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On Wings of Faith
Book by Babbel, Frederick W.
190 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1973
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
September 2, 2009
"On the Wings of Faith" is one of the most insightful and thoughtful accounts of how President Ezra Taft Benson and other LDS church leaders were able to breach the seemingly impossible challenges of government red-tape, lack of transportation, language barriers, distrust among nations and peoples, and physical exhaustion to do the great charitable work of bringing aid to the ravished countries in Europe after World War II. Frank Babbel, the author shares insights from his journal about how the Lord opened the way for them to be places and do things that they were told time and time again were impossible. This is a great testimony-building book that I would recommend to anyone.
October 9, 2020
Was recommended this read by my grandma - fantastic anecdotes and testimonies from a relief mission to war-torn Europe by then Elder Ezra Taft Benson. It's neat to see evidence of the hand of the Lord in furthering his work to build the kingdom and relieve the suffering of his children.
March 1, 2023
I love this book. It was so touching, inspirational, and uplifting. It made me want to have the faith exhibited in the book by Pres. Benson, Bro Babbel, and thousands of European saints during the crush of World War II and the devastation of post-war.
This book contained a summary of the mission that Ezra Taft Benson and Frederick Babbel right after the war in Europe. They were instructed to go in open up the missions, get the records and most importantly help the members in each area affected by war. Babbel had served a mission in Germany/Austria from 1936-1939 and then was in the Army during World War 2. He served as a secretary to Pres. Benson and shared so many amazing stories and details. The book follows their progress from receiving the call to when Babbel went home. They traveled as civilians all over the continent, despite the fact that in many cases it was nearly impossible to do this. They had heavenly help to get across borders, get military papers to travel, get supplies to members, and so much more. Babbel recounts many amazing church meetings they held with members who were in the last stages of starvation but who would sit in cold, bombed-out buildings for hours just to hear from an apostle.
There were so many faith-inducing stories, one about a woman refugee who was forced to migrate from Russia to Germany in cold conditions with all her children. Her husband had died in the war and then each of her children died as she made the journey and she had to dig graves for them without a shovel. She was at her breaking point and wanted to end her own life due to the devastation of her losses but found hope in Christ when she knelt in prayer.
There was a Norwegian man who fought unsuccessfully to keep the Germans out of their country, later he was part of the Norwegian underground, was captured, imprisoned in multiple prisons and through a miracle was released and able to go home. The war was still waging so he took up with up with the underground again trying to get supplies and food for people. He had some success at this with divine help. During all of this, he served as a branch president and held services for members, including German LDS servicemen whom he said were good men eager to help and give their own rations to members when they could.
There were so many small miracles that took place in the lives of individuals as they were saved from being in buildings that were bombed by divine promptings to leave just in time. Members who carried on services during the war with no experience, no printed texts, and in some cases no scriptures and yet they still met and many cases received tithing and fast offerings from members and continued missionary work and baptized new members.
It's all proof that with God all things are possible even during the ravages of war. I plan to reread this many times.
This book contained a summary of the mission that Ezra Taft Benson and Frederick Babbel right after the war in Europe. They were instructed to go in open up the missions, get the records and most importantly help the members in each area affected by war. Babbel had served a mission in Germany/Austria from 1936-1939 and then was in the Army during World War 2. He served as a secretary to Pres. Benson and shared so many amazing stories and details. The book follows their progress from receiving the call to when Babbel went home. They traveled as civilians all over the continent, despite the fact that in many cases it was nearly impossible to do this. They had heavenly help to get across borders, get military papers to travel, get supplies to members, and so much more. Babbel recounts many amazing church meetings they held with members who were in the last stages of starvation but who would sit in cold, bombed-out buildings for hours just to hear from an apostle.
There were so many faith-inducing stories, one about a woman refugee who was forced to migrate from Russia to Germany in cold conditions with all her children. Her husband had died in the war and then each of her children died as she made the journey and she had to dig graves for them without a shovel. She was at her breaking point and wanted to end her own life due to the devastation of her losses but found hope in Christ when she knelt in prayer.
There was a Norwegian man who fought unsuccessfully to keep the Germans out of their country, later he was part of the Norwegian underground, was captured, imprisoned in multiple prisons and through a miracle was released and able to go home. The war was still waging so he took up with up with the underground again trying to get supplies and food for people. He had some success at this with divine help. During all of this, he served as a branch president and held services for members, including German LDS servicemen whom he said were good men eager to help and give their own rations to members when they could.
There were so many small miracles that took place in the lives of individuals as they were saved from being in buildings that were bombed by divine promptings to leave just in time. Members who carried on services during the war with no experience, no printed texts, and in some cases no scriptures and yet they still met and many cases received tithing and fast offerings from members and continued missionary work and baptized new members.
It's all proof that with God all things are possible even during the ravages of war. I plan to reread this many times.
April 9, 2021
Account of post-war Europe and Ezra Taft Benson bringing relief to people in hard-hit areas such as Germany and Poland. I thought it was most interesting how Benson creatively found ways to distribute aid in areas where the infrastructure was seemingly obliterated, such as going by horse-drawn buggy during some of his time in Poland. Something that struck me was how terrible the conditions were in those countries compared with the high levels of development in those countries today.
I will also note, Benson was an apostle in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints so of this book has commentary on the faith. I recommend this book to a church member or someone interested in the Church's history or looking for primary accounts of post-war Europe.
I will also note, Benson was an apostle in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints so of this book has commentary on the faith. I recommend this book to a church member or someone interested in the Church's history or looking for primary accounts of post-war Europe.
