Bleak

James Godson Bleak and his wife, Elizabeth Bleak, with their four children joined the church in the London Conference.  Brother Bleak had served for five years in its presidency and when the Handcart idea was submitted to the Saints he requested that the monies already sent to go by wagon train be used to allow himself, his family and other members who wanted to go by handcart, and had not the money, to use that money as well.  At first he hesitated because of his wife’s delicate health and his children’s young ages.  But the spirit of the Lord encouraged him to do it. (Pg. 123-4) After this courageous decision had been made, a miraculous speaking in tongues promised him that he and his family would receive a wondrous blessing because of his generosity.   When the cold and snows of Wyoming threatened this family by the seeming death of four year old Thomas Bleak (Pg.236-7) about October 26th, it was with faith–knowing the will of the father through the speaking in tongues, fervent prayers, administration and a large fire that brought him back to life and fulfilled the promised blessing given through the speaking in tongues clear back in London seemingly ages ago.  On pages 332 and 333, the wondrous blessings received by the entire family after entering the Valley all alive, is enumerated.