FALLING AWAY OF AN LDS STRANGITE CHURCH

Since the days of Adam, man has had a proclivity to

follow his own will and wants above the will of God and
laws of God. This characteristic has caused man to lose
association with God many times. Israel has been God’s
chosen people since Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Israel).
When the Jews rebelled against Jesus–and had him
crucified by Roman Law—authority from God with the
gospel–was taken from them and given to the gentiles.
This was an open dispensation which also included–as an
appendage–the Jews. Gentiles had been raised on
paganism for centuries. They soon returned to their
pagan roots. The Apostle Paul wrote: “For the mystery of
iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will
let, until he be taken out of the way.” (2 Thess. 2:7)

In the early fourth century, the pagan, unbaptized Roman

Emperor Constantine made Christianity—so-called—the
state religion. He changed the identity of the true God
to that of the Trinitarian sun god that he worshipped.
He changed the identity of Jesus, the son of David
according to the flesh, to that of a pagan demigod. He
changed the holy Sabbath to the “venerable day of the
sun.”

All authority from God was lost. “11 Behold, the days
come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the
land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of
hearing the words of the LORD: 12 And they shall wander
from sea to sea , and from the north even to the east,
they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD,
and shall not find it.” (Amos 8) John–in Revelation–wrote
of the gentiles losing authority from God for 1,260 years
in chapters twelve and thirteen.

Authority from God–with the gospel of Christ–was

restored by Joseph Smith through angelic
administration. Again, the gentiles sought to live by their
own; which resulted in with the martyrdom of Joseph.
God had provided four revelations/commandments
that in the event Joseph was to be taken that Joseph
would appoint his successor in the Prophetic Office. Just
over a week before his death, he wrote this Letter of
Appointment to James J. Strang. The law of God also
required that his successor be ordained under the hands
of angles the same as Joseph. The same hour that Joseph
was murdered on June 27, 1844, James J. Strang claimed
to have been ordained under the hands of angles
according to the law of God—although 400 miles away.

Again, the gentiles would not live according to all the

laws of God; but, again preferred to follow their own will.
The prophet James J. Strang was shot on Beaver Island
by two apostates with the help of the US Government,
was returned home near Burlington, Wisconsin, and died
on July 9, 1856. Several of the Apostles tried to gather
the saints and live according to the will of God; but,
they failed and the saints scattered.

Anytime even one person remains who has a legitimate

claim to the Melchisedec Priesthood, the Kingdom of
God remains on the earth; as there is authority from
God to administer the saving ordinances of the gospel.
L. D. Hickey was ordained by James as one of the Twelve
Apostles. Apostle Hickey ordained others; and authority
from God continued.

A GREAT FALLING AWAY OF SOME LDS STRANGITES

came in 1961. The man who was voted to be their
leader—Vernon Swift–led most of the saints to
REORGANIZE THEIR CHURCH. The Evening and Morning
Star was an official church journal under Joseph Smith.
“It [law of God] represents us, in one lovely body, of
perfect symmetry, all the ideas that we have
enumerated. One idea supposeth another idea; and the
whole is united in a manner so compact, that it is
impossible to alter one article without defacing the
beauty of all.” (Vol. 1, p. 44) The Times and Seasons was
another official church journal. “But as they have
departed from his gospel, introduced the ordinances of
men and neglected to teach the things that God
commanded them, they have lost the authority,
blessings, and power of the priesthood, their candlestick
is removed out of its place, and CHRIST HAS CEASED TO
BE WITH THEM…” (Vol. 4, p. 9)

This REORGANIZATION was accomplished by changing

the identity of the original unincorporated church into
part of the US Government by incorporating their
church. Anytime a group incorporates they lose their
former identity. Their Certificate of Incorporation noted
that this new corporation church had no association
with the original church. “The purpose of the
corporation is to propagate and exemplify the Gospel of
the Lord Jesus Christ; and IT HAS ABSOLUTELY NO
CONNECTION, TIES, AGENCY, OR AFFILIATION WITH
ANY OTHER RELIGIOUS SOCIETY.” (Article III) Its name?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
(Strangite). Bro. Strang taught that truth has no fear of
investigation; so, let’s investigate. It will become plain
that this church operated from 1961 forward as a
corporation. The Kingdom of God cannot be joined with
the government of man. The eternal lives of all involved
is at stake.
This new CHURCH OF MAN was governed by a NEW
PRIESTHOOD of man. “The MANAGEMENT of the
corporation shall be vested in a Presiding Council which
may be also referred to as a BORAD OF DIRECTORS, of
not less than three (3) in number. The number of
directors constituting the first Presiding Council or first
Board of Directors and the name and address of each
such person is, as follows.” (Article VII)

The prophet James J. Strang made it clear that the voice

of man is not the voice of God. Remember, “crucify him,
crucify him.” The Constitution of this new church made
members of their church the government of their
church. “Section 1. The GOVERNMENT OF THE CHURCH
of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Strangite) shall be
vested in the GENERAL CONFERENCE, said General
Conference to consist of the Council of High Priests, and
attending Priesthood of the lesser degrees as well as any
lay members who have chosen to attend personally.”
(Article III.A)
Contrary to their own Certificate of Incorporation and
Constitution as noted above, this new church invented a
NEW ORDER OF THE PRIESTHOODD. “Section 2. In the
interim between the meetings of the General
Conferences, the COUNCIL OF HIGH PRIESTS SHALL
CONTITUTE THE GOVERNMENT OF THE CHURCH….”
(Section 2) “… the COUNCIL OF HIGH PRIESTS shall
consist of the High Priests who are in good standing. A
quorum of this council shall be a majority of the High
Priests.” (Section 1.G) These HIGH PRIESTS HAD TOTAL
RULING POWER—contrary to the above law that placed
all power in the hands of members. “The Council of High
Priests has the power of veto over any action of a
General Conference.” (Section 1.G)

The law of God provides for anyone claiming royal/ruling

authority like these high priests. “2. Whosoever is called
by the voice of God [not the voice of man] to the royal
authority, shall be anointed and ordained by the hands of
those who stand in royal authority above him.” (Book of
the Law of the Lord, p. 163) “10. High Priests after the
order of Melchisedek Priesthood have a right to officiate
in their own standing, [only] under the direction of the
presidency….” (Utah Doctrine and Covenants, Section
107) With the death of the prophet James J. Strang there
was no one holding royal authority above the office of
high priest. Yet these corporation high priests thought to
stand as government of the church. Not even third
degree Apostles are authorized by God to stand over the
church; as Brigham Young when he apostatized.

The authority of this Council of High Priests was

unlimited. “Do whatever else the Council of High Priests
deems necessary, helpful and compatible with the
Scriptures accepted by the Church for furthering the
interests, welfare and programs of the Church and/or it’s
subordinate Branches, Missions and membership.”
(Section 2.F)

This was a complete rebellion against the laws of God.