August 9, 2017
Frederick Babbel served as the secretary of the European Mission during 1946 when Elder Ezra Taft Benson served as the mission president just after World War II. They went to serve the people after the war, offer relief, and strengthen the saints. This book and record is full of miracles and faith and hope after a very difficult time. I enjoyed reading of these faithful examples and stories. Here are a few quotes I liked:
“Several long-distance phone calls by Elder Benson got us two reservations on an allegedly full train from North Platte to Chicago plus two seats on the first plane out of that city--despite the overburdened passenger lists caused by the snow blanketing the area (p. 6)."
"'And they shall go forth and none shall stay them, for I the Lord have commanded them' (D&C 1:5) (p. 6).'"
"An attractive placard by the Christus, printed in several languages, read: 'If you would behold the master's art, then bend your knees and look up.' As one kneels, a beautiful transformation seems to take place. The statue fairly seems to breathe.... Tears seem to glisten in the Savior's eyes (p. 12)."
"To all appearances, I had entered Belgium illegally, since my passport and visa had not been stamped when I entered the country (p. 30)."
"'The general condition of the Saints is improving daily. Spiritually it has been good throughout the war and was perhaps never better than it is now. Mission leaders everywhere report that in their experience the Saints have never so completely lived the law of tithing and kept the Word of Wisdom and otherwise maintained the standards of the Church. While the Saints have been called upon to endure hardships almost beyond description, in many cases, yet they have remained hopeful and optimistic, even during occupation of their countries by a foreign enemy when at times they feared for their very lives (Ezra Taft Benson, p. 24).'"
"What a glorious demonstration of the power of the Lord! A few days previously, all of these developments were considered to be impossibilities, humanly speaking. Today they had become realities (p. 31)."
"As we traveled through Switzerland, we spent many pleasant hours in conversation and in singing together. Brother Badger sang bass, President Benson sang the melody, and I provided suitable harmony. President Benson did most of the driving (p. 31)."
"The destruction at Dieppe and Liege did not begin to compare in fury with the desolation that greeted us in city after city in Germany (p. 33)."
“‘As I look into your tear-stained eyes and see many of you virtually in rags and at death’s door, yet with a smile upon your cracked lips and the light of love and understanding shining in your eyes, I know that you have been true to your covenants, that you have been clean, that you have not permitted hatred and bitterness to fill your hearts. You—many of you—are some of the Lord’s choicest witnesses of the fruits of the gospel of Jesus Christ (Ezra Taft Benson, p. 35).’”
“‘Any man or woman who has a testimony of this work has no fear for the future. Come what may, they will look up and forward. We need the gospel of Jesus Christ in this world. We have it and through us it can be given to others to bless them. Be united. Be prayerful. Love on another (Ezra Taft Benson, p. 37).’”
“‘Mr. Benson, there’s something about you that I like. I want to help you in every way that I can!’ I could not help but recall the promise made to President Benson in his letter of appointment. At that time the First Presidency wrote: ‘…Your influence [will] be felt for good by all you come in contact with, and…you and they [will] be made to feel that there is a power and spirit accompanying you not of man.’ As President Benson explained the nature of our mission and the organization of the Church and its welfare program, General McNarney exclaimed, ‘Mr. Benson, I have never heard of a church with such vision (p. 43)!’”
“When President Benson informed him that we had ninety large welfare storehouses bulging with food and clothing, which could be ready for shipment within twenty-four hours, one could fairly feel the general’s astonishment. He then agreed to give us written authorization to make our own distribution through our own channels. In exchange, we agreed to provide a reasonable amount of our foodstuffs for use in the existing child-feeding program. After this point was reached, General McNarney seemed willing to consider favorably our every request (p. 44).”
“It was but another evidence of how the Lord prepared the way before us to achieve his purposes (p. 46).”
“At that time the official daily food ration in the French Zone of occupation was 400 to 500 calories. One group of saints living there had been unable for several weeks to obtain any kind of bread to use as one of the sacramental emblems. They were so anxious to partake of the sacrament that they purchases some potato peelings which cost fifty dollars and used those in place of bread (p. 46).”
“During the war years some of our saints…were scarred or maimed for life. Our mission secretary, Sister Ilse Bruenger Foerster…had to bear the brunt of brutal Gestapo investigations and several merciless beatings…. Charges were leveled that she was ending mission funds to America. After two weeks of grueling interrogations, beatings, and constant surveillance, during which time many mission records were confiscated and some of them destroyed, she was released with the threat that not only her own life but the lives of members of her family and relatives would stand in jeopardy if she ever revealed the nature of her questioning. During this critical time she was expecting her first child, but in spite of such threats and the terrific strain imposed upon her, she successfully denied every false charge and refuted every accusation. Her accusers marveled at her intense faith and her devotion to the Church. When questioned about how she was able to bear up under these trials, she answered simply that she had always placed her complete trust in the Lord and that he had always sustained her through every circumstance (p. 46).”
“We observed that, during and after the meeting, not a single member registered any complaint about his circumstances in spite of the fact that some were obviously in the last stages of starvation. In Berlin alone, we were told the pervading attitude of hopelessness caused over a hundred suicides daily. Our saints, on the other hand, were full of hope, courage, and faith. Everywhere we met with them they reflected a quiet optimism and a spirit of gratitude for the Church and the gospel of Jesus Christ (p. 60).”
“‘I’m not a member of your Church, but I’ve been going to your Sunday School where our teacher told us that you can bless people and make them as well as Jesus did. I want you to make me well!’ It was a sobering request, but we blessed him that according to his faith he should be spared. Now, seven years later he stood before me, a priest in our Church, healthy and well. He had served briefly in the German army. Meeting him and Brother Rosner that might was a wonderful climax to a most inspirational meeting with the Viennese saints (p. 69).”
