Gramps,

I know you have answered questions about Elijah before, as well as the spirit of Elijah.  We read that the hearts of the fathers will be turned to the sons and the sons to the fathers, which he taught.  (Forgive me if I quoted that wrong, I don’t have it in front of me)  I am wondering what exactly it means to be “Moved upon by the Spirit of Elijah.”

We hear about Elijah a lot when it comes to family history work.  Does this simply mean we will do work for the dead? (Temple and family history).

Marcus

Answer

Marcus,

Elijah, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, is known for his unwavering faith and miraculous deeds. He lived during a time of great apostasy in Israel, where the worship of Jehovah was largely replaced by the worship of Baal, a Phoenician god. Elijah’s mission was to call the people back to the worship of the true God, and he performed several miracles, including calling down fire from heaven and raising the dead (1 Kings 17-18). His life culminated in a dramatic ascension to heaven in a chariot of fire, as recorded in 2 Kings 2:11, marking him as one of the few individuals in scripture who did not experience death.

The significance of Elijah extends beyond his earthly ministry. The prophet Malachi foretold Elijah’s return in the last days, stating,

Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord:

 

And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers. (Malachi 4:5-6)

This prophecy is crucial as it establishes Elijah’s role in the restoration of family connections and the sealing power of the priesthood.

In discussions about Elijah, two terms often arise: the “Spirit of Elijah” and the “Gift of Elijah.” While they are related, they are not synonymous. The Spirit of Elijah refers to the inspiration and desire to engage in family history work and temple ordinances, which is a manifestation of the sealing power of the priesthood. This spirit encourages individuals to seek out their ancestors and perform sacred ordinances on their behalf.

On the other hand, the Gift of Elijah is more specific. It refers to the priesthood keys and authority that Elijah restored to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery in the Kirtland Temple on April 3, 1836. This restoration included the keys to bind families together for eternity, allowing for the sealing of generations. Thus, while the Spirit of Elijah inspires individuals to engage in family history work, the Gift of Elijah provides the necessary authority to perform these sacred ordinances.

Patriarchal blessings, which are personal revelations given to members of the Church, often mention the Gift of Elijah. These blessings can serve as a reminder of an individual’s divine potential and responsibilities regarding family history work. When a patriarchal blessing states that someone has the Gift of Elijah, it signifies a unique calling to participate in the work of salvation for the dead and to help turn the hearts of the children to their fathers. This personal connection to the Gift of Elijah can be a powerful motivator for individuals to engage in family history and temple work.

The work of family history is not merely a personal endeavor; it is a divine mandate rooted in the teachings of the gospel. The prophecy of Malachi emphasizes the importance of turning the hearts of the fathers to the children and vice versa. This turning of hearts signifies a deep connection between generations, highlighting the eternal nature of family relationships. The work of redeeming the dead through temple ordinances is a vital aspect of this connection, as it allows individuals to be sealed to their ancestors and descendants for eternity.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in interest in genealogy and family history work, not only among members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints but also in the broader society. This phenomenon can be seen as a fulfillment of the prophecy regarding Elijah’s mission. Many individuals feel a deep-seated desire to learn about their ancestors and connect with their family history, which aligns with the Spirit of Elijah.

The Church has embraced this trend by providing resources and tools for members to engage in family history work. Websites like FamilySearch.org offer extensive databases and records, making it easier for individuals to trace their lineage and perform temple ordinances for their ancestors. This modern accessibility to family history work is a testament to the ongoing influence of the Gift of Elijah in today’s world.

Gramps

Gramps,

Do you think ancestors who have passed away would approve of having their patriarchal blessings posted on the family tree since it is a very private and special personal scripture?

Kent

Answer

Kent,

Gramps

Gramps,

I have an audio recording of my Grandpa’s funeral from 1990. I have transcribed it and would like to put it into a history book I am making of him. Is it appropriate to transcribe and put in the prayers and the dedication of the grave in a family history book? I can’t find a policy on it but the prayers are like talks and show the feeling/faith of the individual. I wanted to ask someone since I can’t find the Church policy on it. Thank!

Michelle

Answer

Michelle,

In the journey of documenting family histories, many individuals encounter moments of profound significance—moments that often include prayers and grave dedications. For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, these acts hold a sacred place in the tapestry of family heritage. But is it appropriate to transcribe these prayers and dedications into family history books?

