingdom. We cannot hold Zion in one hand and Babylon in the other. If we continue to be mindful of the world that God has called us out of, then we will have opportunity to return unto it. But if we will desire a better world that is, the Kingdom of Heaven then God will not be ashamed to be called our God, for He has prepared for His children a Holy City (Hebrews 11:13-16). Wherefore, whoso believeth in God, might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God (Ether 5:4). A few years ago, I was blessed to receive an assurance of that better world. The testimony occurred following a scripture-study class in a church member s home, during which we began to discuss the things of Zion. For some unknown reason, I was flooded with the Holy Spirit and began to see how easy it would be to have Zion through that self-same Spirit. I was encouraged and uplifted, and when I got home that evening, I began to pray unto the Lord. Again, the Holy Ghost came, and I was able to see so clearly how the things of this world have no place or worth in the Kingdom of God. With a newfound strength that came of the Spirit, I threw away everything in my home that was not right with the Lord. While I had stopped watching television, reading fictional books, etc. for a few years, I had not totally removed them from my life. Prior to that night, the thought of throwing those things away had caused almost a physical pain. However, with the strength of the Spirit and the hope of Zion and the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, I had power sufficient not only to remove those worldly items from my home but, more importantly, from my heart. I know that there will be a Zion. I know that the Kingdom of God will roll forth, that the Kingdom of Heaven will come. Zion is the answer to the world s struggles, and Jesus Christ is its salvation. This ought to be our hope. Therefore, let it be our pure vision and our steadfast faith. And then his disciples asked him, saying, Master, tell us concerning thy coming? And he answered them, and said, In the generation in which the times of the Gentiles shall be fulfilled, there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations with perplexity, like the sea and the waves roaring. The earth also shall be troubled, and the waters of the great deep; men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth. For the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up and lift up your heads, for the day of your redemption draweth nigh. And then shall they see the Son of Man coming in a cloud, with power and great glory (Luke 21:24-28). Do not be discouraged, Saints. Whether Zion comes in our day or the next, it will come. Let us then rejoice, for it is a pleasure to be a part of such a great and marvelous work. Wherefore, if a man have faith, he must needs have hope; for without faith there can not be any hope. - Moroni 7:48 4 Tidings of Zion

5 Buckner Branch Update The Church of Jesus Christ Buckner Restoration Branch has been very blessed this spring and summer with an abundance of God's richest blessings. We enjoyed a wonderful spirit of unity, love, and fellowship at our Odessa Reunion this year, and that warm, comforting Spirit has carried through to our worship services and to our vacation church school this past July. What a blessing it was to see God's children excited about Zion, making sure their lamps were filled and ready and singing about their Trust in the Lord and having the faith of a tiny mustard seed. It was a wonderful experience for all who took part! Our congregation has also been privileged to witness the baptisms and confirmations of five of our young people. They are: Josie Brown, Hadlee Hakes, Zeke Carnahan, Ammon Howen, and Eve Pyatt. The Lord's work is continuing to go forth among His people, and we are so grateful for His unconditional love and mercy toward us. May we all, both old and young, be prepared and ready for the day when Zion WILL BE a reality among us. Message Given to the Youth by Deacon Lucas Hampton Independence, Missouri August 12 th, 2018, Summer Series Youth Service I think it is hardly a secret to anyone that life is not an easy task to undertake. There is a litany of temptations and strife we must face. We are living the consequences of these actions, including friends we grew up with leaving the Church. I can speak with confidence in saying that God is remorseful over the conditions present in what He put on the earth about 200 years ago. Life is not easy; the devil has seen to that. Nor was Jesus shy about warning us. Speaking of Jesus, a question I have asked before, as I m sure many others have, is where is Jesus in all this? Well, I have an answer for you, and I ll tell you how to find Him. More accurately, this is Jesus, telling you how to find Him from right where you are. This is the mission He gives to you. Your leadership roles in the future of the Restoration begin with this. It starts with the desire. The desire to serve, to go somewhere, to be someone. As a child, one of the most often asked questions is, What do you want to be when you grow up? All kinds of answers exist for that, most of them being good and positive things: firefighter, doctor, president, maybe even a successful business man or woman. I won t ask you if you stopped to think about what you would do for God. Instead, let me ask you this: have you ever considered that God can and will use you wherever you are? Left to Right: Josie Brown, Hadlee Hakes, Zeke Carnahan, Ammon Howen, and Eve Pyatt. One of the most beautiful parts of the gospel is the element of free will. God forces nothing on us, but He does give us rules and guidelines, should we Tidings of Zion 5

6 choose to accept them. The scriptures are full of stories of sinners and imperfect people who desired to serve God being met where they were and used for a greater good. The beginning is rooted in simply wanting to work for the Lord. The next step one must take is repentance. We are carnal, sensual, and devilish by nature. Sinning is, quite literally, an everyday occurrence for humanity. I want to make one distinction clear. Sin in God s eyes is radically different from sin in man s eyes. D&C Section 1:5f reads, For I the Lord cannot look upon sin with the least degree of allowance; nevertheless, he that repents and does the commandments of the Lord shall be forgiven. Humankind might see a white lie as something inconsequential at the end of the day, but then they look upon a murderer and, suddenly, the tone is different. However, in God s eyes, sin is sin, and He cannot allow any of it. Really puts it in perspective doesn t it? When seen from God s side, every single one of us is in the same need of repentance and salvation as the person to our right or left. We are all on the same page in that regard. But repentance is more than just saying sorry. I won t ask for a show of hands, but how many times have we been repentant or sorry only because we got caught? Repentance is more than getting caught and then having little other choice. Repentance that God is looking for is admitting sin, even when it may be a secret. Then we uproot that sin from our lives and replace it with something holy. I was given a wonderful illustration of this. Two years ago at Jr. High Camp, I was teaching a class titled Conversion to Christ. My preparation for that class was not great. I walked into camp with one day s worth of material. But, God works miracles, even if small ones, and the Spirit moved in very strongly. He told me there was something else God had in store. I said, Okay, give it to me. The words came to mind, and I typed away. The power in that message was so great that I had to ask for a release from God s power. I was grateful for His help, but I couldn t see my keyboard anymore. I was given a story that encompasses how sin and repentance work in our lives and the immense love that Jesus has for all of His creation. Imagine your life is like a garden you have been given stewardship over. The pretty flowers are the good and holy things you ve done. But you start sinning. This causes a weed to appear. You see it and pray to God, asking for Him to help you remove this sin and cleanse your life. He does so, and you go back to how things were before. The weed comes back, this time bigger and with some friends. You get rid of 6 Tidings of Zion Campers of all ages shared testimonies from camp and witnessed how they answered the call.

7 these, but what you don t realize is the roots of these weeds are still under the surface. Those roots spread outward, more and more weeds popping up. You can stay on top of them, making them go away, but only for a while. Eventually, some of the flowers start to die. You look in the gap left behind and see an ugly, tangled mass of weeds festering there. It scares you, but you just decide to ignore it. In what seems to be the blink of an eye, the weeds have completely overtaken your garden, choking all of the good things out. Some of it even spills out in other gardens around you. Turning to God, you ask how He could have allowed this to happen. He speaks in a voice soft and remorseful. I cannot work with an unwilling soul. If you want this to change, you must first want to change it. You decide it is best to make the changes and so agree to let God guide you in the work you must do. You set to work removing the weeds. The next step, you begin to dig up the very foundation of your garden to find the roots of these weeds. Upon finding the roots, God stops you and forward steps another person. This person is beaten and bloody, covered in bruises and gashes in His skin. He holds His hands close to Himself, His wrists bleeding. He wears a crown of thorns. This man offers a warm smile that rings contrary to His present condition. He gets right to work. Reaching down with His worn and weary hands, His scarred body aching, He starts to tear these roots apart. They further wound Him. Through labored breathing and pain beyond what anyone can understand, He finishes the work. Collapsing onto the ground, you ask Him why He must suffer so much for this. The man offers the same smile and in a still, loving voice answers, Because I love you. He then gives up the ghost and is taken away. For the next three days, you refill the garden with fresh dirt and plant new seeds. On the morning of the third day, the man who was once dead comes running to you. He embraces you in a hug full of love and happiness. Suddenly, the garden is full of beautiful flowers again. My children, I died for you so you could be free. I will work with you and make you into something great wherever you are, as long as you are willing to work with me. This is what God wants each and every one of you to know. That He loves you so much that He will die again and again, even if it is just for one of you. He will meet you where you are at. This is how love wins, every single time Woodbine Reunion by High Priest Francis Harper Woodbine, Iowa During the week of July 21-28, 2018, the Woodbine Reunion was held at their campgrounds near Little Sioux, Iowa. The theme for this blessed week was Becoming fit for the Kingdom. Saints gathered to the Loess Hills of western Iowa from six states: Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado, and South Dakota. The temperatures had been soaring above one hundred degrees as we were preparing for this camp. Many prayers were offered for weather that would not have an adverse effect upon our meetings for worship and classes. The Lord provided us seven beautiful days with moderate temperatures without heavy rain. We gratefully acknowledged His beneficent care. Many commented that upon entering the grounds, they felt the presence of the Holy Spirit. These statements were reminiscent of the words of Jacob: Surely the Lord is in this place (Genesis 28:16). Elder Alan Ronk directed the activities of the reunion as he was led by the Spirit. He said, When we gather to worship in this setting, with humble and contrite hearts, we have the advantage of having the Tidings of Zion 7

