Faith of Our Fathers

1 Nephi 1:1 says that he was born of goodly parents. Quite possibly, could it be that he was referring not only to his father and mother, but ancestors?

When Joseph F. Smith was around 28, he was working in the LDS Church Office. The prominent place to work in those days was on a farm, but Joseph wanted to learn more about his father (Hyrum) and uncle (Joseph). So, he would work in a secretarial position for the Church and after work hours, he would go through the Church History files to read about his father and uncle.

One night, while in his office, young Joseph F. was approached by President Brigham Young. Brigham asked Joseph for his name, which he gave. President Young then said, "No, who are your parents?" To which, Joseph replied Mary Fielding and Hyrum Smith. President Young replied that he had a blessing for Joseph from his father Hyrum and asked if Joseph would like it. President Young then laid his hands on young Joseph F.'s head and ordained him to be a member of the 12 Apostles and a member of the First Presidency.

The interesting thing about this story is that Joseph was not asked by President Young if he was worthy or if he had a temple recommend before he ordained Joseph. Instead, he asked Joseph who his family was. That thought gives a whole new meaning to continuing in the faith of our fathers.