Editors’ Table

Doctrinal Questions A correspondent in one of the missions wishes to know where scripture can be found to substantiate the statement that "the Melchizedek priesthood was restored to earth at the transfiguration of Christ" (Matt. 17:1-9). Our correspondent does not mention any authority for such statement, nor where it could have originated. The assumption "that the Melchizedek priesthood was restored; to earth at the transfiguration of Christ" is not only unsupported by scripture, but is contrary thereto. The fulness of the Priesthood was vested in the Lord Jesus Christ before as well as after his transfiguration; and, moreover, prior to the transfiguration he ordained twelve men to the Holy Apostleship. The Apostleship is an office of the higher, or Melchizedek Priesthood. Our correspondent further declares that some of the Bible students in the Sunday school theological class have taken license from the statement of the Lord, as recorded in Mark 7:15, and hold that "it matters not what we eat, for thereby we can not commit sin." Even the teacher, so we are told, could not understand how food could influence our lives or bodies, one way or the other, and based his assertion on the scriptures referred to: "There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him but the things which come out of him, those are they that : defile the man." The Lord's reproof of the inconsistency of the Scribes and Pharisees, wherein they scrupulously observed the outward performance of ceremonial washings and neglected the weightier matters of life, is discussed in chapter 22 of the book Jesus the Christ. The Lord's affirmation that not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man but that which cometh out ; of the mouth, this defileth a man, explains itself, if considered in connection with the scriptural context. To take license from this utterance and say that the Lord sanctions the eating and drinking of things injurious to the body, or things forbidden in scripture, is to ignore or to pervert the word of God. And queries regarding propriety in matters of diet are sufficiently answered in the revelation to the Church, in the present dispensation, in what is commonly known as the "Word of Wisdom" (Doc. and Cov. Sec. 89). In this connection we wish to commend the activity of the Saints in their study of the gospel, and their desire to understand

KDITORS' fABLi«: L021 the doctrines of the Christ.It is thus they grow in grace and wisdom. However, when questions of doctrine arise in the missions these should be submitted in the regular order to the mission president, for answer and consideration. Solid for the Abolition of Booze The Republican party in convention assembled at Ogden, adopted a plank in its platform which declares solidly for the deliverance of Utah, from the curse of liquor. The Republican voters who attended the primaries, and won are congratulated. The pledge of the Republican party reads : "We pledge the incoming governor and legislative assembly, if Republican, to promptly, and not less than fifteen days before the close of the next session of the legislature, enact a law effectively prohibiting, by direct legislation, the manufacture and the sale, by prescription or otherwise, of intoxicating liquors of all kinds within the state of Utah, a law which shall be thoroughgoing, unambiguous and as incapable of evasion as language can make it; and that said lawgo into effect within six months after its passage. "We also pledge our candidate for the United States senate to favor by his vote and in every other way possible every measure that shall be introduced in Congress for the elimination of the liquor traffic and for the securing of national prohibition." This is all that could be asked, and is good so far. Judging from the past, the Democratic party will stand just as solidly for prohibition, and for these reasons there is every encouragement to believe that the people will be given what they demand free- — dom from the saloon and its evils. There should be no sleeping, however, nor should the friends of prohibition lull themselves to rest with the thought that the fight is won. There is much yet to do. as will appear from time to time. The law is not passed yet. nor are the legislators any too sure. Many subordinate officers also are to be elected. These have the real dutv of enforcing anv law that may be made; and upon their faithful work much will depend in the cities, counties, the state, and in general. Voters should see to it that no man is elected to any office who is not willing and desirous that the law when passed against liquor should be made completely and honestly operative and effective. Why Some Men Are Failures Colliers, in a recent! editorial note under this head, called attention to a liquor ad. which read: "Total abstinence is a form of fear —and fear is the cause of

1022 IMPROVEMENT ERA failure. Cast out fear." The Weekly then sarcastically remarks: "A profound thought, this. But why confine it merely to the matter of abstinence from alcohol? You don't smoke? Then, of course, you're a coward. You abstain from profanity? Be a hero indulge in oaths 'moderately.' ; Do you often beat your wife? What, never? Some booze magnate may accuse you of showing the white feather if you don't knock her down 'in mod- — eration.' That advertisement clears up for us the puzzle of why there are so many failures in the world. They simply don't booze that's all the trouble. Be a hero : Get soused and suc- ! ceed !" Messages from the Missions New Meeting Place in Amsterdam Elder Walter B. Hanks, Amsterdam, May 26, 1916: "The gospel work is progressing very slowly here at present. Last month we were privileged to baptize seven people and we have prospects for more. We have two branches in Amsterdam. On the 25th of June we expect to unite the two, because so many have left for Zion and others are planning to leave. We have been successful in rinding a : Ik ||| Ik I * i f f 'p '.» -. *<; > iSl ^ qfi|1 ' 1 SHIPPING WOODEN SHOES— A SCENE IN AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND new building to meet in. It is located in the center of the city and has modern improvements, electricity, steam-heat, and is in a quiet place. I think it will be the means of getting many more strangers to our meetings and will put new life into our gatherings. The elders laboring here are: Borgan A. Anderson, Rulon J. Sperry, both laboring in Utrecht; Lee Peter Nebeker and Walter B. Hanks, in Amsterdam."

