Pearls . . . gems . . . nuggets . .
. whatever you want to call them. Probably 98% of President Kimball’s diary
(thousands of pages) is tedious in the general sense of being notations about meeting
itinerary, travelogue, mission tours, ordination names, and weather reports.
But the remaining fraction is more precious than jewels to the spiritually
literate and appreciative, and to those that love the history of The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Finding pearls made wading through the rest
of it worth it.
The below pages contain a date, then a brief description of a journal item, followed by a link to the page it is on. These often run into more than one page, sometimes many. So keep reading or clicking the right arrow until you are sure you have exhausted the subject. Sometimes this means clicking that right arrow to get past a letter, pictures, newspaper clippings, or other intervening items. Sometimes words, lines, paragraphs, and even entire pages are redacted (blacked out; this is material considered sacred, private, and confidential). I have had some links change on me, so I also included dates to find if the links don’t quite get you there.
The entries can be candid. Elder
Kimball called sin just what it is, sin. A running theme in the diary is Elder
Kimball’s constant counseling of members with moral problems, especially
homosexual activity, adultery, and other marriage problems. I have noted a few
of the more detailed instances below, but the problems he faced in working with
these people were constant and an emotional and spiritual strain and drain on
him more than all else he did.
Not all
items below are of lofty spiritual significance. Some are merely of interest as
church history and administration. We get to be the fly on the wall for certain
meetings where sacred and sublime things are said or done as only prophets can.
In my judgment, a few of them reach to such heights as could offer the
possibility of canonization if the Lord so desired. To me, one cannot read such
things without being inspired and knowing the restored Church is led by
prophets and apostles and is indeed God’s restored work.
I had not
planned on posting this highlights index until I noticed that some enemies of
the Church were slandering everything they read, doing their utmost to cast a
negative slant on a prophet’s (actually) superb record. These pickle-sucking hard-hearted
doubters have no clue what they are talking about. This Apostolic record-keeper
was a Special Witness whose belief was contagious. He lifted and blessed
everyone around him (that would be) all his life. While he counseled and worked
with doubters and unbelievers, he strove to help them rid themselves of such
and replace it with faith and repentance and cleanliness.
President
Kimball did create something of an index himself that he put at the front of
most journal volumes, but one could argue about how useful it is according to
what one is looking for. I could wish the diaries contained less of his
movements and more of what went on and was said in temple meetings.
I estimate that only a tiny
percentage of church members and historians will ever read any significant
portion of the diaries, which makes this highlights index helpful as a way to
find what I, and perhaps others, would consider the best parts—sifted from so
many thousands of pages. And with this index being as long as it is, perhaps
only a small percentage of it will be reviewed—but for those who love the same sweet
things I do, I hope it will be of some use in delivering precious pearls, gems,
and nuggets of the highest value:
July 1943. Autobiographical account, "The Story of My
Call to the Apostleship"
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/0c163667-b6d2-47d7-ad3a-f483ff33d95d/0/314
July 1943, Journal version of Elder Kimball's
call to Twelve; a bit more candid than other written versions.
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/730c51ee-2914-41de-965d-bba75fe16c9d/0/39
starts over here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/730c51ee-2914-41de-965d-bba75fe16c9d/0/45
Spencer's longhand version that has a few other
details but isn’t as easy to read:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/730c51ee-2914-41de-965d-bba75fe16c9d/0/53
July 12, 1944. Letter to a son reviewing the
torment of mind after he received his apostolic call till he found peace:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/3b554ae8-aa25-4c4d-9227-7f24f601b529/0/45
July 13-15, 1944. Elder Kimball's remembering of
anniversary of his receiving comforting spiritual experiences regarding his
call to the Twelve the year before:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/3b554ae8-aa25-4c4d-9227-7f24f601b529/0/289
July 29, 1944. Spencer tells "part of my
experience" on the mountain top when called to apostleship in a testimony
meeting; says doesn't talk about it often:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/3b554ae8-aa25-4c4d-9227-7f24f601b529/0/291
Elder Kimball notes the two-year anniversary of
his call to the apostleship:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/254
1945 summary. Mentions visiting his
"mountain" near Boulder Colorado where special experience occurred:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/359
July 8, 1946. Spencer remembers call on third
anniversary of it; spends time in Hawaiian temple:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/159c5191-46ff-4085-b718-03422207f795/0/245
July 8-10, 1948. Elder Kimball reminisces on the
five-year anniversary of his call to the Twelve:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/963a1cd6-2cbd-400b-b3b6-6612a0ecb105/0/113
Brief six year anniversary reminders of Elder
Kimball's call to the Twelve and mountain experience:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/0c58fe4b-bf0a-4889-8631-88034e77cf96/0/248
July 14-15, 1948. Pres. Kimball reminisces again
about his "testimony and manifestation" on the Boulder Colo. mountain
at the time of his call to the apostleship:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/963a1cd6-2cbd-400b-b3b6-6612a0ecb105/0/146
May 8, 1956. Elder Kimball revisits his sacred mountain in
Boulder Colorado, remembering his call:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ac63867c-d550-4bec-b0f4-9c2710055ce2/0/166
July 8, 1957. Spencer notes the 14th anniversary
of his call to the Twelve with a summary of his work:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/311
note of his “unusual experience” on the mountain near
Boulder:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/313
July 15, 1966. 23 year anniversary explanation with a little
more detail:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1aa57bd0-9872-446d-84f2-e275b65f0816/0/18
October 7, 1943. Spencer's account of the meeting of the First
Presidency & Twelve in which he (and Ezra Taft Benson) is ordained an
apostle and given the charge. In readable longhand cursive.
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/730c51ee-2914-41de-965d-bba75fe16c9d/0/302
December 30, 1943. Record of a profound conversation of
Elder Kimball and Elder Lee concerning some things Pres. Grant had said when
giving Elders Kimball and Benson the Apostolic charge:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/730c51ee-2914-41de-965d-bba75fe16c9d/0/308
November 12, 1943. Spencer's detailed account of the
excommunication of Richard R. Lyman:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/730c51ee-2914-41de-965d-bba75fe16c9d/0/357
Elder Kimball's recounting of the above experience in a
letter to his son:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f4f54143-8764-4d7d-9438-596479d015cb/0/87
December 8-9, 1943. Spencer's feelings regarding
a son's reticence with the gospel and himself; also mentions he had his first
experience serving as secretary for his Quorum:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/730c51ee-2914-41de-965d-bba75fe16c9d/0/390
December 13, 1943. Two funny stories Spencer
tells about visiting with people who don't know they are talking to the new
apostle:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/730c51ee-2914-41de-965d-bba75fe16c9d/0/395
December 22 to 27, 1943. Interviews with
returned missionaries, one (27th) tells Elder Kimball about someone
in the California mission who is telling of their spiritual manifestations;
Elder Kimball feels they are of the devil and so does Elder JFS; they decide
the matter should be investigated:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/730c51ee-2914-41de-965d-bba75fe16c9d/0/416
April 20, 1944. Elder Kimball assists FP &
12 in ordaining Mark E. Petersen an apostle; Pres. Grant was voice:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/3b554ae8-aa25-4c4d-9227-7f24f601b529/0/240?lang=eng
May 1, 1944. A (serious) sinner confesses to
Elder Kimball and receives forgiveness and is overjoyed:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/3b554ae8-aa25-4c4d-9227-7f24f601b529/0/247?lang=eng
January 11, 1944. Elder Kimball's comments
regarding his first “Quarterly” meeting with the Quorum of the Twelve:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/3b554ae8-aa25-4c4d-9227-7f24f601b529/0/148
January 18, 1944. Pres. George Albert Smith
changes Elder Kimball's assignment in accordance with his unspoken desires:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/3b554ae8-aa25-4c4d-9227-7f24f601b529/0/154
May 18, 1944. Elder Kimball mentions Pres. Grant
coming to meeting of FP & 12; also how humble he felt when they determined
some points of doctrine and policy for the church (details not mentioned):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/3b554ae8-aa25-4c4d-9227-7f24f601b529/0/257
November 21, 1944. Top of page; longhand
writing. Elder Kimball’s comment about needing to hold meetings further away
from business and “colored” districts; could be considered racist by today's
standards:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/3b554ae8-aa25-4c4d-9227-7f24f601b529/0/340
December 26, 1944. Plans made regarding
republication of Orson F. Whitney's book Life of Heber C. Kimball:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/3b554ae8-aa25-4c4d-9227-7f24f601b529/0/356
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/22
and regarding the chapter on plural marriage:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/56
and working with printers of book:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/279
October 9, 1945. Spencer receives first copies
off the press:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/295
January 15, 1945. Elder Kimball's visit to the
St. George stake in 1945 followed by his recollection of some J. Golden Kimball
stories he was told:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/24
Elder Kimball’s address at the dedication of the
Idaho Temple:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/28
March 24, 1945. Elder Kimball finds the Payson
stake generally doing lousy, with some members being suckered into the Coyle
dream mine scam:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/92
May 18, 1945. Death of Pres. Grant and
reorganization of FP "such as I have never experienced before"; this
includes the famous meeting (at which Pres. GA Smith was not present) during
which Pres. Richards directed that Clark and McKay conduct the funeral
arrangement meeting; also Spencer's personal feelings regarding church
government at such a time:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/174
May 21, 1945. continued:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/179
Elder Kimball's personal history: "My
Mission to the Lamanites":
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/213
June 15, 1945. Elder Kimball's narration of an
account by a newly selected stake president of hearing the voice of the Lord telling
him he would be called as the new stake president:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/227
June, 1965. Elder Kimball relates this same story again in
slightly more detail and with the stake president commenting:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/238
September 10, 1945. Elder Kimball notified about
giving the "church of the air" address on CBS during tab choir
broadcast at conference; responsibility greatly worries him:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/282
and for his comments about his delivery and compliments
he received:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/294
October 24, 1945. Pres. Clark's letter of
gratitude for a copy of the book Life of Heber C. Kimball, also some
others like it:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/311
Some final thoughts on work:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/358
September 23, 1945. Elder Kimball's description
of the dedication of the Idaho Falls temple and his talk therein:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/291
October 18, 1945. At a meeting of the Twelve,
Spencer learned of two brethren that were appointed to go to Europe to help
war-torn Latter-day Saints spiritually and temporally; these men were later
replaced by Elder Benson:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/299
November 18, 1945. Elder Kimball deals with an
irate man in a difficult situation in a stake meeting:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a6f7d398-62e9-4199-8398-2f013ad3ecce/0/326
March 21, 1946. Bottom of page. Elder Kimball's
losing effort to keep a stake name; he is overruled by FP & 12 in their
meeting:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/159c5191-46ff-4085-b718-03422207f795/0/102
Many years later Elder Kimball tells this same story in greater
detail:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2f9d0ab3-f05e-4b10-a65d-e39a83738a5a/0/202
September 13, 1946. Lower half of page. Elder
Kimball receives a formal commission from Pres. GA Smith to "look after
the Indians in all the world":
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/75
October 19, 1946. Elder Kimball's account of being attacked
by evil spirits:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/98
and (Nov. 1957):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/104
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/523
January 28, 1947. Funeral of Elder Charles A.
