Discourse 1891-10-04 [D-58]

A PRIESTHOOD MEETING

was held in the evening, beginning at 7 o'clock. It was probably the largest gathering of the kind ever held since the organization of the Church in this dispensation. The speakers were, in the order in which they addressed the assemblage, Presidents George Q. Cannon, Joseph F. Smith and Wilford Woodruff. The themes dwelt upon

were the nature, powers, duties and responsibilities of the Priesthood. Those on whom it is conferred are measurably responsible for the salvation of the people, and will be held accountable to the Lord for the manner in which they use the authority confided to them. Business cares will not stand as an excuse for not responding to the calls of duty in connection with the calling of the Priesthood. We are living in a time when the love of the world prevails, and great care has to be taken lest the callings of the Priesthood be lost sight of by this feeling. Greater care should be taken in providing employment for the people, and means should be adopted for that purpose. It would probably be a good thing to have missionaries called to devote their time to laboring among the people in Zion, visiting them at their homes and looking after their spiritual and temporal welfare. Those who hold the Priesthood should refrain from all conduct that is improper, and should exercise an influence for peace, acting in all kindness and brotherly love. It is not in keeping with the genius of the Gospel to indulge in anger, which leads to wrong and sometimes breaks up friendships that have existed for years. The brethren should govern their families in love, avoiding all forms of harshness. The instructions and ideas presented were clear and pointed, and a good spirit was present in the meeting.