Bro. Strang wrote that rebellion “is as the sin of
witchcraft.” This is a most grievous sin. Satan and his
followers tried this experiment and ended up having to
spend eternity as ghosts.

This new church had a NEW SET OF LAWS.” It was called:

“THE CONSTITUTION OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST
OF LATTER DAY SAINTS (Strangite)” The prophet James
wrote in the Book of the Law of the Lord: “1. From time
immemorial the Constitution of God’s Kingdom has been
entitled, ‘The Decalogue,’ or, the ‘Ten Commandments.’”
“Set up no more the works of men’s hands against the
voice of God. Trust not in YOUR OWN WISDOM OR
ALTER THE LAW OF GOD; you that have gone astray
return to the order of God’s house.” (James J. Strang,
Chronicles of Voree, p. 44)

These high priests thought to change the laws of God.

““But as they have departed from his gospel, introduced
the ordinances of men and neglected to teach the things
that God commanded them, they have lost the authority,
blessings, and power of the priesthood, their candlestick
is removed out of its place, and CHRIST HAS CEASED TO
BE WITH THEM…” (Times and Seasons, Vol. 4, p. 9)

This constitution of man was considered by this church to

be so powerful and perfect that: “Any person proven
guilty of WILFULLY VIOLATING the doctrine and discipline
of this Church or THIS CONTITUTION… may be
disfellowshipped or EXCOMMUNICATED from
membership and Priesthood in the Church.” (Section 2)
Imagine using a man-made law to excommunicate
members from the Kingdom of God. This doctrine of
man clearly stands in rebellion to the law of God.

The prophet James J. Strang provided the law of God

regarding the DUE PROCESS SYSTEM of the true church.
“To cut a member off [or take any action against a
member] from the church it is necessary. 1st. that he be
accused of some act forbidden, or of neglecting some
thing commanded by the law of God.–2 nd, that he be
brought or required to appear before some quorum of
council having jurisdiction of both the person and the
offence. 3d., that he have a trial. 4 th., that his defense
be heard. 5 th., that on such trial he be condemned. 6
th., that sentence of excommunication be passed upon
him.

“If any one of these facts be lacking the individual

concerned is not cut off from the Church nor his standing
therein in any way affected. The vote of
excommunication in such case would be utterly void, and
the Church have nothing to do but to disregard it. It is
not even necessary to appeal from it, for the judgment
being a mere nullity there is nothing to appeal from.”
(Voree Herald, March 1846)

This Constitution of the government church was

developed only after many months and after the input of
several people. “The very idea that a constitution, the
work of a deliberative assembly of several score
members, produced through months of labor, in which it
was brought together piece by piece, changed, altered,
patched and amended till it was brought into working
shape, and to which twelve amendments have since
been adopted, was given by inspiration of God is TOO
RIDICULOUS TO BE TALKED OF.” (Northern Islander, July
5, 1855)

A most important question to resolve is whether the

church acted as the original church, or as the
corporation church. I have the church minutes from
1863 to 2000. Only the conferences after 1938 will be
considered; as they are not relative to this question. It
will become obvious that corporation church was the
church of Vernon Swift and others. Every church
conference was a meeting for the corporation church.

In the corporation church, the Ruling Council of High

Priests held ultimate power—in violation of the laws of
God. The corporation with its Constitution and Ruling
Council of High Priests was organized at the 1961
General Conference. At the next conference—1963 HIGH
PRIEST CONFERENCE—it was noted. “”The conclusion
was that THIS IS THE RULING COUNCIL of the church and
the AUTHORITY TO GOVERN RESTS IN THIS BODY OR
THERE IS NO CHURCH. The decisions of this council
should be binding on the church…The action the ruling
council takes on any subject should be adhered to by the
church.” “The conclusion was that this is the ruling
council of the church and the authority to govern rests in
this body or there is no church. The decisions of this
council should be binding on the church. If they are not,
where is the authority?”

At the 1967 HIGH PRIEST CONFERENCE, “Item I on the

agenda was the FIRST TOPIC discussed. This was
regarding a quorum in the CHURCH CONSTITUTION. It
was pointed out that we have 14 High Priests on the
record book and we must have eight present to have a
majority of this group according to the Consti-tution. We
had six… It was pointed out that the Charter provides for
branches and stakes and the establishment of these ‑
these should also be encouraged and the encouragement
of those already in existence.”
At the 1968 GENERAL CONFERENCE, it was noted: “Bro.
Vernon opened the Conference by calling attention to
the Constitution of the Church, especially pointing out
Article III, Section 1, Paragraph G., stating that the High
Priests who met prior to the Conference to act as the
resolutions committee must be considered by the Church
as a Council of High Priests and not as a High Council.

Bro. Vernon read Resolution No. 1 ‑

Resolved: That the body of High Priests represented by

those attending the present Conference be
acknowledged by this General Conference as a Council of
High Priests, with powers to deliberate on matters of
Church business and to present before the General
Conference their recommendations on such points as
pertain to the best interests of the Church.” The basis for
this resolution was that most of the existing high priests
were not active; and therefore there could be no Council
of High Priests. Vernon noted the importance of using
the corporation Constitution and then changing it
without following proper actions. “Bro. David Rees states
that a high Council could be formed and 7 form a
quo-rum. Asks why we could not appoint a High Council
and select 7 to form a quorum. Bro. Vernon stated that
we have only 6 active High Priests at the present meeting
and it could not be done in our condition at this time.”

At the 1969 HIGH PRIEST CONFERENCE these

corporation high priests did not even understand the
law of God on marriage. Marriage is one of the most
sacred and important of the ordinances in the Kingdom
of God. The doctrine of the church had been clearly
outlined in the writings of both prophets; and in the Book
of the Law of the Lord. The law of God does not provide
for divorce in a spiritual marriage. Those who are not
married by the law of God—but by the law of man—have
the right to divorce.

These corporation high priests could not even offer the

doctrine of the church in the case of Roma Lynch. “The
second subject under consideration was an
interpretation of the law of God dealing with divorce.
After lengthy discussion on this perplexing subject, it was
determined that this group was not able at this time to
write a conclusive interpretation which would satisfy all
individual cases where different conditions may tend to
conflict with the intent of the law.” The Council of High
Priests is found nowhere in the law of God; and is in fact
a usurpation of the priesthood. Yet, “The Council of High
Priests hereby offer our… In accordance with the
instructions of the last general Conference, it is the
decision of this Council… The Council consecrated a
bottle of oil to be used in administering for the sick.”

At the beginning of the 1972 GENERAL CONFERENCE

“Bro. Vernon Swift read Resolution #1 from the minutes
of the 1968 conference concerning the position of the
High Priest Council which reads as follows:

“Resolved: That this body of High Priests represented by

these attending the present conference be
acknowledged by this General Conference as a COUNCIL
OF HIGH PRIESTS, with powers to deliberate on matters
of Church business, and to present before the General
Conference their recommendations on such points as
pertain to the best interests of the Church.”

