Dear JWHA friends,
It’s always nice at the end of the year to reflect back on things that mean something, and I want to tell you how much you mean to me. Since I started coming to JWHA about ten years ago, I have met some of the smartest, kindest, and most charitable people I have ever known. In the true spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood, I’ve seen the good folks of JWHA break bread together, pray together, laugh together, and rejoice together in someone’s accomplishment. While we have our differences in our various faith traditions, I have always been impressed by your generosity of spirit and inclusivity. It’s truly remarkable that one man’s legacy—church founder Joseph Smith, Jr.—can bring so many people together who are willing to give their time and energy to make JWHA the vibrant and exceptional organization that it is.
Recently, we received donations from fifty donors, including a sizable one from Dan and Beth Whittemore, and we couldn’t do what we do without your continued support, both financial and otherwise. Thank you for all that you do and thank you for your generous contributions to JWHA.
I also want to take a moment and remember our dear friend, Steve LeSueur, who passed away in July after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Some of you may remember Steve for his remarkable scholarship. His book on the 1838 Mormon War in Missouri is still the best on that important topic, and he managed to publish a novel in the last days of his life titled Every Man a Prophet, which Amazon describes as a “powerful exploration of faith, love, and self-discovery set within the framework of missionary life in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.” Steve was more than just a great scholar, however. He was a generous friend and kind person. He was among the first people I met attending my first JWHA conference, and I’ll never forget when he extended his hand and said “Steve LeSuer, nice to meet you.” I’d like to think that Steve embodies the very best of what JWHA is—warmth, grace, and curiosity. Thank you, friend. We will miss you.
I wish each of you a restful and relaxing Holiday Season.
Best wishes,
Matt Harris
JWHA President
