This is not surprising to me at all. I am a recent Art graduate and there is a ridiculous amount of Christ in art that is hard for me to not believe he existed. So many countries that know of Christ and many of them in remote areas that make you wonder how did they hear or know of him. The answer is simple, he either visited him or their were many witnesses of Christ that spread the word. On a different note, what intrigued me the most is the latest development of Islamic Art that has recently been discovered showing much evidence of Christ in Islamic areas of today. Many churches that are ancient that started out Christian in Constantinople days that were later changed and turned into Islamic mosques. Fascinating to say the least that this is still being discovered. Many Christian symbols that are covered up by Islamic Symbols are starting to be discovered and researched by Christian archeologists. Also, areas in Africa such as the Rock Churches that were built and archeologists have no idea how these incredible churches were carved out of rock to resemble a new Jerusalem in ancient day. These rock churches are incredible and found in Ethiopia and were created by a leader who believed in Christ and had a dream to build a city after the Old Jerusalem. To this day, the area is still Christian and many believe in Christ. There is so much evidence in art of Christ that it is hard for me to deny His existence. Study art history and you will gain a great testimony of our Savior and that he visited many all over the world and that many knew of him because He is found in almost every country in the art!!! Great article and it does not surprise me in the least that Russia is another country to find Christian art.
CarolJanuary 9, 2017
Is it possible to get a copy of the painting? I love it!
Diane RatliffJanuary 5, 2017
All I need to know is , what does the First Presidency have to say about this? If we need to know it will be made know through God servants. We don't need to specculate.
Christine EdwardsMarch 3, 2016
I was already familiar with the legends of Christ in England but when I heard the choir singing the words to Blake's poem at the Olympics in London, I was amazed and delighted. It was in the background during the building part of the opening ceremonies. If anyone has access to a recording it's worth listening to!
vickieJanuary 24, 2016
this is so wonderful to read....and know about...I love it...
RyanJanuary 11, 2016
While speaking with a Greek Orthodox theologian in Nicosia, Cyprus, I was impressed when he accepted without question the idea that Christ visited and taught his other sheep around the world. When I asked him how that was such an acceptable proposition to him, he noted that there were stories shared for years of a resurrected Christ visiting Siberia and the Orthodox faith had known of this but didn't have a record. I've been intrigued ever since and have thought the accounts that no doubt would have been recorded will just have to surface at some future date when they might be accepted publicly rather than just folklore.
ErinJanuary 11, 2016
Thank you for this article. A similar story is told in the book "The Unknown Life of Jesus: The Original Text of Nicolas Notovitch's 1887 Discovery" by Nicolas Notovitch, translated by J.H. Connelly and L. Landsberg. Written by a Russian visiting India and other parts of Asia, this book uncovers further evidence of Jesus' travels and visits with "other sheep".
DaltaJanuary 11, 2016
to Paul's comment:
Jesus told Peter to take the message to the gentiles.
Then why did Paul take it? Paul edged Peter out stating that Paul was commissioned to do that.
Jesus doesn't say.
The problem is that I spent my time reading the Book of Mormon as instructed as the foundation testimony of Mormonism that I don't know the bible.
This seems to be typical of other lds.
JanetJanuary 11, 2016
All this and the wonderful comments showing more evidence of Christ's visits to people everywhere is a very important revelation for today! Thank you all for your comments about Christ visiting other places, and especially this story about Christ in Russia visiting the Lost Ten Tribes. It makes my heart burn within me. A great day today!!
Russell HembrowJanuary 10, 2016
Living in Western Australia, one day I was watching a program about our Aboriginal folk lore's on their local TV Network, they told the story of a great teacher who visited them on the East Coast, this teacher was described as having long hair and a beard and was strangely white skinned, he gathered each tribe and taught them great messages of how to behave correctly, then when he finished he walked across the the top of the river to the other side and began to teach the next tribe preceding all the way down the coast crossing many rivers in the manner described. I can not remember the name they had for this teacher; this story was one in a series of a modern, recently made cartoon, depicting the folk lore of the Eastern States Aboriginal.
Yusif KhanJanuary 10, 2016
When I was in Russia in 1999-2000, during a zone conference, my mission president spoke about the early Slavs having a tradition that Jesus came to them after his resurrection. I have been kicking myself ever since for not asking him the source of the information. Does anyone know of a written account of Jesus coming to the early Slavs? I doubt it is in the Primary Chronicle, but perhaps some other ancient Greek, Kievan Rus, or Bulgarian Orthodox Church text or other historical document. Can anyone help out with this, or is this story purely anecdotal? If you have a book title or a website with this information, please post it in the comments section for all to see. Thanks!
PaulJanuary 10, 2016
Christ visited the Nephites about a year after his resurrection, and he told them that he had yet other sheep besides them. My guess is that Christ visited the people of all the lost tribes scatared around the world, Russia, China, etc. When he was done that his covenant to bring the gospel to the house of Isreal first was fulfilled and then he was able to tell Peter to take the gospel to the Gentiles.