“Bro. Vernon Swift stated that this resolution must

remain applicable to the present High Priest Council and
General Conference.” “On the subject of marriage and
divorce, the High Priest Council decided not to make a
decisive statement at this time.”

“A question was asked if the CONSTITUTION described

the duties of the printer. A search of the Constitution
revealed no specific mention of the duties of the printer,
but the following reference was found: (Section 2)

“In the interim between the meeting of the General

Conferences, the RULING COUNCIL or Council of High
Priests SHALL REPRESENT THE GOVERNMENT OF THE
CHURCH and shall: B. Decide what books and literature
shall be printed, allocate funds from the General Church
Treasury for their publication and regulate their
distribution through the Voree Press which is hereby
designated as the publishing establishment for the
church”

At the 1973 HIGH PRIEST CONFERENCE it was noted: “For

this reason, the present council of six High Priests
recommends that we continue acting in the same
capacity as has been the practice since the 1972 General
Conference.”

At the 1974 HIGH PRIEST CONFERENCE it was noted:

“After a discussion of this letter which contained
complaints concerning the Elders court trials of Stephen
West, Geneva Lynch, and Roma Lynch, Bro. George
stated that these complaints of irregularities are
improperly filed. He says that Bro. Samuel West should
be informed that only the principals of the trials have a
right to appeal the case. This is in accord with the
provisions of the CHURCH CONSTITUTION. However, if
sufficient new evidence is submitted, a General
Conference may call for a re-hearing of the case. (Church
Constitution Page 21, Art. IV Sect. F)

At the 1975 HIGH PRIEST CONFERENCE it was noted:

“Bro. Vernon Swift suggested that we might START WITH
THE CHURCH CONSTITUTION and perhaps determine the
degree of authority the High Priests may assume in our
present circumstances. Bro. Bruce Flanders stated that
some have questioned the wording in the Constitution,
especially the term ‘Ruling Council’, and certain other
terms. We must acknowledge that some degree of error
is possible.” “The subject shifted to a discussion of the
High Priests acting as a “Council of High Priests” as called
out in the Constitution of the Church. It was stated that
the High Priests who met in 1964 were acting under this
provision and at that time they were agreed that a
quorum of the High Priest Council was a majority of
those attending the meeting, and did not include the
inactive High Priests or those not present. Bro. Vernon
Swift called attention to the fact that at a later meeting
prior to the General Conference of 1968, we had agreed
that a quorum con-sisted of a majority of all the High
Priests in good standing.”

“Bro. Vernon Swift stated that he had said before that

under proper circum-stances, the Church should be able
to excommunicate, that is what we have agreed to in the
Constitution, but I know this much, before I could pass
such a sentence, I would have to do a lot of searching to
determine if it was justified.”

At the 1977 HIGH PREIST CONFERENCE it was noted:

“The 1955 General Conference ruled, “It is the decision
of the Conference that anyone who becomes a member
of another church or religious order, must be rebaptized
upon approval of the Branch of which they were former
members.” This is a reckless and false doctrine. An elder
in the days of Joseph Smith joined the Methodist Church.
When he returned, confessed, and repented of his error,
Joseph returned his elder’s certificate. “To the case of A.
J. Squires presented by J. Smith. Mr. Squires had been an
ordained Elder in the Church and for a time preached the
gospel successfully, but after a while sent his license in a
letter to President Smith requesting to be excused from
laboring longer in the vineyard. This evening he came
forward before the church and confessed that he had
been in temptation and fallen into Error, so much so as
to go and join the Methodists, yet says he was not in
faith with their doctrine. He now says he desires to
return to the fellowship of the church and asks
forgiveness of the brethren and a restoration of his
license. President Smith arose & spoke at considerable
length on the improriety of turning away from the truth
and going after a people so destitute, of the spirit of
righteousness as the Methodists. President Rigdon also
labored quite lengthy to show the folly of fellowshiping
any doctrine or spirit aside from that of Christ. After
which Mr. Squires arose & said he felt fire in
determination of doing the will of God in all things, or as
far as in him lies, is sorry for his faults and by the grace of
God will forsake them in future. President Rigdon then
called for the vote of the Church & received it in favor of
restoring him to fellowship, and the office of Elder also,
and that the clerk give him a License.” (High Council,
Kirtland Council Minute Book, pp. 147, 148)
L. D. Hickey—the father of all priesthood today—joined
the RLDS church. When he returned, he was recognized
with the authority he received under James J. Strang.
Bro. Strang taught that re-baptism was required only
when a person is found fighting against God; as the
members of the corporate church have done.

The 1978 GENERAL CONFERENCE ruled and conducted

TRIALS OF MEMBERS OF THE ORIGNAL CHURCH. There
are pages of these trials. Many who they intended to cut
off from the church, were sent a letter which included
the following: “…it was noted: ‘This is to inform you that
the following High Priests: Bro. Vernon Swift – Presiding,
Bro. Bruce Flanders – Recorder, Bro. George Mead, Bro.
William Shepard ‑ (First day only) constituting the
Council of High Priests of the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter Day Saints (Strangite) have met on the lst and 2nd
day of October, 1977, to investigate the activities of a
group within the Voree Branch.”
It is possible that many of these should have been
disfellowshipped; but, to hold trials in the name of the
corporate church against member of the original church
is a violation of citizen rights—both in this country and
the Kingdom of God. Since they held no authority to act
against members of the original church, their acts were
null and void. One member was cut off simply because
they did not understand the law of God. Others were cut
off essentially because they did not honor the corporate
church. Vernon Swift went so far as to presumably
silence the priesthood of one elder based on his
presumed authority. The corporate Constitution which
he honored states: “A. NO MEMBER SHALL BE DISMISSED
OR EXPELLED FROM THE PRIESTHOOD EXCEPT BY
PROPER CHURCH COURT ACTION; his Priesthood is good
until regularly taken away. Any member who joins
another church or who requests either in writing or orally
to withdraw from the Church shall have his name
removed from the Church Records only after proper
labor with and upon the advice of the proper court.”
(Constitution, Section 2.A) This statement in their
corporate Constitution agrees with the doctrine of the
church. The prophet James J. Strang wrote: “… authority
is good till regularly taken away.” (Diamond) Since this
corporate Council of High Priests act only as a
corporation; and without authority from God, they
violate civil rights and could be taken to court for
redress. It is evident they have no respect for either civil
rights or the rights of members in the true church.

In one of those trials the corporate Constitution was

quoted as grounds for excommunication. The
Constitution of the Church states, under Article IV
Section 2: “Any person proven guilty of willfully violating
the doctrine and discipline of this Church or this
Constitution, or who shall bring shame or disgrace upon
the good name of the Church and/or it’s membership by
the commission of a criminal offense may be
disfellowshipped or excommunicated from membership
and Priesthood in the Church.”

