Church History Matters 078 A Young Apostle Questions Succession By Seniority
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Aug 27, 2024 Brigham Young, the second president of the Church, and John Taylor, the third president, discuss the evolution of the church's succession plan. They reveal how Young solidified the idea of seniority, while Taylor's presidency faced a challenge from a young apostle. The conversation dives into Wilford Woodruff's crucial role in resolving succession disputes and Lorenzo Snow's sacred experiences that established practices still followed today. Their insights highlight the dynamic tensions and divine guidance shaping church leadership through turbulent times.
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Succession Plan Development
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' succession plan wasn't formalized during Joseph Smith's lifetime.
- It evolved over decades, mainly under Brigham Young, with some later adjustments.
Turbulent Times
- John Taylor's presidency (1880-1887) was turbulent due to conflicts with the US government over polygamy.
- Church leaders went into hiding, and even General Conference locations were kept secret.
Heber J. Grant's Challenge
- Young apostle Heber J. Grant challenged the seniority succession plan, posing the most serious threat to it.
- He questioned Wilford Woodruff's automatic succession due to his age and the situation.