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New York Symposium: 1988
Introduction

During the primary years of 1820-1831 of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the state of New York and an adjoining sector of northeastern Pennsylvania became its effectual cradle. It was there that the First Vision occurred, the Angel Moroni appeared, the Book of Mormon was translated and published, priesthood powers were again bestowed, and the restored Church of Jesus Christ was organized. The first three branches of the Church were formed in the Fayette, Manchester, and Colesville, New York, areas.

The initial public image of the Church was largely adverse. When Joseph Smith informed others of his visions, he became a controversial figure. The publication of the Book of Mormon in Palmyra caused wide public discussion with attendant opposition including remonstrations against the new movement from the pulpit, press, and courtroom. Threats and even physical violence took place in some instances.

Even though it was held in derision by many, the Book of Mormon became a principal tool of conversion for hundreds both in New York and Ohio during these years. Its publication gave impetus to an extensive missionary program, and its message was conveyed to the "borders of the Lamanites" (Missouri). This "Lamanite mission" also opened a great vista for the expansion of the Church in Ohio. The conversion of Sidney Rigdon and others in the Kirtland/Mentor area generated a heightening of proselyting activities.

Many important tenets of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints had their inception during the New York experience. In addition to the doctrines in the Book of Mormon, these teachings include the nature of the Godhead, the role of a living prophet with the inherent right of spokesman for the Church, the need for continuous revelation, the program of a lay ministry, the law of common consent, the requirements for baptism and sacramental procedures, and the concept of gathering. The development of certain functions of the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods and the inauguration of an expansive proselyting program can be added to the list.

The years of 1828-1831 saw the introductory rudiments of a corp of outstanding Church leaders who were to have a distinct influence on the growth and structure of the early Church. In addition to the Prophet Joseph Smith himself, Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, Martin Harris, Joseph Smith, Sr., Hyrum Smith, Samuel H. Smith, Parley P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, Thomas B. Marsh, Newel Knight, John Whitmer, and W. W. Phelps are particularly significant. By 1832, the baptisms of Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Phinehas H. Young, and Joseph Young from the Mendon/Victor, New York, areas, and of John Smith from Potsdam, St. Lawrence County, New York, added substantial depth to the Church.