At the 1979 HIGH PRIEST CONFERENCE it became evident

that the corporate high priests were confused over their
authority. “The subject of the term “RULING COUNCIL”
was taken up.” “Bro. George Mead said that since we
have found that the council of High Priests, as they now
exist, has certain limitations, he asks what are the
functions which the High Priests may perform.”

The 1982 HIGH PRIEST CONFERENCE faced the problem

of the original church and the corporate church. Steve
and Josephine Barany not wanting to be a part of this
corporate church wrote: “I Steve Barany was baptized
into the original Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day
Saints by Elder Joseph H. Hickey in Coldwater Michigan in
1951.

“I believe in the Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and

Covenants and the Book of the Law and strict
adherance to the laws contained herein.

“If you have the original record of membership in this

church as founded by Joseph Smith and James J. Strang
and carried forward by L. D. Hickey and Wingfield
Watson, DON’T TAKE MY NAME OFF THIS RECORD.
“However I am not the member of The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter Day Saints (Strangite) chartered by
Vernon Swift, Stanley Johnston, and Joseph E. Mead.
Since I was not baptized into your man made church I
want my name taken off YOUR CHURCH record if you
have it on.

(Signed) Steve Barany

This caused considerable confusion among these

corporate high priests. They were being forced to
recognize that the corporation church was not the
original church. “Bro. Swift suggested that the names of
Steve Barany and Josephine Barany be removed from the
Church rolls per their request.” “A discussion of this
matter was held at length.” “Bro. Vernon Swift said he
felt that their request should be honored. He asked how
many agreed with this. A VOTE WAS TAKEN. [Anytime
members vote on the membership or priesthood of
anyone, it is a sure sign they are not of God.] Bro. George
Mead agreed, Bro. Stanley Johnston agreed, Bro. Bruce
Flanders abstained but said he would do as instructed.”
“Number 5. Review of the Constitution. A short
discussion of this matter brought out the need to amend
the wording of the Constitution to remove the term
Ruling Council where it is used to mean the Council of
High Priests.”

Vernon Swift and the corporate Council of High Priests

continued to honor their corporation as the original
church. All conferences after 1961 were conducted as
meetings of the corporate church. The corporate
Constitution requires: “The management of the
corporation shall be vested in a Presiding Council which
may be also referred to as a Board of Directors, of not
less than three (3) in number. The number of directors
constituting the first Presiding Council or first Board of
Directors and the name and address of each such person
is, as follows.” (Certificate of Incorporation) This
conference was again only a meeting of the corporation.
“Number 10. SELECTION OF A COUNSELLOR to replace
the late Bro. Joseph Mead was also set aside as a matter
to be taken up before a General Conference.”

At the 1983 HIGH PRIEST CONFERENCE, it was noted:

“Bro. Bruce stated that to his knowledge, THERE
AREMEMBERS WHO HAVE NOT FULLY ACCEPTED THE
CONSTITUTION who have not fully accepted the
Constitution that was ratified by the General Conference
of 1961. Bro. Vernon and Bro. George both made the
statement that this action of the 1961 conference was
binding upon the entire Church, even though some
members were absent and did not vote on the matter at
the time.” Are they bound by the actions of other
corporate churches? In the state of Wisconsin there is
other church corporations; including the “Corporation of
the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints” and the “Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter Day Saints.” This conference was clearly a meeting
of the corporate church.
The 1984 GENERAL CONFERENCE was without doubt a
meeting for the corporation church. “Bro. Vernon Swift
spoke about a RATIFICATION OF THE CHURCH
CONSTITUION to fulfill the requirements required by the
law of the land. The Constitution calls for two
counselors.” “Bro. Vernon Swift has received notification
from Bro. Bruce Flanders and the Voree Branch (copy
attached) suggesting that the Church Constitution,
ratified in 1961 by the General Conference, be amended
to read ‘Council of High Priests’, not ‘Ruling Council’.”
“Bro. Swift read from the 1961 Constitution, Page 23,
Article 5, Section 1 which gives the right of a General
Conference to amend this constitution.” “Constitution be
amended to delete the term “Ruling Council”, and the
term “Council of High Priests” be put in all places in the
Constitution where “Ruling Council” is now.” This
conference was involved in trials of member of the
original church.

At the 1985 HIGH PRIEST CONFERENCE, “Bro. Vernon

then took up the FIRST ORDER OF BUSINESS suggested by
Bro. Bruce Flanders. It concerned the amendment of the
CHURCH CONSTITUITON as called for by the General
Conference of 1984. He said the New Mexico
Corporation Commission required a copy of the amended
Constitution signed by the President and Secretary. He
suggested that the President and both counsellors might
sign it, and asked Bro. Bruce Flanders if he would prepare
it. Bro. Bruce agreed to do so.”

At the 1990 GENERAL CONFERENCE, “Bro. Vernon Swift

spoke about the CONSTITUTION. We had to have one to
be recognized by the Government to own property, to do
some Church work, to fulfill our responsibility to the
government, to qualify our men for Conscientious
Objectors in case of draft.” Another deception. I was
classified as a 1-AO or conscientious objector in 1957—
before the corporation was even thought of. Lloyd
Flanders sons were recognized as conscientious objectors
without the corporation. George Mead was refused this
classification when he could not prove that he deserved
that status.
At the 1993 High Priest Meeting, the HIGH PRIESTS
COULD NOT AGREE ON THE GODHEAD. Bruce Flanders
had been teaching from the pulpit that the Father was
the spirit and Jesus was the physical body of God. This
became the central topic for this meeting. “For the
purpose of informing those who have an interest in the
proceedings of the High Priests meetings of the subjects
discussed, which in this instance were very deep and
complex, and owing to the fact that the discussion was
carried on in the form of a dialogue, and since no
conclusion was arrived at, the reader is urged to study on
their own to become better informed on the subject.”
THEY KNEW NOT GOD. They certainly could not
represent high priests in the Kingdom of God. The latter
day prophets Joseph Smith and James J. Strang left an
abundance of information on this subject. It is evident
these representatives of a civil corporation were not
guided by the Holy Spirit.

The 2000 GENERAL CONFERENCE was called because the

CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION required three high
priest as directors of the corporation. With the death of
Bruce Flanders only two remained: Vernon Swift and
George Mead.

