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Preface

William E. Berrett was requested by the Department of Education to write this book, for use as a text in the senior seminaries and schools of the L. D. S. Church. In general, the subject matter includes the history, philosophy and doctrines of the Church.

The story of its organization in New York State and subsequent growth, development and expansion to the West is the story of the courageous, patient, sacrificing and devoted pioneer, both in spiritual and material things.

The analysis of the institution itself reveals a remarkable organization, with well-nigh universal participation by lay membership and divine guidance on the part of its leadership. Its philosophy of eternal progression, also, is most stimulating in character.

Mr. Berrett's knowledge of his subject, his understanding of the interests and attitudes of youth, and his pleasing style, have made this book particularly suitable for study purposes. It is our hope that a study of this text will result in a better knowledge of the history of the Church, greater admiration for its institutions, better understanding of its philosophy, a stronger faith in its doctrine, and richer and sturdier character in its youth.

FRANKLIN L. WEST,

Church Commissioner of Education.

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This volume was written for young people and is adapted to the peculiar needs of classroom instruction. The purpose of this text is to lead young men and women to a fuller life through an understanding and application of the principles of the restored gospel. The writer is aware that a mere recital of historical facts will not do that. The history of the Church must not become a mere peddling of petty accuracies, or a recounting of dead yesterdays. A knowledge of the history and doctrines of Mormonism will not necessarily lead to a better life. The student must be brought to appreciate the eternal truths behind the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to realize that the problems of yesterday are fundamentally the problems of today and tomorrow. History must become a mirror which reflects the answers to life's problems to all those who will but gaze into its pages with unclouded eyes.