Frank J. Cannon — Inspired Guidance in Washington Negotiations

During the high-stakes political crisis of 1891, Frank J. Cannon was sent to Washington D.C. to negotiate the future of the LDS Church and the path to Utah statehood. During a pivotal meeting with Secretary of State James G. Blaine and other Republican leaders, Cannon reported experiencing a profound spiritual manifestation that guided his words. He described a sensation where he felt he was not speaking of his own volition, but was being directed by a higher power to say exactly what was necessary to soften the hearts of federal officials who were previously hostile to the Church. This event was reported back to the First Presidency as a spiritual success, with Frank testifying that the Spirit of the Lord had prepared the way for the political 'Manifesto' and the survival of the faith. His father, George Q. Cannon, recorded this period as one where Frank was visibly moved and directed by the Holy Ghost.