Why We Do Family History

There have been just too many connections to ancestors recently as we get some sealing work accomplished. Yesterday was Fast Sunday. I got up and bore testimony.  After church, I asked my wife what she had understood from my testimony. She said that I told them that the sealing power heals families and heals us when we do this work. "Yeah," I said. "I guess that's what I was trying to say."

Vaughan/Vaughn Family about 1896
the Generations that Came to America with the Husband & Father in an early grave  

And that is my point. The little boy with the slight smile above - front, right - is my great-grandfather, born in England, buried in Ogden, Utah. Last week I went to the State Archives to get the divorce file from my great-grandmother's case. Grandpa did not contest. It wasn't a pleasant read, but it could have been a lot worse too.

I understand that this was a sensitive issue in the family and some still don't want to know details. I understand and respect that. But let me explain why I prefer to know. The knowledge of the truth, even when difficult, is more comforting to me than all the possible horribleness I can imagine. It helps me understand. It helps me heal.

And that's what I'm trying to do for my ancestors. My testimony yesterday went on to emphasize the prophetic calling of the Prophet Joseph Smith. The doctrine and priesthood restored and established by heavenly messengers through him fulfill the promise of ancient Israel that the hearts of the children will turn to the fathers. This is by the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ available to all, living and dead, through priesthood keys of the sealing power. As the Apostle Paul stated, linking Christ to the Faith of the Ancient Fathers and Mothers, "they without us should not be made perfect." And if you don't believe it connects, read D&C 128 again. That is enough for me.