In 1998, Vernon Swift wrote a letter to me declaring that

he had silenced my priesthood. This was a clear violation
of both the laws of God and his corporate constitution.
Since this was an action by a corporation, it was illegal. In
addition, no high priest has authority from God to take
any action against a member of the church. Bro. Strang
wrote of such: “It is not even necessary to appeal from it,
for the judgment being a mere nullity there is nothing to
appeal from.” (James J. Strang, Voree Herald, March
1846)

My attorney reviewed this action by Vernon and wrote

him a letter advising him to cease and desist because he
had no authority–as only a representative of a
corporation–to taken any action against a person outside
of that corporation. He noted that civil action could be
taken against him personally and against the corporation
because he violated Constitutional civil rights. After
considering Vernon’s poor health, I elected–at that time–
not to pursue civil action; although permitted even in the
church (1835 Doctrine and Covenants, Of Government
and Laws in General, v. 10)

Vernon most likely contacted his attorney and

understood his violation and possible litigation. He used
the 2000 General Conference in two ways. He introduced
this evil action for the conference to vote–on making
them party to this crime and individually liable. “Bro.
Vernon: …we are going to continue through the vote of
this conference, the silencing that was placed upon you.
And it will be by the vote if the conference wishes to vote
and I would like the conference to make that
recommendation. That way it will not be just me and
Bro. George (Mead). It will be on this also. I am open for
a resolution.” Resolution by Sister Billie Jean Weber: ‘I
make a resolution that he continue to be silenced until
he comes to the truth of it and repents of it. ’Motion
second by Sister Sherry Kelley. Question by Bro. Gary
Weber: ‘Do they have the authority to silence a
member?’ Answer by Bro. Vernon: ‘The conference can
do it.’” Vernon obviously erroneously believed the voice
of the people was the voice of God.

Recognizing his civil liability, Vernon had the conference

make the corporation liable to cover the cost of any
litigation. “This resolution is as stated, is that if litigation
would be brought against any or all High Priests from this
day, until the next general conference – any such legal
action would be against the Church, as a body, and all
legal expenses would be paid by the general Church
treasury.”

Vernon elected to make this a public trial of me–contrary

to the law of God. “Bro. Vernon: …Samuel E. West wrote:
‘I had no part in either the organization of the corporate
church or the ratification of the constitution. I did
erroneously recognize the ruling order of the Council of
High Priests in letters which I wrote to them. As I could
have rendered myself a member of the corporate church
by that action, I am making it clear that I am not a
member of the corporate church in New Mexico and I am
truly sorry for any support which I may have given to it.
This letter should make it obvious that I neither accept
membership in the corporate church nor recognize its
constitution.'”

“Bro. Samuel continued: “I find nothing in the law that

would indicate that I have to be a member of a
corporation to be a member of the Church of God.” “Bro.
Samuel: ‘Question, can you be a member of the Church
of God without being a member of man? Let me re-word
that: Do you have to be a member of a corporation to be
a member of the Church of God?’”

Vernon recognized that he was in a catch 22 situation. If

he was to answer yes, it would be obvious that the
corporation was his church. If he answered no, he would
undermine all opinions on the corporation. He became
so distraught that he had to be taken into another room
to recover.
Vernon continued with further statements that the
corporation and his church were the same thing. “Bro.
Vernon: ‘It is a subject that I have made for this
conference, as Presiding. You admit to these things and
it’s sad. It’s sad that these statements are made. It’s sad
because by doing so, lines are drawn. You admit that you
are NOT A MEMBER OF THIS CORPORATION – THIS
CHURCH…. I said Church, too, and this IS the Church. I
think we probably will have the vote of many more
saying that this is the Church and that your interpretation
of being a corporation is not accepted by this, as the
Church. Because there are no two churches, THERE ARE
NO TWO ORGANIZATIONS – JUST ONE ORGANIZATION.”

Lloyd Flanders was a recognized as a high priest presiding

over the church before Vernon. Those who knew him
recognized the Holy Spirit within him. At the time this
corporate church begun, he wrote to Vernon Swift on
February 12, 1967: “…for as noted in my letter to you
before: if we make the Ruling Council anything else but a
Temporary High Council: we have set a man-made head
on the Church: and are no better than other L.D.S.
Bodies.” He wrote again on November 25, 1969: “I regret
ever having had the slightest thing to do with the charter
for the Church: I regard it is a serious mistake ON MY
PART: and I have repented of it and asked God’s
forgiveness.”

Vernon again used the corporate constitution as

authority for his illegal action. “Section 2. Any person
proven guilty of WILFULLY VIOLATING the doctrine and
discipline of this Church or THIS CONSTITUION or who
shall bring shame or disgrace upon the good name of the
Church and/or its membership by the commission of a
criminal offense MAY BE may be disfellowshipped or
EXCOMMUNICATED from membership and Priesthood in
the Church. BEFORE ANY ACTION may be taken by a
Church Court either on the part of one member against
another or with the Church as plaintiff, LABOR MUST BE
PERFORMED with that individual consistent with the laws
and practices of the Church.” He violated his constitution
by acting without first laboring. He was liable to be
excommunicated from his church.
Vernon also violated Article IV, Section 1. “The
Government of this Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day
Saints (Strangite) shall be vested in the General
Conference.” Not so in the Kingdom of God. By this
action, Vernon caused all who raised their hands party to
an action illegal in the law of God. “A. NO MEMBER
SHALL BE DISMISSED OR EXPELLED FROM THE
PRIESTHOOD EXCEPT BY PROPER CHURCH COURT
ACTION; his Priesthood is good until regularly taken
away. Any member who joins another church or who
requests either in writing or orally to withdraw from the
Church shall have his name removed from the Church
Records only after proper labor with and upon the advice
of the proper court.” (Constitution, Section 2.A) This
statement in their corporate Constitution agrees with the
doctrine of the church. The prophet James J. Strang
wrote: “… authority is good till regularly taken away.”
(Diamond) Since Vernon and the corporate Council of
High Priests act only as a corporation–and without
authority from God–they violate Constitutional civil
rights and could be taken to court for redress. It is
evident they have no respect for either civil rights or
their own church constitution.
Joseph Smith wrote from Liberty Jail: “There are many
called but few are chosen, and why are they not chosen?
Because their hearts are set upon the things of the world
and are aspiring to the honors of men: they do not learn
the lesson that the rights, of the priesthood, are
inseparably connected with the powers of heaven; and
that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor
handled, only upon the of righteousness, that they may
be conferred upon us, it is true, but when we undertake
to cover our sins, to gratify our pride, vain ambition, or to
EXERCISE DOMINION OR COMPULSION, over the souls of
the children of men, IN ANY DEGREE OF
UNRIGHTEOUSNESS; behold the heavens withdraw
themselves, the Spirit of the Lord is grieved, then AMEN
TO THE PRIESTHOOD, or to the authority of that man;
behold ere he is aware, he is left to kick against the prick;
to persecute the saints, and to fight against God. We
have learned by sad experience, that it is the nature and
disposition of almost all men, as soon as they get a little
authority, as they suppose, to begin to exercise
unrighteous dominion, hence many are called but few
are chosen. No power or influence can, or aught to be
maintained by virtue of the priesthood, only by
persuasion, by long suffering, by gentleness, by
meekness and by love unfeigned; without hypocrisy, and
without guile: reproving with sharpness when moved
upon by the Holy Ghost, and afterwards showing forth an
increase of love towards him whom thou hast reproved,
lest he esteem thee to be his enemy, so that he may
know, that thy faithfulness is stronger that the cords of
death.” (Times and Seasons, Volume 1, July 1840)