8 Alan Ronk of Woodbine, IA presence of the Holy Spirit to minister to us the gifts and fruits of the Spirit as they are listed in 1 Corinthians 12:6-10 and Galatians 5: The power and influence of being in the presence of a group of people who are of one heart and mind also assists us in becoming fit for the Kingdom. Alan added, Throughout the week there was no appearance of contention anywhere. The prayers were so heartfelt, and the testimonies shared were living evidence that God is working with His people. He is proving that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him (Hebrews 11:6). He has given us the knowledge that the time for us to prepare to live in His Kingdom is short, and He is returning soon! Alan testified further that, A number of people had commented on the spiritual power they had felt in the performance of the ordinances, beginning with the baptism and confirmation services on Sunday morning and continuing with the Lord s Supper and others performed during the week. in the ordinances thereof (of the gospel) the power of godliness is manifest; and without the ordinances thereof, and the authority of the priesthood, the power of godliness is not manifest(ed) unto men in the flesh... (Doctrine and Covenants 83:3c). The preaching and teaching was edifying without exception. At least one, perhaps there were more, said it was the best reunion ever. It s our hope and prayer that many lives were changed toward Christ-likeness and all have become more fit to dwell in His kingdom. According to the record-keeper, the attendance ranged from Without passing an offering plate, donations reached an all-time high. The people were generous, an expression of the spiritual condition of their hearts. Reflections on Reunion I reflect upon the memories of a time that now has passed, The gathering is over but the love and Spirit lasts. They remain within the mind and soul of all who were a part Of a tearful testimony, or a prayer straight from the heart. The Spirit just embraced me, with a pure and total love, The blessings fell like raindrops from Heaven up above. Everyone who gathered here received of His great light, The smiles and the happiness told me that all was right. The music and the messages from Saints gathered in praise Will echo in my memories throughout my coming days. A sadness fills me as I go, and in going leave behind The closeness that became one thought, one prayer, one mind. A peaceful feeling comes to me while on my homeward way, For I realize that all the Saints are feeling the same today. Then, slowly, joy comes to my heart and I dry away a tear, Looking ahead to my return, when reunion comes next year. - Alan G. Ronk 8 Tidings of Zion

9 Baptism: Immersion vs. Sprinkling or Other Forms of Baptism by Elder John L. Mundy Independence, Missouri While in the mission field in Germany and Africa, we often confront those who have been baptized by sprinkling or other practices of baptism. We are also confronted by this practice here in the United States. I have taken the term baptism and placed it into the following categories: #1. Who instituted baptism? God instituted baptism. In Genesis 6:53 (Inspired Version (IV)), it says, believe and repent of all thy transgressions, and be baptized, even in water, in the name of mine Only Begotten Son Jesus acknowledged the need to be baptized, and the authority from which it came, as He himself was baptized. #2. What is the mode of baptism: sprinkling, pouring, or immersion? We find in Genesis 6:67 (IV), And it came to pass, when the Lord had spoken with Adam our father, that Adam cried unto the Lord, and he was caught away by the Spirit of the Lord, and was carried down into the water, and was laid under the water, and was brought forth out of the water; and thus he was baptized. In Acts 8:34-39, Philip had a discussion with the eunuch, who was a very important person. After Philip opened the understanding of the eunuch, the eunuch determined that he wanted to be baptized. In Acts 8:36, the eunuch commanded the chariot be still, and they both went into the water, and Philip baptized the eunuch. In John 3:24, John the Baptist was baptizing in Aeron, near Salim because there was much water there. In Romans 6:24, Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we should walk in the newness of life. In Matthew 3:44, John and Jesus went down into the water, and John baptized him. Matthew 3:45, When Jesus was baptized, went straightway out of the water There is no doubt in these scriptures that the mode of baptism is complete immersion, Jesus being the example. Matthew 6:30 instructs us, Wherefore take no thought for these things, but keep my commandments wherewith I have commanded you. Jesus tells us in Matthew 15:8, But in vain do they worship me, teaching the doctrines and the commandments of men. There are so many scriptures concerning the commandments of Christ, and the instructions concerning all of His commandments. To quote them all would be redundant. I will quote four scriptures that tell us that out of the mouth of two or more witnesses shall the matter be established. Deuteronomy 19:15 says,...at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established. This is in the Old Testament, and it is referring to iniquities of sin, but the establishment by witnesses is the same. Matthew 18:16 states that in the mouth of two or three witnesses, every word may be established. II Corinthians 13:1 reiterates that in the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established. Tidings of Zion 9

10 In Doctrine and Covenants 42:22b are these words, But if there are more than two witnesses, it is better, but he or she shall be condemned by the mouth of two or three witnesses. There are many more references that establish God s word by the mouth of two or more witnesses. Concerning the matter of the mode of baptism, we have established several instances in the Bible that refer to baptism as being by full immersion. On the other hand, in all the scriptures in the Bible, there is not one verse that indicates sprinkling or pouring for baptism. There are approximately forty-five verses that mention sprinkling in the Old Testament, and they all have to do with sprinkling blood for cleansing. In the New Testament, six out of the seven verses that mention sprinkling have to do with sprinkling of blood, and the other verse has to do with purifying our hearts from evil. Sprinkling came into being because of convenience. Infants were being baptized so that if they passed away, they would not go to hell for the sins of Adam. As the purpose of baptism being for the remission of sins, little children have not sin. They are born innocent and cannot commit sin before the age of accountability. Jesus was not baptized as an infant; he was presented to the priest for a blessing. In Luke 2:21-22, And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called Jesus; which was so named of the angel, before he was conceived. And when the days of her purification, according to the law of Moses, were accomplished; they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord; We find in Mark 10:11-12 that little children were being brought to Jesus that He might touch them. The apostles rebuked those that brought the children. Jesus was much displeased, and said, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for such is the kingdom of God. Then in Mark 10:14, And he took them up in his arms, and put his hands upon them, and blessed them. By this we know that: 1) Jesus would never refer to something that was imperfect or sinful as to being such as the kingdom of God. 2) He did not baptize them; he blessed them. 3) There is not one instance when a small child was baptized in the scriptures. We are baptized at the age of accountability so that we can follow the example of Jesus. It is correct in stating that there is not any scripture that forbids sprinkling or pouring as a mode of baptism, but when we investigate the scriptures, we find that the only mode for baptism is by full immersion in water. The reason that the Restoration came into being was because the ordinances and sacraments had been changed. Doctrine and Covenants 1:3 d-e states, For they have strayed from mine ordinances, and have broken mine everlasting covenant; they seek not the Lord to establish his righteousness, but every man walketh in his own way, and after the image of his own god, whose image is in the likeness of the world I believe that one of those ordinances that was changed in the Catholic and Protestant world was the mode of baptism because of man s intelligence of thinking that it might be alright to sprinkle or pour instead of immerse. We read in I Corinthians 2:14, But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God; for they are foolishness unto him; neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. Also, from I Corinthians 3:19, For Priest Chris Coolmen baptizes Laynee Hamblen at the 2018 Woodbine Reunion 10 Tidings of Zion

