zion’s advocate€¦ · zion’s advocate january/february-3-king josiah by elder gordon mccann...

Zion’s Advocate“And blessed are they who shall seek to bring forth my Zion at that day,

for they shall have the gift and the power of the Holy Ghost….”1 Nephi 3:187

VOLUME 92 INDEPENDENCE, MISSOURI—January-February 2015 NUMBER 1

~In This Issue~

EDITORIAL—King Josiah - Elder Gordon McCann. 3ARTICLE—The Book of Mormon and DNA - Elder

Bob Hedrick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5FROM the ARCHIVES—Story of the Small Pile of

Stones - Elder James Maynard Case, and TheCorner Stone - Samuel Wood . . . . . . . . . 9

TESTIMONY—My Experiences with Church History -Apostle Roland Sarratt . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15OBITUARY—Barbara Carole Housknecht-Kimball

(9/7/1945~7/21/2014) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21OBITUARY—Joyce M. Lussenden

(7/12/1933~3/1/2014) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21OBITUARY—Jeanette (Brantner) Cunningham

(6/8/1931~11/2/2014) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22NOTICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

“How sweet are thy words unto my taste! Yea, sweeter than honey to my

mouth. Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every

false way. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. I have

sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments.”

—Psalm 119:103-106

Smith N. Brickhouse, 5713 Logan Road, Kansas City, Missouri 64136; 816-356-9214; e-mail: [email protected] Ely, 18814 N. 30th Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85050; 602-569-1516; e-mail [email protected] Koyoc Matu, 99h Calle 24 x 17y 19, Yobain, Yucatan, Mexico; #011-52-991-911-3125; e-mail: [email protected] McGhee, 18907 E. 6th Street N., Independence, Missouri 64056; 816-796-6255; e-mail: [email protected] McIndoo, 18824 N. 30th Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85050; 602-569-1900; e-mail: [email protected] E. McIndoo, 18830 N. 30th Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85050Alvin J. Moser, 18829 N. 29th Place, Phoenix, Arizona 85050; 602-569-2414; e-mail: [email protected] Oldham, 2609 SW Wintervalley Circle, Lee’s Summit, MO 64081; 515-339-6226; [email protected] L. Sarratt, 15910 E. 36th Terrace, Independence, Missouri 64055; 816-373-6605; e-mail: [email protected] A. Sheldon, 1011 S. Cottage, Independence, Missouri 64050; 816-833-3995; e-mail: [email protected] Yates, 2924 E. Rockwood Drive, Phoenix, Arizona 85050; 602-569-9296; e-mail: [email protected]

GENERAL CHURCH OFFICERS

SECRETARY, COUNCIL OF APOSTLESApostle Duane Ely18814 N. 30th Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85050

SECRETARY, GENERAL BISHOPRICElder Leslie P. Case8312 Lee’s Summit Road; Kansas City, Missouri 64139

GENERAL CHURCH SECRETARYHarvey E. Seibel9800 E. 32nd Street S.; Independence, Missouri 64052

GENERAL CHURCH RECORDERElder Gordon McCann18808 N. 30th Street; Phoenix, AZ 85050

BUSINESS MANAGERElder Alvin L. HarrisChurch of ChristP.O. Box 472; Independence, Missouri 64051-0472

STATUS of PUBLISHED ARTICLES

Articles published in this paper do not neces-

sarily reflect the teachings of the Church, nor the

opinions of the editorial staff. Declarations and no-

tices authorized by the General Conference reflect

the practices and beliefs of the General Church.

ZION’S ADVOCATE IS…

To promote Jesus Christ as our only Saviour;

To promote His Teachings and His Church, the

Church of Christ;

To be a voice of warning to His people; to be

Zion’s advocate.

Visit us at: http://churchofchrist-tl.org/

ZION’S ADVOCATE STAFF

EDITORElder Gordon McCann18808 N. 30th StreetPhoenix, Arizona 85050E-mail:[email protected]

ASSOCIATE EDITORSApostle Placido K. MatuCalle 24 #99H x 17 y 19Yobain, Yucatan, Mexico

Priest Bruce Haines3904 Christopher CircleIndependence, MO 64055

PRODUCTION STAFFHarvey L. Seibel

THE APOSTLES of the CHURCH OF CHRIST

COVER PHOTO: Wellington, New Zealand, by Gordon McCann

Zion’s Advocate

JANUARY/FEBRUARY-3-

King Josiah

By Elder Gordon McCann

(Note: references can be found in 2

Kings chapters 22 thru 23 and 2

Chronicles chapters 34 thru 35.)

As I contemplated what I would

write about to start off this New

Year my mind was directed towards the

story of Josiah, king of Judah. Josiah

was eight years old when he ascended to

the throne of Judah.

Josiah’s great-grandfather was king

Hezekiah, who was 25 years old when

he ascended to the throne of Judah.During his reign of 29 years he, along

with the prophet Isaiah, oversaw the re-

pairing, cleansing, and rededication of

the temple in Jerusalem. The northern

kingdom of Israel had been overrun by

the Assyrian king Sennacherib due to

their wickedness of serving other gods,

which was an abomination before God.

The Assyrian king then turned his eyes

towards the southern kingdom of Ju-

dah, and sent threatening letters and

brought his mighty army to the borders

of Jerusalem. King Hezekiah was quick

to seek his God through humility and

prayer. God heard and preserved Ju-

dah in a mighty way where “…the an-

gel of the Lord went forth, and smote in

the camp of the Assyrians a hundred and

fourscore and five thousand: and when

they arose early in the morning, behold,

they were all dead corpses” (Isaiah

37:36). With the overnight death of

185,000 soldiers of the Assyrian army,

king Sennacherib of Assyria returned

home and was soon killed by his two

sons as prophesied by Isaiah, thus pre-

serving the southern kingdom of Judah

and averting the destruction of Jerusa-

lem by the hand of the Assyrians.

Now Jos iah’s grandfa ther,

Manasseh, who was 12 years old when

he ascended to the throne of Judah, was

quite different from his father Heze-

kiah. During king Manasseh’s reign of

55 years he did all that was in his power

as king to bring back into the lives of his

people all the idols, graven images,

witchcrafts, wizards, and abominations

that had been destroyed during the

reign of his father Hezekiah. The very

things for which God had condemned

the people “…whom the Lord had cast

out before the children of Israel” who

possessed the land prior to Israel’s oc-

cupation. King Manasseh went so far

as to set carved images that he had

made into the house of God. The Lord

spoke to Manasseh and to his people,

but they refused to listen to God’s warn-

ing voice. King Manasseh soon found

himself bound with chains and carried

off to Babylon. It was under these harsh

conditions that Manasseh finally ac-

knowledged God and sought forgive-

ness for the wickedness that he had

done, and what he had caused his peo-

ple to be part of as well. God had mercy

upon Manasseh, and he was returned

to his kingdom where he began to repair

the damage he had caused by removing

the idols and strange gods from the

house of the Lord. He also repaired the

altar of the Lord and began to sacrifice

according to the Law of Moses before

God. Even with all his efforts,

Manasseh was unable to undo every-

thing that he had done among the peo-

ple.

Josiah’s father, Amon, was 22 years

old when he ascended to the throne af-

ter his father Manasseh had died.

Sadly, Manasseh’s repentance had had

no effect upon his son Amon, who fol-

lowed in the early footsteps of

Manasseh by bringing back the idols in

the house of the Lord and the worship-

ing of graven images, which abomina-

tions almost destroyed his father. How-

ever, Amon was not so lucky, as his ser-

vants within two years of his reign mur-

dered him in his own house. The peo-

ple of Judah had had their fill; they

rounded up the servants who had con-

spired against Amon, slew them and set

the 8-year-old son of Amon, Josiah,

upon the throne in his stead.

EDITORIAL

Zion’s Advocate

JANUARY/FEBRUARY-4-

Josiah’s ascension to the throne at the

young age of 8 would see a 31 year reign

where it would be said of him, “And he

did that which was right in the sight of the

Lord, and walked in the ways of David

his father, and declined neither to the

right hand, nor to the left.”

