December 1830–May 1831

Gathering to Ohio

Lucy Smith’s faith and a miracle

In Ohio, more and more people were joining the Church. The Lord told Joseph Smith that the Saints living in other places should gather in Ohio. It would be a long journey. But the Lord promised that after they gathered, He would teach the Saints His law and bless them with power to do His work.

Doctrine and Covenants 37; 38:32; Saints, 1:109–110

Joseph’s mother, Lucy, and a group of about 80 Church members left their homes in New York and moved to Ohio. They got on a boat that would take them part of the way. After they had traveled for a few days, the boat had to stop. Thick ice in the water blocked their way.

Saints, 1:121–22

The Saints had to wait for the ice to break apart. They were tired, hungry, wet, and cold.

Saints, 1:122

It was hard to wait. Some of the Saints started to argue with each other.

Saints, 1:122

Lucy didn’t like hearing the Saints argue. She knew she needed to say something. “Where is your faith?” she asked. Lucy told the Saints that if they would pray to God, He would break up the ice so they could continue their journey.

Saints, 1:122–23

Suddenly, they heard a noise like thunder as the ice broke apart. A path opened in the ice, just wide enough for their boat to pass through.

Saints, 1:123

The Saints were surprised and grateful. They gathered to pray and thank Heavenly Father. Their boat traveled safely toward Ohio.

Saints, 1:123

When Saints got to Ohio, members of the Church there welcomed them and helped them find places to live. The Lord kept His promise to teach them His law and give them power to do His work.

Doctrine and Covenants 42; Saints, 1:126