Callis:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/269
April 2, 1947. Bottom of page to next. This page
and the following talk about the new revelation to Pres. George Albert Smith
that mission presidents should have counselors; also the administrative
decision that elders quorums could be organized in missions:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/302
June 30, 1947. Elder Kimball's conversation with
Pres. GA Smith regarding his work with the Indians and also his participation
in a pioneer trek re-enactment; he is to maintain the dignity of his office
while participating:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/365
July 13, 1947. Spencer goes on a re-creation
pioneer trek (except he mostly rode in nice cars and stayed in hotels or slept
on an air mattress in tents). Spencer called it "crossing the plains in
1947"; lengthy account but kind of fun:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/397
July 24, 1947. Description of the dedication of
"This is the Place" Monument:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/411
October 9, 1947. Elder Kimball speaks of a powerfully
spiritual meeting of the First Presidency and Twelve where the subject of
blacks and the priesthood was considered (October 1947). This meeting is one
reason why I believe the restriction to have been inspired:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/448
October 27, 1947. A prophecy uttered by Elder
Kimball. I wonder if Lund’s, "Work and the Glory" book series
fulfilled it? Or if greater fulfillment is yet to come:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/464
October 30, 1947. The sad story of “Mormon”
prejudice against the black Hope family and their enduring in faith; also further
info on patriarchal blessings being made available to black members in the
1940s. Both a tragic and an inspiring story (includes quotation of a racist
word):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/466
November 9, 1947. Elder Kimball rebukes and
calls to repentance a divided community of saints (in Antimony CO, I think):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/474
December 11, 1947. The First Presidency give the
apostles increased independent authority when reorganizing stakes, including
calling and ordaining bishops and patriarchs:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/490
October 24, 1947. Spencer relates historical-biographical
stories told by a 102+ year-old church member that knew Billy the kid, Geronimo
and Abraham Lincoln, along with earlier church presidents:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/500
Same stories retold in the Deseret News (from
Spencer's diary):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ae4c61cf-6205-4d7e-82cf-fba6d8bd79b0/0/570
January 30, 1948. Elders Kimball and Petersen
appointed to work with "delinquent girls" that come into SLC:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/963a1cd6-2cbd-400b-b3b6-6612a0ecb105/0/24
March 12, 1948. Spencer deals with an irate
mentally ill relative who won't listen to reason:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/963a1cd6-2cbd-400b-b3b6-6612a0ecb105/0/45
March 17, 1948. Elder Kimball notes that the
total church budget has grown to twenty million dollars:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/963a1cd6-2cbd-400b-b3b6-6612a0ecb105/0/49
and later, it grows to much more:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/9efcbf61-d0e5-4859-9c15-13bf24665108/0/171
August 12, 1948. A letter from Spencer to his
sons, mostly Levan, telling him to get his act together spiritually speaking.
Levan eventually went atheist though I am told he may have returned to the
faith in some degree before he died. I suppose many fathers might write a letter
like this to erring children:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/963a1cd6-2cbd-400b-b3b6-6612a0ecb105/0/172
September 25, 1948. Bottom of page. Pres. GA
Smith tells Elder Kimball to take care in his recovery from his heart attacks
and convalescence. Mentions his own health breakdown and gives wise counsel:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/963a1cd6-2cbd-400b-b3b6-6612a0ecb105/0/225
Elder Kimball receives outpouring of love from
Brethren including Pres. GA Smith on his return to church service:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/963a1cd6-2cbd-400b-b3b6-6612a0ecb105/0/228
Account of Elder Kimball blessing a very sick
child and it being healed:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/963a1cd6-2cbd-400b-b3b6-6612a0ecb105/0/290
February 25, 1949. Elder Kimball visits Pres. GA
Smith at church home in Laguna Beach CA where he was staying because of
illness:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/0c58fe4b-bf0a-4889-8631-88034e77cf96/0/70
April 14, 1949. Elder Kimball receives
"bold impression" regarding Pres. George F. Richards. I have known
about this for many years but have never quite known what to do with it:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/0c58fe4b-bf0a-4889-8631-88034e77cf96/0/101
June 11, 1949. Elder Kimball relates an inspired
dream/vision regarding some acquaintances whose names are redacted:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/0c58fe4b-bf0a-4889-8631-88034e77cf96/0/193
October 3, 1949. Elder Kimball attends one of
the most spiritual testimony meetings of the Twelve he ever had (evidently
post-General Conference):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/0c58fe4b-bf0a-4889-8631-88034e77cf96/0/284
October 31, 1949. An instance where something
Elder Kimball says could be considered racist by today's standards; top of this
page and bottom of previous:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/0c58fe4b-bf0a-4889-8631-88034e77cf96/0/312
December 1, 1949. Spencer's opinion of Elder
Harold B. Lee:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/0c58fe4b-bf0a-4889-8631-88034e77cf96/0/354
1950 summary, bottom of page. Pres. George F.
Richards tells the Brethren in Quarterly temple meeting of the Twelve of his spiritual
experiences and manifestations:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1447b284-8baf-4a2f-9935-c326c21711c5/0/16
March 2, 1950. Near bottom of page and next;
Elder Kimball gets upset ("exploded") with a University of Utah
publication filled with writings of anti-Mormons:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1447b284-8baf-4a2f-9935-c326c21711c5/0/42
March 1950. A few noteworthy items on this page:
further talk about UofU publication criticisms (running into next page);
account of Elder Kimball casting out evil spirit from woman; account of
missionaries being killed in former days:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1447b284-8baf-4a2f-9935-c326c21711c5/0/46
March 1950. Further reflection by Spencer on the
UofU publication attack against the church:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1447b284-8baf-4a2f-9935-c326c21711c5/0/50
April 11, 1950. This page just has the one
famous story on it, told with slightly more detail than most other accounts:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1447b284-8baf-4a2f-9935-c326c21711c5/0/61
another version told here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1447b284-8baf-4a2f-9935-c326c21711c5/0/64
April 10, 1950. General Authority social where
sermons from past church leaders of same seniority/Quorum placement were read;
Pres. Lee referred to this occasion in several of his own talks:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1447b284-8baf-4a2f-9935-c326c21711c5/0/62
June 4, 1950. Elder Kimball is impressed that if
a man would accept a call as a bishop the Lord would strengthen him
financially:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1447b284-8baf-4a2f-9935-c326c21711c5/0/90
August 6, 8, 1950. Elder Kimball is thrilled
with inspired talk by Pres. Smith and gives final blessing to Pres. George F.
Richards who dies a few hours later:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1447b284-8baf-4a2f-9935-c326c21711c5/0/166
August 11, 1950. Description of addresses and
summary of what was said at Pres. George F. Richards' funeral; some sweet
nuggets:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1447b284-8baf-4a2f-9935-c326c21711c5/0/168
October 5, 1950. Elder Kimball present in
meeting of the FP & Twelve where new apostle Delbert L. Stapley ordained
and Pres. McKay made Pres. of Twelve and Pres. Smith acting Pres:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1447b284-8baf-4a2f-9935-c326c21711c5/0/199
April 5, 1951, goes on for several pages. Elder
Kimball describes the meeting of the Twelve for the funeral planning and
reorganization of the First Presidency at Pres. GA Smith's passing; this
includes his sweet spiritual experience of seeing and feeling the mantle come
upon the new prophet; precious indeed. The following pages describe the conducting
of the conference under the authority of the Twelve with no FP yet; also
described is situation where Pres. McKay called Stephen L Richards to be his
first counselor and J. Reuben Clark his second, which "stunned" the
other Brethren; there are several different drama's going on in these superb
pages:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/dee12a82-1d15-4245-ac67-d8ddbd1654a2/0/98
and summarized in this letter to his children:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/dee12a82-1d15-4245-ac67-d8ddbd1654a2/0/123
For whatever reason, these journal pages are duplicated here for a
number of pages covering the entire death, funeral, and reorganization meeting:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f8fe2625-569d-48a4-94c2-74fecb918d48/0/202
July 4, 1960. Pres. Clark’s relating these
matters pertaining to himself to Elder Kimball, providing further detail (Clark
“became very confidential with me”) bottom third of page:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/4c46823f-1de5-4e03-92cf-2b701b63abcb/0/224
April 12, 1951. New church leaders ordained/set
apart description:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/dee12a82-1d15-4245-ac67-d8ddbd1654a2/0/127
Ca. April 1951. Letter of persuasion and
doctrine by Elder Kimball to someone needing to repent and get their act
together:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/dee12a82-1d15-4245-ac67-d8ddbd1654a2/0/133
May 28, 1951. Elder Kimball makes a prophecy
concerning a rude state governor:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/dee12a82-1d15-4245-ac67-d8ddbd1654a2/0/152
Late May, 1951. Bottom half of page. Two miraculous
incidents told; one about missionaries being protected and one where Pres.
McKay recognizes a translation error while speaking:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/dee12a82-1d15-4245-ac67-d8ddbd1654a2/0/154
June 1951. Account of a missionary baseball
player sharing his testimony of the Book of Mormon:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/dee12a82-1d15-4245-ac67-d8ddbd1654a2/0/162
October 4, 1951. Bottom of page. Elder Marion G.
Romney recommended as an apostle:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/dee12a82-1d15-4245-ac67-d8ddbd1654a2/0/302
October 5, 10-11, 1951. Ordination of new
apostle and assistants to Twelve; also first time Brethren given General Conference
speaking times in advance (for television):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/dee12a82-1d15-4245-ac67-d8ddbd1654a2/0/304
January 9, 1952. Powerful address given by Elder
Kimball to the Twelve in their Quarterly meeting (serving others vs
materialism, mantle, believing heart, don't need to see God to believe, etc.):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/87ff2271-6855-4c5a-a9eb-d17cfc66735c/0/75
1952 summary. Mention of Richard R. Lyman’s bad
attitude, meaning still could not be rebaptized:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/87ff2271-6855-4c5a-a9eb-d17cfc66735c/0/52
full discussion of Lyman meeting with Twelve,
bottom of this and next page:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/87ff2271-6855-4c5a-a9eb-d17cfc66735c/0/182
June 3, 1952, very bottom of page and into next.