When the high council was organized on February 12,

1834, Joseph Smith remarked: “He said, that no man was
capable of judging a matter in council without his own
heart was pure, and that we frequently are so filled with
prejudice, or have a beam in our own eye, that we are
not capable of passing right decissions, &c…. Our acts are
recorded, and at a future day they will be laid before us,
and if we should fail to judge right and injure our fellow
beings, they may there perhaps condemn us; then they
are of great consequence, and to me the consequence
appears to be of force beyond any thing which I am able
to express &c. Ask yourselves, brethren, how much you
have exercised yourselves in prayer since you heard of
this council; and if you are now prepared to sit in
judgment upon the soul of your brother.” (Kirtland
Council Minute Book, p. 22)

The primary business of this 2000 conference was

supposed to be the appointment of a high priest to take
the place of Bruce Flanders. “Therefore, the ones that we
have been thinking about and want to put a motion, each
individually: FIRST OF ALL, Brother DAVID E. REES. He has
been an Elder for 38 years. Second, Bro, David B,
Flanders, He hasn’t been an Elder that long – about 8
years. Third, Bro. William K. (Billy) Shepard. He’s, right
now, a Teacher. He has been a High Priest (in the past)
and through a lot of hardship, that was taken from him.
He was working his way back. Bro. Vernon: ‘Those three
are the ones we have nominated or suggested and feel
that they are called, because they are all good men.’”
For any person to be considered a candidate for calling to
the office of High Priest, he must be “keepers of his law,
examples in righteousness.” (Book of the Law, p. 193) No
one can be legitimately ordained to an office in the
priesthood except by the mouth and hands of one
holding that priesthood.

Let us review the history of VERNON SWIFT’S alleged

priesthood; and thereby that of all offices in the
corporate church. At the 1939 GENERAL CONFERNCE,
“Resolution #3: “Motion made by Bro. H. C. Anderson
[ELDER] that we ORDAIN SIX MORE HIGH PRIESTS, and
seconded by Bro. John Wake,” was VOTED UPON and
carried unanimously.” No elder can call one to the office
of high priest. If this was possible, they could have called
one to the Prophetic Office by the voice of man; as was
the case with Brigham Young. There is no such thing as a
general calling to the priesthood. Each person must be
individually called. This is almost too simply a rule to
even discuss. It is a fundamental law of the Kingdom of
God.
At the 1942 GENERAL CONFERENCE–without following
the law of God that one must be called by the mouth of
one holding that priesthood—Joseph Mead was called by
the voice of man. “It was VOTED unanimous that Bro.
Joseph Mead be ordained a High Priest.

At the 1947 GENERAL CONFERENCE, the practice of

voting men into office was repeated. “Bro. Mead made
motion that Bro. Lloyd Flanders be placed in the position
formerly occupied by Bro. Max Flanders as Presiding High
Priest of the Church. Seconded and approved.

Discussion followed as to ordaining a High Priest to

preside over the Church, or just setting up a precedent of
choosing or voting them into that position. It has been in
the past that there was an ordination to that position.
Bro. Lloyd Flanders read the 42nd Sec. of D. & C., and
Chap. 18, p. 163 of the B. of the L. on ordination.” “Bro.
West made a motion that we do not ordain Bro. Flanders
because we have already appointed and voted him into
this position.”
“11. Again, I say unto you, that it shall not be given to any
one to go forth to preach my gospel, or to build up my
church, except he be ordained by some one who has
authority, and it is known to the church that he has
authority and has been regularly ordained by the heads
of the church.” (Utah D&C, 42)

“1. THOU shalt not take upon thyself the honour of the
Priesthood; neither shalt thou confer this honour on any
but him whom the Lord thy God shall call. For no man
shall administer in the name of God, but he that is called
by the revelation of God’s will, and set apart by the
hands of those upon whom the authority of his name is
sealed.” (Book of the Law, p. 163)

It is clear that voting people into the priesthood is

contrary to the law of God; and is therefore invalid. This
law invalidates the priesthood of Vernon Swift and all
others called by the voice of man.
At the 1952 GENERAL CONFERENCE, “Bro. Joseph Mead
nominated Bro. Vernon D. Swift.” It took a vote of man to
seal this “nomination.” Since Joseph Mead did not have a
valid claim to the priesthood, that ordination was again
invalid. This conference went far astray from the law of
God on calling and ordination. Six men were called to the
office of high priest by a nomination and vote of man.
Some by elders and some by lay members. “Sis. Cynthia
Trimble [a lay member] NOMINATED Bro. George Mead.”
None were valid according to the law of God. What a
tangled web they wove, when acting to deceive.

At the 1955 GENERAL CONFERENCE, “Cliffie West [a

teacher] ‘nominated [called] Vernon Swift as the
Presiding High Priest.” He was APPOINTED BY A VOTE of
17 to 16.” Bro. Strang taught the voice of the people is
not the voice of God. Only one who holds the office
being called has authority to call another to that
priesthood. From 1955, until shortly before his death,
Vernon continued to usurp that office. From 1961, he
continued as the President of the corporation church—in
accordance with the Certificate of Incorporation–
teaching that he was the head of the true church, in
violation of the law of God. No murderer can be forgiven
in mortal life.

At the 1996 YOUTH CONFERENCE, Vernon bragged about

his military service. This is bragging about being a violator
of the law of God and a murderer. When the holy
Eucharist was served, he required that it be given to non-
members. This is a clear violation of the law of God. “…
and they who are washed of their sins, and have a pure
conscience before God, shall eat and drink thereof…”
(Book of the Law, p. 145) Several members wrote to
Vernon about this grievous error. He resisted, at first,
finally admitting that he did such a thing; and then noted
that he had been doing this for 35 years!

Near the end of the conference Vernon elected to get

involved with signs. He had everyone form a circle and
gave each a candle to light. His candle, though, was a
relighting candle. He advised all this was a symbol of the
Melchisedec Priesthood which is a priesthood of an
endless life. Then everyone—including himself—blew out
their candles. He was shocked when his candle would not
relight. Several said they felt a chilly wind blow through
the room. No matter what he did, he was unable to light
his candle. He got his sign!

Let us examine BRUCE FLANDERS. He knew the law of

God. Yet, he volunteered for military service; and by the
law of God became a murderer—not even a candidate
for baptism. He even taught from the pulpit in Burlington
that it was permissible to join the military; and
encouraged a nephew of mine to join the military.

One of the key features of a church claiming to represent

God is a correct knowledge of God. The prophet Joseph
Smith taught: “2 Let us here observe, that three things
are neces-sary, in order that any rational and intelligent
being may exercise faith in God unto life and salvation. 3
First, The idea that he actually exists. 4 Secondly, A
correct idea of his character, perfec-tions and attributes.
5 Thirdly, An actual knowledge that the course of life
which he is pursuing, is according to his will. For without
an acquaintance with these three important facts, the
faith of every rational being must be imperfect and
unproductive; but with this understanding, it can become
perfect and fruitful, abounding in righteousness unto the
praise and glory of God the Father, and the Lord Jesus
Christ.” (Lecture Third, 1835 Doctrine and Covenants)

“36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law?