Within the theology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the body is revered as a sacred entity, and the act of dedicating graves signifies deep respect for the deceased. The Church teaches that the body is a temple, and this belief elevates the act of grave dedication to a solemn occasion. Elder Bruce R. McConkie emphasized that dedicatory prayers should express thanksgiving and comfort, highlighting the importance of the words spoken during these moments.

The reverence surrounding these dedications is echoed in church practices, where prayers are not mere rituals; they are vital conversations with God. As one article notes, prayer serves as a means of guidance, comfort, and connection with Heavenly Father, making the act of transcribing prayers a deeply meaningful practice.

Family history work is a significant aspect of Latter-day Saint belief. It connects individuals with their ancestors and provides opportunities for performing saving ordinances for the deceased. The Church encourages the recording of family histories, which can include prayers and dedications, contributing to a deeper understanding of family heritage and spiritual journeys.

Transcribing prayers and dedications into family history books can serve as a bridge between generations. It allows descendants to connect with their ancestors’ spiritual experiences, fostering a sense of identity and continuity within the family. By preserving these sacred moments, families can create a rich narrative that honors their lineage while also providing context for future generations.

The act of transcribing prayers, including those of dedication, can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased. It allows families to preserve their traditions and express their love and respect for those who have passed. Personal testimonies and experiences related to these prayers can enrich the family history, creating a tapestry of shared beliefs and memories.

When documenting these sacred moments, it is essential to approach the task with respect and sensitivity. This includes accurately conveying the context and emotions surrounding the prayers. As emphasized by church teachings, the documentation should reflect not only the words spoken but also the deep feelings of love and reverence associated with them.

Adding them to Family Search would also allow others to enjoy these precious moments as well. Here is how you can upload audio files.

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

The Church Handbook provides guidance suggesting that family members can dedicate locations or graves where ashes are kept, indicating that specific spots or moments can hold spiritual significance. However, the focus must remain on the deceased’s legacy and the hope of salvation through temple work. Family history is not just a record; it is a testament to faith, love, and the eternal nature of relationships.

In their documentation, families are encouraged to reflect on the sacredness of the act. Including prayers and dedications in family history books is not only appropriate but also a way to continue the spiritual journey of their loved ones. It provides an opportunity to share their faith and experiences with future generations while honoring the values of the Church.

Transcribing prayers and grave dedications into family history books can be a sacred and respectful endeavor. When done with care and reverence, it enhances the family’s understanding of their heritage and provides a spiritual link to their ancestors. By honoring these sacred moments, individuals contribute to a legacy that reflects the love, faith, and traditions of their family.

As you embark on your family history journey, consider the significance of including prayers and dedications. These records not only commemorate lives lived but also enrich the spiritual tapestry of your family’s story, ensuring that the lessons, love, and legacies of the past are preserved for generations to come.

Gramps

Gramps,

Why does Matthew record the genealogy of Joseph in his introduction to the Savior’s mortal mission?  Would not Mary’s genealogy be more important? Were Joseph and Mary so closely related that their genealogies were nearly the same?  Thank you for entertaining these questions.

Darrel

Answer

Darrel,

The Book of Matthew was written specifically to the Jews.  Thus, one of the goals of this Gospel was to convince the Jews of the Messiahship of Jesus.  One of the prophecies stated that He would be the rightful heir to the throne of David (Jeremiah 23:5, Jeremiah 33:17).  And that line of inheritance was actually traced through Joseph, his adoptive father.  That means that if Rome wasn’t in charge at the time, and the Kingdom of Israel still had its own king to rule over them, that king would have been Joseph.

But he wasn’t Jesus actual father!  It is true that he was not the Savior’s biological father.  The social order of the time made adoption simply a matter of verba solemnia (solemn verbal declaration/agreement):

You are my son.

 

You are my father.

Then they would have to actually “walk the walk” which they seem to have done, based on what we read in the Gospel of John.

And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven?   (John 6:42)

So, apparently, they went through the process and behaved in a manner that everyone believed Jesus to be Joseph’s son.  This legal adoption gave Jesus all the legal rights of inheritance through his adoptive father.  And there was a reason the Messiah HAD to be adopted.