Over the next eight years the young

king considered the paths that had been

taken by previous kings and the fruit

that those decisions had brought forth.

He decided to surround himself with

righteous individuals, the prophet Jere-

miah being one of those close mentors.

It was said of him, “…while he was yet

young he began to seek after the God of

David his father.” So it was in the 12th

year of his reign that at the young age of

twenty he began to purge Judah and Je-

rusalem of the abominations his forefa-

thers had brought in. It would eventu-

ally be a complete purging when he fin-

ished, even from the “… high places

and the groves...” that were built during

the days of Solomon, which had re-

mained. These were still a stumbling

block to Judah and the remnant of Israel

who had fled south after the Assyrian

invasion of the northern kingdom of Is-

rael. There was to be no stone or grave

left unturned until all had been

“…beaten …into powder.”

Towards the 18th year of Josiah’s

reign, he began the much needed re-

pairs to the house of the Lord after the

removal and destruction of the idols

within. Josiah gathered those who had

collected the money for the repair of the

house and delivered the collection to the

high priest, Hilkiah. Hilkiah then de-

livered the money to the workmen who

were responsible for the repairs, who

then began the restoration to the house.

It was during this time that Hilkiah had

found “…a book of the law of the Lord

given by Moses” and had it brought to

Josiah. The words of the book were

read to the king and it was said of him,

after hearing the words, “…that he rent

his clothes.” The words of the book

placed a heavy burden upon his heart in

that he requested his servants to inquire

of the Lord, “…for me, and for them

that are left in Israel and in Judah…for

great is the wrath of the Lord that is

poured out upon us, because our fathers

have not kept the word of the Lord, to do

after all that is written in this book.”

The Lord spoke through the proph-

etess Huldah, who delivered the words

of the Lord to the young king of Judah.

The Lord reiterated the promises of de-

struction to those who ignored those

things that had been written, to those

who had indulged in idolatry and

abominations before him and said,

“…therefore my wrath shall be poured

out upon this place, and shall not be

quenched.”

The Lord spoke to Josiah and said,

“Because thine heart was tender, and

thou didst humble thyself before God,

when thou heardest his words against

this place and against the inhabitants

thereof…I will gather thee to thy fa-

thers…to thy grave in peace, neither

shall thine eyes see all the evil that I will

bring upon this place.” Thus we see that

God fulfilled his promise found in the

written Word, “He that is righteous is fa-

vored of God” (1 Nephi 5:122).

The story of Josiah king of Judah,

provides us with a clear understanding

of how God works in the lives of his peo-

ple, young or old. The story also gives

us a good example of God’s expecta-

tions as to what He requires of each of

us, if we truly want God in our lives in a

positive way. It is a tradition at this time

of the year to reflect upon the past year’s

triumphs and failures, then to set goals

with a determination to make the

needed changes in our lives. The Word

of God tells us to “…work out your sal-

vation with fear before God” (Alma

16:237) and to “…humble yourselves

even in the depths of humility, calling on

the name of the Lord daily, and standing

steadfastly in the faith of that which is to

come” (Mosiah 2:21).

Let’s review the things that Josiah

did to draw himself close to the Lord

whereby he became favored of God:

� Surrounded himself with peo-

ple of faith and men of God

� Humbled himself and dili-

gently sought after God with a

true desire to keep His com-

mandments

� Completely purged out those

things that were an offense to

God…nothing was overlooked

� Made full use of the written

Word of God

� Kept the commands of God

in all things

I will leave you with the words of

Alma the high priest, who had made a

similar journey of faith as Josiah, which

changed his life and standing before

God where he became “favored of

God.”

“Have ye walked, keeping

yourselves blameless before God?

Could ye say, if ye were called to

die at this time, within yourselves,

that ye have been sufficiently hum-

ble? That your garments have

been cleansed and made white,

through the blood of Christ, who

will come to redeem his people

f rom the i r s ins?” (Alma

3:47-49).

Zion’s Advocate

JANUARY/FEBRUARY-5-

By Elder Bob Hedrick

“The overwhelming evidencenegates the Book of Mormonclaim that the American Indianrepresents a genealogical de-scendant of Israel.”

This statement is from apopular video produc-tion which attempts to

cast doubt on the validity of theBook of Mormon. The belief inthe Book of Mormon is not apopular belief and has been at-tacked since it was first pub-lished. In the past, variouscriticisms have been raisedwhich become popular for awhile, but eventually becomeforgotten because they are not

based on truth. From time totime these criticisms are re-vived but don’t last very longwhen closely examined in thelight of truth. Most recently,detractors of the Book of Mor-mon have made the claim thatDNA evidence has finallyproven the Book of Mormon“false.” In order to answer thequestion of whether DNA dis-proves the Book of Mormon, abrief review of what the Book ofMormon claims, DNA and itslimitations, and a closer look atthe actual genetic researchdone by scientists needs to beconsidered.

A Brief Review of theBook of Mormon

The Book of Mormon is arecord of the ancient in-habitants of the Ameri-

cas. It records the migration ofthree different groups of peoplewhich were led by God to a“land of promise.” The firstmigration occurred around2200 BC after leaving thetower of Babel (Genesis 11),probably located in ancientMesopotamia. This society col-lapsed and destroyed itself.The second (and primary) mi-

gration was led by a mannamed Lehi who was an Israel-ite from the tribe of Mannaseh,one of the sons of Joseph whowas sold into Egypt. This mi-gration was from Jerusalem inabout 600 BC, just prior to thecity being conquered and car-ried away captive by the Baby-lonians (II Kings 25, IIChronicles 36). This groupeventually split into two majorgroups called the Nephites andthe Lamanites. The last migra-tion occurred shortly after thecapture of Jerusalem.

Each of these groups ofpeople recorded their religioushistory, as well as other signifi-cant events. They recorded theprophecies they received andthe spiritual direction theywere given from time to time,as well as their times of warand times of peace. They alsorecorded the blessings they re-ceived when they obeyed God’scommandments and the conse-quences they suffered whenthey were disobedient. Thepeople who were alive at thetime of Christ record that Hevisited them after His resurrec-tion as well as the things thatHe taught them (see John

ARTICLE

The Book of Mormon

and DNA

Zion’s Advocate

JANUARY/FEBRUARY-6-

10:16).Several generations after

the appearance of Jesus Christ,the Nephites were in spiritualand moral decline. A mannamed Mormon made anabridgement of the sacred re-cords he had in his possession.His purpose was to preservethe sacred writings with thehope that God would somedayrestore the descendants of thepeople to the knowledge thatthey were one of the lost tribesof Israel and to the belief in Je-sus Christ that they once had.After his death, this abridge-ment was completed by his son,Moroni. The last entry in thisrecord was made shortly after420 AD, and then was hiddenby Moroni at the direction ofGod.

A brief review ofDNA and itslimitations

The human body is madeup of trillions of cells or-ganized into different

systems, organs and tissuesworking together to supportthe life of the entire physicalbody. Within each cell is achemical chain of nucleic acidsin a precise sequence whichacts as a controller of eachcell’s functions and thereforethe overall function of the tis-sues, organs and systems. Thischemical chain is called deoxy-ribonucleic acid or DNA and ifuncoiled looks similar to a lad-der.

The DNA is organized into23 pairs of chromosomes. Eachhuman being gets one set of 23

chromosomes from their fatherand one set of 23 chromosomesfrom their mother. Continuingwith the ladder analogy, eachset of chromosomes containsabout 3 billion “rungs” calledbase pairs.

Each time a cell divides,which is a continual processwithin our bodies, the DNAmakes a copy of itself so eachnew cell has a complete set ofDNA. This process beginsshortly after conception in thewomb of the mother. The DNAfrom the father combines withthe DNA from the mother anda new unique life is begun.Within this original cell, theDNA is present which will di-rect the growth and specializa-tion of the cells into bone, mus-cle, organs, systems and tissuesof the entire organism. Eachtime the DNA makes a copy ofitself there is the possibility of aflaw in one or more of the“rungs,” called a mutation.These mutations are identifiedand cataloged and, along withnormal genetic variation, arewhat makes each individual’sDNA unique.

