CHAPTER 5 Administration of Melvin Howard Randall There was nothing unusual about the crisp early morning air of Sunday, 9 December 1923. But, for Melvin Howard Randall it was a morning of great anticipation. In the Saturday morning session of stake conference, Joseph F. Spendlove, bishop of the Milton Ward, C. Calvin Geary, bishop of the Morgan Ward, and Joseph A. Parrish, the bishop of Mountain Green Ward all spoke giving reports on their respective wards. Melvin Howard Randall, who was serving as Stake Sunday School Superintendent, was then called on to speak. He reported that the Sunday Schools of the stake were in good condition, "supported well by the children but the parents' classes could have better attendance."1 After the meeting, Elder Melvin J. Ballard, of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles, stopped Howard and whispered into his ear. He was told to meet the Apostle that evening at six o'clock at the home of President Daniel Heiner. Howard's wife, Amy, had teased, "Are you going to be the new stake president?" The teasing was a little too pointed, since Howard had indeed had an impression that he was to be called. After meeting with Elder Ballard that evening, Howard told his wife it was true- he was to succeed Daniel Heiner, who had been president of the Morgan Stake for more than twenty-three years.2 The Sunday morning session of stake conference commenced at 10:00 a.m. with Elder Ballard presiding and President William W. Francis conducting. After the sacrament had been blessed and given to the Saints, Elder Ballard, often called the "Sweet Singer of Israel," sang the hymn "I Stand All Amazed." Elder Ballard then explained that President Daniel Heiner in February had written to President Heber J. Grant suggesting that the First Presidency consider a reorganization of the Morgan Stake. President Heiner cited his age and poor health, length of service, and the death of his counselor, William H. Rich as reasons for the possible reorganization. The First Presidency and Quorum of Twelve had given consideration to the request and felt an honorable release should be extended to President Heiner, explained Elder Ballard. The name of Melvin Howard Randall was then presented for a sustaining vote as the fourth president of the Morgan Stake. William W. Francis was sustained as first counselor and George Sylvester Heiner, as second counselor. Daniel Heiner was sustained as patriarch. The new stake presidency were then given the opportunity to speak and share their testimonies. Elder Ballard concluded the conference session by reminding the members "that it was not a position that would gain our salvation but 117