Christopher Columbus

Read 1 Nephi 13:12

Columbus wrote: "From my first youth onward I was a seaman and have so continued until this day…. The Lord was well disposed to my desire, and He bestowed upon me courage and understanding, knowledge of seafaring. He gave me in abundance, of astrology as much as was needed, and of geometry and astronomy likewise, Further, he gave me joy and cunning in drawing maps and thereon cities, mountains, rivers, islands and harbors,, each one in its place. I have seen and truly I have studied all books- cosmographies, histories, chronicles, and philosophies and other arts, for which our Lord unlocked my mind, set me upon the sea, and gave me fire for the deed. Those who heard of my enterprise called it foolish, mocked me, and laughed. But who can doubt but that the Holy Ghost inspired me" (Jacob Wasserman, Columbus, Don Quixote of the Seas, pp. 19-20, 46)

Orson Pratt also spoke of divine involvement in the journeys of Columbus; "In those early and perilous times, our men were few, and our resources limited. Poverty was among the most potent enemies we had to encounter; yet our arms were successful, and it may not be amiss to ask here, by whose power victory so often perched on our banner? It was by the agency of that same angel of God that appeared unto Joseph Smith and revealed to him the history of the early inhabitants of this country, whose mounds, bones and remains of towns, cities and fortifications speak from the dust in the ears of the living with the voice of undeniable truth. This same angel presides over the destinies of America, and feels a lively interest in all our doings. He was in the camp of Washington by an invisible hand, led our fathers to conquest and victory: and all this to open and prepare the way for the Church and Kingdom of God to be established on the western hemisphere, for the redemption of Israel and the salvation of the world. This same angel was with Columbus, and gave him deep impressions, by dreams and visions, respecting this New World. Trammeled by poverty and by an unpopular cause, yet his persevering and unyielding heart would not allow an obstacle in his way too great for him to overcome and the angel of God helped him- was with him on the stormy deep, calmed and troubled elements, and guided him frail vessel to the desired haven. Under the guardianship of this same angel, or Prince of America, have the United States grown, increased, and flourished, like the sturdy oak by the rivers of water." Journal of discourses, vol. 6 p.368, Orson Hyde, July 4, 1854)

D&C 101:77-80

Also in the book "Prayer" (black book with 18 authorities names on the front in different colors, put out by Deseret) you will find on page 117 more of the story that goes with the picture of George Washington praying at Valley Forge (you know the beautiful picture of him kneeling with his grey horse behind him...love that one!) ask at the book store for a copy of the print out about that picture and add that to what you read in the book Prayer...it is great!!
Happy Girls Camp