Spencer's note of some beautiful expressions of love and appreciation among the
Brethren (himself, Lee, Smith):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/87ff2271-6855-4c5a-a9eb-d17cfc66735c/0/96
April 3, 1952. More detail than usual regarding
the pre-Conference temple meeting of FP & 12, including comment regarding
the health decline of Elder Widstoe; also concern expressed for voice:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/87ff2271-6855-4c5a-a9eb-d17cfc66735c/0/136
April 1952. Spencer is accosted by a Lebaron
apostate after Conference; the FP & 12 meet and sustain LeGrand Richards as
a new apostle; Spencer fasts for three days for a blessing from the Lord for
his voice/vocal cords:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/87ff2271-6855-4c5a-a9eb-d17cfc66735c/0/138
April 8 & 9, 1952. Elder Kimball performs a
temple sealing where the veil is extra thin; he also forgets a meeting of the
Twelve and feels "humiliated" at being an hour late; next page
includes description of Elder LeGrand Richards' ordination to apostleship:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/87ff2271-6855-4c5a-a9eb-d17cfc66735c/0/144
April 20, 1952, letter to wife. Elder Kimball's
opinion of Hugh Nibley:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/87ff2271-6855-4c5a-a9eb-d17cfc66735c/0/170
June 25, 1952. Elder Kimball described Elder
Bowen suffering a stroke during the Quarterly testimony meeting of the Twelve:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/87ff2271-6855-4c5a-a9eb-d17cfc66735c/0/193
December 2, 1952. Elder Kimball attends funeral
of Elder Widstoe:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/87ff2271-6855-4c5a-a9eb-d17cfc66735c/0/358
January 9, 1953. Another serious sinner’s sad
story told to Elder Kimball that he records to give an example of the effects
of sin and the kinds of problems that come before him:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/49afccc0-42e8-41d2-9dd8-77bf1a3cb0b7/0/33
same story told in greater detail here and for a
couple pages:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/49afccc0-42e8-41d2-9dd8-77bf1a3cb0b7/0/41
January 26, 1953. Elder Kimball's candid
description of Elder Albert E. Bowen in great pain and misery in the hospital
wanting to die:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/49afccc0-42e8-41d2-9dd8-77bf1a3cb0b7/0/47
and here
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/49afccc0-42e8-41d2-9dd8-77bf1a3cb0b7/0/49
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/49afccc0-42e8-41d2-9dd8-77bf1a3cb0b7/0/65
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/49afccc0-42e8-41d2-9dd8-77bf1a3cb0b7/0/107
another similar statement of what Jesus thought
of that Quorum of Twelve (March 5, 1953):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/49afccc0-42e8-41d2-9dd8-77bf1a3cb0b7/0/135
July 26, 1953. Spencer notes the passing of
Elder Albert E. Bowen after a terrible long year of severe illness; very
complimentary about him:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/49afccc0-42e8-41d2-9dd8-77bf1a3cb0b7/0/239
September 18-21, 1953. Spencer’s opinion of women’s dresses
worn at weddings; he and the Brethren bless and pass the sacrament at a Logan
Temple solemn assembly; more descriptions of people’s difficult problems that
come to him:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/49afccc0-42e8-41d2-9dd8-77bf1a3cb0b7/0/260
October 1-8, 1953. Ordination to the Twelve of Richard L.
Evans; Pres. McKay makes a special statement to the Twelve about unity in the
presiding quorums of the church and how powerful the general conference just
concluded was:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/49afccc0-42e8-41d2-9dd8-77bf1a3cb0b7/0/272
through and past (superb material):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/49afccc0-42e8-41d2-9dd8-77bf1a3cb0b7/0/276
January 7, 1954. Spencer mentions an extra fine Quarterly
meeting of the Twelve where Pres. Smith and Lee speak about the apostles being
special witnesses; not detailed:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/936ca3ad-00b2-45f7-9069-a79a418675d7/0/40
February 12, 1954. Spencer’s philosophizing about his heart
and health problems and how he hides them from the Brethren; also a bad dream
about worse health problems and death:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/936ca3ad-00b2-45f7-9069-a79a418675d7/0/54
December 10 to 13 and more, 1953. Bottom of page
and continuing. Elder Kimball's account of the laying of the cornerstone for
the Los Angeles temple right after which Elder Matthew Cowley dies; pretty crazy
time; several succeeding pages narrate funeral arrangements and funeral:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/49afccc0-42e8-41d2-9dd8-77bf1a3cb0b7/0/295
and (also some Richard R. Lyman comment at
bottom):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/49afccc0-42e8-41d2-9dd8-77bf1a3cb0b7/0/313
September 21, 1954. Meetings/discussion
regarding Richard R. Lyman:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/936ca3ad-00b2-45f7-9069-a79a418675d7/0/183
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/936ca3ad-00b2-45f7-9069-a79a418675d7/0/187
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/936ca3ad-00b2-45f7-9069-a79a418675d7/0/215
April 7-8, 1954. Charge and ordination of George Q. Morris
to Quorum of Twelve described:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/936ca3ad-00b2-45f7-9069-a79a418675d7/0/77
May 8-9, 1954. Hugh Nibley fascinates Elder Kimball so much
he gets distracted and drives the wrong way:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/936ca3ad-00b2-45f7-9069-a79a418675d7/0/103
June 2, 1954. Mid-page. Spencer read Pres. Joseph Fielding Smith’s
new book Man His Origin and Destiny (no opinion given):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/936ca3ad-00b2-45f7-9069-a79a418675d7/0/115
June 12, 1954. In the temple the Brethren approve the Indian
placement program that Elder Kimball had been promoting. According to this,
this was the beginning of the beginning of it. One wonders how successful it
really was (in the end) with all the lawsuits that have been filed over the
years, but I cannot judge it:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/936ca3ad-00b2-45f7-9069-a79a418675d7/0/127
some vacillation regarding it:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/936ca3ad-00b2-45f7-9069-a79a418675d7/0/133
and some expansion of it:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/80b351f3-272a-4dd9-86f7-419db637d656/0/55
July 1, 1954. Pres. McKay speaks to the Twelve as a Prophet,
giving them the love of the First Presidency and making pronouncements about the
“Christianity” of the world, along with a charge to the Twelve:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/936ca3ad-00b2-45f7-9069-a79a418675d7/0/141
September 9, 1954. Elder Kimball counsels a returned
missionary sinking into apostasy because of the usual liberal issues, including
science:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/936ca3ad-00b2-45f7-9069-a79a418675d7/0/183
October 7 and 12, 1954. Elder Kimball’s opinion of am O.C.
Tanner theological book proposed as a Sunday School manual as related in a meeting
with Pres. McKay, who thinks Bro. Kimball extreme in his views of the
manuscript (I don’t think Bro. Kimball thought he was).
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/936ca3ad-00b2-45f7-9069-a79a418675d7/0/209
December 4-5, 1954. Brief description of a solemn assembly
held in the St. George Temple, with this being the first time the fourth floor
assembly room had been used:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/936ca3ad-00b2-45f7-9069-a79a418675d7/0/232
March 17, 1955. Prophetic statement from Pres. McKay in the
minutes of the meeting of the Council of the Twelve indicating how the gospel
will be taken to Europe and other countries. Proved prophetic indeed:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/80b351f3-272a-4dd9-86f7-419db637d656/0/59
April 7, 1955. President McKay blesses Elder Kimball for his
European mission:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/80b351f3-272a-4dd9-86f7-419db637d656/0/81
October 1, 1955. Elder Kimball reports on his six-month
mission to Europe in general conference and is inspired in what he says;
receives higher commendation for that talk than any other he has ever given,
especially from Pres. McKay:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/fb47ca6f-7679-49fe-80b0-ef7d1517ebb8/0/4
For the audio of Elder Kimball’s conference talk that was so
appreciated by the Brethren, listen here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c9e8ec6a-c34b-483b-8a1b-3fb671c1b0f6/0/0?lang=eng
October 19, 1955. The Brethren decide to turn Wednesday
meetings into a school of the prophets; the first lecture and Q&A being by
Elder McConkie who taught about the personality of the Gods (no details of
lecture given):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/fb47ca6f-7679-49fe-80b0-ef7d1517ebb8/0/19
March 1956. Elder Kimball’s description of the dedication of
the Los Angeles Temple:
Church History Catalog | Asset viewer | 1956 January
1-August 18 (churchofjesuschrist.org)
February 27, 1956. Bottom of page to next; Elder Kimball
sees his father Andrew in a dream or vision, which he recorded:
Church History Catalog | Asset viewer | 1956 January
1-August 18 (churchofjesuschrist.org)
And which he relates again here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/100
and as related to the Twelve in their Quarterly testimony
meeting (April 10, 1957):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/104
May 10, 1956. Pres. McKay talks about how wonderful it is
for the Brethren to meet in the temple and wonders how different the world
would be if government leaders did the same thing.
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/ac63867c-d550-4bec-b0f4-9c2710055ce2/0/166
November 29, 1956. Elder Kimball gets “infuriated” with
Elder Hugh B. Brown for a negative report to the Twelve on the Indian mission:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/d3d24d8c-2a2c-4f58-bf1d-1a0dff98cb2a/0/87
February 20, 1957. Pres. Clark given Elder Kimball a blessing
for his throat cancer; Spencer tells him of his dream of his father Andrew:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/148
March 1957. Spencer’s throat cancer surgery; miserable in
the extreme, many pages:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/158
March 7, 1957. Elder Lee’s letter to Elder Kimball
explaining the prayers of faith offered by the Brethren in temple meeting in
his behalf:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/197
March 1957. A letter written by Spencer to a son when he (Kimball)
thought he might die soon. Speaks of his dreams and of his brushes with death.
Best part is the end where he bears testimony and states that he has received
revelation:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/203
May 10, 1957. Pres. Smith embraces Elder Kimball and tells
him he loves him:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/265
May 1957. Elder Kimball writes an insightful 2-page letter
explaining the basics of the temple endowment:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/269
June 8, 1957. Sad extended story of Elder Kimball trying to
help a drunk:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/289
July 18, 1957. Elder Kimball personally obtains the counsel of
Pres. McKay regarding his voice issue and his service as an apostle; very
touching:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/315
July 1957. Elder Kimball’s story of his throat operation,
including his visit about it with Elder Lee, Pres. Clark and Pres. McKay. Very
detailed and descriptive; funny to see how Elder Kimball counted the expenses
of all the medical stuff; both humor and pathos in this lengthy account of a
number of pages:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/319
August, 1957. It was during this experience that Elder
Kimball had the miserable night he chronicles in the book "One Silent
Sleepless Night", the manuscript of which is found in the diary here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/391
August 21, 1957. A letter of encouragement to Elder Kimball
signed by 9 members of the Quorum of the Twelve:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/429
August 4, 1957. Elder Kimball's summary of the
whole situation as written in a letter to Elder Delbert L. Stapley:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/432
August 10, 1957. Letter from Pres. Smith to
Spencer regarding faith and healing and God’s will:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/462
August 22, 1957. Minutes containing the content
of and expressions made during Quarterly meeting of the Quorum of the Twelve at
which Elder Kimball’s throat surgery and recovery were discussed; two pages of
sweet uplifting material:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/478
a little more here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/488
November 9, 1957. Elder Kimball’s lengthy scathing
opinion of a San Francisco play they saw; he goes on to comment negatively about
whom I guess is Ingrid Bergman though he doesn’t use her name:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/525
November 25, 1957. Elder Kimball has a long
conversation with a mentally troubled woman blaming him and the church for her
problems, divorce, etc.
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/538
December 5, 1957. Elder Kimball’s letter to the
First Presidency about his voice, including wording from his apostolic
ordination:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/550
December 19, 1957 (Dec. 18 is also interesting).
Elder Kimball asks for and receives Pres. McKay’s permission to again receive
“assignments” in the stakes of the church (since his throat has healed) even
though he only has a hoarse raspy voice:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/583b9e42-7286-40eb-b95a-8a7a1b2c8934/0/564
January 14, 1958. More long sad stories of sin
told by Elder Kimball about some unnamed members he was trying to help:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/3ec78754-12d3-4330-a3ea-e4b82a1d9ec4/0/22
April 6, 1958. Elder Kimball’s mention of Pres.
McKay nominating several men for callings to the general authorities, including
Hugh B. Brown as an apostle and Gordon B. Hinckley to fill his place in the
Assistants:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/3ec78754-12d3-4330-a3ea-e4b82a1d9ec4/0/171
Elder Kimball hears a member bear testimony that
he (Kimball) was a divinely appointed apostle:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5d21c6f0-c611-43d0-b387-bee2ba55f53a/0/49
May 21, 1959. Elder Kimball describes Pres.