The legal heir had to come from the line of David.  But the rightful line also went through Coniah (also known as: Jeconiah, Jechonias, & Jehoiachin) who ruled in exile after Nebuchadnezzar killed his father, Jehoiakim.  (It was only after Coniah’s exile that Zedekiah began to rule at the time Lehi and his family left Jerusalem).  He (Coniah) so displeased the Lord that the Lord cursed his seed from ever ruling over Judah on the throne of David.

Thus saith the LORD, Write ye this man childless, a man that shall not prosper in his days: for no man of his seed shall prosper, sitting upon the throne of David, and ruling any more in Judah.  (Jeremiah 22:30)

Since the royal line descended from Coniah, and Coniah’s seed was cursed to never sit upon the throne of David or rule in Judah, then how could the Messiah fulfill the prophecy without invalidating God’s curse?  Adoption fulfilled both the Messianic prophecy (coming through David’s line) as well as upheld the curse upon Coniah’s seed.

Now, to your second question about the familial relationship between Joseph and Mary, they were distant cousins.  The lineage depicted in Luke 3 is usually believed to be Mary’s line.  And in verse 31 we read:

Which was the son of Melea, which was the son of Menan, which was the son of Mattatha, which was the son of Nathan, which was the son of David   (Luke 3:31)

So, Mary’s line came through Solomon’s brother, Nathan.  That was 27 generations back.  So, that was a pretty distant cousin.  There are also some indications that the two lines of cousins crisscrossed in the intervening generations because some names seem similar, even though they are spelled differently.  But I personally believe that interpretation to be somewhat tenuous.

Whatever their precise relationship, they both appeared to be of royal blood.

Gramps

Dear Gramps,

I am a woman of middle age, have a very busy and demanding family, and two jobs. I also teach in the Mormon Church. We have been commanded to do genealogy and temple work for our kindred dead. I love genealogy and the work, but it seems that the older I get, the less time I have to do what the Lord requires. With so much going on in this latter day and a lack of finances and time, how can we, people in my situation, do what we are commanded to do? How do we deal with the guilt of not fulfilling our duties and keeping the covenants? I am told that I must do this work because I am a convert to the church, and my ancestors are waiting so they can progress. Do I take it on faith, not work, and do what I am commanded to do? Please help me find some peace over this. Thank you and God Bless You.

Patty

Answer

Dear Patty,

Genealogy is not merely a hobby; it is a spiritual obligation for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The doctrine emphasizes that family history work is essential for the salvation of our ancestors who did not have the opportunity to receive the gospel during their earthly lives. As stated in Doctrine and Covenants 138:33, “These were taught faith in God, repentance from sin, vicarious baptism for the remission of sins, the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands.”

Family history work is deeply rooted in the belief that our ancestors are waiting for their temple ordinances to be performed. This work is often referred to as the “Spirit of Elijah,” which is described in Malachi 4:6:

And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers.

Engaging in genealogy not only helps our ancestors but also strengthens our connection to them, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.

Elder David A. Bednar emphasized the importance of this work, stating, “As you respond in faith to this invitation, your hearts shall turn to the fathers.” This turning of hearts is a profound spiritual experience that can deepen our faith and understanding of the eternal nature of families.

Participating in genealogy and temple work brings numerous blessings, both for the living and the deceased. Elder Henry B. Eyring noted, “The names which will be so difficult to find are of real people to whom you owe your existence in this world and whom you will meet again in the spirit world. Engaging in this work can lead to personal growth, increased spirituality, and a greater appreciation for the sacrifices made by our ancestors.

Moreover, the act of searching for and performing ordinances for our ancestors can provide a sense of fulfillment and joy. As we engage in this sacred work, we often find that our own burdens are lightened, and we are filled with a sense of purpose and connection to our heritage.

For individuals who find themselves overwhelmed by the demands of family and work, it is essential to establish a balance that allows for meaningful participation in genealogy without adding undue stress. Here are some practical strategies to help manage time effectively while fulfilling these spiritual obligations.

Prioritize your responsibilities

One of the first steps in managing a busy life is to prioritize your responsibilities. Make a list of all your commitments, including work, family, church duties, and personal time. Once you have a clear picture of your obligations, assess which tasks are most important and which can be adjusted or postponed. Virginia H. Pearce wisely stated, “You cannot be everything to everyone all the time.” By focusing on what truly matters, you can create space for genealogy work without feeling overwhelmed.

