Joseph Smith

Prophets of the Restoration

Joseph Smith Jr., First President of the Church

Born December 23, 1805, in Sharon, Vermont, Joseph Smith Jr. was the fifth of 11 children of Joseph Smith and Lucy Mack. He worked on the family farm in Vermont and later in western New York. A series of remarkable spiritual experiences prepared him for his prophetic calling. Beginning in 1820 at Palmyra, New York, Joseph Smith saw God the Father and Jesus Christ in vision. Through revelation, he translated and published the Book of Mormon, organized The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on April 6, 1830, and received revelations to guide the Church. By inspiration, he called Apostles and other Church leaders, defined doctrines, and taught the principles and ordinances that would lead to exaltation. Under his leadership, Latter-day Saints founded communities in Ohio, Missouri, and Illinois. He was sustained as First Elder of the Church on April 6, 1830. On June 27, 1844, at Carthage, Illinois, Joseph Smith died a martyr to his faith.

Gallery 1805–1844

Joseph Smith Birthplace Memorial

This is a place of commemoration. Here, on December 23, 1805, Joseph Smith Jr. was born.

Joseph Smith Videos

Testimony of Joseph Smith

Joseph bears testimony of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Doctrine and Covenants. (0:37)

Preparation of Joseph Smith: The First Vision

As an answer to a fervent prayer, Joseph Smith sees God the Father and Jesus Christ. (2:06)

Preparation of Joseph Smith: Tutored by Heaven

Joseph is taught by God the Father, Jesus Christ, and other heavenly messengers the gospel that he is to share with the world. (Doctrine and Covenants 128) (3:38)

Preparation of Joseph Smith: Strengthened by Trials

Given many trials to bear at a young age, Joseph learns strength through adversity and learns to trust in the Lord. (1:52)

Preparation of Joseph Smith: Faith in God, and a Desire to Know

Joseph Smith builds faith and gains a desire to know God’s will through scripture study. (2:23)

Preparation of Joseph Smith: Family Life

Joseph Smith’s family help him learn about and build faith in God while he is young. (1:26)

Ministry of Joseph Smith: The Book of Mormon

Joseph Smith receives an ancient record from the angel Moroni and translates it by the power of the Holy Spirit into what is called the Book of Mormon. (1:19)

Ministry of Joseph Smith: The Organization of the Church

Joseph teaches that the organization of the Church is the same today as in ancient times. (1:23)

Ministry of Joseph Smith: The Restoration of Priesthood Authority

Priesthood authority is given to Joseph Smith by the Apostles Peter, James, and John. (1:20)

Ministry of Joseph Smith: Sealed His Testimony with His Blood

Joseph Smith dies in Carthage Jail, a martyr for the cause of the gospel of Jesus Christ. (1:14)

Ministry of Joseph Smith: Temples

Joseph Smith establishes temple work as an essential purpose for the Saints of God. (2:19)

Teachings of Joseph Smith: The Nature of God

Joseph Smith teaches about the nature and character of our Heavenly Father. (1:37)

Teachings of Joseph Smith: Preparing for Zion

Joseph Smith teaches that “any place where the Saints gather is Zion,” and that “we ought to have the building up of Zion as our greatest object.” (1:42)

Teachings of Joseph Smith: Temple Ordinances

Joseph Smith teaches about the importance of temples and the ordinances which are received in them. (1:44)

Teachings of Joseph Smith: The Book of Mormon

Joseph teaches that the Book of Mormon is the most correct book on earth. (1:29)

Teachings of Joseph Smith: The Organization of the Church

Joseph Smith organizes The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as commanded by God. (1:36)

Mission of the Prophet

Time Line: Palmyra, Fayette, and Harmony

Interactive Map: Smith Family Farm and Sacred Grove

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Prophets of the Restoration