Since DNA is so unique,like fingerprints, law enforce-ment is able to use that infor-mation to help identify andcharge a suspect involved in acrime if they have DNA evi-dence from a crime scene. Thisuniqueness is also used toprove paternity in cases wherea court is attempting to deter-mine which individual is the bi-ological parent of a particularchild. In each case, at least twosamples from known sources

are required in order to be ableto compare and determineidentity or relationship. This isan important limitation ofDNA evidence.

There are also portions ofthe father’s and mother’s DNAwhich are passed only from fa-ther to son (in the Y chromo-some) or from mother todaughter (in the parts of thecell called the mitochondria, ormtDNA). These portions of theDNA can be studied and usedto show different familygroups. Scientists have col-lected data from many individ-uals in isolated areas from,hopefully, genetically purelines of heritage as far back inhistory as possible. They iden-tified many of these mutationsand grouped them together.These groups are calledhaplogroups. This is the rawdata which is then filtered andinterpreted into various con-clusions and published in sci-entific journals. The claim bysome is that these studiesprove that Native Americansare not descendants of Israelbecause the mutations mostcommonly found in NativeAmerican populations do notclosely coincide with thosefound in Jewish populations.This claim is repeated fre-quently and loudly, but a closerreview of the research exposessome interesting suppositions.

A closer look atgenetic research

When scientists pre-pare the results oftheir research for

Zion’s Advocate

JANUARY/FEBRUARY-7-

interpretation, they begin witha set of assumptions throughwhich they filter their data inan effort to understand itsmeaning. These assumptionsinfluence or even determinetheir conclusions. These as-sumptions are not generallymentioned by those who mayuse those results for their ownpurposes, such as the critics ofthe Book of Mormon, whenthey make their claims. For in-stance, the studies that aremost often referenced(Underhill, P.A. et al; Hammerand Zegura) begin with an as-sumption that “the modern hu-man species originates from asingle evolutionary event.” Forthis reason, in an effort to de-cide which mutation occurredfirst, the scientists comparedthe mutations to similar por-tions of the DNA of great apes(e.g., chimpanzees, gorillas andorangutans) because of the be-lief that humans have a com-mon ancestor with thoseprimates. The fundamental as-sumption of the theory of evo-lution as an explanation of alllife and all new life forms is theroot from which the DNA“tree” is built. Recently therehave been many excellentsources of information whichchallenge the theory of evolu-tion and its validity (see Dar-win’s Black Box by MichaelBehe).

The assumption of the de-velopment of all life by meansof evolution results in re-searchers spreading the muta-tions in the human genomeover 70,000 to 130,000 years.

This despite other studieswhich suggest a much morefrequent rate of mutation,some bringing the estimatedtime to as little as 6500 yearsago (Parsons, et al., 1997).With the assumed rate of muta-tion the studies used, most ofthe mutations would have oc-curred before the migrationsrecorded in the Book of Mor-mon from Jerusalem approxi-mately 2600 years ago. How-ever, if a literal biblical perspec-tive (i.e. Adam and Eve werecreated and then driven fromthe Garden of Eden about 6000years ago and the flood at thetime of Noah was 4000-5000years ago) is applied to the rawdata and a more frequent rateof mutation is used, as much as60 percent of the mutationswould have occurred after theseparation of the Book of Mor-mon populations from the restof Israel. Therefore, it wouldnaturally be very difficult tofind similarities in DNA.

Many who claim that DNAdisproves the Book of Mormonpoint to the fact that studiesshow that the Y chromosomeDNA (from the father) of mostNative American DNA is mostsimilar to the populations inEast and Central Asia. How-ever, the Book of Mormon itselfonly records a period of timefrom roughly 2200 BC to 400AD. It makes no claim to ex-plain the presence of all popu-lations found in both Americancontinents before Columbus.While the raw data indicatesthe similarity between NativeAmerican and Siberian DNA,

genetic evidence alone doesn’tfully explain migration pat-terns. Some scientists haveeven hypothesized that thesimilarity is “better explainedby back-migration of malesfrom North America to Siberiawith subsequent gene flow inAsia” (Hammer and Karafet).

So what does DNAtell us?

The collection and organi-zation of the raw datadoes have merit. The or-

ganization of populations intohaplogroups can show the rela-tionship between the popula-tions. Software programs areused by scientists to calculatethe “genetic distances” be-tween populations. Those pop-ulations which are moresimilar genetically are groupedcloser together on a “tree.”The result is that the “NativeAmerican Y chromosomesshow remarkably close associa-tion with Caucasoid (Europeanand Indian) Y chromosomes,”while “other Siberian popula-tions are very distinct, cluster-ing with other Asians”(Santos,et al., 1999). This result pointsto the possibility that they mayactually share a common an-cestry as claimed.

There are also many inter-esting developments regardingthe research done on the fe-male chromosome (mtDNA)haplogroups. There is ahaplogroup which has beenfound in small amounts inmodern Native Americans aswell as ancient Americanswhich is also found in small

Zion’s Advocate

JANUARY/FEBRUARY-8-

amounts in Europe and AsiaMinor, but not found in Asia.This suggests “the possibilitythat some Native Americanfounders were of Caucasian an-cestry” (Brown, et al., 1998).Another researcher suggestsan “early split” of this NativeAmerican haplogroup “likelyat the beginning of their expan-sion and spread from the NearEast” (Reidla, et al., 2003).These findings pose significantproblems for the popular the-ory that all migrations of Na-tive Americans came from Si-beria.

While these are interest-ing observations, new discover-ies in the future may changewhat scientists believe theyknow. Therefore, cautionshould be used when attempt-ing to apply any new scientificdiscovery to support a religiousbelief.

Conclusion

After reviewing the limi-tations of DNA com-parison and exploring

the assumptions made by thescientists who have publishedgenetic research, there is noDNA evidence which “dis-proves” the Book of Mormon.In fact, no peer-reviewed scien-tific research has been per-formed or published regardingthe question of DNA evidencerelative to the Book of Mor-mon. While there are populartheories, no definitive ances-tral population or migratorypath for the ancient inhabit-ants of the Americas have beendetermined scientifically.

There are no available samplesof DNA from populations posi-tively identified in the Book ofMormon for direct comparison.The published scientific stud-ies which are cited by critics ofthe Book of Mormon assumeevolution as the origin of all lifeand over a very long period oftime. These assumptions ulti-mately determine the conclu-sions reached. When the rawdata is viewed through the lensof a biblical worldview it actu-ally provides a logical line ofreasoning that the events de-scribed in Scripture are possi-ble.

Matters of faith, like thebelief in God, the Bible or theBook of Mormon are not sub-ject to study by science becauseit cannot be observed or mea-sured. Likewise science willnever be able to “disprove” oreven “prove” the validity of theBook of Mormon, or the Bibleor Creation. These are super-natural things of faith and spir-ituality. Paul tells us that“…the natural man receivethnot the things of the Spirit ofGod: for they are foolishnessunto him: neither can he knowthem, because they are spiritu-ally discerned” (I Corinthians2:14).

The belief in the Book ofMormon is not popular in to-day’s society and will continueto be attacked as it has beensince it was first published.Critics have used other argu-ments in the past and will un-doubtedly think of new ones inthe future. These criticismsappeal to those who already

don’t believe, whose assump-tions have already determinedtheir conclusions about theBook of Mormon. Like the crit-icisms of the past, the attemptto claim that DNA disprovesthe Book of Mormon fails whenthe question is examined in thelight of truth.