McKay’s haggard appearance at the meeting of the FP & 12 upon the death of
Pres. Stephen L. Richards and how the prophet spoke so tenderly of his beloved
counselor; also the case of a defiant adulterer beginning to repent:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5d21c6f0-c611-43d0-b387-bee2ba55f53a/0/142
June 12, 1959. Toward bottom of page. Elder
Kimball’s description of the meeting where Pres. McKay reorganizes the First
Presidency after the death of Pres. Richards, bringing Bro. Moyle into the
Presidency:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5d21c6f0-c611-43d0-b387-bee2ba55f53a/0/158
Excerpts of official minutes of this same
meeting, including some specific powerful statements from Pres. McKay;
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5d21c6f0-c611-43d0-b387-bee2ba55f53a/0/162
July 2, 1959. Pres. McKay in a fine relaxed mood
in the temple with his new counselors:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5d21c6f0-c611-43d0-b387-bee2ba55f53a/0/194
and his follow up testimony that the right
counselors had been chosen (July, talking about June 18):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5d21c6f0-c611-43d0-b387-bee2ba55f53a/0/196
July 30, 1959. First mention in the diaries of
the beginning of the preparation of the manuscript that would become “The
Miracle of Forgiveness”:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5d21c6f0-c611-43d0-b387-bee2ba55f53a/0/206
October 4, 1959. Elder Kimball hears Pres. Moyle
speak with great power, as never before, feeling that the mantle of his new
calling as a Counselor has fallen on him:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5d21c6f0-c611-43d0-b387-bee2ba55f53a/0/264
October 8, 1959. Pres. McKay announces to the
Twelve the call of Howard W. Hunter to their quorum and he is sustained in conference;
also, Pres. McKay assigns Elder Kimball and Petersen their long-running task of
working with the homosexuals:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5d21c6f0-c611-43d0-b387-bee2ba55f53a/0/271
Description of Elder Hunter’s ordination:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5d21c6f0-c611-43d0-b387-bee2ba55f53a/0/283
June 15, 1960, bottom of page. Mention of work
on the general handbook and a missionary handbook; also mention of method of
interviewing missionaries:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/4c46823f-1de5-4e03-92cf-2b701b63abcb/0/208
wrapping up of the handbook project, with Elder
Kimball’s feelings expressed:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/4c46823f-1de5-4e03-92cf-2b701b63abcb/0/222
1960. Elder Kimball’s address at the dedication
of the restored Heber C. Kimball home in Nauvoo:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/4c46823f-1de5-4e03-92cf-2b701b63abcb/0/226
September 8, 1960. Pres. McKay expresses love
for the Brethren on his birthday in the temple, and notes the difference
between their celestial love and apostate feelings:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/4c46823f-1de5-4e03-92cf-2b701b63abcb/0/317
October 8-9, 1960. Elder Kimball describes the
general conference, especially the feebleness of, yet powerful talk, given by
Pres. Clark; also the calling of three new Assistants to the Twelve along with
their charge and ordinations, and the strong Spirit present in their meeting in
the temple:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/4c46823f-1de5-4e03-92cf-2b701b63abcb/0/367
That journal page is also duplicated here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/50603bba-8abe-42a3-b80e-85fd027028b8/0/56
You can listen to Pres. Clark’s message here, at
21:56:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/158a8448-d82a-4263-8f4e-720514417182/0/0
(This message contains precious insights into
New Testament doctrine; keep listening after he says amen.)
October 11, 1960. Elder Kimball receives a
special blessing from Pres. McKay and commendation regarding his work, and
instructions which meant much to him:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/4c46823f-1de5-4e03-92cf-2b701b63abcb/0/373
This page duplicated here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/50603bba-8abe-42a3-b80e-85fd027028b8/0/58
October 17, 1960. Report of a discussion of the
FP & 12 regarding the expansion or creation of stakes in foreign countries
and language and training problems that are attendant; Pres. McKay’s
expressions of what the Lord expected them to do; these discussions would seem
to be minutes of their meeting in the temple:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/50603bba-8abe-42a3-b80e-85fd027028b8/0/106
creation of first stakes in Australia and New
Zealand, from minutes of meeting of FP & 12:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/50603bba-8abe-42a3-b80e-85fd027028b8/0/109
Spencer dreams about the Māori people:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/8705755b-69fd-40ad-ae4d-7a01acfd020f/0/2
November 1, 1960. Letter written by Elder Harold
B. Lee to Elder Kimball informing him of the work of the Twelve in stake
organizations while he has been in Australia. Contains some very frank
discussion of the health of members of the First Presidency, the kind that is
not given to church members generally:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/8705755b-69fd-40ad-ae4d-7a01acfd020f/0/22
December 1, 1960. During Elder Kimball’s work in
New Zealand creating a stake, he learned that some missionaries had been
immoral with some local LDS girls. This is mentioned on this page and here and
there on many other surrounding pages and was highly distressing to him. Much
of the details are redacted. The missionaries involved were disciplined:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/8705755b-69fd-40ad-ae4d-7a01acfd020f/0/223
March 16, 1961. Elder Kimball’s observations of
health of Pres. McKay and Clark in their temple meeting:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c5a9eec9-22c6-41c7-bdaa-c31f7c995500/0/50
November 17, 1960. Pres. McKay’s glowing
expressions to the Twelve in a temple meeting, from the minutes:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c5a9eec9-22c6-41c7-bdaa-c31f7c995500/0/52
March 28, 1961. Elder Kimball relates the story
of someone he baptized (in the middle east) to Pres. McKay, on bottom of page
and next. He talked to the prophet about it because of some concern he had done
wrong in not attaching the man to a branch; the next page also has some health
observations about McKay and Clark:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c5a9eec9-22c6-41c7-bdaa-c31f7c995500/0/60
April 136, 1961. Mention of Pres. Clark coming
to temple meeting in a wheelchair and saying he was not praying for a
continuation of life; he was dead six months later:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c5a9eec9-22c6-41c7-bdaa-c31f7c995500/0/77
June 22, 1961. Elder Kimball’s description of
the meeting at which Hugh B. Brown was made a counselor in the First Presidency
because of the incapacitation of Pres. Clark:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c5a9eec9-22c6-41c7-bdaa-c31f7c995500/0/191
August 9, 1961. Spencer gives a blessing to two
of Elder Orson F. Whitney’s daughters, both old and depressed by this time:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c5a9eec9-22c6-41c7-bdaa-c31f7c995500/0/215
October 1, 1961. Mention of Gordon B. Hinckley
being ordained a member of the Twelve:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c5a9eec9-22c6-41c7-bdaa-c31f7c995500/0/252
October 10, 1961. Mention of the death and
funeral of Pres. Clark:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c5a9eec9-22c6-41c7-bdaa-c31f7c995500/0/266
Elder Kimball (and Bro. Hunter) have a
conversation with Pres. McKay about going to Palestine; Pres. McKay’s pleasing
reaction is recorded:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c5a9eec9-22c6-41c7-bdaa-c31f7c995500/0/272
December 8, 1961. A more detailed than usual
explanation of what Elder Kimball said when marrying couples in the temple:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c5a9eec9-22c6-41c7-bdaa-c31f7c995500/0/306
December 13 and 14, 1961. Spencer’s explanation
of the difficulties he encountered (on this page and others previous to it) in
finalizing the next year 1962 budget, with the main issue being that of keeping
the church from spending more than it brought in. The building program was
especially at fault; also mention that the Quarterly meetings of the Twelve
were allegedly made only semiannual, though that doesn’t seem to actually happen:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/a9304300-63e5-4e93-9d44-6a7f43e5862c/0/2
September 13, 1962. Spencer’s glowing observations
of the Prophet, Pres. McKay, and some comment on their meeting:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/b8e6ee05-5d54-495b-b5d2-e67f141071c5/0/246
September 24, 1962. Spencer describes the death
and funeral of Sister Harold B. Lee, including the following page. Pres. Lee,
as would be expected, took it hard:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/b8e6ee05-5d54-495b-b5d2-e67f141071c5/0/252
October 4-6, 1962. Pres. McKay announces the
calling of N. Eldon Tanner to become a member of the Twelve:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/b8e6ee05-5d54-495b-b5d2-e67f141071c5/0/256
and ordination:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/b8e6ee05-5d54-495b-b5d2-e67f141071c5/0/260
January 10-11, 1963. Elder Kimball knows by the
Spirit that he will pray beforehand in a meeting of the FP & 12; also some
references to the budget of the church;
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/e82f1a1a-b00f-488c-a746-33774bf1f47a/0/46
January 26, 1963. Last quarter page, crazy
account of the death of former Presiding Bishop Joseph L. Wirthlin:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/e82f1a1a-b00f-488c-a746-33774bf1f47a/0/56
March 15, 1963. Record of a false revelation
given to Spencer by a nut-job deluded relative:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/e82f1a1a-b00f-488c-a746-33774bf1f47a/0/116
April 4-6, 1963. Elder Kimball comments on the
beginning approval of the Correlation program; on Pres. McKay’s health and
personal character; and on the loss of spontaneity with rigidly timed
television broadcasts of conference:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/e82f1a1a-b00f-488c-a746-33774bf1f47a/0/130
May 26, 1963. Elder Kimball attends a solemn
assembly in the Manti Temple assembly room:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/e82f1a1a-b00f-488c-a746-33774bf1f47a/0/183
June 9, 1963, bottom of page. Elder Kimball
performs complex temple ordinance work for a deceased man, whose presence he
then feels very near:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/e82f1a1a-b00f-488c-a746-33774bf1f47a/0/192
Agust 10, 1963. Spencer calls Disneyland “dizzyland”
and doesn’t care for waiting in the lines:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/e82f1a1a-b00f-488c-a746-33774bf1f47a/0/241
Elder Kimball mentions the sudden unexpected
death of President Moyle and ponders his acquaintance with him; muses about
policy differences (which were probably money related; Pres. Moyle was famous
for spending and Kimball for being conservative) but also his high regard for
him; this page, previous, and next two:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/e82f1a1a-b00f-488c-a746-33774bf1f47a/0/282
September 20, 1963. Mention of man who had been
investigating and reporting on apostate fundamentalist groups on his own
volition:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/e82f1a1a-b00f-488c-a746-33774bf1f47a/0/283
September 26, 1963. Description of the first
meeting of the FP & 12 without Pres. Moyle, along with observations of
Pres. McKay, etc. Very sobering:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/e82f1a1a-b00f-488c-a746-33774bf1f47a/0/290
October 3, 1963. Elder Kimball calls this a
“red-letter day.” A rare description of a meeting in the temple of all the
general authorities and what they talk about in taking care of church business,
and then reorganization of the First Presidency with the calling of Pres.