MeJanuary 10, 2016
I think people are looking beyond the mark regarding what this painting really is. This artist is showing Christ coming out from a Russian Orthodox church service (not after his resurrection).
TammyJanuary 9, 2016
I remember feeling an overwhelming witness that Christ did visit His other sheep as mentioned in the scriptures several times during my secular learning. Once when I was reading about the way the Spanish explorer Cortes and his men were first greeted by the Aztecs of Central America. Most remember the story of how the native people first thought he (or possibly one of those with him) was a God because he was white and bearded. Then much later, as a college student, I studied the Asian religions. One week, as I read the teachings of Confucius about the importance of family, moral character, and the importance of not doing "to others what you do not want done to yourself", I was sure that I was reading bits and pieces of teachings much like those delivered by Christ at His Sermon on the Mount. It has become more and more evident to me throughout my studies of history and anthropology that Christ did visit other parts of the world after His resurrection.
MattJanuary 9, 2016
Kirill, do you have a source for that info? The article seems to be a lot more logical origin of this painting than your suggestes idea...
David RodebackJanuary 9, 2016
For what it's worth, Joseph Smith said that "some of the most important things concerning the advancement and building up of the kingdom of God in the last days, which cannot be explained at this time" are "attached" to "that vast empire [Russia]" (HC 6:41).. One commenter asked why, if He did visit Russia, nobody wrote it down. Surely, if He did, it was written. And if it was written, it's reasonable to expect that we will someday have that record (along with records of similar rumored visits to the British Isles, China, etc.,if they happened). Such a record, should we receive it, might well qualify as one of "the most important things." But I'm just speculating..
AllenJanuary 8, 2016
This is likely the album, recordings of the liturgical cycle from Lent to Easter. https://guardian-angel.com.ua/2347-large_default/svyataya-rus-velikij-post-sv-paskha-khor-pod-upravleniem-nikolaya-matveeva.jpg
AllenJanuary 8, 2016
Inna, I told the author the same thing back in August. Vsyo iz paltza vysosano.
Stephen CartisanoJanuary 8, 2016
No Hear-Say Brother Wells,
While visiting with Truman Madsen (not to long before his passing). The very question was asked: might the lost tribes of Israel be found in Russia? Brother Madsen laughed and said this: "The Lost Tribes" aren't so lost anymore." He then enthusiastically confirmed that "...all of the lost tribes have been identified" during patriarchal blessings given to
faithful Latter-day Saints in Russia.
KirillJanuary 8, 2016
This picture was based on that words in Bible: "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest". And nothing more
MarkJanuary 8, 2016
I saw a documentary many years ago about the lost tribes, in that they showed artifacts in Russian museum basements that were Israelite in origin, as well as some buildings with clear Israelite themes. The archaeologist was Jewish and made a point, which I will hasten to say I've not seen anywhere else since,of translating "Samarkand", a large city in Russia and on the old Silk Road, as "Land of the Samaritan" Take that for what it's worth, your mileage may vary.
InnaJanuary 8, 2016
The people behunf Jesus are not apostles are Nicholas the Miracle Worker, George the Victorious and Sergiy Radonezhskiy.
CL RhoadesJanuary 8, 2016
Thank you for this gift this day. What more do we need to see. One picture is truly worth a thousand words. Thank you all for the extra links and special witnesses and you have added here today. We are all so blessed to know of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. Having this piece of a magnificent puzzle is a priceless gift. I have no doubt as the world is smaller and in His time, more and more will be revealed. Sharing and using what we have is a key to the Light. Thank you for doing that today.
Julie Clayton CampbellJanuary 8, 2016
In 1990, my brother and I studied in Novosibirsk, U.S.S.R. We brought Book of Mormons in and held a small Church service that grew larger and larger each week as the students and later civilians heard about it and joined us in the auditorium of Academgorodok. 1994-I served in Finland where I taught a Chinese student "Mindy" whose husband had converted a few years earlier. She had come from mainland China a few months before. She had never heard of the words "God" or "Jesus" in either Chinese or English but said she had always believed in a Divine Creator. She also told of an ancient folk story about "a white god" who traveled "over the waters in a boat and taught, blessed and healed the people." Interesting. More and more ancient stories emerging about a god visiting people. Exciting.
KathleenJanuary 8, 2016
There was an article in the February 1994 issue of the ENSIGN that related to this:
https://www.lds.org/ensign/1994/02/tracing-the-dispersion?
Robert SkousonJanuary 8, 2016
Our stake patriarch does a lot of business in Russia and he was chatting with a Russian patriarch of the church who told him that in blessings he has given, every tribe has been named at least once.
