In his lifetime, Thomas Merton was hailed as a prophet and censured for his outspoken social criticism. For nearly 27 years he was a monk of the austere Trappist order, where he became an eloquent spiritual writer and mystic as well as an anti-war advocate and witness to peace. Merton: A Film Biography provides the first comprehensive look at this remarkable 20th century religious philosopher who wrote, in addition to his immensely popular autobiography The Seven Storey Mountain, over 60 books on some of the most pressing social issues of our time, some of which are excerpted here. Merton offers an engaging profile of a man whose presence in the world touched millions of people and whose words and thoughts continue to have a profound impact and relevance today.
With a divine answer to a humble prayer at age 14, Joseph Smith began to fulfill his inspired mission. He translated the ancient Book of Mormon and restored the everlasting gospel of Jesus Christ. Many flocked to the American frontier to worship with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, led by the Prophet Joseph's dynamic and courageous example. Unstopped by his martyrdom at age 38, Joseph's legacy continues today in the dedicated lives of Saints throughout the world who still sing; "Praise to the Man who Communed with Jehovah!"
This is the first film to dramatize how President Hinckley was prepared by the Lord from his youth. From boyhood lessons, to tender moments with his mother in their library, to overcoming rejection in the mission field, you will feel the warmth that endeared him to so many later in life. In the railroad yard, behind a typewriter, and hand-in-hand with Marjorie, the love of his life, Gordon B. Hinckley grew to become a giant among men.
Four days before his wedding, Howard William Hunter, 24, played his last engagement as a professional musician. From then on, whether as a successful corporate attorney, church leader in the Los Angeles ares or apostle of the Lord, Howard's life was dedicated to serving others. His focus on temple service began as a young bishop and carried through to his presidency as he challenged the Church membership to increase temple worthiness and attendance. His tenure as the 14th President of the Church lasted only nine months, but he left a wonderful legacy that blesses us today.
The only modern day Prophet to be born outside America, John Taylor championed the Bible throughout his youth and followed his convictions to America. Though he testified of his religious destiny early on, it wasn't until hearing the true gospel from Elder Parley P. Pratt that he received the tools necessary to complete his noble mission. He witnessed the death of the Prophet Joseph, yet his tireless labors breathed life into the Church. As a Defender of Truth, he defied persecutors, critics and mobs, valiantly leading the Church through some of its most trying times.
Born in Missouri at the height of mob persecution, denied fatherly guidance at age five and the love of his mother at age thirteen, Joseph F. Smith was reared by the hand of the Lord from orphaned boy to sixth President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Witness the faith, devotion and struggles required to drive a team of oxen across the plains, serve numerous missions abroad, withstand the mistreatment of an intolerant nation, and ultimately rise to be a Prophet of God.
Born the son of a prophet in 1876, Joseph Fielding Smith's life spanned one of the most dynamic times in the history of the world. While his devoted father and mother were exiled to Hawaii, seven-year-old Joseph was left alone for several years to mature. A historian for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at age 25, Joseph defended the faith as a scholar and prolific writer over the next 70 years. Through his lifelong commitment as theologian, apostle, and Prophet of God, he helped the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints grow to be a worldwide religion.
Lorenzo Snow was born in 1814, in Mantua, Ohio. A student of the Bible, Lorenzo sought the truth and was baptized in 1836. Having military aspirations in his youth, they were quickly abandoned as Lorenzo eagerly spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. He opened the missionary work in Italy and was blessed with many spiritual gifts, including the gift of healing. As the leader of Brigham City, Lorenzo successfully ran several co-ops, providing for the temporal welfare of the Saints. His great spiritual strength and humility were blessings to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when he became its fifth President and reiterated the importance of the law of tithing.
From the Joseph Smith Jr. and Emma Hale Smith Historical Society, and the director and producers of Joseph Smith: The Prophet of the Restoration, comes this wonderful addition to any family night or classroom. Precious moments of the Prophet Joseph Smith's life are revealed in this wonderful, original compilation of films. Enjoy these teaching and influencing moments. A perfect companion to any study of the Prophet's ministry and life. Run time 70 min. Widescreen. English closed captions. Subtitled in Spanish.
