OCR Text |
Show 200 HOW MORMONISM their branch of Mormonism, the majority of whom went back to the States with the missionaries the following sum mer. Smith is preparing for a more extensive missionary work in Utah next summer. The slightest movement that threatens a loss of faith in Brigham is denounced and discouraged in every possible way. The Josephites are now his particular hatred, and he declares such apostates to be " worse than those who damn the Mormons and all Mormonism." What I have already submitted is evidence that the people may be convinced of their error, and the difficulty all lies in reaching them with the truths of Christianity. To elevate and save the immoral and degraded is a duty of the Christian Church ! To prevent and punish crime is a duty of the Government ! Brigham Young will interpose every obstacle he may be capable of bringing in the way, to thwart both in the discharge of these duties, but they may all be overcome by a judicious and systematic course. If churches are built for public worship, Brigham will not allow his saints to attend them. If the missionary visits the people from house to house, those who entertain him will be marked, and perhaps punished. The people will be publicly and privately cautioned to hold no fellowship with missionaries, and Sabbath- schools will be discounte nanced. These are some of the influences that will operate against the success of a missionary enterprise ; but where is there a mission in this or foreign land that has not en countered similar difficulties? There are several encouraging features that will be con nected with an attempt to enlighten the Mormons. Not least among them is the influx of a Gentile population into the territory, and in this there is a very decided advantage gained. The mere contact of the two classes will have a wonderful effect in showing the moral, religious and physi cal advantages of a different life. Then another feature is that the Government is committed to put down polygamy, and in doing so the Church will obtain the important ally which I have said was so necessary to secure tolerance. A |