When John arrived in Liverpool, the city of his childhood, he and his companion, Joseph Fielding, spoke in many of the churches. Great opposition arose from some of the ministers. But John told them that the scripture in Revelation had been fulfilled. “I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth.” Several people believed his message and were baptized, and soon more and more joined the Church.


John also preached in Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man (where Leonora grew up). The small towns in the countryside welcomed him, and those in the city listened to his message. He taught the poor and the rich – everyone who was interested in hearing the truth of the gospel.

John willingly met with ministers of all faiths to discuss the truths of the Bible. John loved to debate. He had a quick mind and was good at organizing a discussion. He knew the Bible so well that he understood any scripture someone had questions about.

Almost two years later when John and the other apostles returned to Liverpool to book passage home, eight thousand people had joined the Church. With the donations from the wealthy converts, the apostles had published the Book of Mormon so many could read its truths. They had also collected music for a hymn book, and John had written articles for the Millennial Star, a Church published newspaper.