George Albert Smith was born to a devoted heritage of Church leadership. From his birth in 1870, to his death in 1951, he was an exceptional example of love and charity. Though plagued with poor health, George Albert never lost his sense of humor or allowed his challenges to slow his spiritual growth. Instead, he wrote a "Creed of Kindness" that became his standard to live by for the rest of his life. Sustained as the Prophet shortly after World War II, his example of love and kindness helped bind nations and heal the hearts of many
Ezra Taft Benson, Statesman, Patriot and Prophet ... Born in the farmlands of Whitney, Idaho, Ezra Taft Benson learned to love the land. The work ethic and dedication to farming Ezra gained in his youth carried him through a lifetime of service and leadership. Loyalty to God, family and country guided his thoughts and actions always. As a missionary, leader of the nation's farmers, US Cabinet member, apostle, prophet and father, he left no doubt as to his ethics and beliefs. He was an influential champion of liberty and freedom, and became the greatest advocate of the Book of Mormon in our day.
Born in 1895, Spencer W Kimball learned to work hard and love the gospel. Called as an apostle in 1943, Spencer worked increasingly, despite many severe health problems. After helping troubled Saints overcome grievous sin, Elder Kimball wrote "The Miracle of Forgiveness", which has become a virtual textbook for those seeking spiritual healing. Called as the 12th President of the Church in 1973, Spencer adopted the mottoes of "Do It" and "Lengthen Your Stride". His love for all peoples of the earth led to the 1978 revelation allowing all worthy male Church members to receive the Priesthood.
A long odyssey from a humble, Idaho farm boy in overalls, Harold B Lee's maturation was steady and unwavering. Born in 1899 to Samuel Marion and Louisa Bingham Lee, Harold received a typical country education. Always ahead of his time, he became the teacher of a one-room school at age 17 and a principal at 18. His progress lifted him from near poverty and obscurity to fulfill his destiny and he became Prophet and seer, God's spokesman to the inhabitants of the world - the eleventh President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Born just nine days prior to the death of his father, Heber J. Grant was reared by his mother Rachel. As a child of prophecy, Heber emerged from humble beginnings to become a successful businessman and servant of God. Persistence and dedication were his lifetime mottos, and he worked hard to overcome obstacles set in his path. His incredible abilities and business sense saved the Church from near financial ruin. Upon becoming the seventh President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints his charity and foresight were imperative as he oversaw the founding of the Welfare Program.
A young Wilford Woodruff would not join any religion, believing the true church did not exist on the earth. But, upon hearing his first Mormon sermon, the Spirit of God bore witness to him and he was immediately baptized. As a dedicated new convert, Wilford successfully spread the gospel, overcame tragedies throughout his life and was preserved by divine intervention to become the fourth President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Obeying revelation from God, he ended the era of plural marriage, and dedicated both the Manti and Salt Lake temples.
With a divine answer to a humble prayer at age 14, Joseph Smith began to fulfill his inspired mission. He translated the ancient Book of Mormon and restored the everlasting gospel of Jesus Christ. Many flocked to the American frontier to worship with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, lead by the Prophet Joseph's dynamic and courageous example. Unstopped by his martyrdom at age 38, Joseph's legacy continues today in the dedicated lives of Saints throughout the world who still sing "praise to the man who communed with Jehovah!"
Born in 1873, David O. McKay was reared in beautiful Huntsville, Utah. As a boy, he learned the value of hard work and the importance of kindness. His gentle manner and keen sense of humor endeared him to all whom he met. His eternal marriage to his beloved Emma Ray, was a model of love and respect. As an effective educator, missionary, and an apostle and prophet of God, David O. successfully "acted well his part." Serving as the Prophet for 19 years, President McKay held a leading role in the emergence of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a worldwide religion.
At age sixteen, Brigham Young was sent from his home, tools in hand, to become a craftsman. Years later, Joseph Smith helped provide spiritual tools necessary for his life ahead. Brigham rose above the turmoil of Joseph's martyrdom to lead the Saints to the safety of the West. As the second prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he moved populations, formed armies, built cities and temples, and nurtured the growth of the Church. Enduring to the end, Brigham truly was the "Lion of the Lord" and was greeted again by the Prophet Joseph Smith, as he passed through the veil.