REFERENCESUnderhill, P.A., et al.(2000), Thephylogeography of Y chromosome bi-nary haplotypes and origins of mod-ern human populations, Ann. Hum.Genet. 65:43-62

Hammer, Michael F., and Zegura, Ste-phen L., (2002),The Human Y Chro-mosome Haplogroup Tree: Nomen-clature and Phylgeography of Its Ma-jor Divisions, Annu. Rev. Anthropol.,31:303-21

Hammer, Michael, and Karafet,Tatiana, DNA & the Peopling of Sibe-r i a ,www.mnh.si.edu/arctic/html/peopling_siberia.html

Santos, Fabricio R., et al., (1999), TheCentral Siberian Origin for NativeAmerican Y Chromosomes, Am. J.Hum. Genet. 64:619-628

Parsons, TJ, et al. (1997), A high ob-served substitution rate in the humanmitochondrial DNA control region.Nat Genet 15:363–368

Brown, Michael D., et al.(1998),mtDNA Haplogroup X: An AncientLink between Europe/Western Asiaand North America?, Am. J. Hum.Genet. 63:1852-1861

Reidla, Maere, et al. (2003), Originand Diffusion of mtDNA HaplogroupX, Am. J. Hum. Genet. 73:1178-1190

Zion’s Advocate

JANUARY/FEBRUARY-9-

Story of the

Small Pile

of StonesBy Elder James Maynard Case, reprinted

The following is an accounting of the sacrednessto the Indians of this spot of ground (The Tem-

ple Lot). On the north side of the CentennialMarker on the church lawn there is a plaque describ-ing a pile of small stones that marked the site of thetemple. In our research we found in Oberlin Collegeat Oberlin, Ohio, the poems of Hiawatha byLongfellow. These poems tell that the Indians metupon this sacred piece of ground centuries ago, hold-ing their ceremonies, and their worship services. Itseems there were those among them that had differ-ent ideas and wanted to do things their way, whichcaused confusion and finally war among the Indians.There were many killed. At the height of the con-flict, a white personage with a beard appeared andshamed them for the things they had done here uponthis sacred spot of ground. He told them to go downto the river and wash off. (It is a shame that it cannotbe said in the poem verses as Longfellow placedthem.) This personage instructed them to go back totheir reservations and select a man among each tribeto carry a small stone back to the place and mark thespot where the great Lodge was to be built for Christto come to, as spoken of in the Book of Mormon. Sowe find that there have been preparations and dedica-tions for some time here upon this ground.

The Corner StoneBy Samuel Wood(later an Apostle in the Church of Christ)

Brother Arthur Brackenberry, one of the oldtime members of the Reorganization in Inde-

pendence in the early days, while in conversation withthe writer, stated that he knew the very place wherethe corner stone of the Temple was laid by JosephSmith, on the 3rd day of August, 1831. He described apile of rocks which for “years and years” had markedthe exact spot where the stone was laid. In after yearswhen the old road bed across from the Temple Lotwas filled in, the stones were scattered. BrotherBrackenberry stated that he knew within ten feet ofwhere they lay. And the place is just a few feet off thesouthwest corner of the white building occupied bythe “Church of Christ—Temple Lot.” This would bethe correct place for the building if it is to occupy thelot now owned by the Church of Christ.

Many years ago when I was a boy and whilea t tending a Genera l Conference of theReorganization, Elder T.W. Chatburn, one of thegreatest missionaries of the church, and who was mymother’s brother, led me over to the Temple Lot andpointed out the spot where the corner stone was laid,describing the pile of rocks and the clump of brushjust as Brother Brackenberry had as related above. Itwill be remembered that the family of Brother T. W.Chatburn was among the first members of theReorganization to settle Independence, and to hisdeath, T. W. Chatburn held to the belief that some time in the

future the temple would be erected by divine command on the spot

where the pile of rocks and the clump of brush marked the place

where the corner stone was laid by Joseph Smith.

Reprinted from the Zion’s Advocate fromFebruary 1927

FROM the ARCHIVES

Zion’s Advocate

JANUARY/FEBRUARY-10-

Visual Evidence of the Stones on the Temple Lot?Do you see a light colored mass at the bottom of one of the trees

near where the NE corner marker would be?

The Temple Lot – Independence, MissouriView East Northeast towards the Jackson County courthouse (center horizon).

Photograph by C. Ed Miller taken between 1902, when the Temple Lot Church was finished, and 1907when the courthouse remodel was completed. The shape of the courthouse tower was changed to a box

style at that time.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Zion’s Advocate


My Experiences with

Church History

By Apostle Roland Sarratt

Having been raised to be-lieve in this Church ofChrist, I had the advan-

tage of learning the gospel ofChrist and some of the partic-ulars of the history of thischurch early in my life. Thetruth of the gospel was easy toembrace as a child, and the Bi-ble and the Book of Mormonwere read and taught to us as afamily regularly. When I was

in my preteens we started hav-ing Sunday School and churchservices in a one-room schoolhouse across the road fromour farm home.

The history of the churchwith its uniqueness was alsorelated to me in various ways,but I barely understood thevaried accounts of how thechurch was split into severalindependent organizations.The fact that my parents did-n’t belong to the same churchas their siblings on both sideswas barely comprehended byme. It was apparent that mostall of them were members ofthe same church at one time,but my parents had left thatchurch and had joined thisChurch of Christ. I was awarethat most of them believed inthe Bible and the Book of Mor-mon.

Although the history of thechurch was taught to me ver-bally, I had very little exposureto the latter-day revelations.The Doctrine and Covenantsand the Book of Command-ments were not read or dis-cussed much until I had be-

come an adult. My parentswere strong in their convic-tions of the Bible and theBook of Mormon, and my fa-ther counseled me to read andpray over the Book of Mormonthat I might receive a witnessof its truthfulness.

As a child I had become veryinterested in the Book of Mor-mon. I tried to read it but Iwasn’t quite old enough to un-derstand what I was reading.There had been some occa-sions when I felt the Spirit ofGod when it was read to me.After I left home, I began tomore seriously study the Bookof Mormon, and on one occa-sion I was overcome with theSpirit of God. The Spirit waswith me for some time. I wasgiven a witness of the truthful-ness of that book which hasstayed with me to this veryday.

Unfortunately, by that timechurch history had compli-cated my convictions con-cerning this church. Therehad been many views and un-certainties exposed to me bythe time I had become an

TESTIMONY

Zion’s Advocate


adult. Although my motherand others had talked to meabout being baptized, I didn’tfeel convinced that thischurch was the true Church ofChrist. There were too manyuncertainties that I didn’t feelright about. I went on a questto find out what church wasthe right church, but I endedup being more confused anddissatisfied. Finally I did whatI should have done to startwith: I prayed to God askingHim which church was right.He had to answer me twice be-fore I got the message. Then Ihad to sorely repent of my sinsand be baptized.

Immediately I was in thearena of doctrinal contro-versy. The church was torn byconflicting concepts estab-lished with highly emphasizedpoints of debate. Within ayear I was called and ordainedan elder, and the pressure wason me to align myself with onecause or the other. Usually Ifound that many of the causeswere beyond my ability to fullyunderstand and to adequatelydefend. Nonetheless I felt itmy duty to take a side andfight for the cause. Theredidn’t seem to be any middleground.

As church history seemed tobe a necessity in most all de-bates, I was forced to searchfor the truth in the historybooks that were available tome, along with the Book ofCommandments and the Doc-trine and Covenants. Therewere several things that Ifound in church history that

didn’t seem to fit with the gos-pel as I understood it. No mat-ter on which side I found my-self in an issue, I was alwaysconfronted with an opposingargument. This was truly atrial for me. It seemed thatthe beauty of the gospel ofChrist was repeatedly treadeddown to make way for theshow of superior knowledgeand understanding of man.

As I look back on the situa-tion now, I recall the pain ofthe constant fight of contro-versy. When certain truthswhich I had come to hold dearwere subject to be exposed asbeing false, it was like a knifebeing plunged into my verybeing. At first retaliation wasugly; and I had no desire tohurt others as I was beinghurt. Then at some point mynatural reactions to defendmyself came to life, and I triedto respond by proving mystance. If I was ever successfulof really convincing someonethat I was right and they werewrong by my wit or superiorknowledge, I don’t recall it.My simple conclusion is thatdebating church doctrine isnot the way of attaining per-sonal righteousness.

