Divine Light upon Joseph F. Smith

During the dedication services, Susa Young Gates and an unnamed elder were seated where they could observe the stand clearly. They independently witnessed a striking manifestation of light surrounding or emanating from the face of Joseph F. Smith. As he sat on the stand, those observing noted that his countenance appeared transformed, appearing as though illuminated by an ethereal, holy light. This experience was deeply moving to the witnesses, who perceived it as a manifestation of the Holy Ghost and a sign of his prophetic calling and the divine approval of his service. This visual phenomenon was not attributed to sunlight or artificial reflection, but rather to a spiritual radiance that rested upon him during the sacred exercises, leaving a profound and indelible impression on the observers who testified of the sanctity of the occasion.