11 the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God; for it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. God does not take it lightly when man changes the ordinances that He has instituted in His Church. #3. What is the purpose of baptism? Why is it necessary to be baptized? Baptism is for the remission of sins. In Matthew 3:43, Jesus said, Suffer me to be baptized of thee, for it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness. Then he suffered him. Matthew 3:44 states, And John went into the water, and baptized him. Jesus was baptized because of the flesh, not because he had sin. That is why he said, It becometh us to fulfill all righteousness. We find in Acts 19:4, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying to the people, that they should believe on him that should come after him, that is on Christ Jesus. In Acts 2:38, Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. There are many things that Jesus taught which resulted in baptism. One example is in Acts 8:12, But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. In John 3:3, Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Also in John 3:5, Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water, and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. The word born here is interchangeable with the word baptized. We see that this is true in Hebrew 6:1-2, which states, Therefore not leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God. Of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, and of the resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. From this we see that baptism is plural, that there are two baptisms that take place, and not just one. One is to be baptized by water, and the other is by the Spirit. We know that this is so because when Jesus was baptized, the Spirit came down from God and rested on Jesus, thereby Jesus was baptized by water and the Spirit. Baptism of the Spirit does not take place unless you have been baptized by water first by one having authority. The second baptism is referred to in the scriptures as the baptism by the Holy Ghost, by the laying of hands, as it is referenced in Acts 16:4-6. It says, Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying to the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. In Acts 19:3, Paul asked who had baptized them, and they answered and said that John had. We know that John certainly had the authority to baptize because he baptized Jesus, but he did not have the authority to lay on of hands. The spiritual baptism came through the Melchisedec priesthood. There are many interpretations of the spiritual baptism. Many ministers claim that when you have had a spiritual experience, you have been born again. In the Restoration, we believe that being born again is to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, and that occurs when we have been confirmed after baptism. The Book of Mormon describes it as being baptized with Tidings of Zion 11

12 fire and the Holy Ghost, which is the same thing that Jesus was talking to Nicodemus about when he said that he must be born with water and the Spirit. #4. Who can perform this ordinance? John Mundy baptizing Chris at Missionary Branch I have already spoken on this in the previous topic. Because I believe that the gospel was restored to the Earth from Christ through Joseph Smith, Jr., I believe the Doctrine and Covenants and the Book of Mormon to be the word of God. In Section 17 of the Doctrine and Covenants, we find that baptism by water is performed by an Aaronic priest, or an elder. Doctrine and Covenants 32:2g says, Yea, repent and be baptized every one of you, for the remission of your sins; yea, be baptized even by water, and then cometh the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost. Also Section 39:2b of the Doctrine and Covenants, And this is my gospel: repentance and baptism by water, and then cometh the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost, even the Comforter, which showeth all things, and teacheth the peaceable things of the kingdom. Once again, the second baptism is by fire and the Holy Ghost. It comes through the laying on of hands by the Melchisedec priesthood. There are many, many references of baptism in the scriptures; I have only quoted a few. I have diligently looked for any other modes of baptism other than immersion and have found none. If by chance there are questions and you would like to continue this discussion, I would be happy to converse with you in more depth than I have in this letter. If you have any other responses that you would like to convey to me, I will be happy to listen. I would like to leave these final scriptures from the Book of Mormon for you to consider: III Nephi 5:25-35, which in part says that you should be baptized by immersion and that the doctrine of Jesus Christ is to repent and be baptized. It is the doctrine of the Father, which is given by Christ. III Nephi 12:33-35, Now this is the commandment, Repent, all ye ends of the earth, and come unto me and be baptized in my name, that ye may be sanctified by the reception of the Holy Ghost, that ye may stand spotless before me at the last day. Verily, verily I say unto you, This is my gospel; and ye know the things that ye must do in my church; for the works which ye have seen me do, that shall ye also do; For that which ye have seen me do, even that shall ye do; therefore if ye do these things, blessed are ye, for ye shall be lifted up at the last day. God bless each of you in your studies, and I pray that you will prayerfully and carefully consider that which is written in the scriptures and that there should be no disputations among you. Pray in faith, and pray unceasing, To the God we love and trust, For our prayers are much availing If we walk upright and just; Be not weary of exhorting; Heed the lesson of each day; And that we may be unwavering, For each other let us pray. - Let Us Pray For One Another by David H. Smith, vs Tidings of Zion

13 Erie Beach Youth Camp by Betty Lou Newman Amerhurstberg, Ontario, Canada Succession of Presidency in the RLDS Church Some very excited and eager youth and adults gathered in from California, Michigan, Missouri, and Ontario for the Erie Beach Camp, July 15-21, For three campers and two adults, it was a first. Our goal was to stretch and exercise our spiritual muscles. We sang hymns, we sang scriptures, and we sang campfire songs. We read scriptures, we read Light from the Dust, and we read The Church s Story We swam in the calm water, we swam in the white-capped water, and we battled the crashing waves of Lake Erie. We prayed for those back home, we prayed for camp, and we prayed for each other. We ate tamales and tacos, we snacked on haystacks and Krispies, and we devoured our veggies. We sawed lumber, we hammered the pieces together, and we painted our treasure boxes based on Matthew 6:21, where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. It was a wonderfully busy week, stretching and growing as we lived and worked together. As the Boot Camp program developed, the CITs shared their skills by directing campfires and other daily activities for the younger campers. The skits were a real treat! Next Step (from the Camp Pastor s note): Continue to abide in His love and make a conscious effort every day to live a life that will cause you to be that peculiar person you are called to be. Erie Beach campers, Amerhurstberg, Ontario, Canada 2018 by Seventy Richard Neill Independence, Missouri I write this paper to help all who are interested in understanding the process of succession of Presidency within the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (RLDS) I have studied the Joseph Smith Jr. lineage for almost 50 years. I want to thank the Community of Christ for allowing me to use their church archives to access historical Church materials. Listed are the changeovers of Presidents in the history of the Latter Day Saint Church. Since I am only examining the RLDS Church, I begin with the calling and ordination of Joseph Smith III. The Church was officially organized on April 6, The Church believed from the beginning in what is referred to as the "law of lineage," or the passing of priesthood from father to son in the priesthood office held by the father. Subsequently, Presidency passed from Joseph Smith Jr. down through his posterity for generations. Even as recent as 1976, an approved document was received by the Church stating the successor would be from the heritage of the founder (Joseph Smith Jr.). President Joseph Smith Jr. was martyred on June 27, After divisions in the Church, the RLDS Church was organized on April 6, The Church accepted, as inspired, a message given to Jason W. Briggs on November 18, 1853, near Beloit, Wisconsin. This message stated, among other things, that the Lord was going to call upon someone from the Smith lineage to occupy the office that had been held by Joseph Smith Jr. In The History of the Reorganized Tidings of Zion 13