EDITORS' TABLE 1023 In Far Away Japan Joseph H. Stirapson, President Japanese Mission, Tokyo, Japan, May 23: "Our recent conference began May 4 and lasted to May 11. Thirteen meetings were held, two to consider the reports of the missionaries, four were devoted to ,the consideration of the "Article 2 of Faith" by Elder James E. Talmage, recently printed in Japanese, and others 10 general instructions. Besides the fast meeting held on the 7th, Sunday, two sessions were held as a general conference for Saints and investigators. This is the first time such a conference has been held here, and it was not as largely attended as it was hoped it would be. A spirited testimony meeting was one of the most enjoyable of the conference. All bore strong testimonies and were built up in their faith by the manifestation of the Holy Spirit in their meetings. At the priesthood meeting the duties and responsibilities of the authorities were considered and one of the local brethren was advanced in the priesthood. All returned to their labors determined to magnify to the best of their ability the calling "resting upon them as ministers of life and salvation to the people of this land. We expect much good to come from this conference. We welcome the Era for the good that it does, and the clean, uplifting material printed in > our magazine is a power for good wherever it goes. The missionaries of Japan all join in wishing you success in your work .of doing good. Elders ^laboring here are: George A. Turner, Joseph Raj Stoddard, C. Ralph Amott, president of the Osaka conference, Arthur F. Crowther, president of the Sappora conference, Ether Spackman, retiring president Osaka conference, Harold Kingsford, Val. VV. Palmer; Varsell L. Cowley, Lafayette C. Lee, Pearl M. Lee, Joseph H. Stimpson, mission president, Mary E. Stimpson, Edwin J . wkn, Jr., president Kofu conference, J. Vernon Adams." Studying Genealogy R. D. McKell, conference president Northern Indiana, reports that within the last year a splendid branch of the Relief Society has been organized at Muncie, the first in the conference. Previous to its organization, genealogy was thoroughly studied a n d mauy names were sent to the temple. The sisters have keen "oliowing the outlies n the : "Relief Society Magazine," and have been quite successful in thiswork also. Three new fields, Pern, Anderson, and Fort Wayne, have been opened up the last year. At Pern six baptisms are reported. The spirit of energy and enthusiasm prevails throughout the entire conference. Elders, left to right, standing: G. L. Tanner, conference r resident R. D. McKell; sitting, Florence Capson, W. E. Hortin and Margaret Hill."

1024 IMPROVEMENT ERA President Richards' Return from Holland Sister Le Grand Richards and family who for President and thirty-onemonths have presided over the Netherlands Mission sailed, accompanied hy Elder Lee Nebeker, with the S. S. "Nieuw Amster- „ dam," on Wednesday morning, June 21, for dear old America. The parting was a mingling of joy and pathos, joy at the thought of meeting loved ones at home, and sorrow at parting from so many dear friends in Holland. They were here, of course, when the war broke out and experienced one of the most trying times that the mission has ever passed through, when all Europe was excitement and everybody wanting to get away from the scene of conflict. Upon the call of the First Presidency they released all of the missionaries who could be spared,selected a choice little band to remain, organized the local priesthood to carry some of the burdens left by the hasty departure of the elders, and guided the Mission safely and calmly along with a handful of men, but all blessed abundantly by the Spirit of LE GRAND RICHARDS AND FAMILY the Lord. This little group were banded toReecntly returned from the Netherlands ..lission. gether like brothers, and the spirit manifested at their priesthood meeting before each conference was sweet indeed. During the two weeks previous to his departure, President Richards visited nearly every Branch in the Mission, and preached to each a beautiful and powerful farewell. A sad, sweet spirit pervaded each of these gatherings, and many eyes filled with tears at parting. Both President and Sister Richards have won the deepest love and respect of every Saint and friend in the Mission, and to the missionaries, the Mission Honse was always "home, sweet home." Wednesday evening, 14th, the Branch here at Rotterdam tendered them a pleasant farewell program, while the English classes presented Ihern with a dainty little scene of delftware.