Tanner, along with Elder Kimball’s commentary on the proceedings. Most
impressive. The next page or two has the conference with the sustaining vote
and this is where Elder Thomas S. Monson is sustained at the new apostle—he was
one name that Elder Kimball had recommended:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/e82f1a1a-b00f-488c-a746-33774bf1f47a/0/292
a little more here on different related
subjects:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/e82f1a1a-b00f-488c-a746-33774bf1f47a/0/294
Elder Kimball’s note to the Prophet,
recommending two names (redacted but one was Monson) as possible new
apostles/assistants:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/e82f1a1a-b00f-488c-a746-33774bf1f47a/0/299
October 9, 1963. As for this page, bottom half,
I cannot guess what the “stormy” differences were that were aired by the
Brethren in their Quarterly meeting:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/7051abea-3220-47cd-a504-cc202193a35e/0/8
October 10, 1963. President Tanner is ordained
and set apart as second counselor and Elder Monson is given the charge,
ordained an apostle and set apart as a member of the Twelve; also an early
mention of dividing the earth into areas (as is now the case) presided over by
the Twelve (decades later Area Presidencies were created); also, at bottom,
note of an impression or personal revelation received by Elder Lee regarding
Pres. McKay:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/7051abea-3220-47cd-a504-cc202193a35e/0/9
October 11, 1963. Review of Elder Kimball’s
lengthy meeting with Pres. McKay and decisions reached:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/7051abea-3220-47cd-a504-cc202193a35e/0/10
November 9, 1963. Spencer relates how a new
stake president had had his calling made known to him by the Spirit years
previous to receiving it:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/7051abea-3220-47cd-a504-cc202193a35e/0/40
January 3-4, 1964. Elder Kimball attends and
comments on the funeral and life of Richard R. Lyman, excommunicated former
apostle; also records a visit with and tender feelings toward a black friend;
also some ruminating on how people rationalize sin to themselves (this fits
perfectly with today’s gay immorality that people minimize or disregard):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/10465db5-6c08-4b97-babf-9608c86a9669/0/53
March 5, 1964. A difficulty between Pres. Smith
and Pres. McKay’s son is adjusted in the temple meeting:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/10465db5-6c08-4b97-babf-9608c86a9669/0/104
March 28, 1964. An “unusual” experience in
miscommunication/confusion with his general authority junior companion while
trying to choose a new stake president:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/10465db5-6c08-4b97-babf-9608c86a9669/0/112
story is finished here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/10465db5-6c08-4b97-babf-9608c86a9669/0/136
April 1, 1964. Typed in left page margin. Pres.
McKay gives Elder Kimball a rare fine compliment after conference that thrills
him; the comment tells us about Pres. McKay:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/10465db5-6c08-4b97-babf-9608c86a9669/0/144
April 22, 1964. Minutes of a meeting of the
Indian Committee with the First Presidency regarding expansion of the program:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/10465db5-6c08-4b97-babf-9608c86a9669/0/234
May 14, 1964. Elder Kimball attends an unusually
fine strong spirited testimony meeting in Buenos Aires with church leadership
there and is very effusive in his enjoyments of the testimonies and excellent
Spirit present; shares the story of his call to the apostleship “but not all
the details”:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/10465db5-6c08-4b97-babf-9608c86a9669/0/299
May 20, 1964. Elder Kimball meets a “colored”
labor (or builder) missionary working on a building who deeply impresses him.
He embraced the young man and promised him great blessings if he remains
faithful:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/10465db5-6c08-4b97-babf-9608c86a9669/0/322
and more here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2f9f80d9-6fc4-48eb-9400-36d3e2d32c9c/0/32
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2f9f80d9-6fc4-48eb-9400-36d3e2d32c9c/0/49
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2f9f80d9-6fc4-48eb-9400-36d3e2d32c9c/0/94
June 27, 1964. Mention of an alleged conspiracy
plot/threat by mentally deranged fundamentalists to murder the Brethren,
including Elder Kimball:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cb79dae1-057e-49a4-9ebc-b5c879b9c0e4/0/63
July 1964. Elder Kimball notes a horrific case
of immorality coming to his attention, and also one of the first instances in
the diaries in which he alludes to some visitors’ involvement with homosexuality;
also he mentions the farewell of the couple replacing Elder McConkie as mission
president in Australia:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cb79dae1-057e-49a4-9ebc-b5c879b9c0e4/0/86
and more on the evil case:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cb79dae1-057e-49a4-9ebc-b5c879b9c0e4/0/131
August 31, September 3, 1964. A special prayer
for Pres. McKay and his health are the subject of a meeting of the FP & 12;
some other matters of interest also:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cb79dae1-057e-49a4-9ebc-b5c879b9c0e4/0/128
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cb79dae1-057e-49a4-9ebc-b5c879b9c0e4/0/130
September 26, 1964. Elder Kimball prays in the
temple and gets an answer of who to call as a new stake president:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cb79dae1-057e-49a4-9ebc-b5c879b9c0e4/0/139
September 28, 1964. Some insight regarding preparation
of Conference talks:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cb79dae1-057e-49a4-9ebc-b5c879b9c0e4/0/140
and again
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1aa57bd0-9872-446d-84f2-e275b65f0816/0/136
A report consisting of the minutes of a meeting
of the FP & 12 in which Elder Lee, the most senior (and mentally alert) apostle
present, is asked by a counselor in the FP to share his feelings regarding the
just-concluded conference. A rare and supernal look into the feelings and
thought processes of the Brethren regarding Conference (this one without the
ill and aged Pres. McKay):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cb79dae1-057e-49a4-9ebc-b5c879b9c0e4/0/156
October 22, 1964. Pres. McKay attends the
meeting of the FP & 12 for the first time in many months; his mind is still
alert and capable and the Brethren are pleased to see him:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cb79dae1-057e-49a4-9ebc-b5c879b9c0e4/0/221
October 29, 1964. Situation reviewed where
politics becomes an issue with the Brethren in their meeting and in deciding
whether to attend an address by Lyndon Johnson who was running for President of
the US. Elder Kimball feels some candidates are using Pres. McKay to get the
alleged “Mormon” vote and they don’t like it. Also further comment on Pres.
McKay’s mental and physical health and attendance at meetings twice in a row:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cb79dae1-057e-49a4-9ebc-b5c879b9c0e4/0/225
November 17, 1964. Goes on for a few pages. Elder
Kimball’s description of the dedication of the Oakland Temple:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cb79dae1-057e-49a4-9ebc-b5c879b9c0e4/0/259
Final day of temple dedication when Elder
Kimball speaks; also note of a messed up young man who likes to wear women’s
underwear:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cb79dae1-057e-49a4-9ebc-b5c879b9c0e4/0/267
December 12, 1964. A continually physically declining
Pres. McKay attends a meeting and makes some brief remarks of wisdom:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cb79dae1-057e-49a4-9ebc-b5c879b9c0e4/0/280
January 14, 1965. Pres. McKay, in failing
health, tells the Brethren that if rest during a vacation doesn’t help him, he
will probably ask the Lord to take him:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/63
A verbatim report of Pres. McKay’s telephone
conversation with the just-inaugurated U.S. Pres. Lyndon B. Johnson:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/75
a little further explanation is given here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/79
March 9, 1965. Elder Kimball’s unfavorable reaction
to black protesters:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/127
April 1965. Pres. McKay tells his counselor Hugh
B. Brown that he will live another 5 years if necessary (he lives just a few
months short of that exact time period); Brown has some conversations with
Elder Kimball regarding succession in the presidency; an Indian woman has a
vivid dream and sees Joseph Smith welcoming her into the church:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/176
May 6, 1965. A very weak and feeble Pres. McKay
approves Elder Kimball’s proposal to divide the world into Areas presided over
by apostles; these matters having been pending with occasional revision for a
long time; also an interview with a “pervert” (homosexual):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/180
and further (August 19, 1965):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/873d4b57-36de-478e-bcf8-bab019b6b32e/0/35
August 1965. The mid-1960s seems to indicate a spike
for homosexual problem counseling for Elder Kimball:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/873d4b57-36de-478e-bcf8-bab019b6b32e/0/29
and more:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/873d4b57-36de-478e-bcf8-bab019b6b32e/0/35
and at such activity at BYU (September 1965):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/873d4b57-36de-478e-bcf8-bab019b6b32e/0/67
and more:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2af92980-86a7-43cf-8a9b-cfca103c0254/0/37
March 9, 1967. The First Presidency and Twelve
in their meeting have a long discussion about the increase in the problem of
homosexuality:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cc421353-f211-4ac8-b5a2-53d2cf25286a/0/71
also (October 10, 1967):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/078fe970-e1c9-42a4-a0d5-a16cf5b077ea/0/71
and (July 12, 1968):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2f9d0ab3-f05e-4b10-a65d-e39a83738a5a/0/228
May 20, 1965. The FP & 12 reverse a major
financial decision regarding acceptance of government funds; Elder Kimball then
muses in his journal on his political feelings regarding government corruption
and control and its move toward socialism:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/192
June 8, 1965. After “pointed” questioning by
Pres. McKay of Elder Kimball and others, Elder Packer is approved as a mission
president to go to New England:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/222
a little more on Elder Packer here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/241
and a little more here, where he is set apart as
a mission president:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/243
Ca. June 19, 1965. Elder Packer’s famous story
of the little Lamanite boy, told by him to Elder Kimball in more detail than in
Elder Packer’s own talks. Also one of Elder Kimball’s accounts told of
repentance from sin for a bride:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/232
July 10, 1965. Elders Kimball and Richards meet
with a stake president and a person accusing him of immorality, that was
denied:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/244
July 13, 1965. References to Elder Kimball
working on his book “The Miracle of Repentance/Forgiveness”:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/245
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/873d4b57-36de-478e-bcf8-bab019b6b32e/0/2
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/873d4b57-36de-478e-bcf8-bab019b6b32e/0/6
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1aa57bd0-9872-446d-84f2-e275b65f0816/0/15
most days around this page have mention of
Spencer working on his book while on vacation:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1aa57bd0-9872-446d-84f2-e275b65f0816/0/29
also
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cc421353-f211-4ac8-b5a2-53d2cf25286a/0/34
January 23, 1969. During a temple meeting,
Elders Lee and Stapley extoll the magnificence and quality of Spencer’s
“Miracle of Forgiveness” manuscript that they have been reading prior to
publication:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/6c444c08-748b-4e4d-80b9-2b9e93ccf2b4/0/39
October 1-2, 1969. The book is finally published right before conference,
during the Regional Representatives Seminar, and Spencer autographs hundreds:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/6db7e381-0b32-40d6-a0fc-fba4a14c26aa/0/57
Elder Kimball and the stake presidency go to the
wrong home for dinner--case of mistaken identity; also a couple of humorous
dinner stories:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c112bb61-fc77-4353-a8e6-efbac72d8303/0/246
A newspaper clipping found in the diary on the
issue of blacks and the priesthood:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/873d4b57-36de-478e-bcf8-bab019b6b32e/0/23
and one regarding a “Negro” riot:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/873d4b57-36de-478e-bcf8-bab019b6b32e/0/33
August 29, 1965. Elder Kimball extolls the
faithfulness and loyalty to gospel truth of his brother-in-law, the great
scientist Henry Eyring, and quotes some of a talk he gave:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/873d4b57-36de-478e-bcf8-bab019b6b32e/0/44
September 10, 1965. Expressions from some of the
Brethren regarding the “day of the Lamanite”:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/873d4b57-36de-478e-bcf8-bab019b6b32e/0/57
Late September, 1965, this page, the one
previous, and the one after. At a pre-conference meeting of the First
Presidency and Twelve, Elder Kimball shares with the Brethren the account of
blessing a relative that was in terrible health (incurable disease) and who was
told could not have children, but was healed:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/873d4b57-36de-478e-bcf8-bab019b6b32e/0/72
October 6, 1965. Elder Kimball gets another opportunity
to be alone to meet with Pres. McKay and discuss the gospel work among the
Indians of South America; mentions how thrilled he is to be with the Prophet
and what was said to him:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/873d4b57-36de-478e-bcf8-bab019b6b32e/0/85
October 1965. Elder Kimball has a spiritual
experience as he offers a dedicatory prayer for preaching the gospel in
Ecuador:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/873d4b57-36de-478e-bcf8-bab019b6b32e/0/95
October 29, 1965. Pres. McKay calls a special
meeting of the First Presidency and Twelve where he appoints two new counselors
in the FP: Pres. Smith and Elder Thorpe B. Isaacson, surprising the Twelve who
had been told to expect one, but got two:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/9d287db3-7081-4a2b-8617-b43c515e4845/0/82
Elder Kimball’s list of Committee assignments,
keeping him so very busy:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/9d287db3-7081-4a2b-8617-b43c515e4845/0/135
and later:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/9efcbf61-d0e5-4859-9c15-13bf24665108/0/172
January 20, 1966. Pres. McKay, despite
continually declining health and vigor, is able to make inspired/revealed
decisions for the Brethren (bottom of page):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2af92980-86a7-43cf-8a9b-cfca103c0254/0/47
March 3, 1966. Elder Kimball records Pres. McKay
talking very tenderly to the Brethren of the Twelve, telling how he loves and
appreciates them and their loyalty and feels that some of the former Brethren
from past years were not far away:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2af92980-86a7-43cf-8a9b-cfca103c0254/0/75
March 17, 1966. Narration of an extended
discussion (from the minutes) among the First Presidency and Twelve regarding
the ordaining of Seventies in “foreign” stakes. Pres. Smith did not want stakes
created outside the U.S. but it seems the rest of the Brethren present did.