Set Realistic Goals

Setting achievable goals is crucial for maintaining motivation and reducing feelings of guilt. Instead of aiming to complete extensive genealogy research in a short time, consider setting smaller, more manageable goals. For example, you might dedicate just 15 minutes a week to family history research or commit to indexing a few records each month. These small efforts can accumulate over time, leading to significant progress without overwhelming your schedule.

Utilize Technology and Resources

In today’s digital age, technology can be a powerful ally in genealogy work. Websites like FamilySearch.org and Ancestry.com offer vast databases of records and resources that can streamline your research process. Additionally, consider using mobile apps for genealogy, which allow you to work on your family history during short breaks or while waiting in line. The convenience of technology can help you integrate genealogy into your daily routine more seamlessly.

Involve Your Family

Engaging your family in genealogy work can make it a more enjoyable and less burdensome task. Involve your children or spouse in research, indexing, or even visiting family history centers together. This not only strengthens family bonds but also creates a shared sense of purpose. As you work together, you can share stories and memories, making the experience more meaningful for everyone involved.

Embrace Flexibility

Life is unpredictable, and sometimes our best-laid plans may need to be adjusted. Embrace flexibility in your approach to genealogy work. If a week becomes particularly hectic, allow yourself to take a break without guilt. Remember that the Lord understands your circumstances and desires your heart more than your perfection in fulfilling every task. As stated in Doctrine and Covenants 10:4, “Do not run faster or labor more than you have strength.”

As you navigate the challenges of balancing family life and spiritual obligations, it is essential to find peace in your journey. Remember that your worth is not defined by the amount of genealogy work you complete but by your sincere efforts and intentions. The Lord knows your heart and desires your growth and happiness.

Sometimes, it can be easy to feel guilty for not doing enough. However, it is important to trust in the Lord’s timing. He understands your circumstances and will provide opportunities for you to fulfill your genealogy duties when the time is right. As you continue to seek His guidance and support, you may find that your ability to engage in this work increases as your life circumstances change.

Don’t hesitate to reach out for support from your church community. Many members are passionate about genealogy and can offer assistance, resources, or even companionship in your efforts. Sharing your experiences and challenges with others can provide encouragement and motivation, reminding you that you are not alone in your journey.

Gramps

Gramps,

If all family history work will be completed in the millennium, why is it important that we do it now?

Gene

Answer

Gene,

Family history is so much more than just finding names and linking them to a chain of ancestors. Family history also involves temple work to perform the ordinances needed by those who have already passed on and didn’t have the opportunity to do it while on earth.  There are as many blessings for those that do this work for them as there are for those the work is being done for.

We have the promise of the Spirit of Elijah as found in the scriptures:

“And he shall plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers, and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers.” (D&C 2:2)

So what is the Spirit of Elijah?  Elder David A. Bednar describes it this way:

“distinctive influence of the Holy Ghost[that] draws people to identify, document, and cherish their ancestors and family members—both past and present.”  The Hearts of the Children Shall Turn

Elder Bednar also goes on to say this;

“For these reasons we do family history research, build temples, and perform vicarious ordinances. For these reasons Elijah was sent to restore the sealing authority that binds on earth and in heaven. We are the Lord’s agents in the work of salvation and exaltation that will prevent “the whole earth [from being] smitten with a curse” (D&C 110:15) when He returns again. This is our duty and great blessing.”

We cannot just sit around and wait for the millennium to do this work or just expect it to be done during that time.  We have been given the responsibility to do the work now.  If we don’t, we are being seen as thwarting the work of the Lord in bringing salvation to all who have ever lived.  What a blessing to those who have been waiting for such a long time to finally have their work done for them.

I get a mental picture of those spirits who have passed on before us having been taught the gospel, have accepted it, but have yet to have someone actually do the work for them in the temple.  The frustration they must feel as they wait.

Granted not all work will be able to be accomplished on the earth by those who are living.  One example of that would be where records were not kept or were lost or destroyed.  But we have the promise that all will be taken care of during the millennium.  That by any stretch does not mean we should just wait until then.  We need to be giving it our best endeavor to search out our ancestors and get the work done for them that they are so desperately waiting for.

