Abstract

Convinced that the recent famine and hard times were manifestations of God’s displeasure with the course of events in Zion, Church leaders commenced a program of purification or reformation in September, 1856. Jedediah Grant was the catalyst behind the movement and was responsible for much of the early zeal which attended the Reformation. Gradually the spontaneity and fervor subsided and was replaced by a more moderate and reasoned approach to reform.

During the Reformation Church members were expected to comply with the commandments and to renew their covenants through rebaptism. Saints unwilling to make these recommitments were generally cut off from the Church and often left Mormon settlements.

Although the Reformation was a movement of consequence, both critics and apologists have claimed too much. The stern threats and pronouncements of Church leaders were often rhetorical devices, and it is doubtful if any Church member had to atone for his sins. On the other hand, it would appear that for many Saints the spiritual rejuvenation was of brief duration.