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George Goddard (Mormon) facts for kids

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George Goddard
Photo of George Goddard (Mormon)
Personal details
Born (1815-12-15)December 15, 1815
Leicester, England, United Kingdom
Died January 12, 1899(1899-01-12) (aged 83)
Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
Resting place Salt Lake City Cemetery
40°46′37″N 111°51′29″W / 40.777°N 111.858°W / 40.777; -111.858 (Salt Lake City Cemetery)
Spouse(s) Mary Sutton
Elizabeth Harrison
Children 11+
Parents Corneilus Goddard

George Goddard (December 15, 1815 – January 12, 1899) was an important leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was also a Mormon pioneer who helped settle new areas. He lived from 1815 to 1899.

Early Life and Joining the Church

George Goddard was born in Leicester, England. In January 1851, he joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He and his family then moved from England to Utah Territory. They arrived in Salt Lake City on September 15, 1852.

Church Service and Leadership

George Goddard served in many important roles in the Church.

Missionary Work

From 1857 to 1858, Goddard served as a missionary in Canada. Missionaries share their beliefs with others.

Important Clerk Roles

For many years, Goddard worked as a clerk. From 1856 to 1883, he was the clerk for the Church's presiding bishop, Edward Hunter. He also served as the clerk for the Church's large meetings, called general conferences, from 1874 to 1884.

Sunday School Leader

In 1872, George Goddard became a leader in the Deseret Sunday School Union. This organization helps teach children and youth in the Church. He was the first assistant to George Q. Cannon, who was the superintendent. Goddard served in this important role for 26 years, until he passed away in 1899.

Other Contributions

Goddard was also a member of the famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir. He was also a patriarch in the Church. A patriarch gives special blessings to Church members.

Printing the Articles of Faith

George Goddard is known for being the first to print the Church's Articles of Faith on cards. These are 13 statements that explain what members of the Church believe. On February 18, 1878, he printed thousands of these cards for the Church's Sunday School.

Later Life

George Goddard died in Salt Lake City on January 12, 1899. He was buried in the Salt Lake City Cemetery.

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