37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God
with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy
mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment.”
(Matt. 22)

Bruce Flanders was one of the key corporation high

priests. He preached from the pulpit in Burlington that
the Father was the spirit and the Son was the physical
body of God. This is the same false doctrine that
Constantine brought into Christianity in 324 AD. It is a
doctrine of the Devil.
Vernon provided sufficient evidence to those in the
corporate church and all others to understand they were
only members of a corporation in 2000. At the death of
Bruce Flanders, the corporation had only two directors;
and three were required by the Certificate of
Incorporation—not the law of God. Since it was
necessary to replace Bruce, Vernon called an emergency
general conference to vote a replacement high priest for
the corporation.

Prior to the conference, I enlisted a private investigator

to inspect the church records. This revealed THERE WAS
ONLY ONE SET OF MEMBERSHIP RECORDS: THAT OF THE
CORPORATION. There were no other records. ALL WERE
ONLY MEMBERS OF THE CORPORATION CHURCH.

The law of God requires: “1. THE Lord your God will
chose faithful men, keepers of his Law, examples in
righteousness, to be Priests of the order of an endless
life.” (Book of the Law, p. 193) LET US CONSIDER DAVID
REES. Before this conference, David had been convicted
of a felony: CHILD PORNOGRAPHY. God would certainly
not call a felon to be a high priest. There is further
evidence that Vernon called him only because of his
personal attachment with David.

David wrote me on August 18, 1997: “Every one I’ve

heard speak who was there in the European theatre of
WWII has expressed the same feeling that they felt
justified… As these two brothers were called after their
military service I should think that they must be
considered as having been forgiven if there was a sin
involved.” The prophet James wrote: “…for that which
the law of God declares to be sin, man cannot make
lawful.” He wrote: “I wound not be so bold as to say
whether Mr. Strang received or understood the
Godhead.” On October 1, 1997, he wrote: “…you will get
an understanding that the Almighty has a body
composed of Spiritual Energy, and energy as Dr. Einstein
has proven, is a form of matter, having mass and weight,
and form. No where will you find that either of the Latter
Day prophets proposed a body of flesh and bones.” David
felt military service was not against the law of God. He
believed that God did not have a physical body. Do I have
to answer these false doctrines?

What of WILLIAM SHEPARD? William—knowing the law

of god—still volunteered for military service the same as
Vernon Swift and Bruce Flanders. According to the law of
God, WILLIAM WAS A MURDERER. See Book of the Law
of the Lord: “Thou shalt not kill.” James J. Strang noted in
the Book of the Law:

“4. All killing by mobs, or bodies of unauthorized men,

acting upon no matter what provocation, and not in open
and legal war, belong to the category of mere murder. 5.
Nor should that be regarded as legal war, which men by
their law have authorized, but only that which the law of
God authorizes. 6. Consequently, he who voluntarily
enters upon an unjust war, is guilty of murder. As part of
the force, he is guilty, when death is inflicted by others.
7. Nor will he be justified, though required by the law of
his country; for that which the law of God declares to be
sin, man cannot make lawful. 8. It is, therefore, the duty
of the Saints, to abstain from all wars which are not
authorized by the express word of God, or the plain
principles of his law; as from murder.”

MURDERERS AND FELONS may be acceptable to Vernon

Swift for the office of high priest in his corporation; but,
not to God. Here is conclusive evidence that THE
CHURCH HEADED BY VERNON SWIFT IS NOT A CHURCH
OF GOD. When the records of this church were
examined, it was found the only members were
members of the corporation church. There was no other
record. Are we not told: “Prove all things; hold fast that
which is good.” (1 Thess. 5:21) “To the law and to the
testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is
because there is no light in them.” (Isa. 8:20)

Vernon Swift and others taught that the church was

originally organized as a corporation. This is a miserable
lie intended to capture the souls of man. They used the
following quotation in the 2000 General Conference to
support their lie: “Bro. Vernon: ‘Yes… James J. Strang, a
Prophet of God, a Lawgiver, had this to say in GOSPEL
HERALD, Vol. 2, Voree, Wisconsin Territory, Thursday,
Oct. 28, 1847, No. 32, in his debate with W. E. McLellin:
… and organized themselves not only as an ecclesistical
body, but as a body politic and corporate, according to
the law of that State.’” “It is necessary for us to
incorporate, simply to satisfy the laws of the land where
we can be recognized and be a legal entity.” The church
was recognized under Joseph Smith, James J. Strang, and
always as an unincorporated group. If it was necessary to
incorporate be recognized as a church, there was no
church from April 6, 1830, forward.

This question was resolved by H. Michael Marquardt and

Wesley P. Walters. Their research has been accepted as
legitimate. “Whitmer also declares that the
organizational meeting was for legal purposes so the
church could hold property and officiate in marriages.
The cover of the Book of Commandments agrees that the
Church of Christ was ‘Organized According to Law, on the
6th of April, 1830.’ However well-intentioned this event
was, no records of incorporation have been found in the
Fayette or Manchester/Palmyra area for 6 April 1830 or
any other date. Ultimately, the meetings was more
spiritual than legalistic.”

“Joseph Smith was at neither Manchester nor Fayette

long enough to give legal notice to incorporate. When he
and Joseph Snight were on their way to Machester, Night
says Smith told him ‘there must be a Church formed But
did not tell when.’ This was at the most twelve days
before 6 April. [Notice of incorporation had to filed “at
least fifteen days before the day of election] Knight was
still at Manchester when the baptisms occurred and
Smith ‘Begun the Church with six members.’” (Inventing
Mormonism, pp. 162, 163)

The only record of the church ever being incorporated

was noted by James J. Strang in the Voree Herald,
September 1846. It is beyond question that the spiritual
church was never incorporated—only the physical assets
of the church. “The Church was organized in Illinois
under a statute of that State FOR THE PURPOSE OF
HOLDING REAL ESTATE &c, in a corporate capacity, by
making Joseph Smith, Trustee in manner following:

From a Book of Mortgages and Bonds, page 95.

“City of Nauvoo, Hancock Co, Illinois,
February 2, A.D. 1842.

“To the County Recorder of the county of Hancock.

“Dear Sir:–

“At a meeting of the Church of Latter Day Saints at this

place, on Saturday the 30th day of January, A.D. 1841, I
was elected sole TRUSTEE FOR SAID CHURCH, to hold my
office during life, (my successor to be the First Presidency
of said Church,) and vested WITH PLENARY POWERS as
sole TRUSTEE IN TRUST for the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter Day Saints, to receive, acquire, MANAGE AND
CONVEY PROPERTY, real personal, or mixed for the sole
use and benefit of said Church, agreeable to the
provisions of an act entitled ‘An Act concerning Religious
Societies,’ approved February, 1835.