I realize that this is just anecdotal, but I found it very interesting and quite plausible.
jaymanJanuary 8, 2016
I don't get it. What good would it be for Jesus to visit these people unless his message was written down for future generations? What benefit have the Russian people had from this ancient visit? At what point did this story first take root in Russia? Was it after Christianity had already spread, or before Christianity had spread to Russia? If before, what did they make of this strange story of Jesus, a person whom they had not yet even heard about from Christian missionaries? I think we'd need a lot more information to really know what we can make of this account. This could be nothing more than Christian Era legend.
Lane ClarkJanuary 8, 2016
Elder Holbrook from Samara? How's it going, buddy?
I believe Christ visited the the ancestors of the Russian people. I believe He visited the ancestors of most other peoples. Christ loves all His children and it warms my heart to think of our Savior ministering to them.
Mark StoddardJanuary 8, 2016
Appreciate the kind comments and thoughts. Some have wanted to know if the album is available. I don't know but I'd be happy to send you a photo of the covers of the album. Just email me at [email protected]
I can also send you the hi-res photo of the painting.
Eric CarlsonJanuary 8, 2016
This is a very interesting article. Other places that have legends of the same occurrence are The island of Pohnpei has a legend of Christ visiting in a certain area of the island and the Hmong people claim to be of the 10 tribes of Israel and that Christ visited them.
mary millerJanuary 8, 2016
I wonder if anyone chose to linger in Russia too?
CliffJanuary 8, 2016
https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/16?lang=eng (Verses 1-3).
It wasn't just the Americas and Jerusalem, where his "Other Sheep" lived. There is a legend, even in China, that may have been a visit from the resurrected Savior.
Max BarnumJanuary 7, 2016
I would like to know more about the "strange religious ideas" of the artist.
Thalia TaylorJanuary 7, 2016
William Blake wrote a short poem that started, "And did those feet in ancient time..." It was put to music by Sir Hurburt Parry in 1916 from England. It is the anthem entitled "Jerusalem." It talks about Christ visiting the people of England. It is a well respected and honored piece that is held with much reverence in the British Isles.
I am not surprised by Christ visiting England because many from the tribe of Ephraim are descended from the British Isles and Scandanavia. I'm also not surprised that Christ visited Russia and countries from the Carpathian mountain region. Patriarchal blessings throughout Russia and Ukraine have revealed that part of the world have a variety of tribe descendants from all the other 10 tribes. Christ told all who would listen that He would visit "other sheep."
Francis BassJanuary 7, 2016
Any reason as to why the delay until now to tell this story
PNorJanuary 7, 2016
Finding "other sheep" is so exciting! Look into the Ang Aklatan. Very interesting.
Ivan IvanovichJanuary 7, 2016
Russians also call themselves the Third Rome. They have a strong "chosen people" complex. It was part of the Soviet Union's sense of itself as leading the world to communism. This is part of that psychology. I would view this as folklore and nothing more.
Anne WingateJanuary 7, 2016
I have no doubt that this is true; I am also certain that there are similar "folktales" all over the world. When I was five years old--then a Campbellite--I told my mother I did not believe that God would send anybody to hell for not doing what they never knew to do and not worshiping a God they never heard of. I told her when I found a church that could answer that for me, I would know I had found the right church. She couldn't explain and took me to out pastor who also couldn't explain. I eventually did find the right church.
Elder NathanielJanuary 7, 2016
Seems legit. Some hard hitting "evidence" with this article.
Kathryn ChristensenJanuary 7, 2016
Does anyone know if a print of this painting is available for purchase anywhere today? Is the album available even in Russia? We are in Moscow -I'd appreciate any information!
MelanieJanuary 7, 2016
I did a study abroad in England, and they have the same thought. This is a poem I love written by William Blake.
And did those feet in ancient time
Walk upon Englands mountains green:
And was the holy Lamb of God,
On Englands pleasant pastures seen!
And did the Countenance Divine,
Shine forth upon our clouded hills?
And was Jerusalem builded here,
Among these dark Satanic Mills?
Bring me my Bow of burning gold:
Bring me my arrows of desire:
Bring me my Spear: O clouds unfold!
Bring me my Chariot of fire!
I will not cease from Mental Fight,
Nor shall my sword sleep in my hand:
Till we have built Jerusalem,
In Englands green & pleasant Land.
Susan EscalanteJanuary 7, 2016
Which tribe are the Slavic people?
Jim KinseyJanuary 7, 2016
Two thousand years ago there were no telephones, satellites or even mail service. This seems very logical and normal to me. How else would there be so many similarities in the beliefs of so many different countries. Just another proof of the Gospel and the love of a Heavenly Father towards all his children. I love the Gospel, it gives so many answers to the meaning and purpose of life. Thank you God, Thank you Jesus, thank you Joseph.