“As we entered Stuttgart we were impressed that though the damage was heavy, it did not appear to be as extensive as in several of the larger cities we had visited (p. 70).”
“After the meeting, President Benson mentioned how appreciative he had been for the brief personal letters he received from time to time from President George Albert Smith. Usually President Smith wrote along the lines: ‘I attended sacrament meeting in our home ward [Yale Ward] this afternoon and was pleased to see Sister Benson and her six lovely children all seated together on the front row. All is well!’ President Benson regarded this attribute of genuine love and concern as one of the most endearing marks of greatness of that beloved prophet (p. 72).”
“Then an unusual request was made of these people. As they were assembled together in a mission-wide conference at Rotterdam to give thanks for the abundant harvest, their mission president, Cornelius Zappey, said: ‘Some of the most bitter enemies you people have encountered as a result of this war are the German people. We know what intense feelings of dislike you have for them. But those people are now much worse off than you are and we are asking you to send your entire potato harvest to the German saints. Will you do it?’ They did it (p. 73).”
“‘We were so busy making history that we just couldn’t find the time needed to write about it (Ezra Taft Benson, p. 75).’”
“‘Never has so much been accomplished so quickly by so few’—except that we were but instruments and witnesses of the power and purpose of our Lord who is at the helm (p. 75).”
“‘Rearing 11 vigorous children to honorable manhood and womanhood on a small farm is no easy accomplishment. Yet, as my father and mother devoted themselves to this task, they never seemed to have any fear of the future. The reason was their faith—their confidence that they could always go to the Lord and He would see them through…. It is soul-satisfying to know that God is mindful of us and ready to respond when we place our trust in Him and do that which is right. There is no place for fear among men and women who place their trust in the Almighty, who do not hesitate to humble themselves in seeking divine guidance through prayer (Ezra Taft Benson, p. 83).’”
“When President Peterson and his missionaries arrived in Norway they were given permission to remain only sixty days. They appealed for extensions. One was granted. Finally they were notified rather forcibly that no further extensions would be granted. Their only recourse was fasting and prayer (p. 89).”
“For some time it had become increasingly evident that the weight of President Benson’s responsibilities was causing him frequent sleeplessness…. From my observation he not only talked matters over with the Lord, but the Lord was not unmindful of him and was pleased to reveal to him things beyond the normal comprehension of man. After each such experience he appeared to gain new strength and insight (p. 97).”
“‘These queues are dreadful. The time that is wasted, if put to good use, could rebuild the entire British Isles within a year at not one penny expense for labor (p. 100).’”
“‘Well, if you’re that kind of people and will do what you say…I’ll grant you permission to enter Germany. And I wish you luck with your mission (p. 104).’”
“Man’s inhumanity to man was a most appalling thing to behold (p. 117).”
“ ‘I must repeat again and again that the Lord knew what he was doing when he sent President Benson over here. He is a living apostle of God in every way…. I continue to marvel at his unwavering faith, his unflinching courage, his resolute determination and undaunted spirit…. He not only speaks to God, but he listens, and I’m sure God speaks with him even as he did with his apostles of old. He is a truly great servant of God—one of the humblest, most devoted men I have ever known, so kind in spirit and manner, so without guile, a man surpassing all men I have known…in his deep heartfelt love for the saints of God. It is a real inspiration just to be around him and see how he works (p. 121).’”
“President Benson met me at the door and inquired anxiously whether I had been able to get the needed permission. When I said no, he was noticeably disappointed. I sensed deeply with him that we were faced with a seemingly insurmountable problem. After a few moments of soulsearching reflection, during which neither one of us broke the silence, he said quietly but firmly, ‘Let me pray about it (p. 130).’”
“Within ten minutes after our arrival at the headquarters, President Benson had secured the necessary clearances for all three of us. In spite of all the warnings both in London and Berlin that such a thing was absolutely impossible, the impossible had taken place. Again the Lord’s promise had been vindicated, ‘And they shall go forth and none shall stay them, for I the Lord have commanded them (p. 132).’”
“‘Mr. Benson, don’t you realize that we’ve just been through a disastrous war? Transportation in Poland is almost non-existent. I’ve been here over a month now, and so far I haven’t even been able to get a jeep to take me beyond the city limits of Warsaw (p. 134).’”
“Most of the people boarding the train appeared to be hauling all of their earthly possessions with them. Many of them probably were refugees (a commonplace sight throughout the occupied areas) (p. 136).”
“President Benson reminded them that it was Fast Sunday and that we should therefore forego eating. Our Polish driver was quite unhappy over this verdict, but he and Brother Gasser did not realize that neither President Benson nor I had eaten a meal since Wednesday (p. 143).”
“President Benson received a telegram from the First Presidency asking us to postpone indefinitely our scheduled trip to Palestine and South Africa…. We had spent many hours during the past four months in securing permissions…. and now we had to undo it (p. 151).”
“‘As I placed my hands on your son’s head, I was assured that he might be healed this very night and be restored to you whole if you will only lose the hatred which you have in your hearts (p. 156).’”
“Five or six weeks before President Benson expected to return to his home in Salt Lake City, he wrote a special fare well message and testimony for inclusion in the various mission publications. As I typed it I recognized it as one of the most stirring and inspirational documents I had read in a long time, reminiscent of earlier Church leaders in its forthright spirit, its boldness, and its unbounded love and humility. It came from the depths of a heart overflowing with the pure love of God and a testimony tested and found to be valiant (p. 158).”
“From the time [President Benson] left Salt Lake City on January 29, 1946, until he arrived back there on December 13, 1946.
By plane - 32,202
By ship and boat – 1,455
Miscellaneous – 3,405
By train – 9,818
By automobile – 14,356
Total miles – 61,236 (p. 163).”