Elder Kimball was strongly in favor and spoke his mind persuasively. Other
Brethren also gave their views and some strong inspired statements made by
Pres. McKay were mentioned:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2af92980-86a7-43cf-8a9b-cfca103c0254/0/78
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2af92980-86a7-43cf-8a9b-cfca103c0254/0/85
Some of this material containing these minutes
is repeated here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2af92980-86a7-43cf-8a9b-cfca103c0254/0/87
Mention of many problems among the missionaries
of the church, this giving the Brethren much concern:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2af92980-86a7-43cf-8a9b-cfca103c0254/0/79
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2af92980-86a7-43cf-8a9b-cfca103c0254/0/81
March 24, 1966. Report of discussion among the
First Presidency and the Twelve regarding problems attendant to Elder Benson’s
association with the John Birch Society:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2af92980-86a7-43cf-8a9b-cfca103c0254/0/90
April 5, 1966. Description of a pre-Conference
meeting of the FP & 12 in which testimonies are shared, and which Pres.
McKay attends. Elder Kimball first notices Pres. McKay becoming confused in his
mind:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2af92980-86a7-43cf-8a9b-cfca103c0254/0/96
June 16, 1966. Another health report on various
members of the First Presidency, especially Pres. McKay:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2af92980-86a7-43cf-8a9b-cfca103c0254/0/270
July 30, 1966. Mid-page. A comment by Spencer
that by today’s standards could be considered racist (interracial
relationship):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1aa57bd0-9872-446d-84f2-e275b65f0816/0/28
October 6, 1966. Elder Kimball is disappointed
when one of the Brethren (Pres. Smith) votes in Quorum meeting against his
proposal for dividing a stake; also some commentary on Pres. McKay’s health. (Bro.
Smith later relents and the Buenos Aires stake is created):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1aa57bd0-9872-446d-84f2-e275b65f0816/0/140
Further explanation of this episode is given
here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/733901de-9c68-42ba-94ad-0b7d03760a72/0/46
continued here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/733901de-9c68-42ba-94ad-0b7d03760a72/0/52
December 1, 1966. Minutes of a meeting of the
First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve in which Pres. McKay speaks to and about
that Quorum the Twelve; he talks about their great brotherhood in Jesus and how
they are the best men and quorum in the world. Choice inspired prophetic
message to the Twelve; including how close they are to Jesus; must be read to
be appreciated. A little more about this event is on the next page but most is
redacted; also some info about church budgeting improvements. Pres. Tanner is
often given all the credit by historians for getting the church back in the
black but Elder Kimball obviously had major influence as well. The page after
that seems to somewhat duplicate the second page (including redaction):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/733901de-9c68-42ba-94ad-0b7d03760a72/0/119
also
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/9efcbf61-d0e5-4859-9c15-13bf24665108/0/161
January 19, 1967. Lower part of page. The
Brethren of the FP & 12 pray about Camilla Kimball’s cancer surgery:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cc421353-f211-4ac8-b5a2-53d2cf25286a/0/40
January 26, 1967. A singular statement made by
Pres. McKay to the Brethren in their temple meeting (top of page):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cc421353-f211-4ac8-b5a2-53d2cf25286a/0/47
September 6, 1967. Mid-page. Spencer muses about
his father Andrew, feeling he would have been a better general authority:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/9efcbf61-d0e5-4859-9c15-13bf24665108/0/190
further musing on this page and the bottom of the one before it:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5d6733a7-f526-4055-9773-401a6f676e8a/0/191
September 21, 1967. Elder Kimball describes the
meeting of the FP & 12 at which Alvin R. Dyer is called to become an
apostle but not a member of the Twelve; he is to be a counselor in the First
Presidency; also the reactions of the Brethren to this unusual and unexpected
move. This page seems to have both some minutes from the meeting on it and also
some journal; the next two pages have some additional description of this
meeting:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/078fe970-e1c9-42a4-a0d5-a16cf5b077ea/0/0
Further notes regarding this situation, evidently
typed up by Elder Kimball, here express some confidential internal views and
thinking by senior church leadership.
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/078fe970-e1c9-42a4-a0d5-a16cf5b077ea/0/12
More discussion from the Brethren in their
temple meeting regarding the status of the additionally called counselors:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2f9d0ab3-f05e-4b10-a65d-e39a83738a5a/0/131
September 27, 1967. Bottom of page: Elder
Kimball’s description of the new calling/position and seminar for “Regional
Representatives,” including comment on their position or authority, and who
trained them:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/078fe970-e1c9-42a4-a0d5-a16cf5b077ea/0/5
and also (top of page)
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/078fe970-e1c9-42a4-a0d5-a16cf5b077ea/0/5
February 1968. Bottom of page. Reminiscence of a
somewhat famous story about Elder Kimball being mimicked by some deacons while
he sat on the stand as a stake president:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2f9d0ab3-f05e-4b10-a65d-e39a83738a5a/0/18
May 1-2, 1968. Elder Kimball’s musings on the
difficulties and future of the church regarding liquor sales and agitation by
the world regarding the Lord’s program concerning blacks and the priesthood:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2f9d0ab3-f05e-4b10-a65d-e39a83738a5a/0/159
August 17, 1968. Anti-Mormons use a lawsuit to
seek to embarrass the church in matters related to the draft; this portrays
Elder Kimball’s involvement:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/2f9d0ab3-f05e-4b10-a65d-e39a83738a5a/0/245
more facts regarding the case as stated by Elder
Hinckley:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/0b67baa4-338e-4c7c-af37-977cf28311a5/0/2
September 25, 1968. Elder Kimball gives an
unusually lengthy description of the special temple pre-Conference testimony
meeting of the First Presidency and the Twelve, including naming those in
attendance and those who spoke; also included is a report from the minutes of
Elder Kimball’s tour of England and his resultant report regarding the
so-called baseball baptisms (3 pages):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/0b67baa4-338e-4c7c-af37-977cf28311a5/0/131
February 6, 1969. Elder Kimball makes
recommendations to the Brethren in the temple meeting that the church pay for
the travel costs of certain local leaders to general conference:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/6c444c08-748b-4e4d-80b9-2b9e93ccf2b4/0/46
March 18, 1969. Spencer gives a scathing opinion
of an entertainment group that tried to use vulgarity as humor:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/6c444c08-748b-4e4d-80b9-2b9e93ccf2b4/0/200
March 26, 1969. Bottom of page. Elder Kimball
remembers an early stake conference when an ill President George Albert Smith
left him to do the work alone:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/6c444c08-748b-4e4d-80b9-2b9e93ccf2b4/0/202
May 2, 1969. Bottom of page: Elder Kimball
expounds on the word, “Lamanite”:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/9c0ac5c0-89ed-46a0-8f97-e1c9f1ef1184/0/16
Elder Kimball describes an inspired occurrence
during blessings and settings apart of some missionaries with bad health:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/9c0ac5c0-89ed-46a0-8f97-e1c9f1ef1184/0/111
August 11, 1969. Spencer is deeply concerned
when further possibilities of throat problems arise:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/9c0ac5c0-89ed-46a0-8f97-e1c9f1ef1184/0/161
September 25, 1969. Elder Kimball attends a
meeting of the FP & 12 in which he is advised that the Indian Placement
Program, which was his baby, had been combined with other Church Social
Services programs; he reminisces about the turn of events and some history:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/9c0ac5c0-89ed-46a0-8f97-e1c9f1ef1184/0/385
Text of a proposed address on “Eternal
Marriage”:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f8fe2625-569d-48a4-94c2-74fecb918d48/0/226
October 21, 1969. Elder Kimball receives a visit
from Pres. Tanner in which they discuss Pres. McKay’s poor health along with
that of Pres. Smith and Brown, especially as it relates to succession in the
presidency:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/6db7e381-0b32-40d6-a0fc-fba4a14c26aa/0/64
November 5, 1969. Elder Kimball meets with the
Church Board of Education regarding the “Negro question” especially as it
related to athletics and negative (“ugly”) press:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/6db7e381-0b32-40d6-a0fc-fba4a14c26aa/0/75
November 13, 1969. Elder Kimball mentions a matter
of the utmost importance being discussed in the meeting of the First Presidency
and the Twelve that were discussed very frankly; then most of the page is
redacted. I assume this material relates to the health of the senior apostles
and succession in the presidency (most of three pages redacted):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/6db7e381-0b32-40d6-a0fc-fba4a14c26aa/0/83
This guess is strengthened by some sentences
from this page:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/6db7e381-0b32-40d6-a0fc-fba4a14c26aa/0/99
(Elder Kimball is dealing with throat surgery at
this same time.)
December 5, 1969. Mention of the publication of
“Miracle of Forgiveness” and the good the book is beginning to do:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/6db7e381-0b32-40d6-a0fc-fba4a14c26aa/0/100
Spencer mentions that his book “Miracle of
Forgiveness” lays it on the line pretty strongly:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f4f54143-8764-4d7d-9438-596479d015cb/0/70
more comment on book and printing more copies:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5d6733a7-f526-4055-9773-401a6f676e8a/0/55
and more info on the book, printings, helping
people, etc.
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5d6733a7-f526-4055-9773-401a6f676e8a/0/96
and more on superb sales, printings of many
thousands, and where the royalties go:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f09a8279-34c5-4707-8db4-b85527a9b232/0/145
January 19, 1970. The deliberations and decisions
surrounding the death and funeral of Pres. McKay and the reorganization of the Joseph
Fielding Smith First Presodemcu; supernal record of historic proceedings; also
some other morality matters mentioned:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f4f54143-8764-4d7d-9438-596479d015cb/0/92
January 16, 1970, letter, p. 3. Pres. Kimball's letter to a
son in which he indicates that he believed that the blacks and the priesthood
question (pre-1978) was one of the great tests that some Latter-day Saints had
to pass. (I would add my opinion that LGBT matters fit Elder Kimball's thinking
just as well today.) Elder Kimball also felt weak-member apostasy would
increase.