Patricia K. BeadleJanuary 7, 2016
In 1980 we visited Glastonbury England and met a 78 year old woman who said she was taught in school that Christ had visited England, both as a boy with his uncle, but also after his resurrection. After WWII the story was no longer taught. What a shame. I truly believe Scandinavia, the British Isles, and many other countries are strongly populated with the blood of Israel, so why wouldn't Christ visit them?
Elizabeth StoddardJanuary 7, 2016
How appropriate that this article appears on Meridian today, January 7, which is the Russian Christmas. I was there with Mark when we were given this treasure. We were privileged to meet many of our good brothers and sisters in Russia and see their joy in receiving the fullness of the gospel.
Melinda SandbergJanuary 7, 2016
Wow, this is so wonderful to read. 3 Nephi 16:1-3 , 17:4 tell us this is true. How thrilling to hear this "folktale." I want to hear more!
Tom JohnsonJanuary 7, 2016
Thanks for sharing this, Mark. In addition to your quotation from the book of John, there is this that Jesus spoke to the people in the Book of Mormon: "And verily, verily, I say unto you that I have other sheep, which are not of this land, neither of the land of Jerusalem, neither in any parts of that land round about whither I have been to minister. For they of whom I speak are they who have not as yet heard my voice; neither have I at any time manifested myself unto them. But I have received a commandment of the Father that I shall go unto them, and that they shall hear my voice, and shall be numbered among my sheep, that there may be one fold and one shepherd; therefore I go to show myself unto them" (3 Nephi 16:1-3).
Donna HatchJanuary 7, 2016
It makes sense that He would have visited many other places, not just North America, after He was resurrected.
AHJanuary 7, 2016
There have also been oral traditions from at least the mid 1800's that Christ visited the Lake Baikal region of Russia.
https://books.google.com/books?id=c3EEAAAAYAAJ&vq=christ&pg=PA385&hl=en#v=onepage&q=christ&f=false
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Baikal#Historical_traditions
I've always thought there is something to it. Lake Baikal is the largest body of freshwater (i.e. living water) on the planet. I've always thought the symbolism of him visiting a place like that post-resurrection is analogous to him being near the Dead Sea during his mortal life (i.e. being the lowest place of 'dead water' on the planet.)
Bob WellsJanuary 7, 2016
The 10 tribes going into the "land of the North" could easily have been Russia. I've heard that all of the tribes have been identified there through Patriarchal blessings (hearsay, but I believe it). Christ visiting Russia would certainly be consistent in my mind. I expect future revelation or discovered writings on the matter. In the mean time it is a matter of faith.
JodyJanuary 7, 2016
Nice article! I love hearing about this story. I have no doubt that it is true, makes perfect sense to me.
Marilyn ClarkJanuary 7, 2016
I have often stood, filled with wonder and awe, before the grand-sized original of this painting in the Russian Museum in St. Petersburg. My husband served as mission president there. This painting goes deep into my soul. Nesterov painted many other paintings which depicted the Savior in Russia. He ardently believed that there would be a spiritual rebirth in Russia, and dedicated much of his life's work to that idea. There are many symbols of Israel embedded in the folk art of Russia. It is a land of great promise!
Steve TheobaldJanuary 7, 2016
Mark, Thanks so much for sharing. This makes my heart sing thinking of these other sheep at the feet of the Lord. "Kristiany" being the name for peasant is quite astonishing. Their must be many records of the Savior yet to be discovered/recovered/translated.
Leslie P. ReesJanuary 7, 2016
Loved this article! I wish I had access to this account before publishing my book _Ye Have Been Hid: Finding the Lost Tribes of Israel_. Among other things, the book tells of accounts of visits by the resurrected Christ to England, Japan, India and other places. This makes perfect sense. As Elder Bruce R. McConkie said, speaking of the "lost" and scattered tribes of Northern Israel: “But, says another, did not Jesus visit them after he ministered among the Nephites? Answer: Of course he did, in one or many places as suited his purposes. He assembled them together then in exactly the same way he gathered the Nephites in the land Bountiful so that they too could hear his voice and feel the prints of the nails in his hands and in his feet. Of this there can be no question. And we suppose that he also called twelve apostles and established his kingdom among them even as he did in Jerusalem and in the Americas. Why should he deal any differently with one branch of Israel than with another?” (Bruce R. McConkie, The Millennial Messiah, p. 216)
Elder HolbrookJanuary 7, 2016
Wonderful article about our Savior visiting the lost 10 tribes. In 3 Nephi 16: 1-3 the Savior states that he is leaving the Nephites to visit other sheep. This is proof that he did. Also in 2 Nephi 29: 12-13 it talks about a record from the Lost Ten Tribes that will be joined to the record of Judah and Joseph. The Area Seventy told the missionaries in Russia that they believe it is a record coming froth from Russian region. Exciting times. Love the artwork
AndrewJanuary 7, 2016
Here's a much larger image of the painting: https://01varvara.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/mikhail-nesterov-holy-rus-1905.jpg
Comments | Return to Story
Stacy MacdonaldJanuary 13, 2017
This is not surprising to me at all. I am a recent Art graduate and there is a ridiculous amount of Christ in art that is hard for me to not believe he existed. So many countries that know of Christ and many of them in remote areas that make you wonder how did they hear or know of him. The answer is simple, he either visited him or their were many witnesses of Christ that spread the word. On a different note, what intrigued me the most is the latest development of Islamic Art that has recently been discovered showing much evidence of Christ in Islamic areas of today. Many churches that are ancient that started out Christian in Constantinople days that were later changed and turned into Islamic mosques. Fascinating to say the least that this is still being discovered. Many Christian symbols that are covered up by Islamic Symbols are starting to be discovered and researched by Christian archeologists. Also, areas in Africa such as the Rock Churches that were built and archeologists have no idea how these incredible churches were carved out of rock to resemble a new Jerusalem in ancient day. These rock churches are incredible and found in Ethiopia and were created by a leader who believed in Christ and had a dream to build a city after the Old Jerusalem. To this day, the area is still Christian and many believe in Christ. There is so much evidence in art of Christ that it is hard for me to deny His existence. Study art history and you will gain a great testimony of our Savior and that he visited many all over the world and that many knew of him because He is found in almost every country in the art!!! Great article and it does not surprise me in the least that Russia is another country to find Christian art.
