Comment

Manti Temple

I’m writing concerning that elegant photograph by Anselm Spring of the Manti Temple in the November 1982 Ensign. You say that Wilford Woodruff dedicated the temple. Wasn’t it Lorenzo Snow?

David Geo Clark
Omaha, Nebraska

We have received other letters asking the same question. In Volume 6 of A Comprehensive History of the Church, B. H. Roberts clears up the confusion on this matter: “The dedication of the Manti Temple was at a time when many of the leading elders of the church were in retirement, avoiding arrest by United States officials, hence [a] private dedication that the leading authorities of the church might be present, and afterwards the public dedication.” (p. 231.) The first dedicatory prayer was offered on 17 May 1888 by President Wilford Woodruff. A number of the Quorum of the Twelve were present at this private dedication. On May 21, the first of three public dedications was held, with President Lorenzo Snow reading President Woodruff’s dedicatory prayer. (See p. 230.)

It’s True, It’s True …

I write to you from a tiny, furnitureless apartment in Kamihongo, Japan. I can hear the train from town, the next door neighbor’s baby crying, and the Spirit whispering to me as I read my Ensign, “The gospel is true … it’s true … it’s true.”

As missionaries, we are far from home and often in need of spiritual nourishment. The days seem so long, door after door after door, and often we feel so small. The Ensign so often provides the lift we need. It is like a letter from home, giving comfort, conveying love, encouraging strength. Each month we eagerly watch for it to arrive.

When my Japanese companion and I moved into our apartment, I found some old issues of the Ensign. They are over three years old, and I am reading each one slowly—for many times I have had to stop to brush back tears of joy, to pray, to give thanks. Japan does not seem so foreign now, my Japanese companion not so hard to understand. I can climb hills easier with my rusted bike and smile sincerely at the onion farmer on the corner, the shopkeepers along our street; I can even smile at the uninterested, busy housewives who bow and close their sliding doors …

At times, it is easy to feel burdened and inadequate, discouraged that most people will not open their doors or listen to our message. But as I read the articles in the Ensign centered on Jesus, who is our Christ, whom I now serve, I have been reminded of his mission. When they turned away, when they rejected him, spat upon him, smote him, he did not question himself nor the work. How grateful I am to be able to read articles that strengthen my understanding of him and his example!

Sister Renee Roy
Tokyo North Japan Mission

Four-family Branch

We enjoy the Church magazines so much. Often they’re our only link with the Church here in Woomera, Australia. We have only four families in our small branch, and one of those is part-member. Two of the others have shift-worker husbands, so often we only have one priesthood holder in our meetings. We need all our contacts with the Church.

Patricia Taylor
APO San Francisco, California

A Liahona

As I sat reading the latest issue I realized that for me the Ensign is a Liahona and not an ensign. When I am in tune with the Lord and headed in the right direction, the articles speak to my heart and soul. When I am not in tune, then I find the articles uninteresting or uninspirational.

Thank you for providing me with this excellent guide that speaks to me according to my faith and points me in the right direction.

Allan Bird
Sanno Institute of Business Administration
Tokyo, Japan

Polynesian Cultural Center

Your recent article about the Polynesian Cultural Center reminded me of the indirect influence the center has had on my life.

I have never been to Hawaii, but my former father-in-law obtained a Book of Mormon there thirteen years ago and had wonderful things to say about the Mormons he met there. While living in New Hampshire, I was looking for the true church, and this man, though not a member, shared his Book of Mormon and experiences with me. I called the missionaries, and in a short time I was baptized. Five years later I was married in the Salt Lake Temple.

My indirect contact with the Polynesian Cultural Center has given me courage in my missionary efforts. One seldom knows the impact one may have because of fellowshipping neighbors and friends.

Lauren Ann Kattner
Ladonia, Texas

Marriage Articles

I want you to know how much I appreciate your helpful articles on marriage. When a person is married, it seems like that partnership is at the core of his life. How things are functioning—lovingly and harmoniously or not—they affect the happiness of the entire family, and families make up the world.

Sharon S. Larsen
Gillette, Wyoming

Articles in the Ensign on marriage have been especially uplifting and helpful. With all the propaganda around us today that detracts from the importance of a good marriage partnership, it is calming to my soul to hear of positive ways to improve my marriage. Please continue these articles!

Sydne Davies
San Bruno, California

Using the Ensign in Class

The Ensign is becoming more beautiful with each issue. The illustrations are so spiritually uplifting and help us to be more moved by the Spirit.

I am seventy years old and have taught the Star B class in Primary for four years. It has been a great blessing to me. The children can take the pictures weeks later in a review and stand up in class and tell the story. The pictures have helped me to be a better teacher. Thanks.

Inez Zimmerman
Tomah, Wisconsin