Leather Scripture Covers

After I received my mission call, I purchased a new set of leather scriptures to use as my missionary scriptures. I asked my brother Kent if he would build me a set of leather scripture covers for my scriptures. I took my scriptures to him and we measured them and planned a way to make the cover. He said he would see if he could make a cover. 

When I left for the Missionary Training Center (MTC), he had the leather cut and was working on tooling the covers. He said he would get them finished by the time I left the MTC so that I could take them with me to Germany. He brought them to me at the Salt Lake City Airport when I left for Germany. 

Kent made two "look-alike" covers: one that would hold my Bible and one that would hold my triple combination. However, after he gave them to me, I could fit both my Bible and Triple inside the cover he made for my Bible. So, I used that one for my scriptures and the other cover I used for storing pamphlets and other miscellaneous things. 

Throughout my mission and in the years after my mission, my unique scripture cover served as an interesting conversation starter. Many people have admired Kent's handiwork. I appreciate the love he showed for me by dedicating time to create the covers for me. 

front cover, spine, and back cover
`Jon Scripture Cover

Kent gave me a handwritten, inspirational note inside the front cover. Because it has faded over time, I have retraced the ink to maintain the message. I read these words often to remind me that while we do not talk much, Kent and I have a deep connection. 

to `Jon

hope you enjoy These 

as much as I did Building 

them for you. 

Keep your chin up 

And your head held high

your a Jasperson.

Love 

KJ

handwritten message by Kent Jasperson
inside front cover of `Jon's scripture cover

A few years after my mission, the original zipper in my cover wore out and Kent replaced it. Other than that, the cover is the same today as the day that Kent finished making it. 

After Annette and I got engaged, I asked Kent if he would make another scripture cover. This time for Annette. I asked him to use the same front cover as my scriptures and to put an image of the Salt Lake Temple on the back cover. 

Kent completed the cover about a month or so before we got married. I purchased a new set of scriptures for Annette. I gave her the scriptures and cover as a wedding present. 

front cover and back cover
Annette Scripture Cover
(the two covers are actually the same size, it is the camera angle)

Kent also included a handwritten note inside of Annette's cover. 

Be Strong

Be Wise

And Have a Wonderful

Life Together.

Kent.J

handwritten message by Kent Jasperson
inside back cover of Annette's scripture cover

Annette and I both cherish these gifts from Kent. We are so grateful for his willingness to share his talents with us by creating the scripture covers.