CarolJanuary 9, 2017
Is it possible to get a copy of the painting? I love it!
Diane RatliffJanuary 5, 2017
All I need to know is , what does the First Presidency have to say about this? If we need to know it will be made know through God servants. We don't need to specculate.
Christine EdwardsMarch 3, 2016
I was already familiar with the legends of Christ in England but when I heard the choir singing the words to Blake's poem at the Olympics in London, I was amazed and delighted. It was in the background during the building part of the opening ceremonies. If anyone has access to a recording it's worth listening to!
vickieJanuary 24, 2016
this is so wonderful to read....and know about...I love it...
RyanJanuary 11, 2016
While speaking with a Greek Orthodox theologian in Nicosia, Cyprus, I was impressed when he accepted without question the idea that Christ visited and taught his other sheep around the world. When I asked him how that was such an acceptable proposition to him, he noted that there were stories shared for years of a resurrected Christ visiting Siberia and the Orthodox faith had known of this but didn't have a record. I've been intrigued ever since and have thought the accounts that no doubt would have been recorded will just have to surface at some future date when they might be accepted publicly rather than just folklore.
ErinJanuary 11, 2016
Thank you for this article. A similar story is told in the book "The Unknown Life of Jesus: The Original Text of Nicolas Notovitch's 1887 Discovery" by Nicolas Notovitch, translated by J.H. Connelly and L. Landsberg. Written by a Russian visiting India and other parts of Asia, this book uncovers further evidence of Jesus' travels and visits with "other sheep".
DaltaJanuary 11, 2016
to Paul's comment: Jesus told Peter to take the message to the gentiles. Then why did Paul take it? Paul edged Peter out stating that Paul was commissioned to do that. Jesus doesn't say. The problem is that I spent my time reading the Book of Mormon as instructed as the foundation testimony of Mormonism that I don't know the bible. This seems to be typical of other lds.
JanetJanuary 11, 2016
All this and the wonderful comments showing more evidence of Christ's visits to people everywhere is a very important revelation for today! Thank you all for your comments about Christ visiting other places, and especially this story about Christ in Russia visiting the Lost Ten Tribes. It makes my heart burn within me. A great day today!!
Russell HembrowJanuary 10, 2016
Living in Western Australia, one day I was watching a program about our Aboriginal folk lore's on their local TV Network, they told the story of a great teacher who visited them on the East Coast, this teacher was described as having long hair and a beard and was strangely white skinned, he gathered each tribe and taught them great messages of how to behave correctly, then when he finished he walked across the the top of the river to the other side and began to teach the next tribe preceding all the way down the coast crossing many rivers in the manner described. I can not remember the name they had for this teacher; this story was one in a series of a modern, recently made cartoon, depicting the folk lore of the Eastern States Aboriginal.
Yusif KhanJanuary 10, 2016
When I was in Russia in 1999-2000, during a zone conference, my mission president spoke about the early Slavs having a tradition that Jesus came to them after his resurrection. I have been kicking myself ever since for not asking him the source of the information. Does anyone know of a written account of Jesus coming to the early Slavs? I doubt it is in the Primary Chronicle, but perhaps some other ancient Greek, Kievan Rus, or Bulgarian Orthodox Church text or other historical document. Can anyone help out with this, or is this story purely anecdotal? If you have a book title or a website with this information, please post it in the comments section for all to see. Thanks!
