This list briefly outlines some of the amazing aspects of the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with links to more in-depth articles. Through the calling of prophets, the translating of ancient texts of scripture, and the building of holy temples, God restored His church here on the earth.
1. Joseph Smith's First Vision
author unknown
The beginning of the Church's history (in these Latter-days) started with Joseph Smith when he prayed to know which church was true. In answer to his prayer he had what we call the First Vision in which God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared to him. Read more about Joseph Smith and the first part of the Church's history.
2. God Calls Joseph as His Prophet
Public Domain
Throughout time God has called righteous men to be His prophet and lead His church- and these modern days are no different. God called Joseph Smith to be His first prophet of the Latter-days to lead all unto Christ through faith and repentance. Read more about why we need prophets as well as ancient and modern prophets.
3. God Restores His Church
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Through Joseph Smith the Lord restored His true church upon the earth, including His authority called the priesthood. God's authority is necessary to perform the proper ordinances of salvation, such as baptism and eternal marriage. Read more about the Apostasy and the Restoration of Christ's church.
4. Translation of the Book of Mormon
Rachel Woods
During the years, Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon, an ancient history of a people who lived on the American continent. The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ, because Christ visited the people of this record. This book of scripture is a vital part of Mormon Church History. Read more about The Book of Mormon.
5. God's Temple is Built
Rachel Woods
Whenever God has had a righteous people upon the earth he has commanded them to build temples. The first temple built was in Kirtland, Ohio, under the direction of Joseph Smith. Later, after the Saints were driven out of Kirtland, they began to build a temple in Nauvoo, Illinois. Read more about God's Holy Temples and the ordinances and covenants that are performed there.
6. Brigham Young Called as a Prophet
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After the martyrdom of Joseph Smith, Brigham Young was called as God's living prophet. Under His direction the Saints completed the Nauvoo Temple before they were driven out by mobs and intense persecution. Read more about Brigham Young, who was an amazing prophet of God.
7. Brigham Leads the Pioneers West
Carl Christian Anton Christensen; Public Domain
Through Brigham Young, the Lord sent His people west to free them from persecution and to strengthen His Church. The Saints settled in the Salt Lake Valley, now known as Salt Lake City, Utah, where the headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints still resides. Read more about the Mormon Pioneers, their great Exodus West, future Church presidents, and the organization of the Church.