Nothing that I had experi-enced during the early part ofmy ministry prepared me forwhat I was to experience in mylater years. When I began tocompile data for church his-tory, the real truth found onthe pages of the church con-ference minutes revealed tome just how great is the follyof men. The actual accom-

plishments usually were goodand needed, but the process ofattaining those accomplish-ments showed how inade-quate human minds are in anyorderly system of makingrules, even when a parliamen-tary procedure was used.

There were times I wouldhave to stop my efforts of re-searching historical data toregain a positive sense in mymind. The debates would be-come too real and I would bereliving them mentally. Iended up documenting thepertinent conference actionsfor reference purposes andnot giving personal commentson most issues lest I be guiltyof arousing the wills of thosewho might want to start thewar on controversial mattersagain.

Comparing the writtenword of God in the scripturesthat we have with our personalefforts to put into words sim-ple statements of rule, I haveto agree with Moroni when hesaid, “...when we write, we be-hold our weakness, and stum-ble because of the placing ofour words...” (excerpt fromEther 5:26). The inherenttrust in manmade rules is infact a Gentile trait that wemust deal with in our humanaffairs if we don’t have suffi-cient faith in the Lord.

Some valuable books anddocuments were made avail-able to the church in recentyears pertinent to the lawsuitin 1891 when the RLDSChurch sued the Church ofChrist for the temple prop-

Zion’s Advocate


erty. I felt the urgency tostudy that case to acquaintmyself with the facts. By read-ing the court record and theeffort made in defense of theChurch of Christ by the one incharge, along with the churchminutes and other bits of in-formation, I was faced withfacts that I could hardly be-lieve existed.

My personal evaluation ofthe church at the time of thefirst court hearing is simplythis: it was the lowest pointthis church has ever experi-enced. However, by the end ofthe second court (the appeal),this church had made a com-plete turnaround. Coming tothe realization of these hap-penings, as hard as they are toaccept, I am more than everconvinced of the truth thatthe Lord acted in our behalf.This is because He has a pur-pose in this church.

There are many evidences inour history that have provedto me that the Lord has pre-served this small group of peo-ple as the remnant of the orig-inal church. That is what wedeclare, but only we are privi-leged to know that as a truth.It is not because we are morerighteous than other churchgroups, but it is because theLord has determined to savethis church in spite of our ownwillful ways. We have acknowl-edged the faults and mistakesof man, but we have also rec-ognized the simple truths thathave been revealed and con-firmed to us. Our only qualifi-cation for the favor of the Lord

has been that we have held onto those truths.

At the time this church, theChurch of Christ, had de-clared itself as being separatefrom the other divisions in the1850s, it had renounced cer-tain teachings and practicesthat had been accepted by oneof the larger groups. Contraryto that position, the one incharge of defending theChurch of Christ during thefirst court had resorted to us-ing those teachings and prac-tices as a means of defenseagainst the claims of theRLDS Church. In reality hewas not defending thischurch, but rather he was us-ing members of the largerchurch as witnesses suppos-edly to counter the RLDSChurch. He was actually sup-porting the teachings andpractices of the larger churchwhich this Church of Christhad officially renounced at anearlier time.

When the man who was incharge realized he had lost thecase, he and his family left theChurch of Christ. The mem-bers of this church then ral-lied to appeal the case; andthey had to go to a great ex-pense and make personal sac-rifices to do so. By the hand ofGod they were able to win thatappeal. The fact is that theycould not change the originaldefense except to declare thatthe man who had been incharge was no longer repre-senting this church. The hor-rible fact is that the court re-cord of the case still retains

those witnesses, although wedeny them as being trueteachings and practices ofthis church.

As I have wrestled with thisfact, I have had to open mymind to accept a viewpointthat I had never been able tocome close to experiencingbefore. In His own way, theLord has revealed to this rem-nant of His church the simpletruth about mankind in theflesh. There is no mortal manequal to the person of JesusChrist in righteousnesswhereby he would qualify tooccupy the position of JesusChrist as the head of thechurch. That position wasnever to be given as a ministe-rial office, but when man hasdetermined to establish suchan office, it is a sign that thechurch is becoming apostate.That is a scriptural historicalfact which has been declaredas a necessity for the restora-tion of the gospel of Christand the establishment of theChurch of Christ is these lat-ter days.

So we of the Church ofChrist say that those who havedeclared that the Lord JesusChrist has set in His church anoffice wherein a mortal man isto occupy in the place of JesusChrist as head of the churchhave made a serious error.That error has made it possi-ble for the exaltation of manto be equal to Jesus Christ.Some have declared that Jo-seph Smith and other menwho were accepted as beingthe president of their church

Zion’s Advocate


made no mistakes; everythingthey said or did was the abso-lute truth because of the posi-tion they claimed to hold.Also, it has been reasoned thata later revelation which con-flicts with a former revelationor scripture can become therule. In other words, God maychange His mind from onetime to another.

We believe that God is thesame yesterday, today and for-ever. So it is true that this isnot a real concern in thischurch today, but in fact it wasa concern in the 1850’s andagain in the 1920’s, whichmakes it a concern when westudy church history now. Wehave to understand how ourchurch fathers thought onvarious subjects even whentheir beliefs seem to conflictwith our beliefs today.

Especially we should realizethat at certain times in his-tory the Lord has reacheddown and rescued this handfulof people out of the murky wa-ters of apostasy. It was a pro-cess which was an ongoingthing. In fact we should real-ize that we are in the processof being purged and cleansedeven now. The church is yet tobe set in order and prepared asa bride for the Bridegroom.We cannot prepare ourselvesindependent of Jesus Christ,but we must strive against ourown carnal ways for the Lordto endow us more fully withHis Holy Spirit, that we maybecome a holy people.

A very helpful fact of historyconcerning this Church of

Christ is something that wemention quite often. Thischurch has never been a partof any of the other so-calledrestoration churches. Ofcourse, we were all one churchprior to Joseph Smith’s death.After his death, the churchsplit up into several groups asa result of being led by menwho claimed the right of theoffice of which Joseph Smithoccupied, i.e.: the office ofPresident of the High Priest-hood. This group of membersresided in Illinois and Indianasome distance south and eastfrom Nauvoo, Illinois. Itseems evident to me that theLord kept those people sepa-rate for His own purposes, al-though they might not haverealized it at that time.

Our church fathers deter-mined to return this church tothe original church structureand teachings of the church asorganized on April 6, 1830,and to pattern it after the NewTestament church. They didnot focus on the church as itwas at the time of JosephSmith’s death. In the 1920’sthis church determined thatcertain innovations had beenmade in the church whichwere not authorized by theLord. They had to realize thatas a fact and take action tomake corrections accordingly.That was no easy task and theylabored hard in their confer-ence bodies.

Through the years thischurch had considered merg-ing with one of the otherchurches, but by one means or

another it appears that theLord allowed certain things tohappen to prevent this peoplefrom merging or joining thatchurch or any of the others.This has been proven to havehappened somewhat contraryto the will of this people at thetime, but divine providencerescued us.

And so it is that this Churchof Christ exists today only be-cause the Lord has deter-mined it. The preservation ofthis church has not been byany single heroic act of man orset of men, but by the hand ofGod. Be prepared to seeGod’s hand in all events yet fu-ture. We have seen His hand inthe past; we can see His handin the present; if we look, wewill see His hand in the future.Let’s look for His hand, for it iswritten, “His hand isstretched out still.”

Zion’s Advocate


Greetings from the Bradley, Michi-gan Local of the Church of Christ.

The Lord has truly blessed us since Ilast reported.

The past year again seemed to just flyby. With a never-ending winter thatMichiganders and many other statesexperienced this past year, we thankGod for the safety of our brothers andsisters traveling on the roads and keep-ing them safe from the perils of such ahard winter.