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f4f54143-8764-4d7d-9438-596479d015cb/0/89
January 23, 1970. Bro. Kimball's marvelous, detailed account
of the reorganization of the First Presidency where Joseph Fielding Smith
became the President:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5b186ff9-5a66-44d4-837b-50fb6f7f5765/0/48
continued:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5b186ff9-5a66-44d4-837b-50fb6f7f5765/0/58
January 23, 1970. From Council minutes: The text of Elder
Kimball's setting apart blessing as Acting President of the Twelve:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f4f54143-8764-4d7d-9438-596479d015cb/0/97
April 1970. President Kimball's ponderings on his address on
"Succession" at the Solemn Assembly where Pres. Joseph Fielding Smith
was sustained as Church President; how the Lord took care of questions of JFS's
age: also how Pres. Tanner was inspired to change the order of speakers:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5b186ff9-5a66-44d4-837b-50fb6f7f5765/0/0
Brother Kimball’s Conference address on “Succession” given
at 1:13:48 in this audio file:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/def8fed0-d196-4b4c-bb77-0958b8345076/0/0
April 8, 1970. Minutes of General Priesthood Board meeting;
review comments made by Elder Hinckley, at Pres. Kimball's request, reviewing
the conference/solemn assembly at which Pres. JF Smith was sustained:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/d7c7e7dd-1609-42fd-bef1-b581083841ed/0/80
April 9, 1970. Pres. Kimball's temple prayer with Brethren
giving thanks for God's protection over the general conference; uses the
phrase "angels with drawn swords filling the tabernacle" in his
inspired fervent prayer:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/d7c7e7dd-1609-42fd-bef1-b581083841ed/0/88
November 4, 1971. Pres. Kimball mentioning how
Elder McConkie helped write Pres. Smith's talks as President:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/141
December 20, 1970. Pres. Kimball's detailed musings on his
labors with the ever-increasing "homosexuals" that he has worked with
for many years:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/cb9fabf2-cc04-456d-9ddc-986ac2b9c0e1/0/183
May 31, 1971. Pres. Kimball's account of the rain holding
off until the end of the dedication service for the Independence visitors
center:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32e27fcb-bc74-4164-85d3-47d728ec7c5d/0/180
September 26, 1971 Bottom half of page) Elder Kimball's
comments on a BYU speech he gave when feeling miserable from heart problems;
felt he hadn't had the time to polish the talk:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/43
Here is the audio of the talk itself:
https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/spencer-w-kimball/church-cure-problems/?M=A
and further comment on the same talk given under great
strain here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/53
September 30, 1971. Pres. Kimball's sweet description of a
marvelous blessing given him by Pres. Lee and the Twelve relating to his heart
problems and coming surgery.
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/57
Pres. Kimball's note of appreciation to Pres. Lee for the
blessing; must be read to be fully appreciated:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/59
January 15, 1969/70 (both dates given, probably 1970). Elder
Kimball's description of a special meeting of the Brethren at which they prayed
especially for him and his throat problems; includes Elder Kimball's musings
about the special prayers; very powerful yet humbling:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f4f54143-8764-4d7d-9438-596479d015cb/0/74
October 15, 1971 (seem to be two Oct. 15s) Pres. Kimball's
little historical description of the special home the church bought in
California for the use of Presidents of the Church who were ill and needed to
get away; this has more info on it than I have ever seen anywhere else. Pres.
Kimball sold the home sometime after he became President:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/91
More here (Oct. 1971):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/93
and here (Dec. 1971):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/189
October 15, 1971. This supplement contains a long thorough
review of all of Pres. Kimball's health problems, mostly throat and heart, as
written by himself while convalescing, as well as some comment he received from
some of the Brethren:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/96
December 5, 1971. Mention of the call of Elder Marvin J.
Ashton to the Twelve; Pres. Smith is by this point having Pres. Lee do most of
the formal work, basically functioning as Acting President of the Church (years
later Pres. Hinckley would do the same things for Pres. Kimball):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/149
A fun little history of Pres. Kimball's special
"Apostle" chair that was reupholstered and given him by the First
Presidency that he now slept in most nights and enjoyed telling visitors about:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/195
January 21, 1972. While there is constant mention in the
journal of Pres. Kimball's work with homosexuals (men and women), this is the
first instance I have noticed of him working with a man who wanted to be a
woman. A longer account of this same individual that Elder Kimball worked with was
redacted. Elder Kimball believed that people believing themselves to be the
opposite sex of what they were born as equated to pure "fantasy":
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/b93678cd-64e9-49f4-9b20-75efb5c4a4a5/0/29
March 12-13, 1972. Pres. Kimball telling of the now-famous
meeting with Dr. Russell M. Nelson (also Dr. Wilkinson) and Pres. Lee regarding
his decision to have the open heart surgery and prolong his life:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/b93678cd-64e9-49f4-9b20-75efb5c4a4a5/0/85
A doctrinal letter of explanation (dated August 6, 1970) about
adultery and forgiveness written by Elder McConkie as found in Pres. Kimball's
diary. It explains that the Prophet Joseph taught that for those who have their
calling and election made sure, if they commit adultery they cannot enter the
Celestial Kingdom even if they repent. I have never seen this letter before:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/b93678cd-64e9-49f4-9b20-75efb5c4a4a5/0/97
April 9, 1972. The story of Pres. Kimball's heart surgery as
told by his wife Camilla, including the wording of the blessing given Bro.
Kimball by Pres. Lee in the temple. Sweet, precious, and powerful. Some pages
are redacted (blacked out). A long miserable ordeal of recovery; some of the
medical details are gut-wrenching:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/b93678cd-64e9-49f4-9b20-75efb5c4a4a5/0/119
this is the entry where Dr (now President) Nelson talks to
Pres. Kimball about how perfectly the operation went and how he was guided as
he worked (April 21, 1972):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/b93678cd-64e9-49f4-9b20-75efb5c4a4a5/0/159
Wording of Pres. Lee’s blessing from temple minutes:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/b93678cd-64e9-49f4-9b20-75efb5c4a4a5/0/131
July 2, 1972. Pres. Kimball's description of the content of
the meetings following the passing of Pres. JF Smith:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f09a8279-34c5-4707-8db4-b85527a9b232/0/77
continued, including the wording of the ordination and
setting apart blessing of Pres. Lee by Pres. Kimball:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f09a8279-34c5-4707-8db4-b85527a9b232/0/103
continued:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f09a8279-34c5-4707-8db4-b85527a9b232/0/111
September 7, 1972. Report meeting of the FP and Twelve
regarding the Mexico City Area Conference recently held. Bro. Romney, Pres.
Lee, and Elder McConkie gave reports that are not detailed. It was at this
meeting that Elder McConkie learned from the voice of the Spirit that he would
be called into the Twelve (though that detail is not mentioned here):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f09a8279-34c5-4707-8db4-b85527a9b232/0/141
October 6, 1972. Bottom of page and for the next few. Pres.
Kimball's summary of the general conference at which Elder McConkie was
sustained as an apostle and he was sustained as President of the Twelve; along
with other matters:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f09a8279-34c5-4707-8db4-b85527a9b232/0/153
As directed by President Lee, President Kimball lets the
General Authorities know they are General Authorities first and all else second;
also how to prioritize their service and prepare themselves:
--need to re-find this link--
February 6, 1971. Elder Kimball ruminates on how some
members view sin seriously and others lightly:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f4963e80-ad51-4df2-ad25-97486aa255f9/0/121
March 9, 1971. Bottom of page. Elder Kimball attends a BYU
Board of Education meeting at which Pres. Wilkinson resigned and it was decided
to create the Clark law school:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/1fdf5a9c-072e-4a43-b0b3-a6eb5e0f802f/0/75
November 17, 1972. Pres. Kimball turns over the taxing and time-consuming
work of counseling homosexuals to the Church Social Services Department,
explaining how he and Elder Petersen began the work at Pres. McKay's direction
and an estimate of how many people he had worked with:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f09a8279-34c5-4707-8db4-b85527a9b232/0/199
December 7, 1972. Mention of a highly spiritual testimony
meeting of the First Presidency and Twelve:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f09a8279-34c5-4707-8db4-b85527a9b232/0/209
April 29, 1971. Elder Kimball notes the health decline of Elder
Hugh B. Brown and that he rarely can fulfill any assignments:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32e27fcb-bc74-4164-85d3-47d728ec7c5d/0/101
and (May 27, 1971):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32e27fcb-bc74-4164-85d3-47d728ec7c5d/0/162
May 4, 1971. Elder Kimball meets and gives his opinion of
Dallin Oaks, the new President of BYU:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32e27fcb-bc74-4164-85d3-47d728ec7c5d/0/102
May 21, 1971. Description of a discussion with Eldred G.
Smith, Patriarch to the Church, regarding his responsibilities; discussion
extends to the top of the following page:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32e27fcb-bc74-4164-85d3-47d728ec7c5d/0/155
May 31, 1971. Account of the dedication of the Independence
Missouri visitor center, with the rain postponing till after the service:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32e27fcb-bc74-4164-85d3-47d728ec7c5d/0/180
August 26, 1971. Account of a meeting of the FP & 12 in
Manchester England, before an Area Conference, where a majority of the Twelve
and the FP were present; unusual, goes for several pages:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/5d6733a7-f526-4055-9773-401a6f676e8a/0/142
September 15, 1971. Elder Kimball’s account of his heart
problems and surgery; many pages. There seems to be two different journal
versions of the meeting of the FP & 12 where Spencer was blessed; one ends
abruptly but another begins some pages later with another recounting of the
same meeting:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/25
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/56
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/71
Spencer’s note to Pres. Lee about the blessing he gave him.
Exquisite:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/59
October 2, 1971. Sublime testimony given by President
Kimball to his Brethren in their Quarterly temple meeting:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/61
November 3, 1971. President Kimball’s description of the
death and funeral of Elder Richard L. Evans, including his feelings and what
took place as he struggled through it all in bad heart health:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/116
and more (Nov. 4):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/016f76fe-df01-4e6a-8117-9ea6797997b0/0/141
January 18, 1972. President Kimball’s detailed description
of the dedication of the Ogden Temple, mixed with notes about his poor
health/heart and voice problems:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/b93678cd-64e9-49f4-9b20-75efb5c4a4a5/0/24
February 9, 1972. President Kimball’s description of the
dedication of the Provo Temple:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/b93678cd-64e9-49f4-9b20-75efb5c4a4a5/0/62
A strange note in Pres. Kimball's diary written by Pres.
Benson giving his opinion of the Vietnam war; almost a conspiracy theory:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/7847c8d0-16d6-4da4-b5c4-d0574f7130fc/0/51
Some items at top and bottom of page that seem to deal with
strange doctrines being taught in England in the early 70s:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/41
July 3, 1973. Bottom of this page and top of next. A
prophecy by Pres. Lee to Elder Kimball, uttered at the incorrectly identified “April
1946” [actually Oct. 1960] general conference, that N. Eldon Tanner would
eventually become one of the apostles:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/106
Bro. Tanner's conference talk is found here at 41:56:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/16868cd3-0aaf-42f3-b2c5-81d94ec2094b/0/0?lang=eng
Another formal write-up by Pres. Kimball regarding this
prophecy is found here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/159c5191-46ff-4085-b718-03422207f795/0/4
July 23, 1973. The sad story recounted of a man whose life
had come apart because of seeking wealth:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/110
October 7, 1973. Pres. Kimball reminisces about his
apostolic ordination and rise in seniority among the Brethren:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/219
July 2, 1972. Mention of the death of Pres. Joseph Fielding
Smith
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f09a8279-34c5-4707-8db4-b85527a9b232/0/77
Text of blessing of Pres. Kimball ordaining Pres. Lee the
President of the Church, probably taken from the minutes of the meeting:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f09a8279-34c5-4707-8db4-b85527a9b232/0/103
Description of the reorganization meeting of the First
Presidency (Spencer is set apart as President of the Council of the Twelve at
this time):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f09a8279-34c5-4707-8db4-b85527a9b232/0/111
July 27, 1972. Elder Kimball mentions trying to write a
biography of President Marion G. Romney:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f09a8279-34c5-4707-8db4-b85527a9b232/0/114
(I have no idea whatever may have happened to that; Elder F.
