The Priesthood Is Restored

You can read this story in Joseph Smith—History 1:66–73 and Doctrine and Covenants 27:12.

Joseph Smith speaking to Oliver Cowdery with an imagination bubble showing Christ visiting the Nephites

After Joseph Smith received the gold plates, he started to translate them. Oliver Cowdery wrote down what he said. As they worked, they learned that Jesus Christ wanted everyone to be baptized.

Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery praying in the woods

Joseph and Oliver wondered who had God’s power to baptize people. They went into the woods to pray and ask God.

Angel with his hands on Joseph Smith’s head

As they prayed, an angel appeared. He said he was John the Baptist, who baptized Jesus Christ long ago. He gave Joseph and Oliver the Aaronic Priesthood so they could baptize others. The priesthood is God’s power. It is used to bless God’s children.

John the Baptist told Joseph and Oliver to be baptized. They went into a river and baptized each other. When they came out of the water, they were filled with the Holy Ghost. They were very happy!

Three angels placing their hands on Joseph Smith’s head

Later, other angels came. Three of Jesus Christ’s Apostles—Peter, James, and John—gave Joseph and Oliver the Melchizedek Priesthood. Now Joseph and Oliver could give the gift of the Holy Ghost to others.