Brigham Young Experiences Mantle Transfiguration - Voice of Joseph Smith

After the martyrdom of Joseph Smith in June 1844, the Saints faced a crisis of leadership. Brigham Young and the other members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles grappled with the weight of responsibility. Then came a remarkable spiritual manifestation. As documented in Church history: 'When Brigham Young rose to speak on behalf of the Quorum of the Twelve, the Saints were overcome by a powerful spiritual experience. Many testified that they heard the voice of Joseph Smith and saw his countenance in Brigham Young. This spiritual confirmation, known as "the mantle of the Prophet falling on Brigham Young" or transfiguration, served to unite and comfort the Saints and confirmed that the Lord had chosen Young to lead the Church.' Multiple eyewitnesses reported that Young's voice, demeanor, and manner of speech seemed to change and resemble Joseph Smith. Some testified they actually saw Joseph's face in Young's countenance. This remarkable spiritual manifestation resolved the question of succession and unified the Church behind Young's leadership at a critical moment. The testimony of those who experienced this phenomenon became one of the most powerful confirmations of Young's divine appointment to lead the Church.