Eldred G. Smith had this story to share:

The story is told that Satan called a council of his agents and asked how they would combat the forces of righteousness. One said, “I’ll go and tell them it isn’t true.” Satan said, “No, that wouldn’t do.” The second said, “I’ll tell them it’s only half true.” “No,” Satan said, “that’s not enough.” The third said, “I’ll go and tell them it’s all true, but there is no need to hurry.” “Go,” Satan said. “That will get them every time.” Lucifer cannot win. We must do the Lord’s work for our ancestors or the earth would be “wasted at his coming.” (JS—H 1:39.) It seems that the destiny of this earth depends on whether or not we get this temple work done.  Do Not Procrastinate!

The Prophet Joseph Smith declared:

“The greatest responsibility in this world that God has laid upon us is to seek after our dead. … For it is necessary that the sealing power should be in our hands to seal our children and our dead for the fulness of the dispensation of times—a dispensation to meet the promises made by Jesus Christ before the foundation of the world for the salvation of man. … Hence, God said, ‘I will send you Elijah the prophet’” (Teachings: Joseph Smith, 475).

Allow me to relate a personal story of mine regarding temple work for an ancestor.  My grandfather was not a member of the Church.  Yet whenever I saw him, he would ask me question regarding our beliefs.  My grandmother would have nothing to do with it.  So to keep peace in the family he didn’t pursue learning more.

After he passed away, I was in the temple to perform those ordinances for him.  Now mind you, my grandfather was not a very demonstrative person when it came to showing love or affection.  We knew he loved us but he didn’t show it in any kind of a physical way.  However, that day in the temple when I had completed standing as proxy and having his work done, I physically felt arms wrapped around me in an embrace.  I knew it was my grandfather thanking me for having his work done for him.  It’s an experience I will never forget.

Let me end by providing a couple of quotes that show blessings for those still on the earth who are diligent in this great work.

President Henry B. Eyring said;

“Remember that the names which will be so difficult to find are of real people to whom you owe your existence in this world and whom you will meet again in the spirit world. … Their hearts are bound to you. Their hope is in your hands. You will have more than your own strength as you choose to labor on to find them” Hearts Bound Together

President Boyd K. Packer had this to say;

“family history work has the power to do something for the dead. It has an equal power to do something to the living. Family history work … has a refining, spiritualizing, tempering influence on those who are engaged in it” Your Family History

I hope this helps to answer your question as to the importance of doing family history and temple work for our ancestors now.  Let’s not procrastinate and expect it to be done during the millennium.  It is our responsibility here on earth.

Gramps

Dear Gramps,

Over the years in my family history research, I have submitted hundreds, if not thousands of names to the temple for proxy ordinance work. Yet through it all, I have never had any kind of a spiritual experience, or a dream, from anyone on the other side of the veil letting me know that the work has been accepted, or even appreciated. But I’ve read where other people have had such experiences. So I wonder. I continue to methodically submit names as I work through my family lines. But it would be nice to know that it has not all been in vain. Perhaps I am looking beyond the mark here? Your thoughts would be appreciated.

Robert

Answer

Dear Robert,

The sort of experience you seek is a sacred one that should be cherished and treasured privately unless the Spirit directs that it is to be shared. Both the event and the sharing of it occur frequently enough that it is not uncommon, but it is by no means universal. So it is with all spiritual gifts. “For all have not every gift given unto them; for there are many gifts [including a thinning of the veil], and to every man is given a gift by the Spirit of God.” (D&C 46:11). To help us better understand the gifts of the Spirit, Elder Oaks gave a talk in 1986. I’ve extracted the following principles from that talk, Spiritual Gifts, and subsequent quotes come from that address. I’ve included links to the scripture references for additional study.

