The Brigham Young Center

Great Salt Lake City,
September 21, 1867.

Mr. R. Chery,
Eufaula, Barbour Co. Alabama.

Dear Sir:

Your letter of June reached me only a few days ago and I now hasten to answer it. You ask if I think that it would be right to be baptized by a man who you think is a good man. To speak plainly my feelings and in accordance with what is written in the Scriptures, mere goodness, of itself, gives no man a right or authority to officiate in the ordinance of baptism. Paul says, in the 5th chapter of Hebrews, that "no man taketh this honor (the priesthood) unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron." God does not recognise men as His servants who are not called and sent by Him. Joseph Smith had no authority to officiate in the ordinances of the gospel until he received the Holy Priesthood, even that priesthood which was held by the disciples of Jesus. It is this feature in the Church of Christ which distinguishes it from all other Churches and organizations. God acknowledges the acts of those <whom He calls> who go forth and preach His gospel and officiate in the ordinances thereof, and He confirms the word by signs following.

There are several elders now laboring in the States. It is the intention of some of them to spend the coming winter in the Southern States, and probably one or more will visit Alabama. You can place yourself in communication with them by writing a letter to Mr. John Brown, care of Mr. Benjamin Crain, Duquoin, Ill's. Elder Brown, or some other one of the elders may find it convenient to visit your section, at any rate you may be able to obtain a Book of Mormon through him, or any information you may need.

Praying the Lord to guide you into all truth I remain

Respectfully
Brigham Young