Setting Church in Order

When the Prophet Joseph Smith arrived in Kirtland, he initially resided in a portion of Newel K. Whitney’s home while waiting for his goods to be arranged. During this time, he visited the Rollins family home and observed a copy of the Book of Mormon on a shelf. Upon inquiring how the family had obtained it, he remarked that he had sent that specific copy to Father Isaac Morley. When Mary Elizabeth Rollins was introduced to him, he looked at her with such earnestness that she felt almost afraid. He then placed his hands on her head to give her a blessing—the first she ever received—and gifted her the book, promising to provide another copy to Father Morley. This arrival was providential, as Joseph came just in time to rebuke the evil spirits that had been molesting the inexperienced Saints in his absence, setting the Church in order. Those present felt strongly that he was a man of God, observing that he spoke with power and as one having authority in very deed.