The Michigan 2014 Reunion washeld June 28 and 29th. AmandaStratton took over the kitchen commit-tee at this year’s 2014 Michigan Re-union. Her goal was to design themeals so that the women working inthe kitchen wouldn’t have to miss beingpart of the services. She definitely ac-complished her goal and still the mealswere wonderful! Amanda also last yearbecame our new Church Recorder, tak-ing over the position from Laurie Jones.In 2013 we added Gerry Lee as ourChurch Photographer. Steven Strattonjoined our classes assisting Br. GerryLee and Br. Ted Lee as Sunday SchoolSuperintendent Co-chair. Elder Adam

Porter remains as our Pastor, withElder Dennis Trudgen as Assistant Pas-tor, and Elder Chris Moran assistingwith our Sunday morning sermons.

At our 2013 Michigan State Reunionon Sunday June 9th we were veryblessed to have our Brother ChrisMoran called as Elder. He was ordainedby Apostle Joel Yates, assisted by EldersAdam Porter and Dennis Trudgen. Ourbrother Chris had made himself readyto meet whatever Christ has in store forhim. It has been evident with his mes-sages each time he has preached. The

Lord is truly using him to bring Hismessage to the congregation, as well asthose able to listen in via live streaming.Also, the studies that he brings to usalong with our Br. Trudgen on ourTuesday night via Skype are truly some-thing you don’t want to miss. If youwould like more details, our Bradleyweb s i t e i s :www.churchofchristbradley.org.

Last year on July 21, 2013, we addedthree new members through baptism:George Greig, Mike Jones, and StevenStratton. What a blessed day it was to

NEWS

� Baptism of Mike Jones

Zion’s Advocate


join together to witness such an eventas this. I’m usually writing about thebirth of a new baby, but being bornagain is equally important and the mostimportant decision we will make in ourlifetime. I know our Lord is welcomingeach of them with open arms. One ofthose baptized, being my companion, Iam looking forward to sharing this gos-pel and growing stronger together serv-ing our Lord and Savior. At thebaptisms Pastor Porter had the chil-dren sitting at a small picnic table bythe shore. There isn’t a better examplethan that for our young ones!

On August 21, 2013, our Br. Jay andSr. Evelyn celebrated their 65th anni-versary. What a blessing they are to ourchurch local, and I know a blessing toeach other and the many years theyhave shared together. Our Sister Evelynhas used her God-given gift of makingquilts for gifts throughout the years.Now the last few years she also makeslap quilts for those in need at hospitalsand nursing homes and anywhere elsethe need arises.

On Labor Day weekend Br. Dennis

and Sr. Betsy Trudgen opened theirhome again for others to camp in theiryard to enjoy rafting, canoeing, hikingand fellowship one with another. OnSunday everyone enjoyed coming therefor services with Elder Chris Moran giv-ing the message on “Temptations of Sa-tan,” asking the questions: What doesSatan whisper in your ear? Has Satanfound a weakness in your life? Endinghis message with (I Peter 5:8): “Be so-ber, be vigilant; because your adversarythe devil, as a roaring lion, walkethabout, seeking whom he may devour.”(We must always be found in prayer.)

September 20th Br. Adam Porteragain hosted this year’s annual pigroast. We get many visitors: Elder MikeBevaart came the farthest, from Can-ada, as he has done many times before.The food and fellowship we all shareone with another is always a fun andspiritually uplifting time for all.

On October 25 & 26, 2013, we hadour annual Ladies Sleepover hosted bySister Betsy Trudgen at her home inBelding, Michigan. Our theme was theParable of the Ten Virgins from Mat-thew 25. The night of the sleepover atmidnight we got the wake-up call tobring our lanterns and meet in the liv-ing room. Remember the story: What itmeans to be ready. Would we all havelanterns or sufficient light to be ready togo and meet our Lord? During ourWomen’s Retreat. Mary Lee led a classon Procrastination. The meaning (holduntil tomorrow), why we procrasti-nate? Fear, time, dreading, tired, age.What we are afraid of? Do not procrasti-nate the day of your salvation!

Another presentation was led byJoyce Lee on gossip. We all know thedangers involved with gossiping that ledto much discussion. Our last presenta-tion was by Kelli Moran with her daugh-ter Lydia helping. They had made ajeopardy-type question board with Bi-ble answers with everyone coming upwith the correct question. It was a lot offun for everyone. Again we thank Sr.Betsy and Bro. Dennis for opening uptheir home for our ladies annualsleepover. Plans for this year ’sWomen’s Retreat (sleepover) will be onOct. 24 & 25.

This past winter in Florida we werevery fortunate to have visits from ElderLeslie Case and his son Elder Jim Case.

� Jay & Evelyn’s 65th Anniversary

� Evelyn Lee

Zion’s Advocate


They were able to come to Jeff andBeverly Butts’ home in the JensenBeach area where we had a meeting onJanuary 19, 2014, with Randy and MaryLee and George and Loretta Greig at-tending. It is always wonderful to enjoytime with them and the messages theyare able to bring to us.

On February 9, 2014, Elder DennisTrudgen and wife Betsy visited us at ourbrother Randy and Sister Mary’s homein the Port St. Lucie area. Randy’s par-ents Jay and Evelyn have now joinedthem to spend the winter with them. Itwas so nice to be able to have a serviceand sacrament. Elder Dennis and wifeBetsy reside for the winter in Lakeland,

Florida.Also on March 26, 2014, again at

Randy and Mary’s home, we were vis-ited by Elder Bob Oldham and his wifeJennifer. We all thoroughly enjoyed hismessage and look forward to his visits.

We are sad to report that our faithfulSister Joyce Lussenden went to be withher Lord and Savior on March 1, 2014.Her husband Laverne, our previouspastor for 37 years, has now beenplaced on kidney dialysis three times aweek. With our brother having only onearm it remains a major concern withbleeding and still being able to use hisarm. Please remember our Br. Verneand the Lussenden family with your

prayers.Please especially remember in your

prayers our Sister Georgia Trudgen andSister Sharon Salters for their dailystruggles with health issues, as well asso many that have asked to be placedon the prayer list. We are so thankfulthat God has given us the avenue ofprayer on behalf of our loved ones.

May God bless you and we send ourlove to you all from the Bradley Local.

Your Sister in Christ.

Loretta Greig

� Women’s Retreat — Sleepover

Zion’s Advocate


The leaves have turned all their beautifulcolors and suddenly the cold, along with a

mean wind has blown them all away. When Iwas little, my mom (Leora Martin) taughtme a cute little song about the fall leaves—itsaid: “Come said the wind to the leaves oneday, come o’er the meadow with me andplay—put on your dresses of red and gold,for summer has gone and the days growcold.” And so it is today. We’re all bundledup in our coats and scarves as we head outthe door—it IS November, after all!

The young people visited our localSunday, November 9th, 2014, after havinghad a nice weekend camp-out at SisterMarlene Cobb’s cabin over in the Prestonarea. Brother and Sister Randy and BeckySheldon along with Sister Jennifer McClurewere their overseers. The young folks playedand sang “Amazing Grace” as a special, ac-companied by the cello (Van McClure) andflute (Wesley Welch). It was absolutely beau-tiful and so appreciated.

Our sister Betty Martin is heading back toOklahoma to visit with her family during theThanksgiving holiday. She has slipped in forservices here now and then, as she was able.She has always been one of our “pillars”here at Collins—so many memories!

Our sister Marjory Routh has been havingsome health issues recently, but seems to bedoing much better now and able to do a little“cat sitting” for her sister Helen Kidd. I hopethat goes well for all parties involved!

Brother Curtis Yates is so vigilant andever-present here when the doors open. He

says he believes he is getting “better” as hehas had some breathing problems awhileback, but is not packing around his oxygennow. We are so grateful to our loving Heav-enly Father for the answer to so many of ourprayers.

Our brother Dale Herd was kept fromtragedy as he had a motorcycle accident a fewweeks ago. Yes, he got hurt, but not like itsurely “could have been.” He is doing finenow and only missed a very few days of work.This is another testimony of God’s protectivehand that we pray for one another—daily.

