Jackson Conference Report
By B. B. Brigham
Jackson Mich., Conference.
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—This meeting has just closed. It was one of great interest. Brethren came from fifty to seventy-five miles, East West and North to hear for the first time the last message of mercy. Many broken-hearted confessions rendered the fore part of the meeting a truly weeping time. Those from a distance had heard so many slanderous reports circulated72for effect, that, until they saw and heard for themselves, they verily thought the dear church in Jackson were anything but the children of God. It is surprising to see how an over-ruling Providence makes the evil devices of our enemies to open the eyes of enquiring souls to see the difference between the chaff and the wheat, and those that keep the commandments of God and those that break them, and teach men so. At the close of the afternoon service on first-day, six were buried in baptism by Bro. Bates. The scene at the water was solemn and delightful. In the evening we repaired again to the house of worship, where we had the Lord's supper, and all the ordinances of the church of God. And though quite a number had to start for home, yet forty-five joyful brethren and sisters remained, and sat together in a heavenly place, while God's Spirit was poured upon us, and his banner over us was love. It seemed to me that I never before had such a glorious time. For many a dreary month previous, I had concluded that the sweet communications of the Spirit were not to be enjoyed in this mortal state. But let me say to any such desponding souls, that peace, love and joy inexpressible, yes, and a hope too, as an anchor to the soul, both sure and steadfast, can be obtained while in this tabernacle, by keeping the commandments of God, the faith of Jesus, and all the ordinances of the Lord's house. We have only to open the Bible, examine the practice of the primitive saints, and in the same path with them, follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth; and then God will pour out his blessing.—I speak from experience, praise the Lord. Permit me also to say that this state of humility, love, heaven-born peace and joy is, indispensable in order to meet the prevailing trials in this time of the patience of the saints. The Lord has greatly blessed the labors of Bro. Bates in this region, and there was much weeping on his departure; but his appointments were sent on, and he left, full of faith and the Holy Ghost. B. B. BRIGHAM.
North Plains, Mich., Aug. 18th, 1852.