The Thirty-Seventh Semi-Annual Conference of The Church of and Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints convened on Sunday morning, October 6th. The meeting took place in the new tabernacle, which was prepared for the conference following significant recent efforts by those in charge of its erection.
The new tabernacle, measuring 150 feet in length by 80 feet in width, was crowded with attendees, to the point that many were unable to gain admission. During the meeting, President Brigham Young expressed gratitude on behalf of the apostles and brethren to the workmen for their faithfulness in completing the building.
The musical program included the tabernacle choir led by Elder Robert C. Sands, accompanied by Joseph Daynes on the new organ. The performance featured various combinations of choirs from Springville, Spanish Fork, Payson, Brigham City, Box Elder, Smithfield, Ogden, and Nephi. The new organ is described as a magnificent instrument that will be fully completed with 2,000 pipes.
Several leaders provided addresses during the conference. President Brigham Young spoke of the power of God in leading his people to the mountains and urged members to prepare themselves for blessings through purity of heart. He also addressed the importance of using mild herbs and prayer for those with sick families.
Elder D.H. Wells spoke regarding the achievement of erecting the building and the mission to reclaim the earth from sin. He noted that while the people are good, there is room for improvement in righteousness. Elder Orson Hyde described the gathering as one of the largest religious assemblies he had ever witnessed, testifying to the power of God in the selection of Brigham Young as a leader.
Elder Orson Pratt concluded by reflecting on the appearance of the new building, noting that it stood above surrounding structures like an artificial mountain. The conference proceedings included various hymns and prayers from the presidency of the high priests quorum and other church officials.
