Joseph Smith, Sr.

Joseph Smith, Sr. (1771–1840) was the father of Joseph Smith, Jr., the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement. Joseph Sr. was also one of the Eight Witnesses of the Book of Mormon's Golden Plates and was the first Presiding Patriarch of the early Latter Day Saint church.

Presiding Patriarch

In January 1831, Joseph Smith Sr. and his family moved to the church's new headquarters in Kirtland, Ohio. He was ordained to be the church's first Presiding Patriarch on December 18, 1833. This high leadership office in the church was equated with Biblical Patriarchs from Adam to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. According to his ordination, he was given "keys of the patriarchal priesthood over the kingdom of God on earth, even the Church of the Latter Day Saints" (as the church had come to be known). As part of his new role, Joseph Smith Sr. presided in council meetings, ordained other patriarchs and administered Patriarchal Blessings. On December 6, 1834, Smith was also made an Assistant President of the church.

Related Topics:
Kirtland, Ohio - Presiding Patriarch - Patriarchs - Adam - Abraham - Isaac - Jacob - Patriarchs - Patriarchal Blessings

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