The Prophet’s Mission to Canada

From the Prophet Joseph Smith’s Own Account

And I will multiply blessings upon the house of my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., inasmuch as he is faithful (D&C 104:46).

In October 1833, only a few months after the laying of the cornerstone for the Kirtland Temple, the Prophet Joseph Smith went on a mission to Canada with Sidney Rigdon. In all, the Prophet served fourteen short missions. On the way to Canada, he received the following revelation:

“My friends Sidney and Joseph, your families are well; they are in mine hands, and I will do with them as seemeth me good. …

“Therefore, follow me, and listen to the counsel which I shall give unto you.

“… I have much people in this place, …

“Therefore, … lift up your voices unto this people; speak the thoughts that I shall put into your hearts, and you shall not be confounded before men;

“For it shall be given you in the very hour, yea, in the very moment, what ye shall say. …

“Therefore, continue your journey and let your hearts rejoice.” (D&C 100:1–3, 5–6, 12.)

According to the Prophet Joseph’s journal, once he and Sidney Rigdon arrived in Canada, they found the people eager to accept the gospel.

Friday, the 18th [October 1833], … we arrived … in Upper Canada.

Sunday, 20.—At 10 o’clock we met an attentive congregation at Brantford; and the same evening a large assembly at Mount Pleasant. … The people gave good heed to the things spoken.

Thursday, 24.— … Freeman A. Nickerson and his wife declared their belief in the work, and offered themselves for baptism. Great excitement prevailed in every place we visited.

Sunday, 27.—Preached to a large congregation … , after which I baptized twelve, and others were deeply impressed. …

Monday, 28.—In the evening, we broke bread, and laid on hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, and for confirmation, having baptized two more. The Spirit was given in great power to some, and peace to others. May God carry on His work in this place till all shall know Him.

Tuesday, 29.—After preaching … , I baptized two, and confirmed them at the water’s side. … We took our departure from Mount Pleasant. …

Friday, November 1.—I left Buffalo, New York, … and arrived at my house in Kirtland on Monday, the 4th … and found my family well, according to the promise of the Lord … , for which I felt to thank my Heavenly Father.

The sacrifice made by many Saints to serve missions brought great blessings to their lives. The Church was also blessed by the strength and faithfulness of the new members. In Canada, for example, many joined the Church, including a future President of the Church, John Taylor, and the mother of future President Joseph F. Smith, Mary Fielding.

(See History of the Church, vol. 1, pages 416–423.)

Illustrated by Robert T. Barrett