In 1848, my great great grandfather, George Jarvis, was the caretaker for the most famous ship in the history of the British Royal Navy, the HMS Victory, which had been Admiral Nelson’s flagship at the naval victory of Trafalgar. He and his wife Ann Prior Jarvis were living on the ship, which was then moored on the Thames River downstream from London, and raising their family on a pension from the Royal Navy, which George had earned through years of service to her majesty, Queen Victoria.
One day, in December of that year, George was in London when he chanced to hear two LDS elders preaching on the street, Elder Franklin D. Richards and Elder Lorenzo Snow. He was immediately enthralled by their message and went home to tell his wife about it. George told Ann that the missionaries had said that apostles and prophets were once again called and serving on the earth. Ann listened and then said, “It’s true, George.” The couple was soon baptized and, after some years of saving, departed through the port of Liverpool for the United States. They eventually settled in St. George, Utah after arriving there with the first company of pioneers in 1861.
The story of how the restored gospel was preached for the first time in the United Kingdom is a compelling tale of sacrifice and spiritual manifestations. George and Ann Jarvis, like many thousands of other converts to the LDS Church in Victorian England, were blessed by the ministry of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles, most of whom participated in proselytizing in England during two missions which occurred in 1837 and 1841.
Mo Joe Travel, which specializes in unique tours for LDS groups and families, will host a tour group of 30 travelers to visit the sites and hear the stories of these early LDS missionaries in Preston, Downham, Chatham, and Herefordshire County. The tour group will be led by LDS historians, Gordon and Carol Madsen. In addition to LDS historical sites and the Preston England Temple, the tour group will sample sites that will provide insight into life in England during the Victorian Era, including visits to Chatsworth, Grasmere, Stratford, Oxford, and Osborn House. There will be ample free time to explore London and an opportunity to attend Sacrament Meeting at the Hyde Park Chapel.
Join the LDS Church History Tour in the UK from October 8th-19th, 2022. The total price of $3750 a person includes your accommodations, breakfasts, and some dinners. Secure your spot in this unforgettable tour!
For more information, please visit mojoetravel.com