“This emergency mission to which President Benson had been called the previous January had resulted in significant accomplishments. Mission presidents were now directing the work in all the mission of Europe except the West German Mission…. Welfare supplies were moving in orderly fashion and had reached our needy saints in almost all the countries of war-torn Europe. Missionaries were busily engaged in teaching the restored gospel in all of the prewar missions of Europe (p. 163).”
“On March 14, 1947, President Sonne dictated to Elder Bennett an inclusion for the official European Mission History as follows: ‘Elder Frederick W. Babbel, secretary of the European Mission since January 29, 1946, when he and Elder Ezra Taft Benson of the Council of the Twelve left Salt Lake City for London [will depart] for his home via Pan American Clipper with the good wishes of hosts of friends he has made throughout Britain and Europe through his cheerful, unswerving devotion to the Church. Not a little of the success which attended the efforts of Elder Benson when he was president of the European Mission was due to Elder Babbel’s assistance (p. 177).’”
“He discovered that I had calcified spots on both lungs—an indication of my having contracted tuberculosis. I explained that before he prescribed any kind of treatment, I was going to take a few days to claim the blessing President Sonne had given me before I left Europe…. My lungs were entirely free of all spots, with no evidence remaining of tuberculosis infection. To this day I enjoy excellent health (p. 179).”
“As I neared the end of my mission I had much to reflect on, particularly as regards the magnificent examples of faith and courage I had observed among the European stains. One of the sweetest testimonies that grew out of the total experience was that declared by the devoted men who served as mission presidents during the war years…. ‘Brother Benson,’ they said, in effect, ‘no one can convince us that this is not the Church of Jesus Christ, because during the war years he was the only One to whom we could turn, and he never once let us down (p. 179)!’”
“I sometimes feel that we, as Latter-day Saints, don’t realize the tremendous power that has been given to us as God’s children. This is not only the power by which the worlds were created but even more important, the power to change men and women and make them gods and goddesses! That’s not blasphemy. That’s the simple truth. And there’s no greater power in all the earth than that which can transform men and women and conform them literally to the image of their Divine Father (p. 181).”
“Several long-distance phone calls by Elder Benson got us two reservations on an allegedly full train from North Platte to Chicago plus two seats on the first plane out of that city--despite the overburdened passenger lists caused by the snow blanketing the area (p. 6)."
"'And they shall go forth and none shall stay them, for I the Lord have commanded them' (D&C 1:5) (p. 6).'"
"An attractive placard by the Christus, printed in several languages, read: 'If you would behold the master's art, then bend your knees and look up.' As one kneels, a beautiful transformation seems to take place. The statue fairly seems to breathe.... Tears seem to glisten in the Savior's eyes (p. 12)."
"To all appearances, I had entered Belgium illegally, since my passport and visa had not been stamped when I entered the country (p. 30)."
"'The general condition of the Saints is improving daily. Spiritually it has been good throughout the war and was perhaps never better than it is now. Mission leaders everywhere report that in their experience the Saints have never so completely lived the law of tithing and kept the Word of Wisdom and otherwise maintained the standards of the Church. While the Saints have been called upon to endure hardships almost beyond description, in many cases, yet they have remained hopeful and optimistic, even during occupation of their countries by a foreign enemy when at times they feared for their very lives (Ezra Taft Benson, p. 24).'"
"What a glorious demonstration of the power of the Lord! A few days previously, all of these developments were considered to be impossibilities, humanly speaking. Today they had become realities (p. 31)."
"As we traveled through Switzerland, we spent many pleasant hours in conversation and in singing together. Brother Badger sang bass, President Benson sang the melody, and I provided suitable harmony. President Benson did most of the driving (p. 31)."
"The destruction at Dieppe and Liege did not begin to compare in fury with the desolation that greeted us in city after city in Germany (p. 33)."
“‘As I look into your tear-stained eyes and see many of you virtually in rags and at death’s door, yet with a smile upon your cracked lips and the light of love and understanding shining in your eyes, I know that you have been true to your covenants, that you have been clean, that you have not permitted hatred and bitterness to fill your hearts. You—many of you—are some of the Lord’s choicest witnesses of the fruits of the gospel of Jesus Christ (Ezra Taft Benson, p. 35).’”
“‘Any man or woman who has a testimony of this work has no fear for the future. Come what may, they will look up and forward. We need the gospel of Jesus Christ in this world. We have it and through us it can be given to others to bless them. Be united. Be prayerful. Love on another (Ezra Taft Benson, p. 37).’”
“‘Mr. Benson, there’s something about you that I like. I want to help you in every way that I can!’ I could not help but recall the promise made to President Benson in his letter of appointment. At that time the First Presidency wrote: ‘…Your influence [will] be felt for good by all you come in contact with, and…you and they [will] be made to feel that there is a power and spirit accompanying you not of man.’ As President Benson explained the nature of our mission and the organization of the Church and its welfare program, General McNarney exclaimed, ‘Mr. Benson, I have never heard of a church with such vision (p. 43)!’”
“When President Benson informed him that we had ninety large welfare storehouses bulging with food and clothing, which could be ready for shipment within twenty-four hours, one could fairly feel the general’s astonishment. He then agreed to give us written authorization to make our own distribution through our own channels. In exchange, we agreed to provide a reasonable amount of our foodstuffs for use in the existing child-feeding program. After this point was reached, General McNarney seemed willing to consider favorably our every request (p. 44).”
“It was but another evidence of how the Lord prepared the way before us to achieve his purposes (p. 46).”