EDITORS' TABLE 1025 All had to be on board the evening before sailing, and for one who took a glance around, it appeared as if the whole Rotterdam Branch as well as all the missionaries and many Saints from other cities were going, too. The choir took their places on the top deck and gave a little farewell concert which could have been appreciated had it not been for the sadder thoughts that filled our hearts. We missionaries remained on board till midnight, and when we finally did say "good bye" there was not a dry eye in the crowd. That was a sad day for the Netherlands Mission. Rotterdam, — June 29, 1916— J. A. Butterworth. Cn the Isle of Bornholm As our numbers have been greatly reduced since the outbreak of the war, and as there are no elders from Zion in many of the branches, it is necessary for us to visit these branches and give the Saints a little encouragement from time to time. Elder Fred H. Heese and CHURCH BUILDING IN BORNHOLM Elders James A. Hansen, Salt Lake City, and Fred H. Heese, Blackfoot, Idaho. myself have just returned from such a visit amongst the scattered Saints on the island of Bornholm, a small isle in the Baltic Sea. We were warmly received by our good people, who are always glad when they have the elders in their midst. Our meeting was well attended, considering the number of Saints we have on the island. There were also a few strangers present. All seemed to be pleased with what they heard regarding the plan of salvation. There are many interesting sights on this little, lonesome isle, amongst which are old castle ruins, rune stones, and the queer, round churches, which were built several centuries ago, and at that time were used as fortresses as well as churches. The accompanying snapshot gives a good idea of how these strange examples of architecture look. This church, which is known as "Nylarskirke," was built in the 16th or 17th century and is still used as a place of worship. The walls, which are about four feet thick, are pierced by many loopholes, which have since been enlarged and fitted with glass panes and now form the windows of the church. The small wing to the right, is the entrance and vestibule, and the rectangular building to the left, is the bell tower, which is always built separate from the church proper. There are four churches of

— 1026 IMPROVEMENT ERA this type on the island, which, with the old-fashioned windmills and the whitewashed farmhouses, half hidden by the beautiful beech woods, form a very peaceful and picturesque landscape. While gazing upon this charming picture, one can hardly realize that an awful conflict is raging but a few miles away. James A. Hansen. Prospered as Never Before Lester A. Green, Cranberry, N. C: "This conference under the direction of President August E. Heddin has prospered as never • before, both in number of baptisms and the sale of Books of Mormon. Elders, left to right, top row: X. J. Horsley, Soda Springs, Idaho; E. C. Esplin, Orderville; M. C. Wiser, Lewiston; C. L. Singleton. Hooper, Utah; J. A. Morrison, Franklin; G. C. Galloway, Shelley; David Buhler, Bern, Idaho; W. R. Evans, Mt. Home, Utah; bottom row: L. E. Oliverson, Franklin, Idaho; H. M. Grether, Salt Lake, Utah: August E. Heddin, conference president, Pocatello; Wm. T. Bailey, Idaho Falls; Lester A. Green, Lewisville, Idaho." Responsibilities Placed upon the Saints Elder William H. Hillyard, clerk of the Leeds conference, sends an encouraging report under date of May 30, 1916, from Bradford, i.-.-orl:an H "Greater responsibilities under prevailing conditions are being placed upon the Saints and as a result the spirit of the work is l -< : "~ uor^d out nnon them. With a shortage of elders the work is being shifted to the shoulders of the Saints giving them privileges which heretofore they had been deprived of. The president and clerk of the conference are holding branch conferences organizing with native brothers and sisters so that in a short time the work in the branches will be left to them as the elders will soon be leaving. The work here is greater than it has been for many years and the help from Zion is far less. If any of the brethren at home are asked to

EDITORS' TABLE 1027 come upon a mission they should let nothing stand in the way of their duty, as we are convinced that God will take care of his own. On March 25 we baptized 28 people; on May 27 thirteen more and many friends arc interested in the work. Had we only the help many good people could be taught the true plan of salvation. Elders, back row, left to right: S. Evan Francis, Lake Shore, Joseph F. Worthen, Salt Lake, Wm. H. Hillyard, Smithfield, Utah, Nathan Groome, Ucon, Idaho; front row: David A. Owen, Ammon; Eben I. Robinson, conference president, Iona, Idaho, Verner O. Hewlett, Salt Lake City. President Rushton in Hobart Elder J. J. McQueen, writing from Hobart, Tasmania, says: "We have recently been favored with a two weeks' visit from President Don C. Rushton of the Australian mission who spent two weeks at Hobart, the headquarters of the Tasmanian conference where mobt of the Latter-day Saints are located in this district. While present he gave us some splendid instructions relating to our labors and to the work and duties of the Saints, exhorting them to be full of good works and to keep the commandments of Jesus. A number of visitors who had never attended before were present during these meetings. He also visited some of the districts around Tasmania where he held meetings and preached the gospel. He gave us much encouragement and was pleased with the conditions in our conference." New Branch in Hamilton Elder W. R. Beckstead, Hamilton, Waikato, New Zealand: "Elder Campbell and I are placed in a new field to open a new branch among the people in this district. We have made several friends already and we have held a number of street meetings. Considerable ooufsitinn is manifest in Hamilton from the various religious denominations, but we feel no discouragment as we realize that the elders are advocating the cause of the Lord and will therefore succeed."