Alvin Smith's Redemptive Vision and Family Spiritual Experience

Lucy Mack Smith recorded spiritual experiences related to her son Alvin's death and subsequent spiritual manifestations. According to Lucy's account, Alvin Smith (Joseph's older brother) died in November 1823, and his death profoundly affected the Smith family spiritually. Years later, in January 1836, Joseph Smith received a vision regarding the redemption of Alvin and the fairness of God in dealing with those who died without the opportunity to receive the fullness of the gospel. Lucy's accounts provide witness to the reality of divine communication and the eternal nature of God's justice.