JS and , License, for James Houghton, , Geauga Co., OH, 21 June 1836. Version copied [ca. 21 June 1836] in Kirtland Elders’ Certificates, p. 140; handwriting of ; CHL.
This certifies that James Houghton has been received into the , organized on the sixth of April, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred, & thirty, & has ben 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 said church, assembled in , Geauga County, Ohio, the third day of march, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred & thirty six.