14 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, we find the counsel given to Jason Briggs recorded on pages 200 and 201 of Volume 3. Included are these words (this is not the entire message): " and in my own due time will I call upon the seed of Joseph Smith, and will bring one forth, and he shall be mighty and strong, and he shall preside over the high priesthood of my church..." Although Joseph and Emma had four surviving sons, it was strongly believed that the mantel of priesthood held by Joseph Smith Jr., would fall upon the oldest surviving son Joseph Smith III. There was additional testimony that indicated on at least two separate occasions that Joseph Smith Jr. designated Joseph III to succeed himself (Joseph Smith Jr.) as Prophet-Seer-Revelator and President of the High Priesthood. A written recording of the blessing has not been found, and the evidence relies mostly on the testimony of witnesses to Joseph Smith Jr. s prayer of blessing given in the Liberty Jail in Liberty, Missouri, and his public statement at a gathering in Nauvoo, Illinois. Joseph III stated that his personal testimony of the calling to succeed his father, Joseph Smith Jr., came to him almost six years after the RLDS Church was organized in 1853, and accompanied by his mother Emma, Joseph Smith III came to the Amboy, Illinois, RLDS Conference and submitted his acceptance of the call to become the President-Prophet of the Church and was sustained by the vote of the people and ordained to become President of the Church on April 6, Joseph III would serve in this capacity of President for fiftyfour years until he died in December of When Joseph III passed away, provision had been made through revelation that Joseph's eldest living son, Frederick M. Smith, would succeed him as Prophet-Seer-Revelator and President of the High Priesthood. The 1906 revelation found in the Doctrine and Covenants contains this message: "It is now declared that in case of the removal of my servant now presiding over the church by death or transgression (Joseph Smith III), my servant Frederick M. Smith if he remain faithful and steadfast, should be chosen, in accordance with the revelations which have been hitherto given to the church concerning the priesthood." Frederick M. Smith would serve as the President of the Church until March of (Doctrine and Covenants 127:8b) When Frederick M. Smith passed away, there was no revelation given on this matter of who should succeed him as President of the Church. However, at a Joint Council meeting held October 20, 1938, President F.M. Smith addressed the Joint Council with a plan to reorganize the First Presidency (Joint Council is the First Presidency, the Quorum of Twelve, and the Presiding Bishopric). This was necessary due to the fact that there were no Counselors remaining in the First Presidency since Elbert A. Smith had been released from the First Presidency to become Presiding Patriarch of the Church during the April 1938 General Conference, and the other Counselor, Floyd M. McDowell, resigned that same year. This statement, which was recorded by the Joint Council Secretary, is made by President Frederick M. Smith in the Joint Council Minutes of October 20, 1938: "To effect the reorganization of the Presidency, President Smith (Frederick M.) named Bishop L.F.P. Curry and Israel A. Smith to serve with him until the 1940 Conference, in the hope that the arrangement would then become permanent." This action becoming permanent did take place with a revelation given in 1940, which was voted on and passed by the General Conference of 1940 (D&C Section 139). Israel A. Smith was now a Counselor in the First Presidency. The October 20, 1938 Joint Council minutes also record that President Frederick M. Smith made a 14 Tidings of Zion

15 statement to the Council, as found in the Minutes recorded on that date as follows, "Citing the letter of instruction issued by his father (Joseph Smith III), he called attention to the fact that in the event of himself passing (Frederick M. Smith), Israel would be in line for the office of President, and would have the advantage of the additional experience which this appointment (Counselor in the First Presidency) would give." Six years later on March 20, 1946, President F.M. Smith passed away shortly before the 1946 General Conference. The remaining members of the First Presidency and the Quorum of Twelve laid out the course of action for the 1946 General Conference. It was clear that no revelation contained in the Docrine and Covenants had been made concerning Frederick M. Smith's successor. The remaining Presidency and the Quorum of Twelve made known the remarks that Frederick M. Smith had made at the 1938 Joint Council meeting in regards to Israel A. Smith succeeding Frederick to the 1946 General Conference. For added measure, the Quorum of Twelve called upon Elbert A. Smith, as the Presiding Patriarch of the Church, to seek divine confirmation of Israel A. Smith's calling to become the Prophet, Seer, and Revelator. Brother Elbert addressed the Conference and included these words: "To this matter I have given earnest prayer and thought, with an increasing conviction that it is in harmony with the spirit of wisdom and revelation that the choice indicated by the late president should be approved, and that without unnecessary delay Israel A. Smith should be ordained president of the the high priesthood and the church and prophet, seer, revelator to the church. I am persuaded that this also will find confirming witness of the Spirit in the minds of numerous people." All of the Quorums of the Church approved unanimously the ordination of Israel A. Smith. "The vote was then taken on the choice of Israel A. Smith for president of the High Priesthood, and of the church, and prevailed unanimously." (General Conference Minutes, April, 1946) Israel A. Smith was ordained on April 7, It is important to note that the motion to receive Israel A. to this ordination was made by the Quorum of Twelve. This Quorum is also known as the Second Presidency within the Church. The motion was quite lengthy. In the statement by the Quorum, they recognized five steps "that must be taken" for the process to be authoritative. Those steps include: 1) The right of the incumbent to name his successsor. (D&C 43:1, 2) 2) The recognition of the law of lineal descent. 3) The need of revelatory authentification. 4) The voice of the church as expressed in free assembly by democratic vote. 5) The solemn setting apart of the candidate by the laying on of hands and the prayer of ordination. The Twelve further explained about lineage, "We believe that emphasis must not be placed unduly upon the biological strain; but, equalized in the recognition of moral and spiritual qualifications." The Twelve also added, "The law also requires approval in open Conference, according to Doctrine and Covenants 17:17, which reads: Every president of the High Priesthood is to be ordained by direction of a High Council or General Conference." The conditions of points 1 & 2 are totally in the Lord's keeping, as it was in Under certain conditions, point 1 could be met. I will not include these conditions because there would be some remote to unlikely circumstances for this to happen. Point 2 will be met if the candidate is of the "Smith" lineage, but he would still have to be considered worthy and prepared for such a high calling. In addi- Tidings of Zion 15

16 tion, confirmed revelation would have to be received with the vote of the people assembled in Conference. Since the Lord's work will not be frustrated, the Lord could choose someone other than the Smith lineage, with the expectation the Lord would make it clear to the Church that this is His will to do so. This choice would still have to be qualified and called by a revelatory experience confirmed by the people in an authoritative conference. However, points 3, 4, & 5 will have to be met. Point 3 can be met through the "incumbent" prophetic line, or by the Lord using others such as Jason Briggs in 1851, and Elbert A. Smith as Presiding Patriarch in 1946 to bring a revelatory message. Point 4 will require a discerning and obedient church, nevertheless it is required. Point 5 will be understood and anticipated by the church body in accordance with Church law and tradition. To complete examining the process, W. Wallace Smith and Wallace B. Smith were both designated by their predecessor and approved by the authoritative Church Conference. Both of their calls were authorized by the Conference to be included in the Doctrine and Covenants. The bottom line is this: for the calling to Prophet, Seer, and Revelator to be considered authoritative, approved, and valid the revelation must needs be brought before the people in conference. This will mean that, first, the conference is considered authoritative and properly organized; second, the revelation is accepted to be from God and voted on by the people; and third, the one being named would have to accept the call and have testimony of the call as well. When these primary conditions are met, then approval for ordination can be achieved and the candidate can be ordained. If not, the "ordination" will be valid only to those who participated and accepted the ordination in whatever process that was used and by whatever body of people approved the action. If this occurred, it would undoubtedly lead to confusion and division. As the Lord clearly called on those in the past, such as Moses, to lead the people, we look forward to his clear and unmistakable revelation in our day as well. Richard F. Neill, Seventy* *Ordination to the office of Seventy authorized by the vote of the 1982 RLDS World Conference. Ordained by Apostle Eugene Austin and President of Seventy Victor Hatch. Prophets of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Joseph Smith, Jr. April 1830-April 1996 Joseph Smith, III Only fear the Lord, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider how great things He hath done for you. I Samuel 12:24 Frederick M. Smith Israel A. Smith W. Wallace Smith Wallace B. Smith 16 Tidings of Zion

17 Fear is a Liar by Amy Burk Omaha Nebraska The 2018 Endurance Hike in Iowa was really like living out a sermon. My testimony actually started the week prior to the hike. Forecasts showed it was going to be wet and cold. I had been praying and fasting that the Lord would allow the warm weather to stay one more day before the storm hit, but I also prayed that we would receive a testimony either way. Toward the middle of the week, we began getting phone calls asking whether or not we were going to cancel or postpone the hike. I knew from the sound of people s voices and the comments made that they were afraid of the storm that was coming. Even though I felt discouraged, I continued in prayer and on Thursday received my answer. As I was driving, the words Fear is a liar came to me just as if the Lord had spoken it. This is also the title of a newly released Christian song. I asked my daughter to find it on our playlist and listened to the lyrics. The song talks about being told you re not strong enough, you re not good enough, and you re not worthy, but that fear is a liar. It goes on to say that fear will stop you in your steps, rob you of your rest, and steal your happiness. I knew without a doubt that the Lord was telling me not to fear, not to listen to the negative, and also that He wasn t going to change the weather because He had a better plan. Ps 27:1, The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? For the next two days, I chose not to listen to the weather forecast or get into discussions about worry for what lay ahead. I knew to overcome fear was to understand the truth. Our truth was that we were a group of saints gathering together for a common purpose of undertaking something physically challenging to prepare ourselves for growing spiritually. Saturday came, and we went from forty-seven registered hikers to thirty-three. We started the hike with light rain and temperatures around thirty-seven degrees. This wouldn t have been too bad, except for the fact that before we would finish the hike, the temperatures would continue to fall throughout the day to a low of twenty-two degrees, high winds and several inches of snow. Most would imagine this to be a miserable day, but I was still able to have peace and see God s blessings in the circumstances we found ourselves in. Blessing #1 Very few of us actually got cold. We found that as long as we kept moving, we were warm. I realized that we have to be spiritually active too. Through prayer, study, and fasting, the Holy Spirit burns within us, and it is only when we stop these things and get off track that our spiritual fire goes out. Blessing #2 I m usually the person who texts back to camp at certain checkpoints so someone else knows where we are at all times in case of an emergency and to just let them know how things are going. We often joke that we need to contact home base and that those back at camp are our lifeline. I knew everyone was really worried about this hike, so I tried to keep my texts positive and just asked for continued prayers. We knew our strength alone was not going to get us through this, but it would be by the faith of many. This was more of a comfort to me this year than any other. I realized that Christ is our lifeline, we are on a journey in this life to our eternal home, and that we, too, must be in constant contact with our Lord and Savior. Alma 7: 69-70, Yea, let all thy doings be unto the Lord, and whithersoever thou goest, let it be in the Lord: yea, let thy thoughts be directed unto the Lord; yea, let the afflictions of thy heart be placed upon the Lord for ever; counsel the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for Tidings of Zion 17