“At that time the official daily food ration in the French Zone of occupation was 400 to 500 calories. One group of saints living there had been unable for several weeks to obtain any kind of bread to use as one of the sacramental emblems. They were so anxious to partake of the sacrament that they purchases some potato peelings which cost fifty dollars and used those in place of bread (p. 46).”
“During the war years some of our saints…were scarred or maimed for life. Our mission secretary, Sister Ilse Bruenger Foerster…had to bear the brunt of brutal Gestapo investigations and several merciless beatings…. Charges were leveled that she was ending mission funds to America. After two weeks of grueling interrogations, beatings, and constant surveillance, during which time many mission records were confiscated and some of them destroyed, she was released with the threat that not only her own life but the lives of members of her family and relatives would stand in jeopardy if she ever revealed the nature of her questioning. During this critical time she was expecting her first child, but in spite of such threats and the terrific strain imposed upon her, she successfully denied every false charge and refuted every accusation. Her accusers marveled at her intense faith and her devotion to the Church. When questioned about how she was able to bear up under these trials, she answered simply that she had always placed her complete trust in the Lord and that he had always sustained her through every circumstance (p. 46).”
“We observed that, during and after the meeting, not a single member registered any complaint about his circumstances in spite of the fact that some were obviously in the last stages of starvation. In Berlin alone, we were told the pervading attitude of hopelessness caused over a hundred suicides daily. Our saints, on the other hand, were full of hope, courage, and faith. Everywhere we met with them they reflected a quiet optimism and a spirit of gratitude for the Church and the gospel of Jesus Christ (p. 60).”
“‘I’m not a member of your Church, but I’ve been going to your Sunday School where our teacher told us that you can bless people and make them as well as Jesus did. I want you to make me well!’ It was a sobering request, but we blessed him that according to his faith he should be spared. Now, seven years later he stood before me, a priest in our Church, healthy and well. He had served briefly in the German army. Meeting him and Brother Rosner that might was a wonderful climax to a most inspirational meeting with the Viennese saints (p. 69).”
“As we entered Stuttgart we were impressed that though the damage was heavy, it did not appear to be as extensive as in several of the larger cities we had visited (p. 70).”
“After the meeting, President Benson mentioned how appreciative he had been for the brief personal letters he received from time to time from President George Albert Smith. Usually President Smith wrote along the lines: ‘I attended sacrament meeting in our home ward [Yale Ward] this afternoon and was pleased to see Sister Benson and her six lovely children all seated together on the front row. All is well!’ President Benson regarded this attribute of genuine love and concern as one of the most endearing marks of greatness of that beloved prophet (p. 72).”
“Then an unusual request was made of these people. As they were assembled together in a mission-wide conference at Rotterdam to give thanks for the abundant harvest, their mission president, Cornelius Zappey, said: ‘Some of the most bitter enemies you people have encountered as a result of this war are the German people. We know what intense feelings of dislike you have for them. But those people are now much worse off than you are and we are asking you to send your entire potato harvest to the German saints. Will you do it?’ They did it (p. 73).”
“‘We were so busy making history that we just couldn’t find the time needed to write about it (Ezra Taft Benson, p. 75).’”
“‘Never has so much been accomplished so quickly by so few’—except that we were but instruments and witnesses of the power and purpose of our Lord who is at the helm (p. 75).”
“‘Rearing 11 vigorous children to honorable manhood and womanhood on a small farm is no easy accomplishment. Yet, as my father and mother devoted themselves to this task, they never seemed to have any fear of the future. The reason was their faith—their confidence that they could always go to the Lord and He would see them through…. It is soul-satisfying to know that God is mindful of us and ready to respond when we place our trust in Him and do that which is right. There is no place for fear among men and women who place their trust in the Almighty, who do not hesitate to humble themselves in seeking divine guidance through prayer (Ezra Taft Benson, p. 83).’”
“When President Peterson and his missionaries arrived in Norway they were given permission to remain only sixty days. They appealed for extensions. One was granted. Finally they were notified rather forcibly that no further extensions would be granted. Their only recourse was fasting and prayer (p. 89).”
“For some time it had become increasingly evident that the weight of President Benson’s responsibilities was causing him frequent sleeplessness…. From my observation he not only talked matters over with the Lord, but the Lord was not unmindful of him and was pleased to reveal to him things beyond the normal comprehension of man. After each such experience he appeared to gain new strength and insight (p. 97).”
“‘These queues are dreadful. The time that is wasted, if put to good use, could rebuild the entire British Isles within a year at not one penny expense for labor (p. 100).’”
“‘Well, if you’re that kind of people and will do what you say…I’ll grant you permission to enter Germany. And I wish you luck with your mission (p. 104).’”
“Man’s inhumanity to man was a most appalling thing to behold (p. 117).”
“ ‘I must repeat again and again that the Lord knew what he was doing when he sent President Benson over here. He is a living apostle of God in every way…. I continue to marvel at his unwavering faith, his unflinching courage, his resolute determination and undaunted spirit…. He not only speaks to God, but he listens, and I’m sure God speaks with him even as he did with his apostles of old. He is a truly great servant of God—one of the humblest, most devoted men I have ever known, so kind in spirit and manner, so without guile, a man surpassing all men I have known…in his deep heartfelt love for the saints of God. It is a real inspiration just to be around him and see how he works (p. 121).’”
“President Benson met me at the door and inquired anxiously whether I had been able to get the needed permission. When I said no, he was noticeably disappointed. I sensed deeply with him that we were faced with a seemingly insurmountable problem. After a few moments of soulsearching reflection, during which neither one of us broke the silence, he said quietly but firmly, ‘Let me pray about it (p. 130).’”
