Putting Trials into Perspective through Service

by Lyndie Jackson

“I have loved reading Wilford’s journals and letters,” says Susanne Price. “They have given me a personal glimpse of Wilford Woodruff’s life and remarkable character, as well as a glimpse of church history through his eyes.”

Susanne, who volunteers with the Wilford Woodruff Papers Foundation, works on marking inspirational and valuable quotes in Wilford Woodruff’s writings. She has enjoyed studying the experiences of Wilford Woodruff and his family throughout the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ and sharing these insights with the public.

This project has given her the chance to see a new perspective through tribulation. “I’ve had some difficult trials in the last few months and reading about the trials and sacrifices of Wilford and Phoebe in the service of God has put my own trials in perspective,” Susanne notes.

The chance to volunteer has also allowed her to use her time in a meaningful way during her difficult times. She says, “I fell off a ladder and broke my right wrist at the end of November. Even though I had to use my left hand, it was good to be able to do something productive through the time I couldn’t use my right hand.”

Joining the Wilford Woodruff Papers was, for Susanne, an act of faith during an uncertain time. She remarks, “With Covid creating a lot of isolation, I wanted to find some ways to continue to serve. I was sent an email about the Wilford Woodruff Papers Project on my phone and discovered they needed volunteers to help. It sounded like something I could do and would like, so I signed up.”

Susanne’s faith has paid off, not only in her own life, but in the lives of others. Shauna Horne, Susanne’s supervisor on the Content Team, says that Susanne has been an amazing addition to the team. 

Anyone interested in volunteering time and talents to the Project is always welcome. “Volunteering for the Wilford Woodruff Papers has been fun, rewarding and informative. I would highly recommend it,” Susanne shares.

To find out more about volunteering, reach out at contact@wilfordwoodruffpapers.org or go to wilfordwoodruffpapers.org/volunteer.