Do you hear the voice of our Lord speak-ing to us, trying to caution us and give thatguidance we need from time to time? HeCOULD leave us completely to our own de-vices and our own “wisdom,” but praise beto God that He hears us and His compassionis so gratifying—though we, perhaps, arehardly “worthy” of His consideration.

The Collins Rally was October 19th withbrothers Martin Addy, Mark Hill and MarvinCase bringing the sermons. Our souls werefilled. Our thanks to all who came and alsofor the extra food that was brought! What ajoy-filled day!

Back in August, Allen and I were able totake a trip, first to New Mexico to visit our sonBrian Coberly, Sandra, Dion and Deandra,then on to Phoenix to visit our grandsonAaron Herd and wife Niki. What a wonderfultime we had, and were blessed with safetyand good weather there and back. The BO-NUS was to get to attend church servicesthere at Phoenix AND see some of our broth-

ers and sisters.I guess when this “news” comes to you it

will be the new year of 2015, so allow me towish you strength, courage and the love ofChrist for the time ahead. We need eachother and must hold tight to His righteous-ness and that Rod of Iron that will keep us onthe straight path we’ve promised to follow.

SERMON QUOTES TO SHARE:� The kind of life you live will prove what you

believe.

� If you KNOW—you are responsible.

� God without man is still God, but man withoutGod is nothing.

� How is your “perfection” going?

� When we speak to the Lord, it’s like a blindman speaking to the One who sees ALL.

� When you pray—BE before the Lord—seekHis face.

� There’s always a consequence for sin.

� Just because you CAN—doesn’t mean youSHOULD!

� Behavior is the mirror.

� It’s in believing—that we see.

� None of us are innocent—we have all earnedour wages.

� What if you were going about your dailyactivities and met Jesus…

� Consider the values that you live by.

� Your body’s not yours—it’s for the glory ofGod—repent of tattoos—He will forgive you.

� It’s time for us to CLAIM the NAME!

Your reporter,

Czerna Kauffman

NEWS

Collins LocalReport

Zion’s Advocate


Phoenix Local

Report

Greetings to all our friends and fam-ily from Phoenix. I hope that you

are enjoying your fall as much as we arehere. The weather has finally turnedcooler and I am reminded of why Danand I moved to the valley.

So much is happening at the Phoe-nix local that I don’t know where tostart. One of the most memorable andexciting events occurred on November2 when our Sr. Lindsay Cunningham

was baptized. The next time you seeour new member of the Church ofChrist, make sure you give her a hugand a big smile, welcoming her into thefamily.

Sr. Kasey Kidd was given a babyshower on October 18, another funtime for all involved. Yet anothershower will be given on November 15,this time to celebrate the upcomingwedding for our Sr. Aimee Yates and Br.

Caleb Case.In October, the church received a

new floor in our kitchen area! It wascertainly not an easy job voting on thetype of floor to install, but the end resultis worth all the trouble. Hopefully thisfloor will last as long as the previousone. New grass was planted outsideand play equipment moved around.Seems like there is always somethinggoing on at our little church!

The Young People raised $1,000.00during our annual Cider Press. A bigthank you goes out to the young peopleand all those who donated.

But Jesus said, “Suffer little chil-dren, and forbid them not, to comeunto me: for of such is the kingdom ofheaven” (Mat 14:14). It is such a plea-sure when our youngest members be-come involved and are willing to singfor the Lord and congregation. Greatfriendships are formed when they singtogether and of course, have plain ol’fun together, like the recent field trip tothe Tolmachoff Farms.

Of course, in the midst of all the ex-citement and fun times, we must al-ways remember those who are in need

NEWS

� Baptism of Sr. Linday Cunningham

Zion’s Advocate


of our prayers. Just a few of the manywho are having medical or other prob-lems are: Sr. Amy Moser – there is re-ally nothing to say other than our poorsister needs a new body – as she has of-ten stated herself! She had made muchprogress and has truly been blessed,but has a long hard road to travel yet.I’m sure Sr. Wanda Yates would appre-ciate continued prayers. Sr. SuzannaCase is still struggling with some medi-cal issues – please pray for her. Let’snot forget those with cancer: Sr.Marlene Oar, Sr. Debbi Brown and Sr.Pat McCann. Again, in each case, eachhas received many blessings along theirway.

We seem to have a rash of foot inju-ries and/or problems. Those folks in-clude: Sr. Becky McIndoo, EvangelistHubert Yates, and Br. Glenn Saracino.

Sr. Betty McIndoo continues to re-cover from her knee surgery and we

must of course remember Apostle DonMcIndoo for his eyes.

There are so many more that could

be mentioned. Please remember all inyour prayers and make sure to visitand/or help out those that need it. Ashort visit or help with dishes or a sup-per can sometimes really brighten up aday.

I pray that you all have a truly won-derful Christmas season and a happynew year!

Your sister,

DiAnn Hedrick

� Tolmachoff Farms

� Aimee Yates & Suzie Case

Zion’s Advocate


Barbara CaroleHousknecht-Kimball

September 7, 1945~July 21, 2014

Barbara Carole Kimball passed fromthis life at her home in Independ-ence, Missouri, on July 21, 2014,

at the age of 68. Born on September 7,1945, to parents Don and DorisHousknecht of Flint, Michigan, Barbarawas the middle child with siblings Donna(Gill) Green, Victor Housknecht, GaryHousknecht and Rhea Housknecht.

On June 24, 1956, her father Apos-

tle Don W. Housknecht baptized Barbarainto the Church of Christ. The family hadmoved to Fenton, Michigan, where she at-tended and graduated from Fenton SeniorHigh School in 1963. After graduatingshe worked at Hazelton & Perkins whereshe met the love of her life, Michael LouisKimball. After a two-year courtship theywere married by her father on June 17,1967, at the Flint local Church of Christ.

Michael and Barbara made theirhome in Fenton, Michigan, and on Sep-tember 5, 1968, celebrated the birth oftheir first son, Jeffery Michael, and thenStephen Michael on October 19, 1971.

In 1979 Michael was transferred tothe Oklahoma City General Motors plant.

They lived in Shawnee, Oklahoma, andtheir boys attended school in nearby Dale.Barbara was an avid supporter of the boysat their school as a substitute teacher aswell as their baseball games.

After Michael retired from GeneralMotors, they moved to Independence,Missouri, where they were active membersof the Church of Christ.

Barbara leaves behind her husbandMichael, two sons, Jeff and Stephen, herdaughter-in-law Amy, two sisters and twobrothers, four beautiful grandchildren anda host of nieces and nephews. Barbara wasloved by many and she will be greatlymissed.

OBITUARY

Joyce M. LussendenJuly 12, 1933 – March 1, 2014

Joyce M. Lussenden of Hopkins,Michigan, went to be with her Lordand Savior on Saturday, March 1,

2014, at the Allegan County Medical CareCommunity.

Elders Adam Porter and Aaron

Heath were the officiants at her funeralservice.

Joyce was born July 12, 1933, inGrand Rapids, Michigan, the daughter ofGeorge and Cynthia (VanDuine) Miller.

She worked for over 20 years as asecretary at the Hopkins High School, andlater at Brenner Tours.

Surviving are her husband, Verne(they celebrated 63 years of marriage),four children; Rick and Kathy Lussenden,Cindi and Steve Sebring, Cathy and JesseTreece, Carol and Ted Lee, eleven grand-children, eight great grandchildren, twosisters, Shirley and Gene Collings, Geor-gia and Norm Trudgen. She was precededin death by her daughter, Brenda, and her

two sons Daniel and Wayne.Joyce was baptized in the Church of

Christ in 1952 with her husband Laverne(Pastor of the Bradley local for 37 years.)She spent her entire life loving and servingthe Lord. Joyce was always crocheting ordoing some needlepoint project. Youwould consider yourself very blessed ifyou received something that was made byJoyce. We enjoyed many years hearingJoyce, Laverne and son Rick singing as atrio in the church.

