Revelation Dates: March 27, 1836 – April 3, 1836

Revelation Places: Kirtland, Ohio

Section 109 - Historical Background: In December 1832, the Lord commanded the saints of Kirtland to build a temple. At that time, there were only about 100 members living in Kirtland, who lacked money, lands or knowledge to accomplish the task. Yet, at the completion and dedication of the temple in March, 1836, there were over 1,500 members, eager to receive their promised “power from on high.” Joseph had never seen a temple but through revelation he was shown the “pattern” from which to build. Through great sacrifice, from the laying of the initial cornerstone in July, 1833 to the dedicatory prayer on March 27, 1836, the temple was now complete. From January through March of 1836, the church experienced what some call a season of Pentecost. There were many open visions of angels, heavenly messengers, spiritual manifestations and even the appearance of the Savior himself. Under direct revelation, Joseph received this dedicatory prayer and read it to the one-thousand members crowded into the pews of the temple.

Section 110 - Historical Background: On Easter Sunday, April 3, 1836, one week following the temple dedication, 800 saints gathered in the temple to worship. Although the ordinance of endowment had not yet been revealed (that would be in 1842 in Nauvoo), the ordinances of washing and anointing and the washing of feet had been revealed. As the members worshipped and listened to sermons by church leaders, they  participated in the sacrament as administered by the twelve apostles. Then curtains were drawn, or dropped, separating the Prophet and Oliver Cowdery (ordained as Assistant President) from the congregation. Here, they both knelt in prayer and the heavens were opened. Joseph and Oliver received the following glorious revelation.