18 good and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day. Blessing #3 Because we have so many hikers, all with different physical abilities or limitations, we have different people with assigned roles or tasks to ensure none are lost. There are three men with radios, stationed at the lead, mid-point, and rear. Often our trail gets spread out enough that you may not be able to see from the start to the finish of the group, and this way we can stay in contact in order to slow the people in the forefront or speed up the people behind. There are then five to six other men designated as group leaders whose responsibility it is to check certain individuals throughout the hike or at each stop. I realized on this hike how dependent we are on these men. As I was walking with another hiker, I made a comment that I thought we should have gone the other way. I added, What do I know? It s easier just to follow the lead. The other hiker joked that we were the blind leading the blind and then said that if we got off track, we could just say, It s the leaders fault. Even though it was a joke, it really hit home for me. I asked myself, Could I use that excuse when I stood in front of Christ on judgement day? Will I be able to pass off the blame for my lack of knowledge? I had been on this hike for four years now and had never truly paid attention to the direction we went. I could tell you certain landmarks we passed and might eventually find my way if I was to go by myself, but I was relying more on others than I should. I thought about this spiritually too. I can t just expect the priesthood to know all the answers or wait for them to be endowed while I do nothing. If and when we are given opportunities, we should be learning. Otherwise, we will not grow. Blessing #4 As I said earlier, I had a peace and comfort on this hike that was almost unimaginable. I never had a doubt or a fear and was very calm, despite what we were facing. At our lowest point, I was actually laughing. We were probably two-thirds of the way done when we had to walk across the top of a ridge. The snow had already accumulated on the ground, and now high winds were pushing us sideways. They were so strong that the snow hitting our faces felt like hail. I was walking with two other hikers, arm in arm. Although we couldn t look up to face the wind, I did look at each of them and smiled, knowing this wasn t the time to give in. I remembered the scripture from James 1:2, My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into many afflictions. One of them smiled back, and we started laughing. The other one tried to yell over the wind, asking us what we were laughing at. This made us laugh even harder, and then she started laughing with us. Someone said we d better stop laughing before our tears froze, which made us laugh all the more. We were literally laughing in the face of adversity. Blessing #5 Frequently during the hike, there are times of silence when you re just trying to move forward. These are the times when it s easy to observe others. You may watch for ways you can help or look to others for hope. You see people in their struggles. Through them, you also see yourself, where you ve been and where you re going. This year there was one young hiker who had never been on the hike before who was having more difficulties than most of the others. He kept saying he had come because he wanted to be able to help people, and he was frustrated because he found himself as the one needing help. His friends had taken his backpack, and his body was slowly wearing down to the point of exhaustion. However, he never lost his sense of humor or his 18 Tidings of Zion

19 willpower. At one point when we were crossing the ridge, he yelled, How much more of this are you going to give us! As we got to the end of the ridge and started going down the hill, he fell. I thought I might try to help him up, when I heard him yell again at the top of his lungs, My legs are steel. My feet are iron. I can do this. I cried, knowing he was giving every last ounce of energy he had to not completely give up. It made me ask myself, Am I giving my all like this for the kingdom? Am I doing all that needs to be done without excuse, without delay, with all that I have for the sake of my salvation? Without knowing it then, he was my help. He had helped me see I needed to do more in my spiritual walk. He helped me realize that I was nowhere near the point of exhaustion in my sacrifices for the Lord. As Paul states in Galatians 6:9, Let us not be weary in well-doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Blessing #6 Every year that we have had the Endurance Hike, we end at a cross on the hill at the campgrounds in Little Sioux, IA. The purpose for that is to recognize that Christ endured so much more for us than anything we will ever face. Because of the situation we found ourselves in this year, it was decided that we needed to just make it to the grounds as quickly as possible. Those who had been on the hike before, especially the youth, asked why we weren t going to the cross. When asked if they thought they could make it, not one said they couldn t, but instead they said, That s just where we re supposed to go. It truly humbled me to know that they realized the significance, they understood the purpose of the hike, and, more importantly, they were acknowledging that no matter the sacrifice for 2018 Endurance Hike in Iowa themselves, they wanted to do it for a greater purpose. Romans 8:28, And we know that all things work together for good, to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose. Blessing #7 The hike itself has always been a difficult thing to accomplish. With good weather, it s bearable, but this year was extremely taxing. Many who had never been on the hike before were not prepared for what we would face. Some did not bring hats or gloves, and some didn t pack extra socks. However, there were others who had brought enough extras that everyone was covered. Many even gave up what they had for themselves to give to those worse off. When we returned back to camp, we realized we needed a specific detailed list of everything that should be carried in a pack, in case we were faced with a situation like this again. I was thankful that God had kept us all safe and had shown us this so we could be better prepared in the future. It made me reflect on how I look at difficult circumstances I find myself in, both physically and spiritually. Am I thankful in all things? Do I reflect and use those difficult times to my advantage to develop and become stronger? I could probably go on and on about the blessings I saw unfold on this eleven-hour, eighteen-mile hike through the Loess Hills. We didn t realize until we got back to the campgrounds that we were actually in a major storm with blizzard conditions. What we knew was that the Lord had seen us through a difficult time with His grace, His truth, His light, and His love. And that fear it is a liar. Tidings of Zion 19

20 Central Missouri Restoration Branches Older Youth Spring Retreat by Reggie Bendorf Chilhowee, Missouri As preparations were being made for the spring retreat, my wife and I quickly realized that the Lord had gone before us to prepare the way for the older youth to come together for worship and fellowship. The Lord s Spirit greeted us when we arrived on the campgrounds and continued to reside throughout the weekend. There were twenty-three youth that attended the entire weekend with two commuting on Saturday. Classes were taught by Aaron and April Smith on God s Plan for Life and Now that you re in the Fire, what do you do? Shaun Bruto taught a class on The Work and Purpose for which you have been Created. The classes provided much information about that which has transpired in our lives and that which is to come. The testimonies shared by the teachers demonstrated that we re not alone within our trials. These testimonies also helped us understand that we re all searching for answers and we need the direction from God through His Son and Holy Spirit. Rebecca Cornish provided challenging team building activities that helped us understand how important it is to work together in unity and have a scriptural foundation to meet the challenges before us. Nancy Eyerly helped us realize through her mixer that even though there is diversity, we still have commonalities that bring honor to God. Dave Keller entertained us with a version of Silence is Golden as he and individual campers acted out various situations in the scriptures and in life while trying to stump the campers. Through David Gilmore s activity, he helped us learn how important it is to help one another to succeed together instead of having one side win and the other side lose. Our pastor, Jim Loumiet, assisted by Dave Keller, provided powerful ministry the entire weekend with the culmination of a prayer and testimony service Sunday morning focusing on All are Called unto Christ. What a blessing it was to be in service to God with such quality youth that have strong desires to serve and honor the Lord. CMRB Older Youth Spring Retreat 20 Tidings of Zion