Joyce had a beautiful and givingspirit that she shared with all that knewher. She will truly be missed.

OBITUARY

Zion’s Advocate


Jeanette (Brantner)Cunningham

April 8, 1931~November 2, 2014

Jeanette Irene Cunningham, 83, ofLeeton, Missouri, passed away

Sunday, November 2, 2014, at Lee’sSummit Medical Center.

She was born April 8, 1931, inRockford, Michigan, the daughter ofGeorge and Sarah (Hoskins) Brantner.

Jeanette loved her family and churchvery much and enjoyed spending timewith both. She loved to travel whenshe was able, quilting and reading. Sheenjoyed her job in food service at theUniversity of Central Missouri for 40years, where she made many lifelongfriends until her health forced retire-ment.

Jeanette is survived by her daughterTricia Vaughn and husband Larry ofLeeton , Missour i , son Danie lCunningham and wife Carrie ofGoodlettsville, Tennessee, son EdwardCunningham and wife Cynthia ofLowell, Michigan, and son MichaelCunningham of Lee’s Summit, Mis-souri, 9 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grand-children, 7 step grandchildren, 11 stepgreat grandchildren, and 3 step greatgreat grandchildren. Also surviving abrother, Charles W. Brantner of LoneJack, Missouri, and a sister, JeaneceStephens (Ross) of Warrensburg,Missouri, many nieces and nephewsand a host of friends.

She was preceded in death by her

parents, 3 brothers: George DanielBrantner, Gale Irving Brantner, andRichard Earl Brantner.

Our Sister Jeanette was one of thosespecial creations of God, a rare blendof strength and softness. Her quietdemeanor hid her wonderful sense ofhumor. Always gracious and willing toforgive, she would also expect you todo and be your very best. She askednothing more than that which she waswilling to abide.

Her life was one of struggles. A sin-gle mother with four children, sheworked hard and long to survive. Herwork ethic brought her success in hervocation. Her integrity and moralcharacter befitted a follower of Christ

all her days. True grit combined withan elegant grace allowed her to endureand be endearing to all who knew her.Her life was one of service to God,family and friends.

Baptized on Mother’s Day, 1942,with her older brother Charles, sheamassed over 72 years as a faithfulmember of the Church of Christ. Liv-ing and loving, forgiving and being for-given was her joy. Though health prob-lems limited her she never complained.Her faith was never shaken.

Her life upon this earth has con-cluded with an expression of total sur-render to the will of God, as she passedin peace to her reward in the Paradiseof God with an anxious expectation forthe life to come. She leaves us behind,knowing we too will make this journeyone day. She will be there to greet us,to embrace us once again. This is ourhope, and we have this hope because wehave Jesus Christ.

God Speed Sister Jeanette,

Till we meet again.

OBITUARY

Zion’s Advocate


NOTICES

APRIL GENERAL

CONFERENCE 2015

As instructed by the 1964 AprilMinisters’ Conference be advisedthat the 2015 April General Con-ference (name changed per 2006conference action) will begin onMonday, April 6, 2015; “Confer-ence Sunday,” beginning Sunday,April 5, 2015. The first businesssession will begin at 9:00 a.m.Monday, April 6, 2015, at the Gen-eral Church Building on the Tem-ple Lot. According to action takenduring the 2014 April GeneralConference, two days of fastingand prayer will be held Friday, April3rd, and Saturday, April 4th, 2015,at the General Church Building onthe Temple Lot.All committee reports should beforwarded to the Conference Sec-retary at least two (2) weeks in ad-vance of the beginning of the firstbusiness session. As is alwaysthe case, it is requested that anybusiness to be placed before the2015 April General Conference beforwarded in advance of the firstbusiness meeting (please) so thatdocument packets may be com-pleted for distribution.

NOTE: Please address all reports,i.e. missionary reports, etc., to theGeneral Conference of the Churchof Christ. This will help your Sec-retary distinguish periodic mis-sionary reports from those in-tended for the General Confer-ence and their inclusion in the Min-utes.

NOTICEThe Council of Apostles has ap-pointed Sister Rhea Housknechtas the interim General ChurchSecretary. Brother Harvey E.Seibel has faithfully served asSecretary for many years, but he isunable to continue at this time.Please send any correspondencefor the General Church Secretaryto Sister Rhea Housknecht [email protected] or mailyour correspondence directly toP.O. Box 472, Independence, MO64051, Attn: General Church Sec-retary.

Sincerely,Council of ApostlesDuane L. ElySecretary

THE HOPE of ZION

The Board of Publications hasmade available a copy of the re-port from the Committee to StudyZion entitled, The Hope of Zion.Contact Elder Robert Oldham [email protected], orany member of the Board.

AVA WEBSITE

On the Church of Christ AVA website you will be able to access me-dia such as archived sermons invideo and audio formats, past is-sues of Zion’s Advocate, search-able Bible and Book of Mormonstudies and Sunday School les-sons. Real time live streamed ser-mons are broadcast every Sundayat 11:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. central

time, which can also be accessedfrom the site. We invite you to takea look and discover what a usefultool this site can be in expandingyour knowledge and faith. The ad-dress is www.cocsermons.net.

CORRESPONDENCE

COMMITTEE

The General Church Correspon-dence Committee would like to ex-tend the opportunity for any whowish to communicate through writ-ten correspondence to contactone of the following three commit-tee members:

MARLENE COBB (Chairman)725 S. PickwickSpringfield, MO 65802JUNE HAINES11589 Genuine RdClare, MI 48617PAT MCCANN18808 N. 30th St.Phoenix, AZ 85050

PRIESTHOOD

VISITATION

If you or someone you know(member or non-member) wouldlike to be visited by a member ofthe Priesthood of the Church ofChrist, please call or write to theCouncil of Apostles at ChurchHeadquarters in Independence.The phone numbers andaddresses are listed on the insidefront cover.

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Libro De Mormon (Spanish) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7.00

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, by Daniel MacGregor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.50

Outline History of the Church of Christ (paperback) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.00

Temple Lot Deed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..30

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Ancient Prophecies Fulfilled in 1830Apostasy from the New Testament ChurchArticles of Faith & Practice of the Church of ChristArticle of Faith, #1 (concerning God; earliest Restora-

tion history)Article of Faith, #9 - (concerning the Bible and Book of

Mormon)Baptism for the Dead—A FallacyThe Book of Commandments - Its Role in the History

of the RestorationBrief Commentary: Book of Commandments & Doc-

trine and CovenantsA Brief History of the Church of ChristA Call to National Repentance - Hearken to the Words

of Jesus ChristThe Christian Sabbath is the Lord’s Day - SundayColored Tracts to Native Americans: 1) Book in the

Stone Box 2) Did You Know? 3) Epistle to AmericanIndians 4) Promises of God and Straight Talk

Concerning Marriage and PolygamyThe Cost of SalvationDoes it Make a Difference to Which Church You

Belong?El Libro De Mondamientos - Su Funcion En La Historia

De La Restauracion DeLa Iglesia De Cristo(Spanish Book of Commandments Commentary)

Evidences of the Book of MormonFirst Presidency or First Apostles?

God’s Promises to IsraelGod’s Purpose in AmericaThe Great Plan of RedemptionIs Marriage for Time and Eternity?—A FallacyThe Last Maya King and the Liberation of JerusalemA Latter Day ApostasyThe Latter Day RestorationThe Position of the Council of the Apostles Regard-

ing Some Issues of TodayPriesthood—Divine AuthorityPrinciples of the Gospel—BaptismPrinciples of the Gospel—Faith & RepentancePrinciples of the Gospel—Laying on of HandsResurrection and Eternal JudgementSermonettes on the Teachings of JesusSome Misconceptions about the Book of MormonA Synopsis (Compares beliefs of three Restoration

churches)That Sacred Spot is Definitely LocatedThe Teachings of the Gospel - As verified in the Bible

and Book of MormonWhat about the Book of Mormon?Why? (Amplifies absence of a First Presidency in

Scripture)Zion and the Temple of the Lord

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