PaulJanuary 10, 2016
Christ visited the Nephites about a year after his resurrection, and he told them that he had yet other sheep besides them. My guess is that Christ visited the people of all the lost tribes scatared around the world, Russia, China, etc. When he was done that his covenant to bring the gospel to the house of Isreal first was fulfilled and then he was able to tell Peter to take the gospel to the Gentiles.
MeJanuary 10, 2016
I think people are looking beyond the mark regarding what this painting really is. This artist is showing Christ coming out from a Russian Orthodox church service (not after his resurrection).
TammyJanuary 9, 2016
I remember feeling an overwhelming witness that Christ did visit His other sheep as mentioned in the scriptures several times during my secular learning. Once when I was reading about the way the Spanish explorer Cortes and his men were first greeted by the Aztecs of Central America. Most remember the story of how the native people first thought he (or possibly one of those with him) was a God because he was white and bearded. Then much later, as a college student, I studied the Asian religions. One week, as I read the teachings of Confucius about the importance of family, moral character, and the importance of not doing "to others what you do not want done to yourself", I was sure that I was reading bits and pieces of teachings much like those delivered by Christ at His Sermon on the Mount. It has become more and more evident to me throughout my studies of history and anthropology that Christ did visit other parts of the world after His resurrection.
MattJanuary 9, 2016
Kirill, do you have a source for that info? The article seems to be a lot more logical origin of this painting than your suggestes idea...
David RodebackJanuary 9, 2016
For what it's worth, Joseph Smith said that "some of the most important things concerning the advancement and building up of the kingdom of God in the last days, which cannot be explained at this time" are "attached" to "that vast empire [Russia]" (HC 6:41).. One commenter asked why, if He did visit Russia, nobody wrote it down. Surely, if He did, it was written. And if it was written, it's reasonable to expect that we will someday have that record (along with records of similar rumored visits to the British Isles, China, etc.,if they happened). Such a record, should we receive it, might well qualify as one of "the most important things." But I'm just speculating..
AllenJanuary 8, 2016
This is likely the album, recordings of the liturgical cycle from Lent to Easter. https://guardian-angel.com.ua/2347-large_default/svyataya-rus-velikij-post-sv-paskha-khor-pod-upravleniem-nikolaya-matveeva.jpg
AllenJanuary 8, 2016
Inna, I told the author the same thing back in August. Vsyo iz paltza vysosano.
Stephen CartisanoJanuary 8, 2016
No Hear-Say Brother Wells, While visiting with Truman Madsen (not to long before his passing). The very question was asked: might the lost tribes of Israel be found in Russia? Brother Madsen laughed and said this: "The Lost Tribes" aren't so lost anymore." He then enthusiastically confirmed that "...all of the lost tribes have been identified" during patriarchal blessings given to faithful Latter-day Saints in Russia.
KirillJanuary 8, 2016
This picture was based on that words in Bible: "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest". And nothing more
MarkJanuary 8, 2016
I saw a documentary many years ago about the lost tribes, in that they showed artifacts in Russian museum basements that were Israelite in origin, as well as some buildings with clear Israelite themes. The archaeologist was Jewish and made a point, which I will hasten to say I've not seen anywhere else since,of translating "Samarkand", a large city in Russia and on the old Silk Road, as "Land of the Samaritan" Take that for what it's worth, your mileage may vary.
InnaJanuary 8, 2016
The people behunf Jesus are not apostles are Nicholas the Miracle Worker, George the Victorious and Sergiy Radonezhskiy.
CL RhoadesJanuary 8, 2016
Thank you for this gift this day. What more do we need to see. One picture is truly worth a thousand words. Thank you all for the extra links and special witnesses and you have added here today. We are all so blessed to know of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. Having this piece of a magnificent puzzle is a priceless gift. I have no doubt as the world is smaller and in His time, more and more will be revealed. Sharing and using what we have is a key to the Light. Thank you for doing that today.
Julie Clayton CampbellJanuary 8, 2016
In 1990, my brother and I studied in Novosibirsk, U.S.S.R. We brought Book of Mormons in and held a small Church service that grew larger and larger each week as the students and later civilians heard about it and joined us in the auditorium of Academgorodok. 1994-I served in Finland where I taught a Chinese student "Mindy" whose husband had converted a few years earlier. She had come from mainland China a few months before. She had never heard of the words "God" or "Jesus" in either Chinese or English but said she had always believed in a Divine Creator. She also told of an ancient folk story about "a white god" who traveled "over the waters in a boat and taught, blessed and healed the people." Interesting. More and more ancient stories emerging about a god visiting people. Exciting.
KathleenJanuary 8, 2016
There was an article in the February 1994 issue of the ENSIGN that related to this: https://www.lds.org/ensign/1994/02/tracing-the-dispersion?
