Ever heard of a religious sect that believes they are descendants of Aaron? That’s the House of Aaron. It is also known as the Aaronic Order. Let’s explore its unique story.
The House of Aaron is an American religious sect. They believe in the Aaronic writings. The sect’s center is in Eskdale Utah. Eskdale is a small farming community in Millard County. You’ll also find branches in Partoun and Murray, Utah.
Maurice L. Glendenning founded the House of Aaron in 1943. Today its membership is estimated to be between 1500 and 2000.
Glendenning was born in Randolph Kansas in 1891. He wasn’t familiar with the Latter Day Saint movement. He also didn’t know about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. But as a boy he confided in his father about hearing heavenly music. This happened even when he was wide awake.
As a teen the music included angelic voices. They uttered poetry. He wrote these down but kept them private. He feared ridicule. As a young man the poetry evolved. It became doctrinal and philosophical statements. Gradually he shared his messages with friends and relatives.
In 1928 Glendenning’s family moved to Provo Utah. They were looking for employment. LDS missionaries counseled Glendenning. He began to feel that LDS doctrines helped him. These included the priesthood and proper authority. They helped him understand his experiences. Glendenning and his wife joined the LDS Church in 1929.
In 1945 he was excommunicated. The reason was being the instigator of the Aaronic Order. LDS Church authorities called Glendenning an apostate or heretic. LDS members could receive divine inspiration for themselves. But no one could receive authentic divine messages for the church except the President. Glendenning claimed he did not receive messages for the LDS church. He was accused of claiming divine inspiration. This would affect the validity of some LDS teachings. Glendenning died in Utah in 1969.
The House of Aaron doesn’t consider itself part of the Latter Day Saint movement. But religious researchers categorize it as such. This is because of Glendenning’s LDS membership and excommunication. Also most of its founding members had LDS roots. Glendenning’s claims are similar to those of Mormonism’s founder Joseph Smith. Finally its commune and branches are in Utah.
John M. Conrad currently leads the House of Aaron. Conrad says their mission is to assist in the gathering of Israel. They want to create a Holy Nation with Yeshua as King. The Torah is to be its constitution. Their focus is on Yeshua or Jesus. The House of Aaron website states its mission. It wants to hasten the preparation of the Body of Jesus Christ. This is for His second coming.
The House of Aaron considers its beliefs strictly Biblical. It is part of the messianic movement. It is united under the Alliance of Redeemed Israel or ARI. Its beliefs have never included the Book of Mormon. It also excludes any other LDS scriptures.
In 1978 the Levitical Writings was published. Currently the House of Aaron says the Levitical Writings is only mentioned and studied on occasion. It is not used for doctrine. The Bible is the basis of their doctrine and teaching.
The Aaronic Order believes members are given the Aaronic Priesthood in the pre-mortal existence. They need not be ordained. Members believe they are Biblical leaders. They were predestined to fulfill their responsibilities.
In 1955 the church established Eskdale Utah. It was named after Eskdale Scotland. Eskdale is a small unincorporated farming area. It is in Millard County Utah. It is located east of the Nevada border.
In its early years Eskdale was isolationist. There was a uniform. Men wore blue slacks and shirts. “Aaron” was embroidered in gold. Women wore blue and white dresses. “Levi” was embroidered on their white caps. Over time the community has become open. It is now an integral part of the local valley. The dress code has been relaxed.
Since 1958 they have observed the Seventh Day Sabbath. This was because of a revelation from Glendenning. The House of Aaron states it has never believed in polygamy. John M. Conrad has described polygamy as abhorrent and disgusting.
The House of Aaron stands as a testament to faith and community. It is a unique religious sect with a fascinating history.