21 God is Good, an In-Town Reunion Testimony by Julie Schroeder Independence, Missouri I must speak to the praise and glory of God. I attended the In-town Reunion at Waldo. I felt God s Spirit during the entire time. At the end of the prayer service Friday morning, we were instructed to come together to sing the closing hymn. I had been sitting alone in my row. As I looked around, I noticed that the other rows around me were full. I wasn t familiar with the hymn and wanted to sing. Since I couldn t hold my hymnal, I needed to balance it on the back of the bench in front of me. I had to choose between not singing or standing by myself. Since I was sitting in the middle of my row, I decided to move over by the aisle. That way I would be a little closer to my brothers and sisters. As I stood there singing, I prayed, Lord, I don t really need this, but it would be wonderful if someone would come and stand with me. As soon as I finished my prayer, two people came to stand with me. I had just met these people a few days earlier at the reunion. They didn t know why I was standing alone but reached out to me in kindness. God is good! Spiritual Giants, an In- Town Reunion Testimony by Connie Guthrie Independence, Missouri Tuesday night of the reunion, I had a dream which I did not understand. It was about spiritual giants and the time we are living in now. On Friday night, Richard Neill had the message. As I was listening to the message, Brother Neill started talking about spiritual giants. I thought, What was that? I looked at Dave, my husband, and asked him if he remembered my dream from the other night. As Brother Neill spoke, my dream came to life. I knew then the Lord was confirming to me that this message WAS from HIM. My dream was this. I had been praying to God for about five weeks, since Dave's heart attack, that Dave and I would be allowed to stay here upon the earth until His Son returns. I did not seek to ask selfishly for this. I just want to serve our Lord. In this dream, I saw the ancient city of Jerusalem. I saw many people living their lives, seeking their Lord. Among them, I saw those who were called "spiritual giants/warriors," that were bold for our Lord. Among them were Abraham, Moses, David, and John the Baptist. In my dream, it went through the years very fast. I saw others, like Joseph Smith, and then it was at our time. A messenger said this, Now is the time for you to be one of the spiritual giants/warriors so many others will hear the calling. The message from Brother Neill on Friday night is a true testament that the Lord is preparing His people for the last days on this earth. We are in the hastening times. I truly believe this. For me and my husband, Dave, we are ready to hear His call. Whenever the opportunity happens, my voice will proclaim my love for Jesus Christ. Let us all be ready to serve as those "spiritual giants/ warriors" for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. therefore, if ye have desires to serve God, ye are called to the work, for, behold, the field is white already to harvest, - D&C 4:1c Tidings of Zion 21

22 2018 In-Town Reunion Conference Highlights By the Coordinating Council Independence, MO Many who attended the Conference expressed during prayer services, classes, and other events that they felt a positive and powerful Spirit. Many conversations could be used as testimony to this observation. As always, old and new friendships were bonded together. During the week of June 24-29, 2018, the Conference of Restoration Elders held its 26 th annual Conference. The theme for the week was "Zion the Beautiful Beckons Us On." The morning classes and the nightly sermons were centered on the theme. Ministry was brought to the Conference from around the world, as well as from the domestic field and the Center Place. Let's start to recap the week by quoting a few of the attendees. A survey was taken during the week, and the people were asked to respond to select questions. Here is what some of them said in regards to the coming forth of Zion: "It starts for me as an individual to believe that Zion is possible. This week restored my belief that it can be accomplished. I will be teaching and preaching Zion to explain what the Lord wants us to do to accomplish His Zion. First, I must love the Saints as Jesus would have us to love one another. Second, I must be willing to sacrifice by fasting, studying, and praying for others to help others to catch the vision of Zion. Third, I believe we all must draw closer to our Heavenly Father in order to not be caught without enough oil in our lamps when the bridegroom returns." "We need to be less individual branches and more one body of Christ." "I don't know this answer right now, but I know that God does. Stay tuned for incoming messages..." "Greatly increase the Domestic Outreach efforts." The West Virginia Saints bring special music The Elders Conference also held its annual week of meetings during this time, and several things were addressed. The officers and Council members for the next year were elected. Vim Horn was chosen again as the Conference Chairman. The other Council officers include: David Joyce (Secretary), Ray Lane (Treasurer), and Danny Hight (Historian). The subsidiary Councils were also selected. This next year the Coordinating Council will include: Richard Neill (Chairman), Brian Mundy (Vice-Chairman), Garry Piatt (Secretary), Jack Hagensen, John Mundy, Mark Nunn, and Tom Mitchell. Mark and Tom are new to the Council. Other Council Chair people include - Nicole Capps (Women's), Christina Schrunk (Publication's), and Paul Gage (Education). Organization of these Councils and selection of their officers is being accomplished this summer. One of the major projects this past year was in regards to the Domestic Outreach Ministry. The 2017 Conference passed a resolution for a committee to make a recommendation at the 2018 Conference as to where the Domestic Outreach program should be 22 Tidings of Zion

23 administered from within the Conference. The Coordinating Council, the Conference Chairman, and others held many Regional gatherings, as well as conducted meetings amongst isolated Branches and individuals. After much consideration, this group recommended the Domestic Outreach program to continue under the coordination of the Coordinating Council. The Council introduced the motion to that effect, and it was passed by the elders. The committee shared powerful and inspiring testimonies in regards to the meetings and ministry that were held around the USA/Canada Restoration groups. Of special note is that just prior to the June Conference, a very generous gift was given to the Elders Conference through an estate settlement. A devoted Saint and sister provided in her will that the Elders Conference would receive the biggest portion of her estate. The legal work was done, and the Conference received a gift just prior to Conference of $92,356. We decided not to use this money without giving some thought to making wise, wellthought-out decisions as a Conference. We did decide to set aside $5,000 for a reserve to cover unexpected necessary expenses. The Conference Chairman, Conference Treasurer, and the Coordinating Council would decide together if some action would need to be taken. It was with a humble spirit that we recognized the desire of this dear woman to think of the work going on after her departure from this life. Praise God for touching this woman's heart, and praise God for her response to the Lord's Spirit. This blessing will truly help further "Zion the Beautiful"! More can be found by checking the Elders Conference website. Nothing, however, can replace being there in person. Come join us next year, beginning June 23 rd, for the next Conference/Reunion. Priesthood we are gathering to Kirtland and the Temple on September 22-23, The theme will be "Taught From On High." Left to right: High Priests Paul Gage and Steve Bohall, Patriarch Mike Ballantyne, High Priests Cloyce Coffman, Francis Harper, Del Kennon, Marlin Guin In addition, each Council and missionary group gave reports of the past year's activity that circled the world. Many great things are happening everywhere. The income for the Conference exceeded expenses once again this year. The Conference makes a donation to Center Place Restoration School for the use of the building during the Conference/Reunion week. The Elementary class sings for the Adult class Pre-K class at the 2018 In-Town Reunion Tidings of Zion 23

24 Domestic Outreach: Canada and USA by High Priest Paul J. Gage Independence, Missouri My latest Domestic Outreach journey began on Saturday, July 28, 2018 with trip to Avon, Indiana. On Sunday, July 29, 2018, I met with the Saints at Bainbridge, Indiana, and Saints in Bainbridge after lunch, I traveled on to Transfer, Pennsylvania, to attend the Kirtland area reunion for a few days. Wednesday, August 1 st, found me on the way to Punxsatawney, Pennsylvania, to the home of Elder Thomas Hoeh. A nice meal and fellowship was enjoyed with Brother Thomas, Kristy Anthony, and Charles and Carol Hoeh. Thursday, August 2 nd, I drove on to Bemus Point, New York, to visit William, Senna, Emarie, and Henry Dippel and then crossed the Lavigne family with Vivienne Saul Peace Bridge at Buffalo, New York, and went to Stoney Creek, Ontario, Canada, to the home of Todd and Crystal Lavigne and their children: Michael and Alicia Mahoney and Dylan, Matthew, and Joshua Lavigne. While in Stoney Creek, the Lavignes and I visited Sister Vivienne Saul in Waterdown, Ontario. The children shared testimonies and songs with Sister Saul, and she shared with them about her Thomas &Diane Smith, LaFayette, IN family. After some great refreshments, we closed our visit with a circle of prayer. We returned to the Lavigne's home and shared in the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. Crystal's mother, Jean Mahoney, joined us for the Sacrament service. Jean also drove me twice to visit her father, Elder Leonard Else, age 93, who was in the hospital. On Monday, August 6, David, Christie, Bridge, and Lydia King, from Toronto, joined us for a day of fellowship. Tuesday, August 7 th, was the 100th birthday of Elder Wayne Snell of Shelburne, Ontario. Michael and Alicia Mahoney and I drove up to see Wayne and wish him a happy 100th birthday. On Wednesday, August 8 th, I begin the journey back to Independence, Missouri. Alicia and Michael Mahoney with Elder Wayne Snell And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. - Mark 16:14 24 Tidings of Zion

