Marriner Wood Merrill
My 4th great-grandfather's name was Marriner Wood Merrill, and he was an apostle for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, as well as the first Temple President of the Logan Temple (Pictured below).
His stories are absolutely amazing and I could share many but I'll share just this one: "When the Logan Temple nearing completion in 1884, the First Presidency of the Church had the responsibility of choosing the man to become its President. President John Taylor earnestly desired to be guided aright in the matter and select the right man and so he prayed fervently for inspiration. While doing so, a voice seemed to say that the man for the post was Bishop Merrill of Richmond. In view of all that he had heard, President Taylor was exceedingly unconvinced and could scarcely credit the inspiration he receive. So he prayed on. Then there came the distinct and unmistakable impression of a voice, "Bishop Merrill of Richmond." And that settled it and he was chosen and he filled that position with energy, enthusiasm, credit, distinction, and general satisfaction until his death in 1906.
On October 7, 1889, Marriner Wood Merrill was ordained an Apostle in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints under the hands of President Wilford Woodruff."
Thank you for reading this story, I love my ancestors and family history work. I learn so many lessons through their examples and I know that you can too.
Elder Hansen