“Within ten minutes after our arrival at the headquarters, President Benson had secured the necessary clearances for all three of us. In spite of all the warnings both in London and Berlin that such a thing was absolutely impossible, the impossible had taken place. Again the Lord’s promise had been vindicated, ‘And they shall go forth and none shall stay them, for I the Lord have commanded them (p. 132).’”
“‘Mr. Benson, don’t you realize that we’ve just been through a disastrous war? Transportation in Poland is almost non-existent. I’ve been here over a month now, and so far I haven’t even been able to get a jeep to take me beyond the city limits of Warsaw (p. 134).’”
“Most of the people boarding the train appeared to be hauling all of their earthly possessions with them. Many of them probably were refugees (a commonplace sight throughout the occupied areas) (p. 136).”
“President Benson reminded them that it was Fast Sunday and that we should therefore forego eating. Our Polish driver was quite unhappy over this verdict, but he and Brother Gasser did not realize that neither President Benson nor I had eaten a meal since Wednesday (p. 143).”
“President Benson received a telegram from the First Presidency asking us to postpone indefinitely our scheduled trip to Palestine and South Africa…. We had spent many hours during the past four months in securing permissions…. and now we had to undo it (p. 151).”
“‘As I placed my hands on your son’s head, I was assured that he might be healed this very night and be restored to you whole if you will only lose the hatred which you have in your hearts (p. 156).’”
“Five or six weeks before President Benson expected to return to his home in Salt Lake City, he wrote a special fare well message and testimony for inclusion in the various mission publications. As I typed it I recognized it as one of the most stirring and inspirational documents I had read in a long time, reminiscent of earlier Church leaders in its forthright spirit, its boldness, and its unbounded love and humility. It came from the depths of a heart overflowing with the pure love of God and a testimony tested and found to be valiant (p. 158).”
“From the time [President Benson] left Salt Lake City on January 29, 1946, until he arrived back there on December 13, 1946.
By plane - 32,202
By ship and boat – 1,455
Miscellaneous – 3,405
By train – 9,818
By automobile – 14,356
Total miles – 61,236 (p. 163).”
“This emergency mission to which President Benson had been called the previous January had resulted in significant accomplishments. Mission presidents were now directing the work in all the mission of Europe except the West German Mission…. Welfare supplies were moving in orderly fashion and had reached our needy saints in almost all the countries of war-torn Europe. Missionaries were busily engaged in teaching the restored gospel in all of the prewar missions of Europe (p. 163).”
“On March 14, 1947, President Sonne dictated to Elder Bennett an inclusion for the official European Mission History as follows: ‘Elder Frederick W. Babbel, secretary of the European Mission since January 29, 1946, when he and Elder Ezra Taft Benson of the Council of the Twelve left Salt Lake City for London [will depart] for his home via Pan American Clipper with the good wishes of hosts of friends he has made throughout Britain and Europe through his cheerful, unswerving devotion to the Church. Not a little of the success which attended the efforts of Elder Benson when he was president of the European Mission was due to Elder Babbel’s assistance (p. 177).’”
“He discovered that I had calcified spots on both lungs—an indication of my having contracted tuberculosis. I explained that before he prescribed any kind of treatment, I was going to take a few days to claim the blessing President Sonne had given me before I left Europe…. My lungs were entirely free of all spots, with no evidence remaining of tuberculosis infection. To this day I enjoy excellent health (p. 179).”
“As I neared the end of my mission I had much to reflect on, particularly as regards the magnificent examples of faith and courage I had observed among the European stains. One of the sweetest testimonies that grew out of the total experience was that declared by the devoted men who served as mission presidents during the war years…. ‘Brother Benson,’ they said, in effect, ‘no one can convince us that this is not the Church of Jesus Christ, because during the war years he was the only One to whom we could turn, and he never once let us down (p. 179)!’”
“I sometimes feel that we, as Latter-day Saints, don’t realize the tremendous power that has been given to us as God’s children. This is not only the power by which the worlds were created but even more important, the power to change men and women and make them gods and goddesses! That’s not blasphemy. That’s the simple truth. And there’s no greater power in all the earth than that which can transform men and women and conform them literally to the image of their Divine Father (p. 181).”
January 30, 2017
This was a great book about post-WWII in Europe, mostly in Germany. It is taken from the author's journal, so the book reads like a journal in parts and not a polished writing style, which carries its own freshness. I was saddened by the many struggles of the people after the War and grateful for those who stepped in to help what little bit they could. I was uplifted by the many miracles that took place to help that aid.
June 29, 2020
This a great book! It's about Ezra Taft Benson's welfare mission to a devastated Europe in the post-WW2. He had served as the 15th United States Secretary of Agriculture during both presidential terms of Dwight D. Eisenhower. When the war ended, he was serving as an apostle of Jesus Christ, and he later became the 13th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) from 1985 until his death in 1994. President Benson was a man of integrity, and strong in his convictions of nothing would stop him to fulfill his mission. He had the author Frederick Babbel was his mission companion and secretary. Because the book was taken from Elder Babbel's journals, you will notice the story goes back and forth without some literary style, making it a little difficult to understand the sequence of events sometimes. Despite all the horrors caused by any war, the book is full of stories of faith, miracle, and love. This is the second time I've read this book and it worth every word.
February 19, 2018
I am so glad that this was the pick for my book club this month. Otherwise, this little book probably would never have ended up on my radar. It was put together long after the fact, pieced from Elder Babbel's journals and other recordings, so there is some lack of flow and cohesion. However, the accounts he shares are miraculous and inspiring. I haven't ever read a book that talks about the problems still faced by the people in Europe when WWII ended. It was very sobering, but incredible to read about the hope and faith the Saints in Europe continued to cling to, even after all they were forced to endure.