Robert SkousonJanuary 8, 2016
Our stake patriarch does a lot of business in Russia and he was chatting with a Russian patriarch of the church who told him that in blessings he has given, every tribe has been named at least once. I realize that this is just anecdotal, but I found it very interesting and quite plausible.
jaymanJanuary 8, 2016
I don't get it. What good would it be for Jesus to visit these people unless his message was written down for future generations? What benefit have the Russian people had from this ancient visit? At what point did this story first take root in Russia? Was it after Christianity had already spread, or before Christianity had spread to Russia? If before, what did they make of this strange story of Jesus, a person whom they had not yet even heard about from Christian missionaries? I think we'd need a lot more information to really know what we can make of this account. This could be nothing more than Christian Era legend.
Lane ClarkJanuary 8, 2016
Elder Holbrook from Samara? How's it going, buddy? I believe Christ visited the the ancestors of the Russian people. I believe He visited the ancestors of most other peoples. Christ loves all His children and it warms my heart to think of our Savior ministering to them.
Mark StoddardJanuary 8, 2016
Appreciate the kind comments and thoughts. Some have wanted to know if the album is available. I don't know but I'd be happy to send you a photo of the covers of the album. Just email me at [email protected] I can also send you the hi-res photo of the painting.
Eric CarlsonJanuary 8, 2016
This is a very interesting article. Other places that have legends of the same occurrence are The island of Pohnpei has a legend of Christ visiting in a certain area of the island and the Hmong people claim to be of the 10 tribes of Israel and that Christ visited them.
mary millerJanuary 8, 2016
I wonder if anyone chose to linger in Russia too?
CliffJanuary 8, 2016
https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/16?lang=eng (Verses 1-3). It wasn't just the Americas and Jerusalem, where his "Other Sheep" lived. There is a legend, even in China, that may have been a visit from the resurrected Savior.
Max BarnumJanuary 7, 2016
I would like to know more about the "strange religious ideas" of the artist.
Thalia TaylorJanuary 7, 2016
William Blake wrote a short poem that started, "And did those feet in ancient time..." It was put to music by Sir Hurburt Parry in 1916 from England. It is the anthem entitled "Jerusalem." It talks about Christ visiting the people of England. It is a well respected and honored piece that is held with much reverence in the British Isles. I am not surprised by Christ visiting England because many from the tribe of Ephraim are descended from the British Isles and Scandanavia. I'm also not surprised that Christ visited Russia and countries from the Carpathian mountain region. Patriarchal blessings throughout Russia and Ukraine have revealed that part of the world have a variety of tribe descendants from all the other 10 tribes. Christ told all who would listen that He would visit "other sheep."
Francis BassJanuary 7, 2016
Any reason as to why the delay until now to tell this story
PNorJanuary 7, 2016
Finding "other sheep" is so exciting! Look into the Ang Aklatan. Very interesting.
Ivan IvanovichJanuary 7, 2016
Russians also call themselves the Third Rome. They have a strong "chosen people" complex. It was part of the Soviet Union's sense of itself as leading the world to communism. This is part of that psychology. I would view this as folklore and nothing more.
Anne WingateJanuary 7, 2016
I have no doubt that this is true; I am also certain that there are similar "folktales" all over the world. When I was five years old--then a Campbellite--I told my mother I did not believe that God would send anybody to hell for not doing what they never knew to do and not worshiping a God they never heard of. I told her when I found a church that could answer that for me, I would know I had found the right church. She couldn't explain and took me to out pastor who also couldn't explain. I eventually did find the right church.
Elder NathanielJanuary 7, 2016
Seems legit. Some hard hitting "evidence" with this article.
Kathryn ChristensenJanuary 7, 2016
Does anyone know if a print of this painting is available for purchase anywhere today? Is the album available even in Russia? We are in Moscow -I'd appreciate any information!
MelanieJanuary 7, 2016
I did a study abroad in England, and they have the same thought. This is a poem I love written by William Blake. And did those feet in ancient time Walk upon Englands mountains green: And was the holy Lamb of God, On Englands pleasant pastures seen! And did the Countenance Divine, Shine forth upon our clouded hills? And was Jerusalem builded here, Among these dark Satanic Mills? Bring me my Bow of burning gold: Bring me my arrows of desire: Bring me my Spear: O clouds unfold! Bring me my Chariot of fire! I will not cease from Mental Fight, Nor shall my sword sleep in my hand: Till we have built Jerusalem, In Englands green & pleasant Land.
Susan EscalanteJanuary 7, 2016
Which tribe are the Slavic people?
Jim KinseyJanuary 7, 2016
Two thousand years ago there were no telephones, satellites or even mail service. This seems very logical and normal to me. How else would there be so many similarities in the beliefs of so many different countries. Just another proof of the Gospel and the love of a Heavenly Father towards all his children. I love the Gospel, it gives so many answers to the meaning and purpose of life. Thank you God, Thank you Jesus, thank you Joseph.
