Scripture Stories
Newel and Ann Whitney Meet the Prophet


“Newel and Ann Whitney Meet the Prophet,” Doctrine and Covenants Stories (2024)

“Newel and Ann Whitney Meet the Prophet,” Doctrine and Covenants Stories

October 1830–February 1831

Newel and Ann Whitney Meet the Prophet

Prayers of faith answered by the Lord

Ann and Newel Whitney praying.

Ann and Newel Whitney owned a store in Kirtland, Ohio. Ann did not grow up going to a church or learning about the Lord, but she wanted to know Him. After she and Newel got married, they prayed many times and asked the Lord to lead them.

Saints, 1:111–12

Ann and Newel having a vision.

One night during their prayer, Ann and Newel saw a vision. In the vision, a cloud rested over their house. The Spirit of God filled them. The cloud surrounded them. Then they heard a voice from heaven. It told them, “Prepare to receive the word of the Lord, for it is coming.”

Saints, 1:111

Ann learning about the gospel from Parley Pratt.

After a while, Parley Pratt came to Kirtland. He and his companions taught the gospel of Jesus Christ. As soon as Ann heard what they taught, she knew it was true. She went home to share the news with Newel. Soon they were baptized.

Saints, 1:112

Joseph and Emma Smith meeting Ann and Newel.

Two months later, a man and woman came to Newel’s store. Newel did not know them, but the man shook Newel’s hand and called Newel by his name. The man said, “I am Joseph the prophet.” He explained that the Lord was answering Newel’s prayers. He had sent Emma and Joseph to meet Ann and Newel.

Saints, 1:113

Ann and Newel invite Joseph and Emma Smith to stay with them.

Newel and Ann knew their vision was coming true. They asked Joseph and Emma to stay with them in their home. Ann and Newel loved Jesus and His gospel. They gave all that they had to the Saints and to the Savior’s Church.

Doctrine and Covenants 38:23–27, 34–42; Saints, 1:114