The council opened by prayer from after which the gave some advice to the brethren, especially to cease indulging in a spirit of levity, and also to cease all kinds of harsh speeches which would cause the spirit of God to leave us. We want to lay aside all such things that we may enjoy peace in the
Brother being present the called upon to instruct him in the nature of the organization of this council, and also to give him his charge, all which was done by .
said what has said accords with his feelings in full and with uplifted hands he covenanted before God and Angels to keep the covenant and abide by all the laws of the council. [p. [328]]
At a public meeting in Nauvoo five days later, Brigham Young expressed similar cautions regarding Latter-day Saints’ behavior and speech. He encouraged Latter-day Saints to prepare to receive their endowments when the Nauvoo temple was completed and urged them, “Keep in your poss[essi]on the noble Sp[irit] of Angels with a cheerful countenance— cease every thing that is iniquitous— I will counsel all persons who cannot live without quarrelling & backbiting to leave the city— let every man & Sis[ter] do all that justice requires of you— cease talking nonsense to one ano[the]r., walk humbly before God.” (Historian’s Office, General Church Minutes, 20 Apr. 1845.)
Historian’s Office. General Church Minutes, 1839–1877. CHL