1. We should seek the gifts of the Spirit.
   “[W]hen we have faith, repent, and are born of water and the Spirit, and when we love and serve God with all our hearts, we are eligible to receive spiritual gifts. We may then, as Paul taught, ‘covet earnestly [which means fervently desire] the best gifts.’ (1 Cor. 12:31; see also D&C 46:8.)”
2. Although we “covet earnestly the best gifts”, we are not guaranteed all the best gifts (nor even the one we seek) for they are dependent on us and the body of saints.
   “The scriptures tell us that we should desire and zealously seek spiritual gifts. (See D&C 46:8; 1 Cor. 12:31; 1 Cor. 14:1, 11.) We are also told that some will receive one gift and some will receive another. (See D&C 46:11; 1 Cor. 12; Moro. 10:8–18.) In every case, the receipt of spiritual gifts is predicated upon faith, obedience, and personal righteousness. (See Bruce R. McConkie, A New Witness for the Articles of Faith, Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1985, p. 367.)”
3. These gifts are for building up the kingdom of God and not to consume on our lusts.
   “We are commanded not to seek for signs to develop our faith (see Matt. 12:39; D&C 63:12), for ‘faith cometh not by signs’ (D&C 63:9). … When we believe and seek spiritual gifts to benefit others ‘and not for a sign’ (D&C 46:9), we are told that signs will follow.”

In addition to these principles, I add a few more from the scriptures.

1. Gifts of the Spirit are distributed across the saints to build a well-functioning interdependence. Thus, it is expected that not everyone will receive manifestations of proxy ordinance acceptance. Note that while this chapter mentions church offices and callings, the focus is on spiritual gifts.
   “But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, … and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many. … But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. And if they were all one member, where were the body?” (1 Cor. 12:11-19).
2. Part of this interdependence includes the gift of knowledge paired with the gift of belief. It is a spiritual gift to recognize the truth of another’s testimony. Like Helaman’s young warriors, “we do not doubt [that others] knew it.” (Alma 56:48).
   “To some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and that he was crucified for the sins of the world. To others it is given to believe on their words, that they also might have eternal life if they continue faithful.” (D&C 46:13-14)
3. While we “covet” gifts, we do not envy others. Returning to the body analogy, if “one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.” (1 Cor. 12:26). Unity is the name of the game and there is no room for that little green monster.
   “[T]hose members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.”

From what I can tell, the experience that you seek is a righteous one. So long as it is not sought vaingloriously you should be privileged to receive it (God willing). Until then, or if it never happens, rejoice with those who have received such experiences and see if “belie[f] on their words” is a gift you’ve been generously bestowed.

Gramps

Dear Gramps,

When a common name like John Smith comes up for proxy ordinance work in the temple, how do they know on the other side which one is intended?  There are hundreds with the same name in the Spirit World.  I’ve heard that those being served have the privilege of coming to the temple to watch the ordinance being done for them.  So how do they know?
Robert

Answer

Dear Robert,

While this may seem like an impossible task to our mortal eyes, much like finding a needle in a haystack, you need to remember two things.  First, the Shepherd knows His sheep.  He knows each of us by name.  Second, God is a God of order.  He has established a system of order in genealogy and temple work as well.

Members who wish to do work for the dead must have a certain level of knowledge about a person to identify him.  Take John Smith for example.  We can’t just take the name “John Smith” to the temple.  If we want to do his work, we need to have at the very least, an idea of his birth or death date.  If we have further information, as to locations, parents, and/or spouse, that is even better.

With such a common name as John Smith it is possible that you could find two John Smiths born on the same day and the same location.  It is also possible that this assumed duplication, is an error on our part.  These sorts of questions we have to leave to Heavenly Father.  As His work here on this side of the veil is “a house of order”, so we must assume it is “a house of order” on the other side as well, only remember Robert they have access to information we do not.  So I feel confident they are able to sort these things out, even if we, in our mortal blindness, do not always understand how.

Gramps

Gramps,

I am not married. All my relatives are dead. I am alone. I have no roots nor branches. Will you be my grandpa?

Anonymous

Answer

Dear Friend,

I am honored and humbled that you would have me as your grandpa. I have been an online surrogate “gramps” for many, many youth and adults, but that relationship is still not the same as the one that my literal grandchildren have enjoyed with me. Try as I might, it is simply not the same.

I think you are also doing a great disservice to yourself and your own grandfather in this request. In God’s kingdom, there are no orphans. There are not rootless or branchless stumps. We are connected in a chain all the way back to Adam.

