Guest Author - Alice Rienzo



The Work and the Glory American Zion

Rated PG-13 for violence


The story continues with the union of Nathan Steed and Lydia McBride. While both fathers are not happy about the Mormons, Joseph reveals to the newlyweds that their union will bring their families closer together in Zion. The Steed family follows Joseph Smith to Kirtland, Ohio, while Ben reluctantly follows later.


Joshua continues down the path toward self-destruction. Throughout the story, he has made it his personal mission to destroy and chase away the Mormons, including his wife, Jessica. He is resentful toward the religion and feels he lost his girlfriend and his wife because they chose to follow Joseph Smith rather than being with him.


Ben Steed marches alongside the Mormons and does “what is necessary” while still blaming Joseph Smith for dividing his family. He seems cynical when he says that dirt farmers are trying to be saints.


Many Saints leave their homes and farms in Palmyra, NY and head for Ohio where they embark on building a temple. Others journey on to Zion where they are later driven out. Joseph Smith takes an army of men to Zion to reclaim what is rightfully theirs. His usual quiet and reserved demeanor is replaced by frustration – it is startling.


The story is a personal one. It is filled with resentment, uncertainty, and lessons learned. Will Ben forgive Joshua and stop blaming Joseph for his misfortunes? Will Joshua take his family down with him in his quest for revenge? The Work and the Glory American Zion will make you smile and at times, make you cry.