Patricia K. BeadleJanuary 7, 2016
In 1980 we visited Glastonbury England and met a 78 year old woman who said she was taught in school that Christ had visited England, both as a boy with his uncle, but also after his resurrection. After WWII the story was no longer taught. What a shame. I truly believe Scandinavia, the British Isles, and many other countries are strongly populated with the blood of Israel, so why wouldn't Christ visit them?
Elizabeth StoddardJanuary 7, 2016
How appropriate that this article appears on Meridian today, January 7, which is the Russian Christmas. I was there with Mark when we were given this treasure. We were privileged to meet many of our good brothers and sisters in Russia and see their joy in receiving the fullness of the gospel.
Melinda SandbergJanuary 7, 2016
Wow, this is so wonderful to read. 3 Nephi 16:1-3 , 17:4 tell us this is true. How thrilling to hear this "folktale." I want to hear more!
Tom JohnsonJanuary 7, 2016
Thanks for sharing this, Mark. In addition to your quotation from the book of John, there is this that Jesus spoke to the people in the Book of Mormon: "And verily, verily, I say unto you that I have other sheep, which are not of this land, neither of the land of Jerusalem, neither in any parts of that land round about whither I have been to minister. For they of whom I speak are they who have not as yet heard my voice; neither have I at any time manifested myself unto them. But I have received a commandment of the Father that I shall go unto them, and that they shall hear my voice, and shall be numbered among my sheep, that there may be one fold and one shepherd; therefore I go to show myself unto them" (3 Nephi 16:1-3).
Donna HatchJanuary 7, 2016
It makes sense that He would have visited many other places, not just North America, after He was resurrected.
AHJanuary 7, 2016
There have also been oral traditions from at least the mid 1800's that Christ visited the Lake Baikal region of Russia. https://books.google.com/books?id=c3EEAAAAYAAJ&vq=christ&pg=PA385&hl=en#v=onepage&q=christ&f=false https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Baikal#Historical_traditions I've always thought there is something to it. Lake Baikal is the largest body of freshwater (i.e. living water) on the planet. I've always thought the symbolism of him visiting a place like that post-resurrection is analogous to him being near the Dead Sea during his mortal life (i.e. being the lowest place of 'dead water' on the planet.)
Bob WellsJanuary 7, 2016
The 10 tribes going into the "land of the North" could easily have been Russia. I've heard that all of the tribes have been identified there through Patriarchal blessings (hearsay, but I believe it). Christ visiting Russia would certainly be consistent in my mind. I expect future revelation or discovered writings on the matter. In the mean time it is a matter of faith.
JodyJanuary 7, 2016
Nice article! I love hearing about this story. I have no doubt that it is true, makes perfect sense to me.
Marilyn ClarkJanuary 7, 2016
I have often stood, filled with wonder and awe, before the grand-sized original of this painting in the Russian Museum in St. Petersburg. My husband served as mission president there. This painting goes deep into my soul. Nesterov painted many other paintings which depicted the Savior in Russia. He ardently believed that there would be a spiritual rebirth in Russia, and dedicated much of his life's work to that idea. There are many symbols of Israel embedded in the folk art of Russia. It is a land of great promise!
Steve TheobaldJanuary 7, 2016
Mark, Thanks so much for sharing. This makes my heart sing thinking of these other sheep at the feet of the Lord. "Kristiany" being the name for peasant is quite astonishing. Their must be many records of the Savior yet to be discovered/recovered/translated.
Leslie P. ReesJanuary 7, 2016
Loved this article! I wish I had access to this account before publishing my book _Ye Have Been Hid: Finding the Lost Tribes of Israel_. Among other things, the book tells of accounts of visits by the resurrected Christ to England, Japan, India and other places. This makes perfect sense. As Elder Bruce R. McConkie said, speaking of the "lost" and scattered tribes of Northern Israel: “But, says another, did not Jesus visit them after he ministered among the Nephites? Answer: Of course he did, in one or many places as suited his purposes. He assembled them together then in exactly the same way he gathered the Nephites in the land Bountiful so that they too could hear his voice and feel the prints of the nails in his hands and in his feet. Of this there can be no question. And we suppose that he also called twelve apostles and established his kingdom among them even as he did in Jerusalem and in the Americas. Why should he deal any differently with one branch of Israel than with another?” (Bruce R. McConkie, The Millennial Messiah, p. 216)
Elder HolbrookJanuary 7, 2016
Wonderful article about our Savior visiting the lost 10 tribes. In 3 Nephi 16: 1-3 the Savior states that he is leaving the Nephites to visit other sheep. This is proof that he did. Also in 2 Nephi 29: 12-13 it talks about a record from the Lost Ten Tribes that will be joined to the record of Judah and Joseph. The Area Seventy told the missionaries in Russia that they believe it is a record coming froth from Russian region. Exciting times. Love the artwork
AndrewJanuary 7, 2016
Here's a much larger image of the painting: https://01varvara.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/mikhail-nesterov-holy-rus-1905.jpg
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