October 16, 2021
This is a fantastic book with a title and cover terribly mismatched for what is inside.
This book has been sitting on my nightstand for over a decade waiting to be read, but if I had only truly understood what it contained, I would have started the day I brought it home.
A tremendous recounting of the conditions immediately following the end of hostilities in world war II in Europe, the perseverance of the refugees and survivors, and the hand of the Lord made manifest.
This book has been sitting on my nightstand for over a decade waiting to be read, but if I had only truly understood what it contained, I would have started the day I brought it home.
A tremendous recounting of the conditions immediately following the end of hostilities in world war II in Europe, the perseverance of the refugees and survivors, and the hand of the Lord made manifest.
May 4, 2025
Truly a remarkable account of an post-WWII mission to Europe.
"Without attempting to make any lengthy explanation or to offer any possible excuses, I decided that, as richly as the Lord had blessed me to that hour, He certainly would not forsake me now."
"After making all possible effort investigation, and consultation, he always used prayer as the medium through which to solve all his problems."
"When a nation follows unrighteous leaders, the righteous must suffer with the wicked."
"God judges us not only by what we do, but by what we would do and desire to do if we had the opportunity. He will not withhold and blessing from us of which we are truly worthy."
"Without attempting to make any lengthy explanation or to offer any possible excuses, I decided that, as richly as the Lord had blessed me to that hour, He certainly would not forsake me now."
"After making all possible effort investigation, and consultation, he always used prayer as the medium through which to solve all his problems."
"When a nation follows unrighteous leaders, the righteous must suffer with the wicked."
"God judges us not only by what we do, but by what we would do and desire to do if we had the opportunity. He will not withhold and blessing from us of which we are truly worthy."
September 15, 2018
Loved reading about the experiences of Frederick Babbel and Ezra Taft Benson during their 12 month service mission throughout Europe during post WW2; and to gain a tiny glimpse of the continuing devastation of war post ceasefire. Their service, sacrifice, dedication, inspiration and faith are inspiring.
November 23, 2024
This was written by my husband's great uncle. I loved reading a story that not only taught me about the after effects of WWII, The Church of Jesus Christ's efforts to help Europe after that devastating event, but also a relative and how he was involved. There were so many heart-warming and heart-breaking stories throughout this true story.
September 8, 2023
I go back and forth between 2 and 3 stars on this one. Kind of a slog to get through honestly. But there were some interesting historical tid bits, and if you get the book you likely know what you're in for.
January 6, 2024
Really amazing true post World War II events about getting help to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints in the disastrous times in Europe. The author traveled with Ezra Taft Benson and experienced miraculous triumphs in getting aid to the suffering saints.
September 23, 2020
Such inspiring stories and miracles, really enjoyed reading it.
January 24, 2022
Wonderful story and report. It is difficult to believe there was so much evil and suffering from the war. It is amazing to see how the Lord works to accomplish His purposes.
unfinished
May 25, 2022Went too long without reading it and so lost interest, maybe I'll pick it up again later.
February 3, 2024
Stunning account of the humanitarian rescue mission in post war Europe, 1946.
December 6, 2024
Frederick Babbel's moving eyewitness account of checking on and ministering to members of the LDS Church throughout Europe after WWII as a companion to Ezra Taft Benson.
March 6, 2025
Amazing and uplifting.
November 30, 2025
I love this book. So many little stories of faith and miracles in some very difficult times. I read it years ago and just read it again.
June 22, 2007
This book is centered around the efforts of Elder Ezra Taft Bensen (as told by his mission secretary, Elder Babbel) to begin the LDS church's relief efforts in Europe and Scandinavia. Told in a rather dry, matter-of-fact style, this book focuses on the hardships endured and blessings received by the European people, and the miraculous paths that were opened up to the Elders as they struggeled to bring relief to the people. It doesn't focus on the relief efforts -- those are in the background.
One of the most revealing and saddest parts of the book were the eye-witness accounts of the cruelty exhibited by the victorious soldiers towards the civilians of the conquered Germans. The brutalities were just as horrific as those we hear about in today's news from war-torn countries. Luckily, these accounts are told in the same dry, matter-of-fact style rather than in a gratuitous style. This makes it a bit easier to read - but it also makes it more real -- the author isn't try to hook you, or intrigue you by arousing your morbid curiosities. He was genuinely appalled at the scenes he witnessed and you are left with the same feeling.
Thankfully, most of the book deals with the miraculous and up-lifting experiences centered around helping other, survival in the face of extreme adversity -- and not just survival, but survival with ones principles intact. That people lived through such harsh times while maintaining their trust and their self-discipline and their charitable character is a true testament to their deep faith in a loving God and the power that it brings.
One of the most revealing and saddest parts of the book were the eye-witness accounts of the cruelty exhibited by the victorious soldiers towards the civilians of the conquered Germans. The brutalities were just as horrific as those we hear about in today's news from war-torn countries. Luckily, these accounts are told in the same dry, matter-of-fact style rather than in a gratuitous style. This makes it a bit easier to read - but it also makes it more real -- the author isn't try to hook you, or intrigue you by arousing your morbid curiosities. He was genuinely appalled at the scenes he witnessed and you are left with the same feeling.
Thankfully, most of the book deals with the miraculous and up-lifting experiences centered around helping other, survival in the face of extreme adversity -- and not just survival, but survival with ones principles intact. That people lived through such harsh times while maintaining their trust and their self-discipline and their charitable character is a true testament to their deep faith in a loving God and the power that it brings.