25 Education Council Revived by High Priest Paul J. Gage Independence, Missouri The Conference of Restoration Elders (CRE) Education Council has been revived. Current Council members are: Patricia Chadwick, Eva Cartwright, Cynthia DeBarthe, Paul Gage Chair, Rebecca Griffin Secretary, Glenda Spencer Vice-Chair, Donna Vasquez and Jared Watson. Diane Ludy will serve as a consultant, and Elder Mark Griffin is the liaison from the Coordinating Council. The purpose of the Education Council is to be actively engaged in keeping the Saints informed about educational materials that are available through the CRE office, as well as any new items that might be forthcoming. The Education Council in 2003 revised and produced many of the Sunday School Quarterlies from the past. These are still available through the CRE Office. They include teacher's manuals, student manuals, and craft kits, and they cover Kindergarten ages 4-5; Primary grades 1,2,3; Junior grades 4,5,6; Junior High grades 7,8,9; and Senior High grades 10, 11, 12. The materials are designed to be used on a three year rotating basis (A, B, and C). Each year is divided into four quarters. The Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Church History are covered in the quarterlies. An updated catalog will be available as soon as possible. Volunteers can be reached or messages left at the CRE Office at or toll free at Preparing For the Coming of Christ Comparative Religions Outstanding Doctrines and Practices of Our Own Church Women s Council Update The Women s Council activities since the conference have been that of preparing for the events scheduled this fall. We have bid a fond farewell to faithful council members who have moved into other areas of service and welcomed new members who have taken up the baton of ministering to our sisters. Plans are finalized for the retreat to be held at Odessa Hills Campground on September 22nd and 23rd. We hope to provide you with an opportunity to leave the toil and strain of everyday life behind and offer moments for you to participate in worship, classes, fellowship, and service. Even if you cannot come for the whole retreat, we hope you will join your sisters for the portion of the retreat you are able to attend and that you will receive what the Lord has to give to the women of the church in this season. Our newsletter is ready for publication and will be available after the first of September. Women s leaders are urged to make copies to share within their branches. In a world where bad news is readily available, we hope the newsletter is a means to supply uplifting articles that will increase the desire of each one to press on the upward way. As we wrap up this year s theme of Blessings Through Our Brokenness, we are thankful for the work God has done through the broken individuals of the Church, and we pray for the Lord to refashion every one of us so we may more accurately reflect His light to the world. We are excited for the new theme the Lord has placed upon our hearts to be revealed in the November issue of our newsletter. We look forward to the next year of serving the women of the Restoration in these last days. But now, O Lord, thou art our Father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand. - Isaiah 64:8 Tidings of Zion 25

26 With the Lord in the Land Down Under by Elder Kevin Humphrey Independence, Missouri Elder Tom Rindels and I arrived in Tamworth, Australia, on March 7, 2018, and were greeted by Peter and Helen Archer; Helen's parents, Roy and Daphne Schubert; and Brother Bob Wilkinson. We had a song service that Saturday evening and on Sunday morning shared testimonies and the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. It was an awesome service! We left Monday morning and drove to Goondiwindi to visit Sister Laurel Thompson. We visited, had lunch, and shared in a Sacrament Service. Congregation in Brisbane We traveled on to Townsville and met up with Patrice Fulton. Her husband, Michael, had suffered a stroke. We administered to him twice. On Sunday we had services with her family and Rachael Todd and her children: Emmaline, Gabriel, and Alexandra. We stopped in Marybourough to visit Alva Robinson. We shared with her in another Sacrament Service and Administration. When we left her home, we were slowed down by a traffic delay in the town of Ayr. After about fortyfive minutes, we found a city worker who showed us the way out. I told Tom the Lord must be protecting us. We drove about thirty minutes and came up on a deadly accident. God had protected us. Praise Him! We drove on to Brisbane and were met at the church with supper ready for us. We visited with the Saints and were asked to do the services that Sunday. The Lord was with us as He provided the thoughts we needed. The next day found us heading for Sister Merran s house. She took us to meet her son, Lance, and his wife, Georgia, and their five children. From there, we drove to the home of David and Melissa Game and their children, Lauren and Micah. They live in Medowie, New South Wales. Our next stop was in Taralga to visit Sister Mary Dunn. We spent the night there and visited her again the next morning. (Note: Sister Dunn passed away April 20, 2018.) Then it was on to Eurora, to the home of Murray and Delma Broughton. We spent a few days visiting Saints and others in the area. We did the services that Sunday at the Kelvin View Restoration Branch. From there we drove to Adelaide (Gawler) to Keri and Gina Krieg's home. The Krieg's daughter, Monique Hummel, and two of her sons, Jacob and Seth, also live close. I thought the people of Australia were awesome and a very caring people. I will never forget this experience. Saints in Sydney 26 Tidings of Zion

27 Australia March 6 th May 7 th by Elder Tom Rindels Independence, Missouri Kevin Humphrey and I left for Australia on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, via Houston, Sydney, and Tamworth, New South Wales, our plan being to visit the scattered saints in four of the five states of Australia. We had spent a great deal of time in prayer and preparation for the trip. Kevin would be with me for the first five weeks, while I was prepared to stay for nine weeks. Our journey by car would start in Tamworth, New South Wales and for Kevin, end in Adelaide, South Australia. The Sundays that Kevin was there, we had Sunday morning services in five different towns. We administered to and shared in communion services with the isolated saints in the miles between. We were able to hear testimonies of sisters and brothers of their belief in the Restored Church and their deep concerns for the Church today. All asked us to share their love, prayers and concerns for the Saints here in America and around the world. We met in homes, a church building in Brisbane, and a really old school/church in Euroa. Kevin and I shared in preaching and teaching. We were totally reliant on the Holy Spirit and were blessed abundantly. He instructed, guided, and directed us, even as to leading us to the same scriptures. We were protected both spiritually and physically in the thousands of miles we drove. We realized His love for His children which was manifested in the testimonies, in the blessings that came through wonderful administrations, and by the love that was poured out on Kevin and me wherever we went. We experienced the Lord opening many doors for us as Brother Murry Broughton took us to visit in the homes of current or past members and also non-members. We were abundantly blessed by the Spirit because of Brother Murry s love in sharing the Gospel he truly believes in. Murray & Delma Broughton, Euroa, Murray is pastor Shortly before my return to the States, Sister Mary Dunn was called home by our Savior. It was an honor for me to participate in her funeral service. She was a faithful servant for her Lord and endured to the end. Saints in Sydney In Euroa, I was able to share with Brother Murry in a wonderful administration for Sister Betty Broughton who was suffering from severe discomfort in her throat. Murry and I anointed and prayed over her. The next morning Brother Murry s phone rang, and I heard him say to the caller that, yes, I was right there, and yes, they could talk to me. It was Sister Betty. She wanted to thank me. She said she felt somewhat better after the administration, but she had awakened that morning with the throat discom- Tidings of Zion 27