“Joseph Smith, [L. S.]”

“State of Illinois,
Hancock County,”

We have investigated this corporation as being a church

of God; and found it wanting. You have been afforded
conclusive evidence that all members of the corporation
church are just that; and HAVE NO AFFILIATION WITH A
CHURCH OF GOD. There is an adage that is easily applied
in this case:

IF IT LOOKS LIKE A DUCK AND QUACKS LIKE A DUCK, IT

MUST BE A DUCK.

POSSIBLY THE WORSE CONSEQUENCE, is that even if they

dissolved the corporation church, they would continue
only as a church of man. Since Vernon Swift was the
father of their presumed priesthood; and was not
legitimately called to that priesthood. None of the
ordinations that followed were valid. In addition, he
could not be a high priest for God and for man at the
same time.

THIS WEIGHS EXTREMENTLY HEAVY ON MY HEART. I

have tried to prove by the law and the testimony many
times of the evil of the corporation church—only to be
rebuked by its head and membership. It is like watching
the followers of Brigham Young. They, too, apostatized
from the true priesthood God; and had their opinions.
Even today they testify they know Brigham was a
prophet. “Opinions, where we have the word of the Lord,
ARE WORTH NOTHING. Since the days of the Savior, they
have strangely divided men into almost as many sects, as
the number of the name of beast that John saw. All men
have a right to their opinions, BUT TO ADOPT THEM FOR
RULES OF FAITH AND WORSHIP, is wrong, and my finally
leave the souls of them that adopt them for spiritual
guides, IN THE TELESTIAL KINGDOM…” (Evening and
Morning Star, Vol. 1, p. 69)

This article is not written for me. It would be much easier

for me to simply ignore the desire of a council of high
priests in Burlington to act against my membership in the
Kingdom of God. I allowed Vernon Swift to escape civil
prosecution because of his health. It now seems time for
the membership and the public in general to understand
this fabrication. My contention has solely been with
those who have erroneously assumed priesthood of God,
with their evil actions, and with the corporation church
presenting itself to the world as a church of God. If that
corporation is dissolved, the people remain without any
priesthood or membership in the Kingdom of God.

This church of man can be reached at the uninformative,

one page web site: ldsstrangite.com. The web site that
provides the most comprehensive information is
maintained by me: mormonbeliefs.com. Here are
hundreds of pages, over fifty subjects, the most
important books, the true priesthood of God, the claims
of various LDS churches, and the gate into the Kingdom
of God. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his
righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto
you.” (Jesus, Matt. 6:33) “Prove all things; hold fast that
which is good.” (1 Thess. 5:21) “To the law and to the
testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is
because there is no light in them.” (Isa. 8:20) The
prophet James J. Strang taught that truth has no fear of
investigation. I welcome inquiries and investigation.

I recall the words of the prophet James J. Strang to the

followers of Brigham Young. He called upon those who
had gone astray to return to the true flock. All members
of the corporation church—to be members of the
Kingdom of God—must do as Jesus told the seven
churches of gentiles: “5 Remember therefore from
whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first
works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will
remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou
repent.” (Rev. 2:5)
I pray at least one member of this evil will return and
work in the service of the Lord. Jesus taught: “17 Even so
every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt
tree bringeth forth evil fruit.18… neither can a corrupt
tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree that bringeth
not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” (Matt.
7)

Remember the words of the Prophet James J. Strang in

his first Pastoral Letter of December 25, 1845: “Let the
high priests teach the law of God unto the people. Let all
the Elders learn not to put their faith in some great man
and say all is well, but let them buckle on the whole
armor of God and stand up bold defenders of the truth
rather than men.” (Chronicles of Voree, p. 35)

The lineage of my priesthood is not through Vernon Swift

or anyone associated with the corporation church. I was
not baptized into a corporation; and I was not ordained
into a corporation. It has been proven that all members
of the corporation church are foreigners to the Kingdom
of God. The prophet James J. Strang called and ordained
L. D. Hickey one of the Twelve Apostles. Apostle Hickey
ordained Samuel Martin a high priest, who ordained
Lloyd Flanders a high priest. My father—who was an
elder in the Voree Branch—called me to the office of
elder and it was sustained by the Voree Branch. I was
later ordained by Lloyd Flanders to the office of elder on
July 8, 1956—five years before the corporation church.

The Lord has blessed me above my fellows with the Holy

Spirit to guide me in the work of the Lord that He has
called me. He has blessed me with understanding which I
will be eternally grateful. Through the Spirit, I have
restored many gospel works and written and published
many other works. I have made the Book of the Law of
the Lord, the 1835 Doctrine and Covenants, the Voree
Herald, Zion’s Reveille, Gospel Herald, Northern Islander,
and many other gospel discourses available to all. There
is now more gospel material available than to any
previous generation. How many have taken advantage of
this treasury? “Study to shew thyself approved unto God,
a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly
dividing the word of truth.” (2 Tim. 2:15)

God has given me hundreds that have entered the

Kingdom of God as result of my preaching—from Hawaii
to Virginia and from Canada to Texas; including Indiana,
Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, California, Arizona, Arkansas,
Alabama, West Africa, and Oklahoma. Through the web
site—mormonbleifs.com—the Lord has guided me to
present this great treasury and stand as a voice of
warning in these last days. The gospel–with the help of
Google Translator–is available to the world. The first one
I baptized and eventually ordained an elder in Africa was
in Sierra Leone.

In 2005, God gave me a man that had been the pastor of

an Assembly of God Church in Nairobi, Kenya. He had
received a vision from the Lord that his church was
wrong and that he must contact me; which he did on the
web site I have maintained. My son-in-law Dean,
travelled with me to Dubai where I baptized him with
water, we confirmed into the Kingdom of God; and later
ordained an elder. You can judge him through his work.
The gospel was never preached in Africa. Through his
work there are now over a hundred branches in Kenya,
Uganda, and Tanzania. Another branch is about to be
organized in Ghana. “A good tree cannot bring forth evil
fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.”
(Jesus)

ALL MEMBERS OF THE CORPORATE CHURCH—OR

ORGANIZATION—you have the most weighty decision
you will ever make in mortal life. If you no longer
represent yourselves as a corporation, you are still the
same organization without authority from God. You are
not members of the Kingdom of God; but, stand in
rebellion against God. Are you going to continue to
honor and be a member of a church of man? You have a
free moral agency; but, be careful how you choose.
There may be little time remaining; and this may be your
last opportunity to return to the Kingdom of God. This is
the first day of the rest of your lives: use it wisely. The
gate into the Kingdom of God is still open.
Yours in the gospel and love of God and Jesus,

Samuel E. West
Senior elder in Zion
April 21, 2017
mormonbeliefs.com
samuel270@aol.com