Burton Howard eventually published a biography of Brother Romney. Or this
simply may have meant a biographical article for a church magazine.)
December 17, 1972. Quick mention of a Quarterly meeting of
the Twelve where spiritual experiences are shared:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f09a8279-34c5-4707-8db4-b85527a9b232/0/231
February 12, 1973. Pres. Kimball and Pres. Benson mediate an
inter-stake-leadership dispute relating to payment of income tax; on the same
page Bro. Kimball talks about computing his own:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/7847c8d0-16d6-4da4-b5c4-d0574f7130fc/0/64
May 9, 1973. Lower part of page. Rendition of examples of
the kinds of serious morality problems/sins found in the church and among local
and mid-level leadership, that become known to the President of the Church,
that the church works to resolve:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/38
May 10, 1973. Mention of rumor that Elder Benson will be
dropped from the Quorum of Twelve unless he distances himself from the John Birch
Society:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/39
This page seems to note some heresies that had crept into
the missions in England, though the information given is far from complete or
explanatory (some at the top of the page and some at the bottom that may be the
same case):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/41
June 22, 1973. Pres. Kimball comments on the proposed church
budget growth, how faithful people pay their tithing, and how that enables the
Kingdom to grow:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/88
July 24, 1973. Spencer’s ruminations regarding his
preliminary work on a possible autobiography:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/111
September 11-12, 1973. Another rough case of homosexuality
to be sorted out:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/206
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/208
December 24, 1973. President Kimball’s description of the
last public meeting and talk attended and given by Pres. Lee:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/350
December 26, 1973. Passing of Pres. Lee and all involved,
with Quorum of the Twelve President Kimball becoming President of the Church.
This is superb choice material, especially regarding reorganization, with the
text of what was said in the temple meeting included and many other precious
things:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/351
Dr. Russell M. Nelson's letter to Pres. Kimball relating how
the heart operation went perfectly and how it was made known to him that Bro.
Kimball would one day become the President of the Church; handwritten:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/7b883382-0b61-44ea-b7c0-d2b7ad9a6b28/0/6
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/6e8f9a20-e1dd-49d7-997c-f7e5a099b893/0/38
December 17, 1969. This
seems to be material from the minutes of a temple meeting of the FP & 12
where similar subjects were taught and discussed in some detail.
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/6e8f9a20-e1dd-49d7-997c-f7e5a099b893/0/42
March 29, 1974. Text
of a formal memo prepared by the secretary to the First Presidency setting
forth certain facts of the ordination and setting apart of several general
authorities, including Elder Bruce R. McConkie, Elder Boyd K. Packer, and a
number of other Brethren:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/6e8f9a20-e1dd-49d7-997c-f7e5a099b893/0/106
Two pages of summaries of the doctrine of the apostleship
(1965)
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f8fe2625-569d-48a4-94c2-74fecb918d48/0/188
January 1, 1974. Some of President Kimball's first days at
work as President; from here on the journal is of presidential level:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/7b883382-0b61-44ea-b7c0-d2b7ad9a6b28/0/24
February 22, 1974. Lower part of page. Pres. Kimball
corrects Pres. Benson for some unwise political statements made in a press
interview:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/7b883382-0b61-44ea-b7c0-d2b7ad9a6b28/0/61
March 20, 1974. A discussion between Pres. Kimball and the
author of a biographical book about three Smiths (George A., John Henry, and
George Albert) reviewing sensitive and controversial content:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/7b883382-0b61-44ea-b7c0-d2b7ad9a6b28/0/70
For a movie review and info on a different book, see also:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/7b883382-0b61-44ea-b7c0-d2b7ad9a6b28/0/72
April 4, 1974. President Kimball is sustained in calling
Elder Neal A. Maxwell to the Twelve, and also two new Assistants, Elder L. Tom Perry
being one of them:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/7b883382-0b61-44ea-b7c0-d2b7ad9a6b28/0/81
June 13, 1974. Pres. Kimball sees and embraces his deceased
father; bottom of page:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/7b883382-0b61-44ea-b7c0-d2b7ad9a6b28/0/95
November 4-5, 1974. Pres. Kimball again has to
correct/rebuke Pres. Benson regarding his political statements to the press and
issue a correction to the press refuting them:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32f8a99f-6414-4376-8fdc-af60c8c33e8e/0/72
and mentioned again here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/7b883382-0b61-44ea-b7c0-d2b7ad9a6b28/0/68
November 18, 1974. Description of the various sessions of
the dedication of the Washington DC Temple for a few pages:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32f8a99f-6414-4376-8fdc-af60c8c33e8e/0/86
this page notes that Elder Hinckley got sick with fever at
the dedication but was healed after being administered to:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32f8a99f-6414-4376-8fdc-af60c8c33e8e/0/91
This part of the diary contains the text of a talk Pres.
Kimball gave to church employees (Christmas 1974), asking for their best
efforts:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32f8a99f-6414-4376-8fdc-af60c8c33e8e/0/107
June 18, 1975. President Kimball and others (Packer, Anderson)
set apart George P. Lee as a mission president. Pres. Kimball writes about how
he has such hopes for this fine young man. So very sad George came apart later,
morally and spiritually, and was excommunicated in the early 1990s:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32f8a99f-6414-4376-8fdc-af60c8c33e8e/0/180
More here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/205
and more here:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/95493962-3d90-489c-bdb7-acbb94bae872/0/105
Ca. January 7-8?, 1976. This material concerns the calling
of Elder David B. Haight to the apostleship. The page before is blacked out and
this page begins in the middle of what seems to be an apostolic charge,
followed by Elder Haight’s acceptance speech before the Brethren, followed by
the verbatim ordination blessing:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32f8a99f-6414-4376-8fdc-af60c8c33e8e/0/185
September 21, 1976. Pres. Kimball has meeting with apostles
who are advisors to Historical Dept. regarding book “Story of the Latter-day
Saints”:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32f8a99f-6414-4376-8fdc-af60c8c33e8e/0/205
Late September, 1976. Entries touching on the reconstitution
of the Assistants, First Council and Quorum of the Seventy that would be
announced in the coming conference:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32f8a99f-6414-4376-8fdc-af60c8c33e8e/0/205
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32f8a99f-6414-4376-8fdc-af60c8c33e8e/0/206
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32f8a99f-6414-4376-8fdc-af60c8c33e8e/0/208
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32f8a99f-6414-4376-8fdc-af60c8c33e8e/0/210
President Benson is again embroiled in a small public
political matter in which Pres. Kimball says poor judgment was used:
[looks like this has been redacted]
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32f8a99f-6414-4376-8fdc-af60c8c33e8e/0/192
November 13, 1976. President Kimball has a dream or vision
of the deceased President Lee:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/32f8a99f-6414-4376-8fdc-af60c8c33e8e/0/227
Pres. Kimball meets the new President of Mexico in such a
manner as to influence another important Mexican official to think more highly
of the “Mormons”:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/95493962-3d90-489c-bdb7-acbb94bae872/0/68
May 27, 1977. Purchase of property for a possible Temple in
Sandy:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/95493962-3d90-489c-bdb7-acbb94bae872/0/157
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/95493962-3d90-489c-bdb7-acbb94bae872/0/164
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/95493962-3d90-489c-bdb7-acbb94bae872/0/171
June 1, 1977. The First Presidency discusses some
objectionable matters relating to books written by church history department
people:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/95493962-3d90-489c-bdb7-acbb94bae872/0/156
June 2, 1977. President Kimball tells all the general
authorities that they may all restore lost blessings (lost by excommunication)
subject to direction from the President of the Twelve (Pres. Benson):
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/95493962-3d90-489c-bdb7-acbb94bae872/0/159
June 7, 1977. The First Presidency decide to have Elder
Delbert L. Stapley review Elder McConkie's book "on the coming of
Christ" which probably meant his book "The Millennial Messiah".
Also a “homosexual” group’s plans to hold a convention in the Hotel Utah are
cancelled:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/95493962-3d90-489c-bdb7-acbb94bae872/0/163
and
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/95493962-3d90-489c-bdb7-acbb94bae872/0/164
June 12, 1977. Comment on threats from apostates that
necessitate church security personnel watching things closely:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/95493962-3d90-489c-bdb7-acbb94bae872/0/167
Early 1978. Pres. Kimball meets several times with various
apostles about troubles within the Church Historical Department:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c317380e-ea0f-4b20-8853-914ff36f9498/0/0
The entries for June 1978 regarding the priesthood
revelation. The revelation actually came on June 1 and was reconfirmed in power
to all General Authorities on June 8, at which time announcement was made to
the world:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c317380e-ea0f-4b20-8853-914ff36f9498/0/6
June 2, 1978. The day after the revelation on the priesthood
was received, both Elder Packer and Elder McConkie met, evidently separately,
with Pres. Kimball for a while. I assume these meetings were to help prepare
the letter of announcement of the revelation which is now D&C OD2:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/031d72e2-f83d-46b7-a88b-66e2b2e47180/0/109
September 20, 1978. . Pres. Kimball asked three of the
Brethren, including Elder McConkie, to help him prepare his (Kimball’s) conference
addresses for the October 1978 conference, remarking how nice it was to receive
help and suggestions from them:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c317380e-ea0f-4b20-8853-914ff36f9498/0/12
Early 1979. Entries on various discussions with authors
regarding whether or not Pres. Kimball would write a forward to their books. He
did for some and didn't for others. He did for Russell Nelson; see the
following page as well that critics made a big deal about; Edward Kimball (a son)
wrote the "fulsome" line in brackets:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c317380e-ea0f-4b20-8853-914ff36f9498/0/20
October 2, 1979. Church Patriarch put on emeritus status
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c317380e-ea0f-4b20-8853-914ff36f9498/0/68
Late November, 1978. Recurrence of subdural hematoma; these
surgeries seem to really slow down Pres. Kimball, who was also getting into his
mid-80s:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c317380e-ea0f-4b20-8853-914ff36f9498/0/70
April 6, 13, 1979. Discussion with Elder
McConkie of a possible pamphlet reviewing the doctrine of the creation;
this may have eventually culminated in Elder McConkie's Ensign article
on "Christ and the Creation" which was published in a 1982 Ensign;
also Pres. Kimball's famous statement about the need to reduce and simplify
church printed material output:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c317380e-ea0f-4b20-8853-914ff36f9498/0/26
September 1979. Eye problems and brain surgery:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c317380e-ea0f-4b20-8853-914ff36f9498/0/66
April 22, 1980. Further discussion of the FP regarding troubling
Historical Dept. issues:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c317380e-ea0f-4b20-8853-914ff36f9498/0/80
July 23, 1981. Mention of calling of Elder Hinckley into
First Presidency and Elder Neal Maxwell into the Twelve:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/c317380e-ea0f-4b20-8853-914ff36f9498/0/144
There are no diary entries after 1981 from Pres. Kimball. He was too old and ill by then.
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