28 fort totally gone. She said she felt like a new woman. I could only tell her to praise the Lord. Later in the afternoon, again Murry s phone rang and again Murry said, yes, I was right there and I could talk. This time it was Brother Neville Broughton, Sister Betty s husband who had his own testimony about his desire to be there for Betty s administration. But, that afternoon he wanted to thank us for the blessing that his wife had received. He told me he had awakened that morning to a new woman in both how she felt and looked. I again said, Neville, Praise the Lord. This couple means so much to me. They ve had me in their home and have found a place in my heart, as have all the saints that I ve met and shared with on my visits to Australia. I pray that the Lord will make a way for Kevin and I to return to share with our brothers and sisters in the Land Down Under. L: Merran, Far right her son Lance Dunn and his children Great is our Lord, and of great power; His understanding is infinite. - Psalm 147:5 God s Comfort by Janice Henderson Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada My husband, Rick, and I live in Thunder Bay Ontario, Canada. We were both born into the church and baptized at the age of eight. I am from New Liskeard, Ontario, which is located about 600 miles east of Thunder Bay. I am the youngest of three girls. I came to Thunder Bay in 1977 to attend University. I ended up boarding with Rick s sister and brother-inlaw and family, and this was how I met him. We were married in My testimony happened in February of My father had just passed away, and my family was meeting together in New Liskeard at our family home. There were quite a number of people around, and distractions were many. I found Mom in her room, going through a drawer. She came across Dad s Patriarchal Blessing and asked me if I would like to have it. I accepted and began looking it over, just skimming it because of the noise and distractions. When I turned to the second to last page, a paragraph close to the bottom jumped out at me. I read it more carefully. In essence, it said that if Dad would be faithful to the end, he would be with God in Zion. The comforting Holy Spirit came upon me. Just then, I heard my sister calling me, so I put the blessing away, determined to read it in full later when there were no distractions. As it was, I did not get to read it again until I arrived home. When I did read it in full, I was amazed that the paragraph I had read about Dad being in Zion was not there. I know it was there when I first looked at it, but it was not there later. I realized that it was God s way of giving me comfort in my grieving process. I thank God for His loving and comforting Spirit. 28 Tidings of Zion

29 GOD'S SPIRIT IS MOVING around the World: "GO YE THEREFORE AND TEACH" African Restoration Ministries (ARM) Mission trips were completed to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Nigeria in Rick Johansen and Dale Stafford were in Nigeria in June, A trip to Kenya is planned for the fall of Jim Clark, Travis Clark, Brian Herren, Kevin Herren, and Ron Herren, from the Salem, Oregon RB will going to Africa October 19-November 4, Greater European Ministries (GEM) Elder Brian Mundy is learning the German language to be better able to provide ministry there. He was in England and Germany in August 2018 with Stephen Henson. Latin American Missions Board (LAMB) In Mexico, Seventy Juan Reyes reported making several missionary trips to the cities of Jojutla and to Matamoros. Juan and wife, Tina, attended the CRE Conference June 24-29, 2018, in Independence, Missouri, with their son, Saul. Funds from LAMB helped cover their travel expenses. The LAMB board consists of: James Van Biber, Jr., Chairman; David Schoff, Treasurer; Joe Hale, Secretary; and members: Eric Baker, Manuel Castillo, Michael Holmes, Pete Hughes, and Ken Ward. Southeast Asia and Australia Ministries (SEAAM) AUSTRALIA: A mission trip to Australia in March/April 2018 was carried out by Elders Kevin Humphrey and Tom Rindels. NEPAL/INDIA: Elders Doug Smith, Brian Herren, and Andrew Smith completed a mission to Nepal and India in April, Another trip is set for the fall of PHILIPPINES: A mission is being planned for the Mindanao region in Elder Murray Broughton and wife, Delma, were in Luzon in December 2017 and the Spring of Domestic Outreach: USA and Canada: High Priest Paul Gage, was in the Indiana, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Ontario, Canada regions July 28- August 12, A gathering is planned for Stoney Creek, Ontario, Canada, on Saturday, October 20, Anyone interested may contact Todd and Crystal Lavigne at or Paul Gage at Any branches, groups, families, or individuals desiring ministry may contact the CRE Office at You may also visit the CRE website at eldersconference.org. Front cover: L-R Top Row Andrew Holmes Family, Independence, MO; Wally Sebulsky family, Morgantown, WV; Eric and Pam Odida, Kenya; Michael Brown, Concordia, MO Second Row Dave Teeple, Buckeye, AZ; Francis Harper and Alan Ronk, Woodbine, IA; Telljohann Family, Lima, OH; Jack and Laila Hagensen, Independence, MO Third Row Jeff and Christy Schrunk Family, Independence, MO; Priesthood from MI, MO, OH, and WV; Pam and Bill Barrett, Independence, MO; Terry and Rebecca Griffin, Independence, MO Fourth Row Shannon and Jim Dougherty, Lee s Summit, MO; Wilbur and Marci Wilson, Independence, MO; Tina, Juan, and Saul Reyes, Saltillo, Mexico; Mark and Tammy Griffin, Oak Grove, MO Tidings of Zion 29

30 CALENDAR OF EVENTS NORTHWEST Priesthood Retreat September 21-23, 2018 Contact: Brian Herren CRE PRIESTHOOD RETREAT Kirtland, Ohio September 22-23, 2018 Theme: "Taught From On High" CRE WOMEN'S COUNCIL Fall Retreat at Odessa Hills Campgrounds September 22-23, 2018 Theme: "The Lord Healeth My Broken Heart" CENTRAL MISSOURI RETREATS Odessa Hills Campgrounds, Odessa, MO All retreats start at 7:00p.m. on Friday and end at 1:00p.m. on Sunday, except Junior Retreat which will start at 9:00a.m. at Saturday and end at 1:00p.m. Sunday. October 5-7 October October November 9-11 November Sr. High Junior Retreat Jr. High Young Married Older Youth SAVE THE DATE: 2000 Strong Adventure Camp July 4-8, 2019 Class time in the Tabernacle at Odessa Hills Campfire at Odessa Hills We Need Your Testimonies! Did you attended the Priesthood or Women s Retreat? Share your testimony! Please write up your experience and it to centerplacetidingsofzion@gmail.com. If you have pictures you are willing to share from these events, please those to the same address. Don t forget to include a description and the names of those in the photo. Are you blessed with artistic talent? Submit your original art as a potential cover. All mediums are acceptable for review. to the above address with all applicable information. 30 Tidings of Zion

31 Announcements: ADDRESS CHANGES Please notify the CRE of any changes in your mailing address, phone number, address, church or marital status, etc. All contact information is on the inside front cover of each Tidings of Zion. FOR YOUR INFORMATION There is a great need for help in funding the Tidings of Zion. The magazine currently goes into 4400 homes around the world, including 48 states of the USA, as well as Australia, Canada, England, Germany, Honduras, Kenya, Mexico, Nepal, The Philippines, Russia, and the United Kingdom. Usually we print between 4800 and 5000 copies so we can send, by flat rate boxes, a larger number to Kenya and the Northern Island of Luzon and southern island of Mindanao. In the Philippines. The copies of Tidings of Zion are then distributed by the ministers to the Saints in scattered areas. As far as circulation, the Tidings of Zion probably reaches more homes than any other Restoration magazine. If every family that receives the Tidings of Zion would donate $20.00 each year, it would easily cover the cost for Tidings of Zion. Some individuals are already doing this and it is VERY MUCH APPRECIATED. Checks can be made out to the CRE and in the memo line, write, Tidings of Zion. Mailing information is in the front cover. Stewardship is the response of my people to the ministry of my Son, and is required alike of all those who seek to build the Kingdom. D&C 147:5a SHARE WITH US! Please send your articles, testimonies, branch news, youth activities, regional events, etc. to the CRE c/o Publications Council. Contact information is on the inside front cover of each Tidings of Zion. LIVE STREAMING of SERVICES: Belton, MO RB Buckner, MO RB Central Florida RB centralfloridarestoration.com Garden City, MI RB gardencityrestorationbranch.org Oak Grove, MO RB Oakwood, MI RB Waldo Avenue RB Usually, you can just type in the name of the branch in to your search drive and it will take you to their website. *********NOTICE: THE CRE OFFICE HAS MOVED ********** TO 1551 N. COURTNEY ROAD, INDEPENDENCE, MISSOURI This is 3-4 miles north of CPRS/Waldo via Liberty St and Kentucky Road CONTACT VIM HORN OR RICHARD NEILL FOR MORE INFORMATION Tidings of Zion 31

32 Tidings of Zion Conference of Restoration Elders PO Box 4085 Independence, MO Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Independence, MO Permit No. 191 Change Service Requested Domestic Outreach Families Henry, Sheena, Emarie, and William Dippel of Bemus Point, NY Carol, Charles, and Tom Hoeh, Kristy Anthony of Punxsatawney, PA