November 9, 2009
On Wings of Faith was our Book Group selection for this month. To tell the truth it was a slow start for me...however, once I got into the "writer's" (he's not really an "author") style I really enjoyed it! You just have to keep in mind that the book is written much like a journal (because it pretty much is) and a little disconnected at times. Once I accepted this then I got very engrossed in the amazing accounts of faith and divine intervention experienced by Ezra Taft Benson and Frederick Babbel (time after time) as they traveled through war torn Europe to check on the condition members of the LDS church immediately following WWII.
I've read a few books written about the time "during" WWII but this was the first about the period following right after...can I just say it was heartbreaking!! I had no idea starvation was so prevalent and how many people perished from starvation, mal-nutrition or freezing to death during the winter months. Did I mention heartbreaking?? Also how creully people were treated:( Unbelievable!!
I was also surprised to learn how many times President Benson and Frederick Babbel escaped close encounters with death themselves. WOW!! How grateful we should all be for what we have and ALSO that F. Babbel kept such copious notes!!
Very interesting book:)
I've read a few books written about the time "during" WWII but this was the first about the period following right after...can I just say it was heartbreaking!! I had no idea starvation was so prevalent and how many people perished from starvation, mal-nutrition or freezing to death during the winter months. Did I mention heartbreaking?? Also how creully people were treated:( Unbelievable!!
I was also surprised to learn how many times President Benson and Frederick Babbel escaped close encounters with death themselves. WOW!! How grateful we should all be for what we have and ALSO that F. Babbel kept such copious notes!!
Very interesting book:)
August 3, 2014
Babbel is NOT a good author, but an informative journal writer. This book reads more like a journal or travelogue, so it is redundant at times. However, I gave it 4 stars because it is filled with fascinating, enlightening information about Babbel's mission with Ezra Taft Benson to find the saints in Europe after World War II. They found and strengthened the saints, organized the local leadership, and helped welfare shipments reach the starving, destitute people in war-torn Europe. There are experiences that will break your heart as you learn more about man's inhumanity to man, but will also strengthen your testimony as you read of man's service to man and read of the strength of the Saints as they remained firm and steadfast in following Jesus Christ. You will read of miracles that happened in the aftermath of the war that will deeply touch your heart and strengthen your testimony of our Savior's love for all.
March 11, 2015
This book is basically the author's journal from his time spent as the aide to one of the LDS Twelve Apostles during the immediate aftermath of WWII in Europe. Babbel and Ezra Benson were, in many cases, some of the very first civilians allowed into the occupied zones of Germany, Austria, and Poland. Their mission was to track down members of the LDS church living amongst the rubble and ruins, starving, and homeless, and distribute food and clothing. Many of the LDS members they were able to reach in miraculous ways, even locating a bedraggled group of German LDS members on the outskirts of Poland who had been beaten, killed, gang-raped, and stripped of all their belongings. It is an uplifting book that left me wanting to know the ends to the stories of the people they found and rescued from starvation and hopelessness.
June 11, 2015
This was such an inspiring book. Detailed with unbelievable stories about how partnered with President (then an apostle) Ezra Taft Benson, Babble overcame the impossible in reaching the war-torn saints following World War II. They saved countless lives with persistence in reaching them when told by authorities they wouldn't be able to do so. The famous story of the woman stripped of her family members one by one, who succumbed to death and burying each with a teaspoon is a captivating story related to Babbel. This is testament of the recurring statement found in the Doctrine In Covenants "And they shall go forth, and none shall stay them, for I the Lord hath commanded them."
August 18, 2016
3.5 stars
The editing on this book is quite poor (there is even a note warning the reader about potentially bad grammar and punctuation in the introduction).
However, the content is good. It made my heart ache to read what atrocities, deprivations, and privations many citizens of Europe endured during WWII—but the testimonies and stories and miracles that so many saints experienced is awe inspiring. The miracles are, perhaps, innumerable. It is obvious the Lord's hand was present in the lives of His faithful saints (and so, so many others) and reading those stories makes me even more grateful for a loving Heavenly Father.
The editing on this book is quite poor (there is even a note warning the reader about potentially bad grammar and punctuation in the introduction).
However, the content is good. It made my heart ache to read what atrocities, deprivations, and privations many citizens of Europe endured during WWII—but the testimonies and stories and miracles that so many saints experienced is awe inspiring. The miracles are, perhaps, innumerable. It is obvious the Lord's hand was present in the lives of His faithful saints (and so, so many others) and reading those stories makes me even more grateful for a loving Heavenly Father.
January 19, 2017
Recommended to me by an old war vet. The writing isn't great but the story is important. It's a recorded account of the travels of Ezra T Benson and his secretary as they traveled through restricted and often closed off parts of Europe and Scandinavia immediately after WWII. Often times they were the first relief efforts allowed in to areas, some still full of soldiers. Lots of little clips of faith during war, miracles allowing access and a lot of eye opening descriptions of civilians during the war. Each one could be a book on it's own but, like their trips, it's a quick pass through as many places as possible.
April 24, 2008
I love this book! It is the story of Ezra Taft Benson's trip to Europe after WWII to visit and bouy up the saints and to regulate the affairs of the church. There are so many inspirational antecdotes. In the preface, the author says, "No one could live as the participants did during those eventful days, without knowing through the revelations of the Almighty that he lives, that he is all-powerful, that he blesses and sustains his servants. The age of miracles is not past! It is always present for those who live, believe, and obey." I would highly recommend this book to anyone.
November 1, 2010
Though the author is not the most eloquent, nor the editing the best, the content and message of this book is clear and inspiring. It is amazing the miracles that occurred daily and sometimes hourly during this difficult time following WW2. Faith in the hands of one who is serving God is truly a powerful thing. I was brought to tears many times as I thought of the struggles of these people, but also the faith and endurance. I was truly grateful to be able to read this witness of such a miraculous mission to a people sorely in need.
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