Wilford Woodruff's Witness

The Development of Temple Doctrine

By: Jennifer Ann Mackley

Narrated by: David Turley

For the first time in a single volume, Jennifer Mackley chronicles the development of temple doctrine and ceremonies over the course of the 19th century: from washings and anointings to proxy baptisms, the endowment to plural marriage sealings, and the first rebaptism to the last priesthood adoption.

After Wilford Woodruff's conversion in 1833, he enthusiastically participated in the ordinances the Prophet Joseph Smith introduced in Kirtland and Nauvoo. However, Joseph Smith was murdered before the implications of the "higher ordinances" could be fully understood, and before their administration in the temple could begin. Learn why Wilford believed that if revelation had ceased with Joseph Smith's death, the mission of Elijah would have failed.

Through Wilford's own words—as preserved in his letters, discourses, and journals—find out what led him to seek additional revelation, make changes to some ordinances, and suspend or discontinue others. What did Wilford announce in 1894 that rewrote the nature of temple work? The temple ordinances were central to Wilford Woodruff's faith in the restored church. Are they still important today?

©2014, 2022 Jennifer Ann Mackley (P)2022 Jennifer Ann Mackley

A good read, helpful interpretation of history

Wilford was much more than just a great missionary. He became the mouthpiece of the Lord.

Cleared up some history

Fascinating history. Good reading, though I wanted a bit more inflections at times. I had rewind quite a few times to re-hear what I missed because my ears began to only hear to the rhythmic patterns of his voice instead of the story.

Great history

If your LDS it helps understand how the Lord works great information and history. Shows you how the Prophets work

Rich history

Deepens my understanding of early Church history based on the rich and extensive record-keeping of President Wilford Woodruff.

Highly recommend

Loved all that I learned from this book, the additional knowledge about the temple ordinances, polygamy and the early history of the church. I highly recommend it.