Lydia Bailey Speaks in Tongues and Is Clothed in Shining Light Before Joseph Smith

During Joseph Smith's visit to the Nickerson family in Canada (circa 1833), the family gathered around the fireplace in the parlor on the seventh evening of his stay.

Moses Nickerson said: "I would be so glad if someone who had been baptized could receive the gift of tongues as the ancient saints did and speak to us."

Joseph replied: "If one of you will rise up and open your mouth it shall be filled, and you shall speak in tongues."

All eyes turned to Lydia Bailey (later Lydia Knight), a young woman present. Lydia recorded:

"And then the great glory of God was manifested to this weak but trusting girl. I was enveloped as with a flame, and, unable longer to retain my seat, I arose and my mouth was filled with the praises of God and His glory. The spirit of tongues was upon me, and I was clothed in a shining light, so bright that all present saw it with great distinctness above the light of the fire and the candles."

Afterward, Joseph paced the room in deep study, then turned to Lydia and prophesied:

"Sister Lydia, great are your blessings. The Lord, your Savior, loves you and will overrule all your past sorrows and afflictions for good unto you. You shall yet be a Savior to your father's house."

He compared her afflictions to those of Joseph of old, who was sold into Egypt and became a savior to his family. The good work continued and many were baptized following this event.