JS and , License, for Elias Hutchings, , Geauga Co., OH, 31 Mar. 1836. Version copied [ca. 2 Apr. 1836] in Kirtland Elders’ Certificates, p. 16; handwriting of ; CHL.
This certifies that Elias Hutchings has been received into the , organized on the sixth of April, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred, & thirty, & has been an according to the rules & regulations of said Church, & is duly authorized to preach the gospel agreeably to the Authority of that Office. From the satisfactory evidence which we have of his good moral character, & his zeal for the cause of righteousness, & diligent desire to persuade men to forsake evil, & embrace truth, we confidently recommend him to all candid & upright people, as a worthy member of society, We, therefore, in the name, & by the authority of this church, grant unto this, our worthy brother in the Lord, this letter of commendation as a proof of our fellowship & esteem: praying for his success & prosperity in our Redeemer’s Cause. Given by the direction of a conference of the Elders of the said Church, assembled in Geauga County, Ohio, the 3d day of march, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred, & thirtysix.