Wilford Woodruff was contemplating doing something similar to what you’ve  proposed. In his day members of the Church would get sealed to a prophet or apostle under the “law of adoption”. These were men that were well respected in the community and seen as excellent persons to be associated with. Brigham Young and John Taylor had an inkling that it wasn’t the proper order for sealings, and President Woodruff received the revelation that changed this practice to the system we have today. I quote from his April 1894 conference address.

“When I went before the Lord to know who I should be adopted to … the Spirit of God said to me, ‘Have you not a father, who begot you?’ ‘Yes, I have.’ ‘Then why not honor him? Why not be adopted to him?’ ‘Yes,’ says I, ‘that is right.’ I was adopted to my father… When a man receives the endowment, adopt him to his father; no to Wilford Woodruff, nor to any other man outside the lineage of his fathers. That is the will of God to this people” (“The Holy Temple” by Boyd K. Packer, page 201).

You should look to your own grandfathers as your grandpas. Honor them as your own father’s father and mother’s mother. First and foremost recognize the eternal personhood of you and each member of your family. Just because your parents are not on this earth does not mean you are an orphan in God’s eyes. He knows your parents and your grandparents. You can probably get to know them better too (and in so doing, learn more about yourself). If you did not have the opportunity to know them well in this life, find your ward and stake family history specialists and tell them you want to learn more about your grandparents. They can help you find information about them.

You also need to recognize the divine within yourself and your own ancestry. The stories you hear will remind you just how human they were (especially when told by siblings). The grandpa you will have in the eternities will be celestialized. The flaws will be chiseled away to reveal a sanctified being. If they haven’t already received the ordinances, you should provide it for them. Again, from President Woodruff’s address:

“Go and be adopted to your fathers, and save your fathers, and stand at the head of your father’s house, as saviors upon Mount Zion and God will bless you in this” (Ibid. page 204).

Do not deny your parents or your grandparents of this wonderful blessing. Do not deny yourself this great blessing. If the ordinances have already been performed, recognize the blessings that you are an heir to through your sealing to your parents. My own grandparents left this mortal plane years ago, but I am comforted in knowing that when my work here is finished, they will be there in the spirit world to greet me as they have with other family members who have since slipped through the veil.

Gramps

Joella

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Dear Joella,

It seems likely.

In Ether 11:17 we read:

17 And it came to pass that there arose another mighty man; and he was a descendant of the brother of Jared.

This is the last we hear about who is king until we are told that Coriantumr is king and he is the last king of the Jaredites.

However there is a gap in the recorded line of the kings of about a generation at that time so we can’t really know.

Still to me I would have to say I think it very likely that he was.

Gramps

Rell

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Rell,

In most cases of identity theft, individuals require full name, mother’s maiden name, telephone number, social security number, and a living address.

As long as you protect your social security number there shouldn’t be any concern with handing over a genealogy pedigree chart to your church leaders.

However, it doesn’t hurt either to know what your church leaders will be doing with the pedigree charts they are receiving.

Gramps

Penny

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Penny,

No, that quote is not found anywhere in the scriptures. I think you’ll be hard pressed to find that quote anywhere outside the scriptures. There is an underlying principle that I think is getting hinted at with your statement.

When the prophet Joseph Smith first taught the principle of baptism for the dead, the saints were so excited to perform the ordinance for their ancestors that they baptized right away in the Mississippi River. While pondering on the principle further, the prophet received clarifying revelation. He wrote D&C 128 describing the importance of recording the ordinance. The saints in Joseph’s time learned that the baptisms they performed would have to be done again, in the proper order. Take some time to read this section and understand it and you’ll see why our temple records are so important.

The reason we keep family history records is so we can identify our dead ancestors who need the saving ordinances. This information is only a preliminary step but is not eternally significant. The really important record is the one that states that a baptism has been performed, that the other saving ordinances are completed, and that there is a sealing chain all the way back to Adam. The priesthood keys given to Joseph Smith empowers us to keep these records, and in recording it here it is recorded in heaven (128:8). Ultimately the dead will be judged out of these books (128:6-7).

Undoubtedly your ancestors appreciate the work you have done to identify them. As you take their names to the temple, the work is recorded both in earth and in heaven. The temple will have a record of the family chain, as will the book of life. If you follow the proper protocols and take care of the paperwork on earth, you don’t need to worry about carrying an extra book through the veil as a similar book is on the other side.

-Gramps